UK's Powerful Vision Unveiled at WTO General Council 2026
Discover the UK's strategic stance and key priorities as shared by its Permanent Representative to the WTO and UN at the recent General Council meeting in Geneva.
The United Kingdom's Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the United Nations, Kumar Iyer, took the stage at the recent WTO General Council meeting in Geneva, delivering a comprehensive statement that outlined the UK's strategic vision and priorities on the global trade landscape.
Addressing the gathered delegates, Iyer emphasized the UK's commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable trading system, one that would enable all nations, regardless of their size or economic status, to prosper and thrive.
Recognizing the ever-evolving nature of global trade, Iyer stressed the UK's desire to champion innovative solutions that would harness emerging technologies and digital advancements to streamline cross-border commerce and unlock new avenues for economic growth.
Echoing the UK's steadfast support for the multilateral trading system, Iyer reaffirmed the country's commitment to the WTO's core principles, including transparency, non-discrimination, and the rules-based order. He emphasized the UK's willingness to work collaboratively with fellow member states to address pressing challenges and forge a path towards a more resilient and sustainable global economy.
Notably, Iyer highlighted the UK's focus on fostering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recognizing their pivotal role as engines of innovation and job creation. The UK, he stated, would champion initiatives aimed at empowering SMEs to navigate the complexities of international trade and unlock new opportunities for growth.
Addressing the critical issue of climate change, Iyer underscored the UK's determination to integrate environmental considerations into its trade policies, working towards a greener, more sustainable global trading system. He emphasized the country's commitment to collaborating with partners to develop innovative trade-related solutions that would support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Throughout his address, Iyer emphasized the UK's steadfast belief in the power of multilateralism and its willingness to play a leading role in shaping the future of global trade. With a clear focus on fostering inclusivity, embracing innovation, and championing sustainability, the UK's vision for the WTO General Council resonated with the international audience, setting the stage for continued collaboration and progress on the global trade front.
Source: UK Government
