India’s Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, has underscored India’s pivotal role as a consensus builder within the World Trade Organisation (WTO) while addressing the ongoing 13th ministerial conference (MC) in Abu Dhabi. Amidst allegations of blocking deals, Goyal emphasized India’s commitment to fostering fair play and justice in WTO proceedings.
Goyal highlighted India’s consistent stance as a consensus builder within the WTO framework, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues obstructing smooth proceedings. He noted certain countries’ actions that disrupt consensus on critical matters, underscoring the need for trust and adherence to WTO decisions.
One of the primary concerns raised by India is the restoration of the appellate body, essential for resolving disputes and upholding WTO rules. The functioning of the appellate body has been hampered due to the US blocking appointments, affecting the dispute settlement mechanism.
India staunchly advocates for addressing the concerns of developing countries, particularly issues like public stockholding of food. Goyal stressed the importance of keeping discussions within the WTO mandate, cautioning against introducing extraneous matters like environment, labor, and gender equality.
The fisheries subsidies agreement remains a contentious issue, with Goyal emphasizing accountability for overfishing and depletion of fish stocks. India asserts the need for fair and equitable outcomes that protect the interests of farmers, the poor, and fishermen.
Furthermore, Goyal addressed the proposal of a China-led grouping on investment facilitation for development (IFD), emphasizing that investment falls outside the WTO mandate. India, along with South Africa and other countries, opposes the inclusion of IFD in the agenda.
As the WTO conference progresses, Goyal remains optimistic about reaching fair and balanced outcomes that prioritize equity and protect the interests of vulnerable groups. India’s stance reflects its commitment to upholding principles of fairness and justice in global trade, reaffirming its role as a key player in shaping the future of international commerce.
