Page 516 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - FEBRUARY 2024

Also to be held on the sidelines of the MC13 is the TradeTech Global Forum,
which promote the use of technology in global supply chains. The sidelines of

the conference will also see a variety of sessions, inlcuding sessions on trade
facilitation in partnership with Etihad Credit Insurance; trade finance with
HSBC; SMEs with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development
(ADDED); the WLP Logistics Challenges with DP World; Future of Cargo in
collaboration with Emirates; and Sustainable Trade Africa.

Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, said: "We look forward to
welcoming the international trade leaders and shapers to tackle the pressing
issues and devise innovative solutions to current and future challenges.

Hosting the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade
Organisation (WTO) by Abu Dhabi underlines its credentials as a global hub."

"Trade and the exchange of goods, services, and innovations with the rest of
the world are an integral part of Abu Dhabi's history and modern progress.

Fair and free trade will also be central to our future as we cement our position
as a preferred hub for talents, businesses, investments, and a key node on
international supply chains. As host of MC13, we are offering our support to

ensure a successful conference that enables the global trading system to
uplift economies and enrich lives," Al Zaabi added.

WTO's Importance for Global Trade

Al Zeyoudi said that the WTO has maintained its importance in global trade,
noting his belief that the conference could remain focused on generating
positive outcomes, despite global disruptions.

"We look forward to hosting the world and to ensure that there's another
output between governments," he said.

The MC13 is expected to be attended by 175 Member States, private sector
leaders, NGOs, and civil society representatives, allowing the international

community to work in tandem towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and
efficient global trading system.

https://en.aletihad.ae/news/uae/4465647/thani-al-zeyoudi-outlines-goals-of-mc13-ahead-of-wto-
confere