WTO
Roundtable Highlights Oman’s Role in Supporting Multilateral Trade System
Muscat,
14 May (ONA) —— The 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Accessions Roundtable
concluded its sessions by underscoring Oman’s pivotal role in advancing the
organization’s mission and the technical support it has provided to facilitate
the accession of several countries.
Held
in Muscat, the meeting emphasized the Arab region’s growing presence in the
global economic landscape by addressing key issues related to WTO accession. As
one of the foremost international forums, the roundtable shed light on the
challenges and opportunities tied to integration into the multilateral trading
system.
In
statements to Oman News Agency (ONA), officials and experts highlighted the
WTO’s role in strengthening member economies and fostering an attractive
environment for trade and investment. They reviewed Oman’s successful 25-year
journey within the organization, noting its active role in technical
coordination and sustained support among member states, which has helped drive
investment-friendly policies.
They
emphasized that Oman’s hosting of this international event reflects its
unwavering support for global cooperation efforts, reinforcing its position as
a key platform for economic dialogue at regional and international levels. The
discussions also underscored the importance of Arab economic integration,
investment promotion, and the growing need for fair and inclusive trade
mechanisms that align with aspirations for sustainable growth and balanced
partnerships.
Dr.
Saleh Said Masn, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and
Investment Promotion for Commerce and Investment, stated that the 13th WTO
Roundtable’s significance lies in fostering constructive dialogue and
cooperation within the multilateral trading system. He noted that the
roundtable served as a platform for exchanging views and experiences among WTO
members, particularly as Oman has worked in recent years to modernize its
legislative framework and business environment in line with WTO standards.
Masn
stressed that Oman has not merely joined the WTO but has been an active
contributor to its development, providing technical support to several
countries—especially Arab states—in their accession efforts. He added that
Muscat’s hosting of the event coincides with the 25th anniversary of Oman’s WTO
membership, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening its role in the
organization, advancing global trade integration, and supporting Arab nations’
accession to the international trading system.
On
his turn, Sheikh Khalifa Ali Al Harthy, Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry
for Political Affairs, emphasized that WTO accession is a strategic milestone
that opens broad horizons for growth and investment while enhancing
competitiveness. He stressed the importance of fostering a more transparent and
fair trade environment, enabling developing and emerging economies to actively
participate in global markets and strengthen international partnerships.
He
noted that public-private partnerships play a central role in achieving sustainable
economic development, with the exchange of best practices and success stories
helping aspiring nations overcome challenges and accelerate trade and economic
reforms. He highlighted Oman’s longstanding role in regional and international
trade, leveraging its strategic geographic location and open economic policies.
Meanwhile,
Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the
Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, stated that Oman’s
WTO accession was a strategic milestone, enabling the nation to achieve
numerous objectives, capitalize on opportunities, and enhance its economic
standing.
He
pointed out that Oman’s investment environment has seen remarkable growth over
the past 25 years since joining the WTO, with investments now exceeding $30
billion. These investments span diverse sectors, including food, logistics, oil
and gas, and other areas that attract global capital.
He
affirmed that Oman has signed multiple free trade agreements, creating an
attractive and conducive investment environment backed by incentives and
facilitations. The establishment of integrated industrial and free zones has
also been instrumental in attracting investors across economic sectors,
particularly in promising industries that bolster Oman’s regional and
international standing.
For
her part, Hilda Ali Al Hinai, Secretary-General of the Arab-Swiss Chamber of
Commerce and Industry in Geneva, emphasized Oman’s vital role within the WTO,
noting that its accession was a strategic step that supported the multilateral
trading system and fostered a transparent, open investment climate.
She
explained that Oman’s active presence in the organization reflects its
ambitious economic vision and commitment to expanding global trade relations,
aligning with its plans for economic diversification and sustainable
development.
Faisal
Ali Al Hinai, Deputy Head of Oman’s Mission to the WTO, highlighted the
roundtable’s importance as a high-level annual platform bringing together WTO
members and aspiring nations. He noted Oman’s initiatives in promoting Arab and
international cooperation under the WTO’s umbrella, solidifying its position as
a hub for economic dialogue and trade diplomacy.
Yan
Dong, Vice Minister of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, praised
Oman’s prominent role in the WTO, stating that the roundtable’s convening in
Muscat—coinciding with Oman’s 25th accession anniversary—offered a unique
opportunity to discuss accelerating other nations’ WTO integration.
He
commended Oman’s rapid economic growth and sustained development, stressing the
importance of trade flows and multilateral principles in enhancing global
economic stability. China, he affirmed, stands ready to collaborate with all
WTO members to safeguard and advance this system, contributing to global
economic stability and shared development.
Ambassador
Xiangchen Zhang, WTO Deputy Director-General, lauded Oman’s active
contributions to the organization, noting that its 25th accession anniversary
marks an important occasion to reflect on achievements and future prospects.
He
announced that the event compared Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members’
economic visions and launched a joint Arab study highlighting best practices in
completed and ongoing accessions. He also praised Oman’s leadership in
advancing economic diplomacy and regional prosperity.
He
emphasized the importance of expanding WTO membership to strengthen global
trade ties, commending Oman’s contributions to economic integration and
constructive collective action. He concluded by stressing the value of knowledge-sharing
among members and welcoming Oman’s hosting of such collaborative forums.
——
Ends/AH
