GENEVA (Chatnewstv.com) — World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has hailed China’s announcement that it will no longer seek special and differential treatment in future WTO agreements, calling it a “pivotal moment” for global trade.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang revealed the decision on Sept. 23, signaling Beijing’s readiness to take on greater responsibilities within the 30-year-old global trading body.
“This is a pivotal moment for the WTO,” Okonjo-Iweala said in a statement. “China’s decision reflects a commitment to a more balanced and equitable global trading system. It sends a strong signal of support for WTO reform and will help foster a more level playing field for all members.”
She added that the move is likely to energize ongoing discussions about modernizing the WTO and “help us work toward a more agile and effective organization for the 21st century.”
China, which joined the WTO in 2001, has long claimed developing country status, allowing it access to certain flexibilities under global trade rules. The shift announced by Premier Li is seen by trade experts as a significant step in aligning China’s role with its position as the world’s second-largest economy.
Editor: Gabriel Ani
