President of Kazakhstan Meets with WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
The President of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, met with WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, as reported by the Akorda press service. Welcoming her, President Tokayev emphasized Kazakhstan's commitment to strengthening its cooperation with the World Trade Organization.
“We are confident that under your leadership, the international multilateral trading system will undergo a profound transformation aimed at eliminating existing trade barriers and creating a level playing field. Your visit to Almaty is extremely important. I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to you for your close cooperation. It was a great responsibility and honor for Kazakhstan to chair the 12th Ministerial Conference, during which WTO members were able to make important decisions on reforming the Organization,” President Tokayev stated.
Despite rising global protectionism and trade restrictions, Kazakhstan aims to maintain its status as an open economy, trading with 180 countries. Over the past three years, Kazakhstan’s foreign trade volume has surged by 53%, reaching $160 billion. President Tokayev also mentioned the recent decree he signed to liberalize the economy, which focuses on enhancing fair competition, protecting entrepreneurial freedom, and reducing government involvement in the economy.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala commended Kazakhstan for its significant contributions as the chair of the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference, which led to crucial decisions in international trade.
President Tokayev also highlighted the importance of the ongoing Central Asian Trade Policy Forum in Almaty, which aims to foster regional economic cooperation and integrate Central Asian countries into the multilateral trading system.
In recognition of her efforts in strengthening the multilateral trading system and the global role of the WTO, President Tokayev awarded Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala the Order of Dostyk, II degree.
