Geneva — The role of parliamentarians in future-proof and inclusive international trade will be central during the 57th Public Forum of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Switzerland. A delegation from the National Assembly (DNA), led by Rossellie Cotino, participated in this international forum from 15 to 17 September. The delegation also consists of members Steven Reyme and Mahinder Jogi.
This year the forum will focus on ‘Powering the Future’. Cotino, who is also a member of the Strategic Steering Committee of the Parliamentary Conference at the WTO, acted as discussion leader during a working session. The parliamentary conference is jointly organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament.
The working session focused on the involvement of parliamentarians in sustainable trade in services. It was emphasized that the development of services trade is not only determined by international trade agreements, but also by national legislation, transparent regulations and efficient government procedures.
Parliamentarians play an important role in this by enacting legislation, monitoring government policy and monitoring the implementation of international obligations. Attention was also drawn to the diverse circumstances and capacities of WTO members, in particular developing countries.
The discussions underlined that trade in services can contribute to sustainable development, employment, innovation and inclusion. Member Cotino also attended the meeting of the Strategic Steering Committee of the Parliamentary Conference at the WTO on Friday (today).
