DILI, 10 February 2025 (TATOLI) – World Trade Organization (WTO) Deputy Director General Xiangchen Zhang met with President of the Republic Jose Ramos Horta today as part of a high-level visit to support Timor-Leste’s implementation of WTO commitments following accession to the organization in Abu Dhabi last year.
The meeting, attended by Vice Prime Minister Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, marks a significant step in strengthening Timor-Leste’s integration into the global trading system.
During the ten-day evaluation visit from February 3-13, WTO technical teams are working closely with Timorese officials to maximize the benefits of the country’s membership in the multilateral trading system. The visit includes extensive engagement with stakeholders from the private sector, academia, and civil society to promote understanding of WTO-related issues and their role in supporting Timor-Leste’s sustainable development strategy.
According to Vice Prime Minister Kalbuadi Lay, the high-level delegation will also meet with Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão and conduct a comprehensive conference at the CCD involving government entities, parliament members, NGOs, and community representatives. The conference aims to facilitate discussions on implementing WTO commitments and leveraging membership benefits for national development.
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