In a forceful statement at the World Trade Organization (WTO), India advocated for placing development at the forefront of the organization’s agenda, both now and in the future. They highlighted a history of broken promises by developed nations, emphasizing the need for concrete action to address the growing vulnerabilities of developing countries (LDCs) within the global trading system.
Beyond external challenges like debt and financial instability, the WTO itself faces internal complexities. India argues that this, coupled with the burden of navigating global crises, puts an unreasonable strain on developing countries who are simultaneously expected to defend their interests within the organization.
India firmly asserts that development was the very foundation for developing countries, particularly LDCs, joining the WTO. They maintain that the organization must prioritize finding solutions to the specific challenges these countries face, emphasizing that development is not a favour but a fundamental obligation of the WTO system.
Further concerns were raised regarding attacks on the principles of Special and Differential Treatment (S&DT) by developed countries. India argues that these provisions are not exceptions to the rules but rather essential objectives of the multilateral trading system, designed to address the inherent disadvantages faced by developing economies.
Drawing a historical parallel, India pointed out that developed nations utilized various policy tools, including subsidies, during their industrialization phases. They expressed concern that these same countries are now hesitant to offer similar support to developing countries, urging for flexibility in existing rules and continued support for infant industries through incentives and a level playing field.
During discussions on the upcoming ministerial declaration, India emphasized the critical need to prioritize issues relevant to developing countries. They proposed focusing on existing mandates and fulfilling past commitments before considering the inclusion of new topics in future declarations.
