Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal stated that India’s perspective at the recent WTO Ministerial Conference in Cameroon was acknowledged, showcasing the country’s increasing role in shaping global trade talks. During his visit to Cameroon for the conference, Goyal observed significant shifts in the global trade landscape compared to a decade ago.
Goyal emphasized India’s pivotal role in representing the interests of the Global South, ensuring that the concerns of developing nations and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) were given priority in the negotiations. He mentioned that India actively participated in all agenda items, advocating for openness, fairness, non-discrimination, and inclusivity in its positions.
In addition to his participation in the conference, Goyal engaged in bilateral discussions with various countries, trading blocs, and African nations, aiming to garner support for India’s stances on crucial matters. He credited the collaborative efforts of officials from the Department of Commerce, India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, and other ministries for safeguarding the country’s interests at the global platform.
Looking forward, Goyal affirmed India’s commitment to transparent and constructive engagement with WTO members on significant global trade issues. The WTO Ministerial Conference, which concluded on March 29, serves as a vital forum for setting global trade regulations and policies, with ministers from around the world convening to address challenges and opportunities in the multilateral trading system.
