17 developing countries call for strengthening WTO

Seventeen developing countries have stressed on working collectively to strengthen the World Trade Organisation-WTO to promote development and inclusivity for the benefits of all members. 

A 13 point declaration was signed by these nations at the end of the two-day Ministerial meeting of developing countries in New Delhi yesterday. 

The countries include  Egypt, Barbados, Jamaica, Malaysia, India, Indonesia and South Africa. A total of 22 countries attended the meeting. 

According to the document, the process of  WTO reform



must keep development at its core, promote inclusive growth and fully take into account the interests and concerns of developing members.

The member nations who signed the document also pitched for filling vacancies in WTO's appellate body saying that the current impasse could completely paralyse the dispute settlement mechanism. 

They urged all the members to engage constructively to address the challenge without delay. The developing nations also agreed to consult with developing members on various issues of common interest.