WT/MIN(24)/ST/90  
26 February  2024 
(24-1599) Page: 1/2 
Ministerial Conference  
Thirteenth Session  
Abu Dhabi, 26 -29 February 2024  Original: English  
 
STATEMENT BY H.E. M R QAIS AL YOUSEF  
MINISTER  OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY AND INVESTMENT PROMOTION  
OMAN 
It is indeed an honour to address today's session.   
 
Before I begin, let me extend my appreciation to His Excellency Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, 
Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the United Arab Emirates, Chairperson of this 13th WTO 
Ministerial Conference for his warm welcome and hospitality.  I shou ld also like to thank His 
Excellency's team for their outstanding efforts in the organization of this splendid event.  
 
I also extend my sincere thanks to Dr  Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala, Director -General of the WTO, whose 
steadfast commitment and dedication have h elped steer the organization through challenging times.   
 
Furthermore, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Timor -Leste and Comoros on 
joining the WTO. Their accession marks a significant milestone, expanding the Organization's reach 
and r einforcing the principles of fairness, transparency and cooperation.  
 
Let us embrace their fresh perspectives and learn from their unique experiences as we collectively 
strive for more liberal global trade.   
 
On the issues being negotiated at the WTO, I c ommend the efforts made by Geneva -based delegates 
along with facilitation from the WTO Secretariat.  
 
Please allow me to elaborate on these:   
 
On Fisheries Subsidies  
The Sultanate of Oman recognizes the importance of addressing harmful fishing subsidies. Today, 
unsustainable fishing practices threaten marine wildlife as well as the livelihoods and food supply of 
many vulnerable communities. Oman seeks an agreement that balances conservation with the needs 
of developing and least developed countr y Members.   
 
On WTO Reform  
We all acknowledge the WTO faces challenges in adapting to a rapidly changing world. We advocate 
for pragmatic reforms that enhance transparency, restore the two -tier dispute settlement 
mechanism and improve decision -making proce sses. Strengthening the WTO's effectiveness while 
preserving its core principles is paramount.   
 
On Trade and Development  
The development dimension remains central to WTO Members, especially to developing and least 
developed countries. We must ensure the benefits of trade reach those most in need. In this regard, 
industrial policies play a vital role in economic diversification and seeking policy flexibility is key to 
nurturing strategic industries, promoting innovation and creating sustainable jobs. Let us strike a 
balance between industrial development and international commitments.   
 
On the WTO E -commerce Joint Statement Initiative  
E-commerce is reshaping global trade and we acknowledge the potential role of an E -commerce 
agreement in facilit ating international transactions, expanding market reach and reducing barriers 
to entry for enterprises of all sizes.   WT/MIN(24)/ST/90  
 
- 2 - 
 
   
On Investment Facilitation  
Investment drives economic growth. Oman supports the Joint Statement Initiative on Investment 
Facilitation fo r Development, with the hope it will streamline procedures, enhance transparency and 
attract responsible and sustainable investments by creating an enabling environment for investors 
while respecting policy space.   
 
On the Environment  
Integrating climate c onsiderations into trade policies is crucial. Green trade practices, circular 
economy models and sustainable supply chains are essential. Let us explore synergies between trade 
and climate action for a resilient future.   
 
In closing, I once again express m y sincere gratitude to the United Arab Emirates for hosting this 
important conference.  
 
May our deliberations lead to actionable outcomes that promote prosperity, equity and sustainability.   
 
Thank you and may the spirit of cooperation guide our path .  
 
__________