Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- The session “Integration into the WTO: new opportunities for economic development” brought together experts to discuss the economic benefits and risks associated with countries’ membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO).

During the discussion, it was noted that international trade is a path to sustainable economic growth and development. However, countries face obstacles to increasing exports, including lack of domestic capacity, trade and political barriers, among others.

The WTO establishes trade rules and dispute resolution mechanisms, which are the largest tools for integration between countries through free trade, the removal of barriers and lower costs.

- For the first time in a year, we received two working groups - the sixth in March and the seventh in November. Of these, the latter has proven to be particularly effective. Thanks to the support of President Mirziyoyev and a special resolution adopted in June last year, we have successfully completed bilateral negotiations with eight countries on entering the markets, said Azizbek Urunov. - Progress has also been made in bringing national legislation into line with WTO agreements adopted by all government agencies. We presented 18 updated multilateral documents and 29 pieces of legislation. WTO members supported us and took over this process. The transition from the summary of facts to the elements of the working group's draft report reflects our future commitments after accession. We have completed negotiations with 11 countries and are close to concluding agreements with another 10-13 countries.

Urunov also noted that the next meeting of the working group on Uzbekistan’s accession to the WTO is scheduled for 24 May in Geneva, where issues of local support for agriculture will be discussed for the first time.

“Holding three consecutive working group meetings from 2023 demonstrates our commitment, encouraged by the support of WTO members. We are diligently preparing for the upcoming meeting to ensure its success,” the presidential spokesman added.

- At previous meetings, our questions about some basic needs remained open. If the International Commercial Arbitration Court starts working in Tashkent, this will increase the investment attractiveness of your country for investors and businessmen from WTO member countries. Not only representatives of foreign countries, but also Uzbek citizens can benefit from this, said EU Ambassador to Uzbekistan Charlotte Adrian.