Indonesia urges strong political will for WTO reform

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia called on countries to show firm political will in reforming the World Trade Organization (WTO) to ensure the body remains faithful to its founding values and principles.

Trade Minister Budi Santoso reaffirmed Indonesia's commitment to advancing WTO reform during the G20 Trade and Investment Ministerial Meeting in Gqeberha, South Africa, on October 10, according to a statement on Monday.

"Ministers must take steps toward finding common ground, restoring trust in the trade system, and advocating for the use of WTO mechanisms," Santoso said, warning of growing global challenges to fair trade.

He expressed Indonesia's support for appointing Norwegian Ambassador to the WTO Petter Ølberg as facilitator for the reform process and emphasized the need to better communicate the organization’s achievements to the world.

Santoso also urged countries to revisit the Preamble of the 1994 Marrakesh Agreement, which established the WTO, as a guiding principle for maintaining a fair multilateral trade system.

"This shared commitment reflects global recognition of the vital role of trade in driving growth and development," he said.

He noted that reforming the WTO has become an urgent priority amid rising unilateralism that undermines the foundation of multilateralism.

Santoso warned that unilateral measures have created skepticism among some members and weakened trust in the WTO's relevance and ability to address trade disputes.

"Despite its flaws, I believe the WTO remains a vital global asset. We must help it navigate the 'coral reefs' toward a 'safe harbor,'" he emphasized.

G20 trade ministers at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to advancing WTO reform to establish a fair, inclusive, transparent, and sustainable multilateral trade system.

Santoso also urged G20 members not to use trade as a political tool and to consider the development needs of developing countries in all trade agreements.