Page 105 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - APRIL 2025 (Part 2)

4/21/25, 10:11 AM AIM Congress 2025 concludes in Abu Dhabi

Todd McClay, New Zealand's Minister for Trade and Investment, brought a human-

centred perspective to trade policy. "Trade is about people-farmers, workers, small

businesses," he said. He cited New Zealand's partnership with Mexico as a model of

mutually beneficial trade, noting that trade agreements are not merely legal

instruments, but bridges that "create value, culture, and connection."

Laura Gonzalez Hernandez, Minister of Economic Development for the State of

Mexico, presented Mexico as a prime example of how strategic policy and

diversified trade can drive innovation. "Mexico is not only a country of potential-

we are a country of action," she said. By leveraging trade agreements and investing

across sectors from agriculture to life sciences, Mexico is building an inclusive,

opportunity-driven economy anchored in innovation and geographic connectivity.

Zaher Al Qatarneh, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Investment of Jordan,

emphasised the transformative potential of investment and trade operations.
"Investment is not just a financial mechanism; it's about job creation, economic

diversification, and empowering youth and women."

Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area

(AfCFTA), addressed the vulnerabilities in global supply chains and the urgency of

diversification. "Predictability is the cornerstone of investor confidence," he stated.

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