In a recent meeting between Acting Minister of Industry and Commerce Nooruddin Azizi and Roza Otunbayeva of UNAMA, discussions centered around the urgent need for Afghanistan to regain its membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Demands for WTO Membership Reinstatement
Kabul 24: Acting Minister Azizi emphasized the importance of reinstating Afghanistan’s WTO membership, highlighting the potential benefits for the country’s economy. The ministry’s spokesperson, Abdulsalam Javad Akhundzadeh, revealed that the meeting also addressed crucial issues such as supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, boosting exports, and facilitating opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
IEA’s Stance on Trade and Transit
Contrary to the demands for WTO membership reinstatement, IEA’s spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid emphasized that trade and transit should remain humanitarian concerns and not be entangled with political matters. Mujahid reiterated the IEA’s commitment to enhancing economic and trade relations, underscoring the importance of separating trade from political considerations.
Economic Implications of WTO Membership
Economic experts have highlighted the potential advantages of Afghanistan reclaiming its WTO membership. Rejoining the WTO could significantly expand Afghanistan’s trade networks with various Asian and European countries, including the USA, leading to increased job opportunities and economic growth.
Importance of WTO Membership
The World Trade Organization plays a crucial role in regulating global trade rules and resolving disputes among its members. By facilitating smoother import and export processes and eliminating trade barriers like customs tariffs, WTO membership can open up new avenues for economic development and international trade for Afghanistan.
As Afghanistan aims to reestablish its presence within the WTO, the potential benefits for its economy and trade relationships are substantial, signaling a positive step towards economic growth and global integration.
