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2/22/24, 2:44 PM Interview: UAE aims to ‘bring back multilateralism’ at MC13 - Borderlex
Interview: UAE aims to ‘bring

back multilateralism’ at MC13

14/02/2024 by Chris Horseman

The upcoming World Trade Organization ministerial conference in Abu Dhabi is an opportunity
to ‘bring multilateral discussions back’ and deliver hope for the future of the global trading

system. This is the view of Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, minister of state in charge of foreign

trade of the United Arab Emirates, and the host and chair of MC13.

In an exclusive interview with Borderlex, the minister said
Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi is Minister

of State for Foreign Trade of the United he would judge the outcome of MC13 based largely on
Arab Emirates how clearly it had defined the ‘roadmap’ for further
discussions on the various issues at stake.

The interview also touched on the UAE’s historical commitment to open trade, the alignment of

the Gulf Cooperation Council members in the run-up to MC13, and the minister’s concerns
about the ‘downside risks’ of a global shift away from multilateralism.

Borderlex: How do you see your role and function as chair of MC13? What influence can

you bring to bear on the various discussions in Abu Dhabi?

Thani Al Zeyoudi: As hosts of MC13, we aim to ensure that the WTO continues to work

effectively despite an adverse global context.

All decisions have to be taken by consensus and this requires the support of everyone who is

going to be there. This is where the chair can contribute.

We are fully committed to working to ensure the success of MC13 and the continuation of the

WTO. We’ll do everything we can to help member states reach consensus, and make sure that we
deliver a package that will continue the momentum that is needed to bring the multilateral

discussions back.

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