IT-TLETTAX-IL LEĠIŻLATURA
P.L. 872
Dokument imqiegħed fuq il-Mejda tal-Kamra tad-Deputati fis-Seduta Numru 65 tat-18 ta’ Diċembru 2017 mill-Ispeaker, l-Onor. Anġlu Farrugia.
______Raymond Scicluna Skrivan tal-Kamra
Parliamentary Conference on the WTO organised jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament
9 - 10 December 2017 Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hon Anglu Farrugia, Speaker
Parliamentary Delegation Report to the House of Representatives.
Date: gth -101h December 2017
Venue: Buenos Aires, Argentina
l. Maltese delegation: Honourable Anglu Farrugia, President of the House of Representatives.
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i Programme: The Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairperson of the Small ·-· Branches of the CPA, the Honourable Anglu Farrugia M.P., on behalf of the CPA participated In the Buenos Aires Session of the Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade Organisation (WTO), organised jointly by the Inter~ Parliamentary Union & the European Parliament, with the support of the National Congress of Argentina In connection with the 11"' WTO Ministerial Conference, (MC11) in Buenos Aires, Argentina. i' '.
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' ' Report by the Speaker of the House of Representatives AnQ'Iu Farrugia
Buenos Aires session of the Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade Organisaton on behalf of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association on the 9th and 10th December 2017.
During the whole morning of the 9th December 2017 I attended and participated actively in the pre-conference of the Steering Committee which was dedicated to the discussion of the numerous amendments of the final document regarding the multilateral trading system. Practically these were amendments to all the working articles mainly from China, India, South Africa and also the European Union. I stronly participated and supported most of these
amendments that finally led to the final document, for example our position as Commonwealth I Parliamentary Association with regards, for example, to paragraph C of the final document, I l. strongly stressed the support of the environmental protection yet surprisingly this was continued to be objected by India and such amendment was not acceded to as it was on the original article.
The same thing with paragraph 13, for example as supported by the Commonwealth on my behalf which finally was approved in order to take off all barriers to trade. During this important Steering Committee we met not only in the morning of the 9th December but we also had to convene the meeting late in the evening till 9.00 p.m. where in between I also attended the inaugural session of the lnterparliamentary Union and European Parliament with the support of the National Congress of Argentina in connection with the 11th World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference better known as MC11. The main theme of what can we expect from r r the MC11 was deeply debated by senior World Trade Organisation negotiators and officials.
The following day, the 1Oth of December, the conference continued on various presentations of reports mainly concerning a-commerce and internalisations of SMEs and the role of •• multilateralism in time of rising protectionism. Copy of these working reports are also herewith attached with this report. I I ,,
After the conclusion of the conference I had a meeting with two members oft he inquiry meeting being Director Dirk Willem te Velde who is the Director of the Supporting Economic Transformation Programme and also Maximiliano Mendes Parra who is a senior research fellow of the International Development Institute at the latter's request mainly focused on the Commonwealth policy priorities for trade and development in particular focus on small island states and small branches. Once they were interviewing me in the capacity as Chair of the Small Branches of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Copy of the interview is herewith attached with this report.
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' ' During the interview I also made reference to the strategic plan for small branches within the Commonwealth which was recently approved during the special session of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for small brances in Daka earlier this year.
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Spea er o the House of Representatives
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' ' " Meeting with the representatives of the All People Party Group, held in 1 Argentina on the 10 h of Dec 2017
Mr Mendez Pera: I had a meeting with Secretary General of the CPA a week ago, two weeks ago in London, so we are doing an enquiry at the moment, about the role of the Commonwealth helping the countries trade out of poverty and following the Overseas Development institute, also with APPG; All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade Out of Poverty, and we have an enquiry at the moment, and we had a number of hearings in the House of Lords, and one of the Lords is coming in two days' time, and the Trade Minister of Nigeria is also co-chairing and we have some contributions from the range of the Commonwealth Secretariat and also form the vice-council and we've talked to ; the CPA, but we are also hearing from Trade Ministers but also from Parliamentarians and from the business sector, from think-tanks regarding these issues and so, some i. emerging issues that have come up, that we think that is really important and that all the evidence suggests to us that It's Important for the Commonwealth to have an agenda on trade investment and to speak up for small states, to be conscious on trade, wealth and all around trade, not necessary deals as such, but perhaps more in terms of softer side which is trade facilitation perhaps! Coordination issues, we took this morning at the Commonwealth on the term iro the climate their might be some issues about, and so we are here to discuss what you think what the role of the ...' I, Commonwealth would be In the area of trade and investment, do you think should be I ; an agenda there, and what is the role of the Commonwealth associations as a shaded group. So you have a secretariat, you have a business group but also Parliamentarians, what is the role of Parliament of the Commonwealth?
Mr Speaker: First of all, I did send you my detailed report, I know that you have a copy of that, and also the email about how I see it about the concept of, now we know that ' Brexit is going to happen, I mean, before I had sent you, I also spoke about whether I> ,, you'll have a soft Brexit, of course, my concern within the Commonwealth is that as you know there was a change in the Commonwealth Constitution, where the Small Branches in the Small states, those that have a population of less than half a million, II are now organised in a group, which I am the Chair, and I already presented my '. strategic plan for the Small Branches. Now one thing which I am really, let's put it that way, not worried but it's of concern, is that most of the Small States, most of them are small state islands within the Commonwealth, are very vulnerable for many reasons. I mean vulnerable for the fact that they depended 80%, some of them even 90% of the exports of their trade, with England.
Number two is, that even if we talk about the state within the multilateralism, they don't have the governance to do that, so we feel and we strongly feel, that we have to continue, and the Commonwealth is an ideal, the Commonwealth Parliamentary I 1 : Group is an ideal, it's not an organisation, we are still working upon that, it's an ideal ' ' ' I,
I I ,, ' ' lobby, where we can help each other, in order to build capacity, in order to deal with these problems.
Now, I already stated in Dhaka recently, in the Commonwealth Conference, where I participated In many of the subjects, but one of them is, and we spoke about that, when the CHOGM took place In Malta, Is that the Commonwealth should seriously consider to work strongly in facilitating trade in the Commonwealth countries. I mean, I give you an example, I just came out now from the plenary, I mean one of the things . I that we discussed just right now, in this very important meeting is, in the Parliamentary I , group of the WTO, which I attended and participated on behalf of the Commonwealth, is that the European Union is making a lot of treaties with Canada, China, re trade and facilitate, WTO is lacking this, the Commonwealth doesn't even start. It is a population of billions of people, that they have a lot of values that they can share together, they have been sharing that for more than hundred years and till now, there is no structure t' within the Commonwealth where this could be done. Hopefully, and I said this in Dhaka, that after Brexit, England would realise that it should do something about it. r r Now with regard to the small states, with regard to poverty, because this is more I I important in my opinion, you have to address that small states when there is ! ; corruption, the impact is even stronger. Poverty rises up because it is even more felt 1 where corruption is present in small states and the effect of that is very strong. So L corruption has to be addressed and we know that you cannot talk about there is no corruption in small states, there is corruption, even if you want to state there isn't, I because things how they are governed, once there is no complete transparency, once !"' I I there is no mechanism that there is a proper watchdog and proper governance of the institutions, than you don't have comfort! So this is one thing that we are working on within the Small Branches.
f' ir· In Dhaka's recent conference ....
Mr Speaker: we went into detail and I think that we have to address. However, there J I are other issues and I did make some reference to in my paper which I am sure you t' went through, but I have to say, that you have to engage the Parliamentarians. The Parliamentarians have to engage in order to promote and engage more the NGOs', the citizens, the social partners in order to engage them to create a dialogue. This is absent. In most of the small states, this is very absent and that is why they feel that they are helpless, even the WTO the fact the criticism the WTO had, the small states feel and I did mention that in the steering committee, is that they don't feel that they belong, because they cannot keep up with what with what is being decided by the big brothers within the WTO. So this is something which I wanted to stress.
Mr Mendez Para: Yes. ? so this is within the Small States network that's the one you I I are Chairing and its very important for you. I,
I I ' ' .' It is very important, yes, and it is only the Commonwealth that has this kind of structure, so we have all the benefits that the Commonwealth can offer and yet, I go back to my previous statement, the Commonwealth is not yet engaged in promoting the harmonlsed trade within the Commonwealth countries.
Mr Mendez Para: So you're thinking of a renewal of the Commonwealth, it not only involving the Secretariat but also involving other organisations, the Parliamentary organisations, imposing the dialogue (8.57) , you need to reach people we talked about connectivity and the Commonwealth secretariat has only 40,000 people on twitter, Trump has 45 million, actually you need to multiply, magnify messages which the ..
! Mr Speaker: there is no doubt. Mentioning Trump, before I mentioned the Brexit, the i. two negative things that occurred in my opinion, which have left a very negative impact on trade especially within small countries, is the US elections and the Brexit. I mean, you cannot go around. I am not questioning the rights of the people to go for Brexit or the right in America to elect this President, and now he is invading all the regulations that took place in many years within the WTO and the rejuvenating of the protectionism policy which is against free trade, however, once we have that, now we have to re energize ourselves. We have to revisit our values in order to ensure that free trade continues to be fair, continues to be Indiscriminate with the small ones and if there will be unfairness then, there are to be remedies. One thing for example which I can say which is happening In the WTO, again In small states, there have been more than 500 places or countries, about 60% of all the totality of the countries of the WTO, and still F •· i I there is not the appalled procedure to clear these cases. So, I'm sorry about that, but I had to say it, because statistics sometimes they do lie but in this case they are not lying at all. I, Mr Mendez Para: So do you have plans to think around this in the coming months in •• the UK, the CHOGM for example, and what program afteJWards, two years after? UK being the Chair, then there is a parliamentary meeting coming up I think in February I I or March ... ,.
Mr Speaker: Hopefully so because I tried to that also during the CHOGM held in Malta, I said of course it's between the Head of States, but let's talk with the Parliamentarians, you have to involve them because they represent the people, so I think that would be a conference, including the parliamentarians during the CHOGM in England.
Mr Mendez Para: ok, during the CHOGM in the UK. Because I talk to Akbar, that's my idea of some parliamentarians of being able to come throughout the whole ... that
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I l ' ' Mr Speaker: Especially in this time and hour, we are facing now the crook of the thing. There cannot be any further delay. The red light is on and now we have to face the music and we have to discuss and come up with a solution. The same thing was happening in Europe. In Europe past October, everybody knows the problem of immigration, everybody knows about the question of security in Europe, everybody knows and this is a very important issue for small states, is the question of cyber security, cyber-crime, J mean the sophistication of Russia and China and Korea, even North Korea, invaded your information and you are helpless. Imagine the small states, they don't have the infrastructure to fight cyber-crime and some small states, some small states islands, they don't even have the know how; they don't even have the support to rely on somebody in order to; imagine you have an economy which depends I on information, for example: a-commerce is something which small countries can benefit a lot. There is no agreement on a-commerce at the moment in the WTO, it is I. I being discussed and hopefully they are going to discuss tomorrow also at the ministerial council.. I Mr Mendez Para: But is it something that the Commonwealth to have a stand on, the r a-commerce.. i I Mr Speaker: yes and its very important and you can organise your company when l ' .. you are at home, you are looking after your things and selling things. You know, a commerce is very important, as it has no barriers. A small country like, I don't know, I take a Caribbean country with a population of 40,000 or Malta 400,000 and you have cyber-attack by a potential, and you lose all your clients, you lose all your contacts and even you lose your bank accounts. You know what happened in the cyber attack in Bangladesh, recently?
,, Mr Speaker: As you said, the Commonwealth is an organisation that Small States for '' the last 30 years can discuss between themselves the problems that they face every
now and then. Other international organisations like the WTO, they have an absence f' but they don't have that presence. They have a presence but they don't have the drive, .. not only to be heard but the drive to their problems being properly addressed. That is why some small states within the WTO feel that they don't stand a chance with larger countries. So these problems with a-commerce, which is very important for small countries- connectivity. Another problem is that within the Commonwealth we have small states that connectivity is even lacking, I mean we have places were only 10%, 20% of the population have internet, so how can we address that? We can address that with the Commonwealth where we have to have the subsistence, the helping hand direct from England and other countries in order that they can engage in the competitiveness of the a-commerce and others. I I Mr Mendez Para: So one of the issues we spoke to the Deputy Secretary General this " morning and he also spoke about the young people, so how can we think around it, I I ' ' " trade and investment agenda, and that is the young people, because there are so many young people in the Commonwealth ...
Mr Speaker: For the Commonwealth, I would like that he would be given a copy of my now approved paper on how we are going to work among the Small Branches is the priority of young people, it's at the top, the first thing is climate change but then there is the problem of young people to ensure that they have credibility in the governance of their country because much of the credibility is being lost because so many problems have been put under the table for many years and the young people feel that they do not need to participate. So we have to engage the young people to engage more in the decision making of their respective country, so they belong and I' they take the problems, because they are accepted that they are part of the decision I process making of these solutions. This is something which we discussed and which I. hopefully in the next executive committee of the CPA which will take place in March, we'll have decisions on budget so as meetings will be organised so as to address these problems. r Mr Mendez Para: So your Chair, so you're also part of the Commonwealth, so you ' handover to UK, so that's what it is .. i 1 Mr Speaker: It is a strategic plan which applies to 42 either countries or small L branches, that have a population of less than half a million. We are talking about 42 all over the Commonwealth, they are spread in the Caribbean, Pacific, Mediterranean, ,.. t. Africa, legislations in India, Malaysia, so we discuss the strategic plan together, and t now we said yes, we have to move on these lines and we have thematic areas of particular importance and this is one of them; the question of engaging youth and not only making them feel that they should participate but also in the problem solutions of the country. Young people is in the second category, whilst climate change is on top of the agenda, because we carried out a survey among all the members in order to see where and what they are thinking, which priority according to their own problems in their area we should address and climate change rated on the top. t • '' . Mr Mendez Para: What needs to be done to make all in a more collaborate spirit
Mr Speaker: We decided, we had the Valletta meeting in October that was regional, we had he participation of all the regions, 7 regions within the Commonwealth, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asian, representing the Small Branches, and we came out with many projects in order to engage and to address these thematic areas. Now the step forward is coming March, that we have to be approved by the Executive of the Commonwealth, but the thing is this; the Commonwealth is doing the proper thing with the Small States, t I ' . Mr Mendez Para: exactly i.
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' . '' Mr Speaker: I've been in politics and in Parliament for the last 22 years, I've been in various international organisations, but I've never came across an organisation that gave also preference with a proper platform to Small States and the Commonwealth is one of them, so coming to the trade, we should be now more together in order to engage the Small States within the Commonwealth to have some sort of arrangement without breaching the regulations of the WTO or any other, but we can benefit.
Mr Mendez Para: So climate change is your number 1 priority, there is trade, trade agenda of the Commonwealth, and then there is what we talked this morning trade, climate change at the Commonwealth Francophonie countries also, where there is as well .. , so I think it's an important part also for young people. i i Mr Speaker: I think I went through these in the paper. There are certain details I had I. . to add them because I participated ... Mr Mendez Para: that's very good and thank you very much for that. I I l. '
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' ' " 001 All-Party Parliamentary Group far All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade Out of Poverty Inquiry: Can the Commonwealth help developing countries trade out of poverty?
Part 1 -Background information The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade Out of Poverty (APPG-TOP) in partnership with the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) is undertaking an Inquiry into the potential of the Commonwealth- ~s member states, business and civil society organisations, as well as Its own Commonwealth institutions - to help developing countries use trade and investment to reduce poverty and accelerate economic growth. The Inquiry is being lad by a committee of eminent persons and experts, broadly representative of the geographic and socio-economic diversity of the Commonwealth (members of Inquiry Committee are listed In Annex 1). Commonwealth members' combined exports of goods and services account for roughly 15 ! per cent of the world's total exports. While the Commonwealth Is not a formal trading block, a recent study found that trade costs are 19 per cent lower and countries tend to trade 20 per i cent more when bilateral trade takes place between Commonwealth countries1. Unsurprislng, the growth of intra-Commonwealth trade is set to continue with the value of trade forecast to I. surpass $1 trillion by 2020.
The Commonwealth has long worked to promote sustainable development among its member states, with trade being a recognised vehicle through which to reduce poverty and Improve livelihoods. While no specific Commonwealth mandate on trade and development currently exists, the inaugural Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting (CTMM), which took place in London In March 2017, highlighted the Importance the Commonwealth heads of government r place on improving conditions for trade and investment and empl1asised their commitment to I a free and fair multilateral trading system. i ~' The 10 Commonwealth Polley Priorities for Trade and Development booklet published by ODI ' and the APPG-TOP in the lead up to the CTMM was put forward to stimulate debate and ensure Commonwealth trade ministers kept a focus on trade and Investment policies and programmes that would enhance development outcomes. Some six months later, the APPG TOP launched its Inquiry, with the aim to make a powerful case for an ambitious trade and development agenda for the Commonwealth as a whole. r i
Since the Inquiry launched In September 2017, the Inquiry Committee, supported by the I Secretariat>, has received over 30 submissions of written evidence from a range of civil society organisations and Commonwealth Trade Ministries. A Hearing was held in the House of Lords, Westminster on 16'h November 2017, where 16 imminent trade and development ~ ., experts provided verbal evidence to the Inquiry Committee (see Annex 2). A summary of the •• emerging findings from the evidence gathered thus far is outlined in Part 2 of this paper.
The Inquiry Committee Is meeting with !he various stakeholders, including Commonwealth f I Trade Ministers, in the sidelines of the Eleventh WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires t' to workshop these findings and gather feedback. The Final Inquiry Report will then be drafted and launched in February 2018 and later showcased at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) In London In April 2018.
The United Kingdom's priorities for CHOGM 2018 are prosperity, security, fairness, and sustainability. The prosperity pillar is focused on boosting intra-Commonwealth trade and investmen~ maximising the opportunities offered by the 'Commonwealth Advantage'. Promoting trade for development is encompassed within this pillar, making the APPG-TOP's Inquiry a timely opportunity to put forward concrete, practical recommendations to advance the agenda.
1 The Commonwealth In the Unfolding Global Trade Landscape: Prospects Priorities Perspectives Commonwealth Trade Review 2015. Available at: Available at: l.r http://thecommonwealth,orglsitesldefaultl!ilesOnline/ExecutlveSummarykeyfindingswayforward CTR2015,pdf 2 The Secretariat is provided a small team from ODI and Saana Consulting. It ' ' 001 All-Party Parliamentary Group for
Part 2- Emerging Issues
Through the evidence gathering process, some of the Commonwealth's key strengths were identified, which are based on the diversity and variety of experiences encapsulated within the 52 member states. These include: • The Commonwealth Is an excellent platform for knowledge sharing and sharing best-practices. For example, existing tools/resources can be Identified and the Commonwealth can help widen their scope and reach. • The Commonwealth Is uniquely placed to build cooperative mechanisms amongst members to enhance trade-related capabilities and opportunities. For example, platforms can be created for regulatory dialogue and co-operation, including for issues such as standards. • The Commonwealth has the international, national and local links that enable It to I create supportive, and mututally beneficial partnerships. The recently signed j' cooperation agreement between UNCTAD and the Commonwealth Secretariat is evidence of this. Particular areas where the Commonwealth can leverage these strengths to deliver meaningful trade and development outcomes include: i • Supporting small states: As a leading voice supporting small states, the I Commonwealth is well placed to broaden its assistance to small and vulnerable r I states and small island developing states to help them tackle their trade and investment constraints to promote sustainable development. I i • Building human capacity for trade: With a long track record In building human ~' I capacity the Commonwealth can explore innovative ways to develop trade skills to support regional development, Including through leveraging existing Initiatives. • Championing 'regulatory diplomacy': Particularly given the growing importance of services trade, the Commonwealth is well positioned to create platforms for dialog I' and cooperation on regulatory Issues, such as competition policy and non-tariff I' barriers, and rules of origin. • Promoting women and youth in business: Empowering women and the youth Is a core focus within the Commonwealth. Working collaboratively and taking a top down and a bottom up approach, progress can be made on closing the gender gap I' and empowering women and youth to prosper through trade, •• • Supporting SMEs: With its strong business and civil society links, the Commonwealth has the potential to scale up its support for SMEs, helping them can access global value chains, improve access to finance and leverage e-commerce I I opportunities. !' • Improving connectivity: The Commonwealth has the ready laid foundations to further improve hard and soft infrastructure through which people and businesses can connect to facilitate trade and investment.
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Annex 1
List of the APPG-TOP Inquiry Committee Members:
• Lord Jeremy Purvis of Tweed, Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (International Trade) (co-chair) • The Hon Okechukwu Enelamah, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Government of Nigeria (co-chair) • Harsha Singh, Executive Director, Brookings India and former Deputy Director General, World Trade Organisation • Patricia Francis, former Executive Director, WTO-UNCTAD International Trade Centre • Dirk Wlllem te Velde, Head, International Economic Development, ODI • Catherine Clark, Head, International Relations, Prudential pic • Steven Pope, Vice President, DHL Express Europe pte • Trudi Hartzenberg, Executive Director, Tralac Southern Africa I. • Phil Rourke, Executive Director, Centre for Trade Policy & Law, Carleton University • Angela Strachan, Independent Consultant in Trade Facilitation and former staffer at UNESCAP, WTO-UNCTAD lTC and Commonwealth Secretariat I I • Chi Atanga, Entrepreneur and CEO, Walls of Benin ' • Lisa McAuley, CEO, Export Council of Australia I ' l. i
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Annex2
List of Inquiry Hearing participants: • Lord Marland, Chairman, Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council • Dr Josephine Ojlambo, Deputy Secretary-General (Political), Commonwealth Secretariat • Mr Bonapas Onguglo, Chief, Trade Analysis Branch, UNCTAD • Dr Marton Jansen, Chief Economist, International Trade Centre • Or. Emily Jones, Associate Professor In Public Policy (Global Economic Governance), Universny of Oxford • Mr Arlf Zaman, Executive Director, Commonwealth Businesswomen's Network • Mr Philippe Isler, Executive Director, Global Alliance for Trade Facilitation, World Economic Forum. i • Or Len Ishmael, Former Ambassador of the Eastern Caribbean States to Europe I. • Mr Michael Gidney, Chief Executive. Falrtrade Foundation • Mr Shanker Singham, Director of Economic Policy and Prosperity Studies, Legatum Institute • Mr Mark Pay, Managing Director, Direct Equity, Sectors & Regions, CDC Group Dr Andrea Giacomelli (Mr), Aid-for-Trade and Trade Policy Advisor, Permanent rI • II Delegation of the Pacific Islands Forum to the WTO • H.E. Mrs Mere Falemaka, Permanent Representative of the Pacific Islands Forum to theWTO ' • Ms Deborah Vorhies, Managing Director, International Centre for Trade and L' ;, Sustainable Development • Dr Alex Vines, Head, Africa Programme, Chatham House • Mr Bimbo Roberts Folayan, Executive Director, Nigerian Diaspore Direct Investment Summit r i I !
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A. GONZALES: Electronic commerce helps us to make trade more inclusive. But let's go back to the only one in five exporters. Is is because people don't want to be exporters or is it that they are in businesses?
Why women find it difficult to be exporters. The main reason for that is that they are smaller in size .and to trade costs.
Now the second thing I want to share with you is that the art of trading is signed by and about women in trade. So with these two figures, collectively and about women in trade, This is not about segregating women In trade. This is not about creating a special category of international traders of women in businesses. This Is about starting a process to exchange business ... (Sound not clear) .... is to support a declaration that can call for two years of exchange of practices we will have to see what we have learned. i
Again this is not a legal commitment. It is a political commitment. We know that all of you are strong supporters of women in the economic field. What I am asking you to take is that you r ask your governments, your ministries, your delegations attending this ministerial conference L i to support this declaration, We will give the support on Tuesday at 5 o'clock at the conference hall. At this moment we will have the declaration to the Chair of this conference and to mark it.
So members of the delegation that have already supported the declaration. I want to make sure that this is the case. So please help me by asking you to support this declaration. Thank ,,' you very much. , '
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! 1 ' ' "' Annex to this report:
• Buenos Aires Session of the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO • 40'h Session of the Steering Committee- Provisional Agenda • Draft Outcome Document • Preliminary Draft Outcome Document • Joint declaration on trade and women's economic empowerment on the occasion of the WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires in December 2017 • Submission by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association HQ Secretariat to the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade Out of Poverty and the UK Overseas Development Institute • Provisional List of Participants
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. ' " BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10 December 2017
Organized jointly by the /nter-Parllamentflly Union and 1/Je European Parliament with the support of the National Congress of Argentina in connection with the 11'" WTO Ministerial Conference (MC11)
PROVISIONAL PROGRAMME
Satwday, 9 December
9:00-12:30 Pre-Conference session of the Steering Committee (in camera meeting) 10:00-18:00 Registration of participants I. 13: 30-14:00 Photograph at National Congress esplanade
14:30-15:30 Inaugural session I • Ms. Marta Gabriela Michetti, President of the Senate of Argentina i I Ms. Gabriela Cuevas Barron, President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Ms. Mal read Me Guiness, Vice-President of the European Parliament Ms. Susanna Malcorra, Chairperson of the 11 1"WTO Ministerial i Conference I ' ! Mr. Jorge Faurle, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Argentina Ambassador Xavier Carim, Permanent Representative of South Africa to the WTO, Chairperson of the WTO General Council Mr. Emilio Monz6, Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of Argentina F' ! 15:30-16:30 Buenos Aires and beyond: Hearing with the WTO Director-General, Mr. Roberto Azevl!do
Moderator: Mr. Krlster Ornf)Mer, Member of Parliament (Sweden), Co-Chairman of the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO I, •• 16:30-17:00 Presentation of the joint Declaration on Trade and women's economic empowerment Presenter: Ms. Arancha Gonzalez, Executive Director, International 'I ,, Trade Centre (lTC)
17:00- 19:00 What can we expect from MC 11? Dialogue with seniorWTO negotiators and officials
Guest Speakers Mr. Stephen Ndung'u Karau, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Chairperson of the Committee on Agriculture, Special Session (tbc) Mr. Hector Marcelo Cima, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Argentina Republic to the United Nations Office and other international organizations In Geneva, Chairperson of the Council for Trade in Services, Special Session I I Mr. Wayne McCook, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of j, ' ' Jamaica to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Chairperson ofthe Negotiating Group on Rules I I
' ' ,, Provisional programme of the session 2.
Mr. Didier Chambovey, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Switzerland to the World Trade Organization, Chairperson of the Negotiating Group on Market Access
Moderator: Mr. Bernd Lange, Member of the European Parliament, Co-Chairman of the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO
19:00- 20:00 Steering Committee (in camera meeting)
20:00- 22:00 BBQ offered by the National Congress of Argentina At "Asoclaci6n Argentina de Polo" Arevalo 3065, Palermo, ·Ciudad Aut6noma de Buenos Aires
S~mda , 10 December
9:00-11:00 Presentation of reports and interactive debate on the substantive theme i E·commerce and the lntematlonallzatlon of SMEs I.
Rapporteurs • Ms. Emma McCiarkln, Member of the European Parliament • Mr. Robert Bapooh Llpo, Member of Parliament, Cameroon r Discussant:
I Moderator ' ~ ' I • • Ms. lnmaculada Rodriguez·Piiiero Fernandez, Member of the i European Parliament
! • 11:00-11:15 Coffee break t" '
11:15-13:15 Presentation of reports and Interactive debate on the substantive theme The role of multilateralism in times of rising protectionism L ! Rapporteurs ! • • Mr. Paul RUbig, Member of the European Parliament • Ms. Bogolo Kenewendo, Member of Parliament, Botswana Discussant: Dr. Mukhlsa Kituyi, Secretary-general of UNCTAD " '' Moderator • Mr. Anurag Singh Thakur, Member of Parliament, India
13:15- 14:00 Adoption of the outcome document and closing session
Rapporteur • Senator Federico Pinedo, Argenl'lna
14:00-15:00 Lunch buffet for the participants (Delia Parodi Roam, National Congress of Argentina) i I I,
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' ' ~--j BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10 December 2017
Organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and ths European Parliament I I ! I '
401h SESSION OF THE STEERING COMMITTEE National Congress of Argentina I' 9 December 2017, 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. ' I. PROVISIONAL AGENDA
t Adoption of the agenda 1. ri I i i 2. Draft outcome document I j .' Members of the Committee will consider the text of the preliminary draft outcome document, as well as the amendments to It, with a view to making the revised draft available to all delegates at the start of the Conference plenary session. Thlil Stlilering Committee may have to reconvene in the evening of 9 December to take stock of additional amendments, as well as suggestions made i in the course of the plenary debate. The consolidated drat( will be distributed to all delegates on ! 10 December for adoption at the closure of the Conference. r
3. Follow-up to the Buenos Aires session of the Parliamentary Conference on theWTO l, l. Participants will exchange views with regard to possible follow-up to the Buenos Aires ssssion, in particular on the next session of the Steering Committee and other national follow-up activities. 'I ,. 4. Any other business
f I ' ' .' ' l ' ' t j BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10 December 2017
Organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament with the support of the National Congress of Argentina in connection with the 11" WTO Ministerial Conference (MC11)
DRAFT OUTCOME DOCUMENT
Submitted by the Conference Steering Committee Rapporteur: Senator Federico Pinedo (Argentina)
The revised draft takes into account amendments submitted by parliaments by 24 November 2017 and considered by the Steering Committee at its meeting on 9 December. The Steering Committee submits the present draft for adoption by the Conference at its concluding sitting.
1. On the eve of the 11• Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), to be held in Buenos Aires between 10 and 13 December 2017, we urge WTO Members to make every possible effort to achieve positive results that consolidate and strengthen the multilateral trading system, with the WTO as its cornerstone.
2. We believe that a multilateral trading system- rule-based, open, and non-discriminatory- r plays an important role in promoting global economic growth and sustainable development, in i creating jobs and wellbeing. Trade should be a key element to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We also recognise that trade can cause positive disruption. Trade reforms must contribute to inclusive economic growth and support economic diversification, industrialisation and structural transformation, particularly in developing countries. ! i 0' 3. Trade has contributed to the increased participation of developing countries in the global economy and has contributed sign'rficantly to strengthening the'rr constructive engagement in an evolving system of global rules. We remain committed to multilateralism and to sustaining WTO's
role within the multilateral system. Strengthening the WTO means building its capacity to deliver 0' reforms to the international trading system, helping more people to participate and spreading the benefits of trade more widely, fairly and equitably.
4. International trade is a tool to support development. Changes in trade flows with the incorporation of new countries into the multilateral system show the benefits of defending the multilateral system so that all countries have the same opportunities to safeguard their rights and assume obligations compatible with their capabilities. In 2001, total imports amounted to US$ 6,320 •• billion and in 2008 reached US$ 16,350 billion, an increase of 158 per cent. In 2016, total imports were at US$ 16,039 billion after having been at US$ 19,000 billion in 2014:-The fall in trade values has undermined the belief of trade as the engine of growth. The deceleration of GOP growth in Europe, the United States and Japan has eroded optimism about the benefits of globalization and " greater integration of economies. However, the increased presence of developing countries in the international trading system has been positive because, as a result, there is more balance and equity in the distribution of the globalization process that will benefit the multilateral trading system.
5. The Bali and Nairobi Ministerial Conferences renewed the negotiating spirit through the commitments of the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the simplification of rules of origin and the provision of preferences for Least Developed Countries' (LDC) services and providers, and the elimination of agricultural export subsidies. In this regard, we applaud the coming into force in February 2017 of the TFA, the first multilateral trade reform agreed by the WTO since it was established in 1995, paying attention to the particular needs of developing and LDCs and Members in implementing this Agreement. Adequate technical and financial support to assist the implementation of the TFA will still need to be provided. We also welcome the coming into force, on 23 January 2017, of an amendment to the TRIPS Agreement to help developing countries access generic medicines at more affordable prices. We urge governments that have not yet ratified these .' two agreements to do so as speedily as possible.
.' " - 2 -
6. The last twenty years have witnessed an extraordinary advance of information and communication technologies, which have revolutionized the way of doing business with products and services and of exchanging information, giving a strong impetus to the increase of productivity in industry, agriculture and services. These new technologies have opened up the possibility of a new productive revolution that will improve the standard of living of the world's population by providing opportunities for developing countries. Technology is knowledge and drives innovation and productivity with greater horizontal and participatory transparency. However, it is believed to be one of the causes of the loss of jobs in the old modes of production, so it is necessary to envisage inclusive and balanced mechanisms to manage the development of both production models to avoid marginalization and uncertainty. It is essential that the development tools seek to include affected people and do not become forms of assistance that keep them out of the system. The Parliamentary Conference promotes the search for equitable mechanisms for the distribution of taxes, universal access to the use of knowledge technologies, solutions to the growing impact of global value chains on domestic and rural economies, on themes ranging from digital trade and connected themes like cyber security, addressing the digital divide for opening up of opportunities and social inclusion, keeping also in view the environmental concerns.
7. The past decade has witnessed a proliferation of multilateral, regional and bilateral agreements. These agreements may open markets in areas only partially or not even covered by the WTO. The impact of these agreements at the multilateral level remains unclear. While they could promote liberalization at the multilateral level, they could also undermine an inclusive multilateralism by fragmenting the system. But there must be coherence and convergence between such agreements and the multilateral trading system, and the role played by multilateral agreements in international trade should not be disregarded or undermined. Plurilateral, regional and bilateral deals in goods and services should not pose obstacles to the conclusion of multilateral I negotiations as part of the WTO Doha Development Agenda. It is only if there is progress in these negotiations that there can be real developmental gains for all Members, rich and poor. Development should be at the heart of multilateral trade negotiations and priority should be given to ' the concerns and interests of developing Members and LDCs. Developing members and LDCs I should continue to enjoy flexibility both when making trade commitments as well as when I implementing them. We call on WTO Members to continue to accompany trade liberalisation with trade-related technical assistance and capacity building.
8. Trade ministers must respond to challenges by setting out a clear vision on how to surmount i the current period of uncertainty and how to conclude and implement the Doha Development I Round's outstanding issues. We deeply regret that progress in overall trade negotiations has been very slow. We urge all WTO Members to show flexibility and the willingness to compromise in order to conclude the trade round that has already lasted too long.
9. The Uruguay Round Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), recognizing in its Article 20 that •• substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies and protection is an ongoing process, required its Members to resume negotiations on sector reform one year before the end of the period of implementation. However, it was only at the 10" Ministerial Conference in Nairobi that the elimination of export subsidies was approved with immediate effect for developed Members and by the end of 2018 for developing Members. The Parliamentary Conference urges all Members, especially developed Members, to implement the Nairobi Conference's commitments and to advance in sector negotiations as provided for in Article 20 of the AoA. This can create new opportunities for developing Members and a better distribution of the benefits of the multilateral system of international trade through substantial and progressive reduction of trade distorting agricultural subsidies. The Parliamentary Conference also recognizes that food security is vital for developing Members and that WTO rules must support the fight against hunger; increased global production and the opening of reliable supply channels are an appropriate mechanism to provide access to safe and affordable food.
10. We also urge WTO Members to find a permanent solution on the issue of public stockholding for food security purposes in line with the mandate and time lines as per the decision taken at the 1O" Ministerial Conference.
11. The Parliamentary Conference confirms that the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies to fisheries under the WTO, and in accordance with the commitment set out in
' ' " - 3 -
SDG14.6 of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development, will be an important step forward in promoting the sustainable development of marine fishery resource, while controlling indiscriminate fishing and preventing the depletion of this marine resource. Appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing and least-developed Members should be an integral part of the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, taking into account the importance of this sector to development priorities, poverty reduction, and livelihood for food security concerns. Establishing disciplines for the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies, technical assistance to developing Members, and reviews of implementation, will help to achieve this goal.
12. The Parliamentary Conference noted the establishment of the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity. We recognize that excess capacity in steel and other industries is a global issue which requires collective responses. It is important for countries to take measures to avoid price distortions and to promote the restructuring of the sector based on market orientation.
13. Given the growing importance of trade in services in global trade, all efforts should be made to revive services negotiations at the WTO including on a framework for facilitating trade in services. We also need to safeguard against growing protectionism particularly in the area of temporary movement of professionals.
14. We also welcome the growing interest among WTO Members in other areas of the international trade agenda of the 21" century. Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) account for a large proportion otemployment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic economies, but they need to gain similar importance in international trade and need further support from the WTO. E-commerce could significantly reduce the costs of doing business I across borders, particularly for MSMEs. We stress the need for the WTO to promote specific policies to encourage more widespread and inclusive MSME participation in global markets. We take note that investment and trade are mutually reinforcing engines of global economic growth.
15. We encourage policymakers to incorporate the importance of women into macroeconomic policies; women's empowerment can accelerate the eradication of poverty. I 16. The WTO's Aid-for-Trade initiative is an important vehicle for helping poorer developing Members to face supply-side and trade-related infrastructure obstacles that limit their ability to eng9ge in, and benefit from, international trade. We welcome the fact that disbursements reached ,, US$ 39.8 billion in 2015, the latest year for which figures are available. This is the highest figure to date for a single year. We stress the need to maintain this momentum and maximize the impact of this support.
17. However, we remain deeply concerned about growing economic inequalities, notably within countries. Developing countries, particularly LDCs, must have the freedom to apply appropriate domestic policies to ensure that increased trade efficiency results in more job opportunities. Trade •• policies must be accompanied by appropriate fiscal and monetary measures to generate jobs, boost productivity and promote sustained and in1:lusive economic growth. Other supportive policies for skills development and technology transfer are necessary and the international community should assist developing countries in this regard.
18. We call on all WTO Members to move forward with the nomination of the Members of the Appellate Body, in order to ensure a proper functioning of the WTO Dispute Settlement System.
19. Addressing the challenges facing the WTO requires the continued involvement of parliamentarians. As elected representatives of the people, parliamentarians are well placed to listen to and convey the concerns and aspirations of citizens, businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), thus enhancing the transparency of the WTO and strengthening public acceptance of, and support for, fair and equitable trade for all. We urge the WTO to make full use of the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO and to ensure generally that parliamentarians have access to all the information they need to carry out their oversight role effectively and to contribute meaningfully to trade policies that must include the active involvement in the formulation and implementation of WTO policies, by the WTO and its Members. New trade policies have to be properly scrutinized in the interest of their citizens.
' ' " BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10 December 2017
Organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament with the support of the National Congress of Argentina 1 in connection with the 11 " WTO Ministerial Conference (MC11)
PRELIMINARY DRAFT OUTCOME DOCUMENT
Amendments submitted by the delegations of Bahrain, China, India, Indonesia, Republic of Korea, South Africa and the European Parliament
Paragraph 2
Amend the paragraph to read as follows: . We believe that aA iAtematioAal a multilateral tradin ystem - rule-based, open, and non- iscriminatory- plays a crucial role in promoting global omic growth and sustainable ·A development, in creating jobs and wellbeing. In recen ecades, trade has helped lift about a billion people out of poverty and it will be a key element t chieving the United Nations Sustainable l Development Goals (SDGs). (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
We believe that an international multilateral trading system - rule-based, open, and non scriminatory- plays a crYcial an important role in promoting global economic growth and ustainable development, in creating jobs and wellbeing. In recent decades, trade has helped lift . Aabout a billion people out of poverty and it will be a key element to~ieving the United Nations .~ Sustainable Development G9als (SDGs). We also recognise tha. rade can cause disruption Q a~ thaHrade reforrT)(COntrlbute!J to inclusive conomic growth and I supports economic diversification, industrialisation and structural transformation, I particularly in developing countries. i (South Africa)
end the paragraph to read as follows:
We believe that an international multilateral trading system- rule-based, open, and non criminatory- plays a crucial role in promoting global economic growth and sustainable Adevelopment, in creating jobs and wellbeing. lA receAt eesaees,Trade Aas Ael~ee lift aseyt a sillioA ~ee~le oYt of ~everly aAd it will should be a key element to achieving the United Nations ,, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). (European Parliament)
Paragraph 3
Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
3. The liberalization of trade has increase the participation of developing GOYAtries Members in the global economy and has contributed 1gnificantly to strengthening their constructive engagement in global governance. We r ain committed to multilateralism and to sustaining WTO's role within the multilateral syst . Strengthening the WTO means building its capacity to deliver reforms to the international tr ing system, helping more people to participate and spreading the benefits of trade mar widely. (China) ; .'
' ' _.,,. - 2-
Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
3. The liberalization of trade has increased the participation of developing countries in the global economy and has contributed significantly to strengthening their constructive engagement in al governance. We remain committed to multilateralism and to sustaining WTO's role within the tilateral system. Strengthening the WTO means building its capacity to deliver reforms to the rnational trading system, helping more people to participate and spreading the benefits of trade more widely, fairly and equitably. (Indonesia)
Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
3. Trade has contributed to the increased tAB participation of dev oping countries in the global economy and has contributed significantly to strengthening their structive engagement in an evolving system of global §OVernance rules. We remain mmitted to multilateral ism and to sustaining WTO's role within the multilateral system. engthening the WTO means building its capacity to deliver reforms to the international trading '-...?' system, helping more people to participate and spreading the benefits of trade more widely.
(South Africa)
Paragraph 4
Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
4. International trade is a fundamental tool for develop nt. Changes in trade flows with the incorporation of new countries Members into the multil ral system show the benefits of defending the multilateral system so that all countries embers have the same opportunities to safeguard their rights and assume obligations com tible with their capabilities. In 2001, total imports amounted to US$ 6,320 billion and in 20 reached US$ 16,350 billion, an increase of 158 per cent. At present, total imports are at US$ 1 ,039 billion after having been at US$ 19,000 billion J in 2014. The fall in trade values has undermi d the belief of trade as the engine of development. The deceleration of GOP growth in Europe, e United States and Japan affected optimism about the benefits of globalization and greater in gration of economies. However, the increased presence of developing countries Memb rs in international trade is an incentive because, as a result, there is more balance and equity in the distribution of the globalization process that will benefit the multilateral trading system. (China)
Amend the paragraph to read as follows: ;;. "\ 1'tJ..,l 4. International trade~ a tool fer to support development, it'jlt~iSU!!a appropriately. Changes in trade flows with the incorporation of new countries into the multilateral system show the benefits of defending the multilateral system so that all countries have the same / opportunities to safeguard their rights and assume obligations compatible with their capabilities. In ~ 2001, total imports amounted to US$ 6,320 billion and in 2008 reached US$ 16,350 billion, an O.J increase of 158 per cent. At present, total imports are at US$ 16,039 billion after having been at ""' ~·1 1 US$ 19,000 billion in 2014. The fall in trade values has undermined the belief of trade as the fr 11 ~r r engine of growth development. The deceleration of GOP growth in Europe, the United States and J Japan affected has eroded optimism about the benefits of globalization and greater integration of . economies. elewever, the increased presence of developin§ countries in international tradej9<>n -" '1-" f.l.L. incentive 9ecause, as a result, there is mere ilalance and e~uity in the distri9ution of the §lellalizatien precess that will llenefit the multilateral tradin§ system. [Comment: This sentence is unclear how is the presence of developing countries seen as an "incentive"? Balance and equity is not only a function of numbers of developing countries in the system. We also need to recognise that their capacity shape outcomes is based on differentia/levels of political, economic and trade strength.] !;,-, :1\ .n. M, ;j l q,v.... (South Africa) ~()./\ b. + {)1_ {).-. (\ 4W{ f'i ' \ '' v-v v\. (\L ~ JL\ Gv'\ J~ \r - 3-
Amend the paragraph to read as follows:
4. International trade is a fundamental tool for development. Changes in trade flows with the ./ incorporation of new countries into the multilateral system show the benefits of defending the 1./ multilateral system so that all countries have the same opportunities to safeguard their rights and assume obligations compatible with their capabilities. In 2001, total imports amo~ntee to US$ €i,::l20 billion ane in 2008 FOachee US$ 1€i,::l50 billion, an increase of 158 per cent. At present, total imports aFO at US$ 1€i,O::l9 billion after havin§ been at US$ 19,000 billion in 2014. The fall in tra Paragraph 5 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 5. The Bali and Nairobi Ministerial Conferences renewed the negotiating spirit through the commitments of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the simplification of rules of origin and the provision of preferences for LDC services and providers, and the elimination of agricultural export subsidies. In this regard, we applaud the coming into force in February 2017 of the WTO's TFA, the first multilateral trade reform agreed by the WTO since it was established in 1995, highlighting in I particular the needs of developing and least developed countries Members in implementing this ! Agreement. We also welcome the coming into force, on 23 January of this year, of an amendment to the TRIPS Agreement to help developing co~ntries Members access generic medicines at more i affordable prices. We urge governments that have not yet ratified these two agreements to do so as speedily as possible. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: l 5. The Bali and Nairobi Ministerial Conferences renewed the negotiating spirit through the commitments of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the simplification of rules of origin and the provision of preferences for LDC services and providers, and the elimination of agricultural export subsidies. In this regard, we applaud the coming into force in February 2017 of the WTO's TFA, the ,, first multilateral trade reform agreed by the WTO since it was established in 1995, hi§hli§hlin§ in paying some attention to the particular tAe needs of developing and least developed countries. "" (;_. Adequate technical and financial support to assist the implementation of the TFA"will still P · I':~"'-.;·"" need to be provided. We also welcome the coming into force, on 23 January of this year, of an (""':'~ amendment to the TRIPS Agreement to help developing countries access generic medicines at "'S c ,;{, \ ,. more affordable prices. We urge governments that have not yet ratified these two agreements to do (1. { .- so as speedily as possible. (South Africa) Paragraph 6 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 6. The last twenty years have witnessed an extraordinary advance of· ormation and communication technologies, which have revolutionized the way of doi business with products and services and of exchanging information, giving a strong impetu o the increase of productivity in industry, agriculture and services. These new technologies hav opened up the possibility of a new productive revolution that will improve the standard of livin of the world's population by providing opportunities for developing countries Members. T hnology is knowledge and drives innovation and productivity with greater horizontal and parti 1patory transparency. However, it is believed to be one of the causes of the loss of jobs in ~~ld modes of production, so it is necessary to envisage inclusive mechanisms to mana~ the transition to new production models to .'1'• . ,.. ·,;:. - 4- avoid marginalization and uncertainty. It is essen · I that the transition tools seek to include affected people and not become forms of assis nee that keep them out of the new system. The Parliamentary Conference promotes the sem for multilateral agreements on equitable mechanisms for the distribution of taxes, o he compatibility of increased productivity with the environmental protection and on univers access to the use of knowledge technologies through clear rules for opening up of opportuniti sand social inclusion. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: ~ If-· 6 The last twenty years have Witnessed an extraordinary advance of Information and "tk}f~~, commUniCatiOn technolOgieS, WhiCh have revolUtiOnized the Way Of doing business With products ,y w'' " and serv1ces and of exchanging Information, g1v1ng a strong impetus to the Increase of productivity ~/:"; 1,4 1n Industry, agnculture and services. These new technologieS have opened up the poss1b1l1ty of a , ( "'"' ;;f;J" J j new productive revolution that will 1m prove the standard of llv1ng of the world's populat1on by vr nil..:· r!-" prov1d1ng opportunities for developing countnes. Technology 1s knowledge and dnves innovation {J{.YsV' and productivity with greater horizontal and participatory transparency. However, it is believed to be ;,? _. } one of the causes of the loss of jobs in the old modes of production, so it is necessary to envisage If )""'~ inclusive mechanisms to manage the transition to new production models to avoid marginalization • '(\-' 1.,;.Y. and uncertainty. It is essential that the transition tools seek to include affected people and not (A"· \J 0- become forms of assistance that keep them out of the new system. The Parliamentary Conference "'t!.. "(:.; ~;,vJ' promotes the search for multilateral agreements on equitable mechanisms for the distribution of · oJ..' ' - ,;- taxes, on the conn~atibility of increased ~roduotivity with the environmental ~reteolion and on --'e '" SJ \ •. UniVersal access to the USe of knowledge technologieS through clear rules for opening Up of rjf?~:1: \ opportunities and social inclusion. r;Y ,_" (India) ' '' lf~l' /' Amend the paragraph to read as follows: ( / 6. The last twenty years have witnessed an extraordinary advance of information and communication technologies, which have revolutionized the way of doing business with products and services and of exchanging information, giving a strong impetus to the increase of productivity in industry, agriculture and services. These new technologies have opened up the possibility of a new productive revolution that will improve the standard of living of the world's population by providing opportunities for developing countries. Technology is knowledge and drives innovation and productivity with greater horizontal and participatory transparency. However, it is believed to be one of the causes of the loss of jobs in the old modes of production, so it is necessary to envisage J inclusive and balanced mechanisms to manage the transition to new development of both production models to avoid marginalization and uncertainty. It is essential that the transition development tools seek to include affected people and not become forms of assistance that keep them out of the ReW system. The Parliamentary Conference promotes the search for multilateral agreements on equitable mechanisms for the distribution of taxes, on the compatibility of increased productivity with the environmental protection and on universal access to the use of knowledge technologies through clear rules for opening up of opportunities and social inclusion. (Indonesia) 1 6. The last twenty years have witnessed an extraordinary advance of information and communication technologies, which have revolutionized the way of doing business with products and services and of exchanging information, giving a strong impetus to the increase of productivity in industry, agriculture and services. These new technologies have opened up the possibility of a new productive revolution that will improve the standard of living of the world's population Sy ~rovidin§ Ofl~ortunilies for develo~in§ oo~ntries. We also recognize that despite the spread of technology, the digital transformation is highly uneven across the world. Technology is knowledge and drives innovation and productivity with greater horizontal and participatory transparency. However, it is believed to be one of the causes of the loss of jobs in the old modes of production, so it is necessary to envisage inclusive mechanisms to manage the transition to new production models to avoid ma~inalization and uncertainty. It is essential that the transition tools seek to include affected people and not become forms of assistance !flat l~ee~ tflem out of the new system. The Parliamentary Conference promotes the search for multilateral agreements on - 5- equitable mechanisms for the distribution of taxes, on the compatibility of increased productivity / with the environmental protection and on universal access to the use of knowledge technologies !/ through clear rules-for opening up of opportunities and social inclusion. (South Afnca) ~ ;.A;!' Replace the existing text of the paragraph by the following: }:;,.-,/\ ~~~. 6. We call on the WTO to develop a set of multilateral disciplines on a-commerce and o'\'(v'~~ support the view that this should be translated into concrete actions in order to facilitate '4 j" ~ e-commerce and turn digital opportunities into trade realities. We underline that better connectivity offers more possibilities for MSMEs in developing countries and better access markets and note in this regard that investment in infrastructure remains a key challenge and that it is crucial to achievinJI progress in this area. } ( ck;, ~J.A_~l.v. lJv, Uj~ .tlwt/1~ (European Parliament) Paragraph 7 Y Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 7. The past decade has witnessed a proliferation of multilateral, regional and bilateral agreements. These agreements GaR may open markets in areas only partially or not even covered by the WTO and GaR may promote liberalization at th€1 multilateral level. But there must be coherence and convergence between such agreements and the multilateral trading system, and J the role played by multilateral agreements in international trade should not be disregarded or i undermined. Multilateral, regional and bilateral deals in goods and services should not pose obstacles to the conclusion of multilateral negotiations as part of the WTO Doha development agenda. It is only if there is progress in these negotiations that there can be real developmental gains for all countries Members, rich and poor. Development should be at the heart of multilateral trade negotiations and priority should be given to the concerns and interests of developing countries Members and LDCs. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 7. The past decade has witnessed a proliferation of multilateral, regional and bilateral agreements. These agreements can open markets in areas only partially covered by the WTO. The impact of these agreements at the multilateral level remains unclear. While it could ane can / promote liberalization at the multilateral level, it could also undermine an inclusive ~ multilateralism by fragmenting the system. But there must be coherence and convergence between such agreements and the multilateral trading system, and the role played by multilateral " agreements in international trade should not be disregarded or undermined. Multilateral, regional and bilateral deals in goods and services should not pose obstacles to the conclusion of multilateral negotiations as part of the WTO Doha development agenda. It is only if there is progress in these negotiations that there can be real developmental gains for all countries, rich and poor. " Development should be at the heart of multilateral trade negotiations and priority should be given to the concerns and interests of developing countries and LDCs. (South Africa) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 7. The past decade has witnessed a proliferation of multilateral, regional and bilateral agreements. These agreements can open markets in areas only partially covered by the WTO and can promote liberalization at the multilateral level. But there must be coherence and convergence between such agreements and the multilateral trading system, and the role played by multilateral / agreements in international trade should not be disregarded or undermined. V MultilateraiPiurilateral, regional and bilateral deals in goods and services should not pose obstacles to the conclusion of multilateral negotiations as part of the WTO Doha development agenda. It is only ifthere is progress in these negotiations !Fiat IF! ere can be real developmental gains for all countries, ricA ane peer. Development should be at the heart of multilateral trade . ' negotiations and priority should be given to the concerns and interests of developing countries and .' LDCs. Developing countries and LDCs should continue to enjoy flexibility both when ' . - 6- making trade commitments as well as when implementing them1•inlrne with tllsir le·1el-'of de>. New paragraph 7bis Add a new paragraph after paragraph 7 to read as follows: 7bis. We encourage the resumption of plurilateral trade negotiations on the Environmental Goods Agreement as well as on the Trade in Services Agreement. (S&D and EPP Group of the European Parliament) Paragraph 8 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 8. Trade ministers must respond to challenges by setting out a clear vision on how to surmount the current period of uncertainty and how to conclude and implement the Doha outstanding issues programme. We deeply regret that progress in overall trade negotiations has been very slow; irr partic!;l@r-ea-impre·• i11g 11oarket'access modalities for noll-agrlculttm~l pl'etlttets. We urge all WTO Members to show flexibility and the wrn willingness to compromise •.vhish are Aeeeee in order to conclude the trade round that has already lasted far laAger t~t-he previous f9tlf\4s too long. (European Parliament) Paragraph 9 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 9. The Uruguay Round Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), recognizing in its Article 20 that substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies and protection is an ongoing process, required of its members to resume negotiations on sector reform one year before the end of the period of implementation. However, it was only at the 1o'h Ministerial Conference in Nairobi that the elimination of export subsidies was approved with immediate effect for developed oouAtries Members and by the end of 2018 for developing oo~Atries Members. To date, only Australia has complied with this commitment. The Parliamentary Conference urges all oo~Rtries Members, especially developed oouRtries Members, to implement the Nairobi Conference's commitments and to advance in sector negotiations as provided for in Article 20 of the AoA, including the substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies to production and protection, which will create new opportunities for developing souRtries Members and a better distribution of the benefits of the multilateral system of international trade. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 9. The Uruguay Round Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), recognizing in its Article 20 that substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies and protection is an ongoing process, required of its members to resume negotiations on sector reform one year before the end of the period of implementation. However, it was only at the 1o'h Ministerial Conference in Nairobi that the _/ elimination of export subsidies was approved with immediate effect for developed countries and by, the end of 2018 for developing countries. To eate, oRiy A~stralia has sompliee with this oommitmeRt. The Parliamentary Conference urges all countries, especially developed countries, to implement the Nairobi Conference's commitments and to advance in sector negotiations as provided for in Article 20 of the AoA, inslueiRg the to create new opportunities for developing countries and a better distribution of the benefits of the multilateral system of international trade through substantial and progressive reduction of trade distorting agricultural subsidies.lo proe~stion aRe protection, whish will create Rew opport~Rities for aeveloping so~Rtries amf a better Elistril:l~tioR of tl1e lleRefits of the m~ltilateral system of intematioRal traee of developed Members. (India) - 7- Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 9. The Uruguay Round Agreement on Agriculture (AoA), recognizing in its Article 20 that substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies and protection is an ongoing process, required of its members to resume negotiations on sector reform one year before the end of the period of implementation. However, it was only at the 1o'h Ministerial Conference in Nairobi that the elimination of export subsidies was approved with immediate effect for developed countries and by the end of 2018 for developing countries. To date, only Australia has complied with this commitment The Parliamentary Conference urges all countries, especially developed countries, to _. / implement the Nairobi Conference's commitments and to advance in sector negotiations as 1:/ provided for in Article 20 of the AoA, including the substantial and progressive reduction of subsidies to production and protection and considering non-trade concerns, which will create new opportunities for developing countries and a better distribution of the benefits of the multilateral system of international trade. (Republic of Korea) Paragraph 10 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 10. We also urge WTO Members to find a permanent solution to the question of setting up public stocks to deal with emergencies by establishing multilateral rules in line with the decision taken at 1 the 10 h Ministerial Conference, and adequate safeguards to prevent such mechanisms from I distorting the international market and having negative effects on the food security of third &!ales Members. Food security is vital for developing countries Members and WTO rules must support the fight against hunger,xTh~_E<:!rl.iamentary Conference also recognizes that incr~ased global ~~ production and the opening of reliable supply channels are the best solution to ensure people's acceSsTo safe and affordable food. · - !k,~4 .. ~ )r-- Amend the paragraph' to read as follows: f 10. We also urge WTO Members to find a permanent solution to the question of setting up public stocks to deal with emergencies I:Jy establishing in accordance with multilateral rules, in line with 1 the decision taken at the 10 h Ministerial Conference, ana aaequate safeguaras to ~revent such mechanisms from aistorting the international marl1et ana having negative effects on the food security of third States. Food security is vital for developing countries and WTO rules must support the fight against hunger. The Parliamentary Conference also recognizes that increased global production and the opening of reliable supply channels are the best solution to ensure people's access to safe and affordable food. (Republic of Korea) . ' " ' ' .. , "' - 8 - Paragraph 11 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 11. The Parliamentary Conference confirms that the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies to fisheries under the WTO and in accordance with the commitment set out in SDG14.6 of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development will be an important step forward in J coAtrolliA§ iAdiscriR1iAate fishiA§ aAd preveAtiA§ the depletioA of this R1ariAe resource promoting the sustainable development of marine fishery resource. Appropriate and effective special and differential treatment for developing and least-developed Members should be an integral part of the WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, taking into account the importance of this sector to development priorities, poverty reduction, and livelihood for food security concerns. Establishing disciplines for the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies, requestiA§ assistaAce to verify coR1pliaAce with GDR1R1itR1eAts, techAical cooperatioA with special and differential treatment and technical assistance to developing countries Members, and aAfWB1 reviews of implementation will help preserve the resoume, discoura§e activities aAEI preserve the CDAditioAs of opeA aAd ADA discriR1inatory trade achieve a triple win for the environment, trade and development. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 11. The Parliamentary Conference confirms that the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies to fisheries under the WTO and in accordance with the commitment set out in SDG14.6 of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development will be an important step forward in controlling indiscriminate fishing and preventing the depletion of this marine resource. EstaslishiA§ This will require establishing disciplines for the prohibition and elimination of subsidies, requestiA§ with appropriate special and differential treatment for developing countries and LDCs assistance to vefify secure compliance with commitments, technical cooperation with developing countries, and aAfWB1 periodic reviews of implementation will help preserve the resource from over-exploitation, discoura§e activities and preserve the help create conditions of open and non-discriminatory trade (India) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 11. The Parliamentary Conference confirms that the prohibition and elimination of certain forms of subsidies to fisheries under the WTO and in accordance with the commitment set out in SDG14.6 of the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development will be an important step forward in controlling indiscriminate fishing and preventing the depletion of this marine resource. Establishing disciplines for the prohibition and elimination of subsidies, requesting assistance to verify compliance with commitments, technical cooperation with developing countries, and annual reviews of implementation will help preserve the resource, disceura§e astivities aAd preserve the soAditions of open aAd AOA discriR1iAatory trade. (European Parliament) Paragraph 12 Delete the existing paragraph. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 12. The Parliamentary Conference welsomes noted the establishment of the Global Forum on J Steel Excess Capacity to correct the distortions caused by the decline in demand and the direct and indirect subsidies granted by some countries to increase production capacity. It is important for countries to take measures to avoid price distortions and to promote the restructuring of the sector based on market orientation. (India) - 9 - Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 12. The Parliamentary Conference welcomes the establishment of the Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity to correct the distortions caused by the decline in demand and the direct and ct.__/ indirect subsidies granted by some countries to increase production capacity. It is important lef- GeYRiries to take measures to avoid price distortions and to promote the restructuring of the sector based on market orientation. (European Parliament) Paragraph 13 Delete the existing paragraph. ~~~ (China) ~, \()./\'" Replace the existing text of the paragraph by the following: 13. Given the growing importance of trade in services in global trade, all efforts should be made to revive services negotiations at the WTO including on a framework for facilitating trade in services. We also need to safeguard against growing protectionism particularly in the area of temporary movement of professionals. (India) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: I 13. The Parliamentary Conference recognizes the importan of the Sustainable Global Supply I Chains as defined in the recent G-20 Leaders Declaration a especially the promotion of labour, social and environmental standards and human rights in a cordance with the guidelines recognized .. jv· in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human R' hts of the United Nations and the ·~\:1 Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinali nal Enterprises and Social Policy of the -.\ ~~ I International Labour Organization (ILO). The Par~ia entary Conference also emphasizes the V" i· importance of implementing the OECD Guidelines or Multinational Enterprises and of promoting \rj their adoption by all countries. Further, the Pari' mentary Conference underlines that in the efforts to achieve an inclusive, fair and su~t nable globalization, we need better access to financing, technology and training facilitie that help improve the capacity of Micro, Small t· and Medium Enterprises (MSME) to integr te into sustainable and inclusive global supply chains. (Indonesia) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 13. The Parliamentary Conference recognizes the importance of the Sustainable Global Supply Chains as defined in the recent G-20 Leaders Declaration and especially the promotion of labour, social and environmental standards and human rights in accordance with the guidelines recognized in the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights of the United Nations and the Tripartite Declaration of Principles concerning Multinational Enterprises and Social Policy of the '' International Labour Organization (ILO). The Parliamentary Conference also emphasizes the importance of implementing the OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises and of promoting their adoption by all countries. We also recognise that these standards should not become new barriers to trade, particularly against the exports of developing countries. (South Africa) \ \:Y \ Paragraph 14 \1. J:r Amend the paragraph to read as follows ':0~ . 14. We welcome as well the growing tnterest among WTO Members in other areas of the '""-\ ~f.~ ~j international trade agenda of the 21'1 century, tncluding issues related to Mtcro, Small and Medium \ ;§' Enterprises (MSME) and a-commerce and investment facilitation The MSMEs account for a \ large proportion of employment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic ) ' ' ' economies, but they need to gain similar importance in international trade. E-commerce could . significantly reduce the costs of doing business across borders, particularly for MSMEs. ... - 10 - Investment and trade are mutually reinforcing engines of global economic growth. Facilitating cross-border investment could help WTO Members spur trade, build productive capacity, stimulate job creation, and achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 14. We welcome as well the growing interest among WTO Members in other areas of the international trade agenda of the 21'1 century, including issues related to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and e-commerce. The MSMEs account for a large proportion of employment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic economies, but they need to gain similar importance in international trade. While e-commerce could signiftcantly reduce the costs of doing business across borders, particularly for MSMEs, the vast majority of Members recognizes the need for policy space for undertaking supportive measures to meaningfully engage in digital industrialisation. (India) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 14. We welcome as well the growing interest among WTO Members in other areas of the international trade agenda of the 21 ' 1 century, including issues related to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and e-commerce. The MSMEs account for a large proportion of employment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic economies, but they need to gain similar importance in international trade. E-commerce could significantly reduce the costs of doing business across borders, particularly for MSMEs. We welcome efforts made by the WTO to integrate MSME into global trade and stress the need for the WTO to promote specific policies to encourage more widespread and inclusive MSME participation in global markets. (Indonesia) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 14. We welcome as well the growing interest among some WTO Members in other areas of the international trade agenda of the 21'1 century, including issues related to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and e-commerce. The MSMEs account for a large proportion of employment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic economies, but they need to gain similar importance in international trade. E-commerce could significantly reduce the costs of doing business across borders, particularly for MSMEs. (South Africa) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 14. We welcome as well !lie grewing interest amsng 'IVTO Meml3ers in otlier areas of tlie international traEls agenEla of the 21" oentllry, including issues related te Miers, »mall ana Meaium Enterprises (M»ME) and e commerce. Tlie M»MEs We take the view that since the Doha Round was launched in 2001, the world has changed dramatically in economic, political and technological terms, and that new challenges have emerged such as e~commerce, digitai trade, investments, subsidies and overcapacity, global value chains, public procurement, domestic regulation for services, greater compatibility for trade, labour and environmental agendas and issues related to Micro and Small and Medium Enterprises which account for a large proportion of employment, notably of women and young people, in many domestic economies, but they which need to gain similar importance in international trade. E osmmeroe osuiEI significantly reEiuoe the costs gf Elsing llYsiness aowss llorders, partiolllarly for M»MEs. These issues, which lay beyond the Doha Development Agenda (DDA), have to be discussed and this can be done without prejudice to outstanding issues on the Agenda. (European Parliament) - 11 - Paragraph 15 Delete the existing paragraph. (India) General comment I think the document is well drafted and the only observation I have would be on paragraph 15. ;:-a(';A As you may appreciate, there could be objection to the issue of gender as some of the Arab c countries have specific views on this issue. (Bahrain) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 15. We encourage policymakers to integrate the gender perspective into macroeconomic policies, ospoeially including in trade policy. Gender mainstreaming and women's empowerment can accelerate the eradication of poverty, as outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. We therefore ~n-Wf. embers to include the adoption of a wor!dhl~programme to achieve,-Qfnder awaren in trade policy in the decisions fro)1J-tlre"-j MirilstmwsQ_nference, as well as o en orse the Joint Declaration on Trade an~ Women'_V mpowerme~t which aims to provide a framework and platform for WTO Memb~P.-fi)ster a more inclu ive trade agenda. I I Paragraph 16 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 16. The WTO's €Isner lumled Aid-for-Trade initiative is an important vehicle for helping poorer developing eountries Members to face supply-side and trade-related infrastructure obstacles that limit their ability to engage in, and benefit from, international trade. We welcome the fact that disbursements reached US$ 39.8 billion in 2015, the latest year for which figures are available. ,, This is the highest figure to date for a single year. We stress the need to maintain this momentum and maximize the impact of this support. (China) Paragraph 17 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 17. However, we remain deeply concerned at growing economic inequalities, notably within eountries Members. Developing emmtries Members, particularly LDCs, must have the freedom to apply appropriate domestic policies to ensure that increased trade efficiency results in more job t• opportunities. Trade policies must be accompanied by appropriate fiscal and monetary measures to generate jobs, boost productivity and promote sustained and inclusive economic growth. (China) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 17. However, we remain deeply concerned at growing economic inequalities, notably within countries. Developing countries, particularly LDCs, must have the freedom to apply appropriate domestic policies to ensure that increased trade efficiency results in more job opportunities. Trade policies must be accompanied by appropriate fiscal and monetary measures to generate jobs, boost productivity and promote sustained and inclusive economic growth. Other supportive labour policies for skills development and technology transfer are necessary and the international community should assist developing countries in this regard. t:\ (South Africa) ' i " " - 12 - Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 17. However, we remain deeply concerned at existing inequalities among countries and growing economic inequalities, notably within countries, notably in LDCs. Developing countries, particularly bOGs, must have the lreeeom to apply appropriate eomestic policies to ensure \hal increasee traee efficiency results in more job opportunities. Trade policies must be accompanied by good governance on national level, appropriate social, fiscal and monetary measures as well as the creation of adequate infrastructures in order to generate jobs, boost productivity and promote sustained and inclusive economic grow1h. (European Parliament) Paragraph 18 Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 18. Addressing the challenges facing the WTO requires the continued involvement of parliamentarians. As elected representatives of the people, parliamentarians are well placed to listen to and convey the concerns and aspirations of citizens, businesses and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to enhance the transparency of the WTO, to predispose the WTO to shaping fair and equitable trade policies for all its members, and to strengtheniflg public support for open trade. We urge the WTO to make full use of the Parliamentary Conference on the WTO and to ensure that parliamentarians have access to all the information they need to carry out their oversight role effectively and to contribute meaningfully to trade policies. (Indonesia) Amend the paragraph to read as follows: 18. Addressing the challenges facing the WTO requires the continued involvement of parliamentarians. As elected representatives of the people, parliamentarians are well placed to listen to and convey the concerns and aspirations of citizens, businesses ana non governmental organizations (~lGOs), to enhance, thus enhancing the transparency of the WTO and lG strengthening public acceptance of and support for open trade. We urge the WTO to make lull use of \he Parliamen\aFY Conference on the WTO and to ensure that parliamentarians have access to all the information they neecJ to carry out their oversight role effectively ana to contribute meaningfully to traee policiss. We stress, in this connection, the need to ensure that parliamentarians have better access to trade negotiations and are involved in the formulation and implementation of WTO decisions, and that trade policies are properly scrutinised in the interests of their citizens. We call on the WTO Members to strengthen the parliamentary dimension of the WTO, in parallel with the negotiating bodies. (European Parliament) New paragraph 18bis Add a new paragraph after paragraph 18 to read as follows: 18bis. We call on all WTO Members, and in particular the United States, to move forward with the nomination of the Members of the Appellate Body, in order to ensure a proper functioning of the WTO Dispute Settlement System. (European Parliament) BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10 December 2017 Organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament with the support of the National Congress of Argentina 1 in connection with the 11 h WTO Ministerial Conference (MC11) PC-WT0/2017/R.S 27 November 2017 JOINT DECLARATION ON TRADE AND WOMEN'S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT ON THE OCCASION OF THE WTO MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE IN BUENOS AIRES IN DECEMBER 2017 Acknowledging the importance of incorporating a gender perspective into the promotion of inclusive economic growth, and the key role that gender-responsive policies can play in achieving sustainable socioeconomic development; Acknowledging that inclusive trade policies can contribute to advancing gender equality and women's economic empowerment, which has a positive impact on economic growth i and helps to reduce poverty; Acknowledging that international trade and investment are engines of economic growth for both developing and developed countries, and that improving women's access to opportunities and removing barriers to their participation in national and international economies contributes to sustainable economic development; '' Acknowledging the need to develop evidence-based interventions that address the range of barriers that limit opportunities for women in the economy; ! ' Recalling Goal 5 of the Sustainable Development Goals in the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which is to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls; and Reaffirming our commitment to effectively implement the obligations under the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 18 December 1979; •• We have agreed to collaborate on making our trade and development policies more gender-responsive, including by: " 1. Sharing our respective experiences relating to policies and programs to encourage women's participation in national and international economies through World Trade Organization (WTO) information exchanges, as appropriate, and voluntary reporting during the WTO trade policy review process; 2. Sharing best practices for conducting gender-based analysis of trade policies and for the monitoring of their effects; 3. Sharing methods and procedures for the collection of gender-disaggregated data, the use of indicators, monitoring and evaluation methodologies, and the analysis of gender-focused statistics related to trade; 4. Working together in the WTO to remove barriers for women's economic empowerment and increase their participation in trade; and ' ' '' ' ' " - 2- PC-WT0/2017/R.5 5. Ensuring that Aid for Trade supports tools and know-how for analysing, designing and implementing more gender-responsive trade policies. Over the next months, we will hold a series of seminars in coordination with relevant international organizations to explore and discuss, among others, the following themes related to trade and the economic empowerment of women: • The promotion of female entrepreneurship and trade; • The identification of barriers that limit women's participation in trade; • The promotion of financial inclusion as well as the access to trade financing and financial assistance for women traders; • The enhancement of women entrepreneurs' participation in public procurement markets; • The inclusion of women-led businesses, in particular MSMEs, in value chains; • The impact of trade facilitation in providing equal access and opportunities for women entrepreneurs; • The inventory of information sources, their complementarity and the identification of data gaps. In 2019 we will report on progress towards implementation of this joint declaration on trade and women's economic empowerment. COMMONWEALTH PARL!AM ENTARY CP~ ASSOCIATION Submission by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Headquarters Secretariat to the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Trade Out of Poverty and the UK Overseas Development Institute Key theme of inquiry: Can the Commonwealth help countries trade out of poverty? Background and overview of the CPA: Established in 1911, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) is the recognised parliamentary arm of the Commonwealth, and the professional association of parliamentarians in the Commonwealth legislatures. i. Its Statement of Purpose states that the CPA connects, develops, promotes and supports parliamentarians and their staff to Identify benchmarks of good governance and implementation of the enduring values of the Commonwealth. I I Summary of evidence: The crucial role ofparliament and good governcmce to effective trade policy and poverty al/eviotion: {291 words) Parliamentarians play a vital role In promoting development in their respective countries. They have a responsibility to address poverty and work towards sustainable development which positively i Impacts every citizen. Committed to the enduring values of the Commonwealth, as enshrined in the i Commonweo/th Charter 2013, Commonwealth parliaments and legislatures across the CPA are also ,., committed to meeting the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals and promoting economic I prosperity and trade in all Commonwealth nations. It is the view of the Association that democracy and good governance is at the core oft he development agenda and central to the development of Commonwealth countries' economies. Parliament, good governance, democracy and development are intrinsically linked to Improve the standard of living for I' •• all citizens. Our history tells us that for democracies to flourish, governments need to priorltlse the delivery of material improvements to peoples' lives; failure causes a loss of confidence by citizens in the perceived ' ' ,, benefits of democracy allowing for a democratic deficit to emerge risking a vacuum being filled by anti-establishment and undemocratic forces. If democracy is to take hold and thrive, the root causes of growing inequities must be addressed; diversity must be fully embraced, nurtured and respected; and a robust and sustainable development agenda must be developed and implemented by all parliaments and legislatures. Strong economies and a healthy trading system are central to this. The Post-2015 UN Sustainable Development Goals underscore the importance of the close relationship between democracy and development. As the former UNDP Administrator, Helen Clark has stated,' the principles which underpin the new development goals go directly to the importance of active, effective, honest and fair governance at all levels, which naturally includes the creation and scrutiny of effective trade policy as a tool for sustainable development. II 'Reproduced from the speech of Former UNDP Administrator Helen Clark, March 13, 2012 1 -i I !· l ,, • What challenges do developing countries (particularly Least CJeveloped Countries and Small Island States) In the Commonwealth face In terms of harnessing trade and Investment as tools to meet their development objectives. As we look across the world today we see repeated protests about the persistent Inequalities across societies reflecting the fact that globalisatlon and the global economy has not been Inclusive or equal and has not reduced the gap between rich and poor. This is particularly pertinent In LDCs and In Small Island States within the Commonwealth community. Former UN Secretary -General Ban Kl Moon stated: 'Parliamentarians can play a central role in rethinking the way policies are produced and carried out. [Parliamentarians] can help to orient national programmes towards the sustainable development goals. [Parliamentarians] can bring the views and aspirations of ... citizens Into the global arena. Through official development assistance and domestic resources, (they] can ensure that sustainable development efforts receive the financing they need. [Parliamentarians] can promote gender equality among [their] own ranks. In all these ways, parliamentarians can drive our global campaign to usher In a more equitable and sustainable future.' I 2 I. UN Sustainable Development Goal16 specifically anchors parliament as an effective, accountable and inclusive public Institution key to delivering the wider development agenda. Working toward the 2030 agenda Is an opportunity for each legislature to step up and drive transformatlve change in their I societies to become more Inclusive and fair. ! Fair and honest governance matters because It Is about building stable and secure societies based on respect for diversity and inclusion. Fair, reliable and accountable governing Institutions engender trust between citizens and their governments. Institutions must be free of corruption and independent enough to hold government to account. Parliamentarians, the cornerstone of any system of accountability, have a critical role to play In scrutinising economic policies and government initiatives designed to stimulate economic growth. t Crucially, their role in rooting out corruption Is central to securing economic opportunities for everyone. According to the World Bank, the average income in countries with a high level of corruption Is about a third of that of countries with a low level of corruption. As the Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt. Han Patricia Scotland QC, said at the i I Commonwealth's Anti-Corruption Summit, '£very dollar lost to corruption Is a dollar lost to Investing i. In a child's education, healthcare or much needed infrostructure'! No country in the world Is untouched by corruption. It affects resource-rich and least developed I I countries and advanced economies alike. Corrupt practices, which undermine the rule of law, '. economic development and growth, are usually an outcome and a symptom of poor governance. Above all, corrupt practices divert critical government resources that could be used to •lleviate poverty. A 2014 report by Transparency International on corruption in South Asia, for example, cites lack of accountability as the primary reason why corruption continues unabated. The report argues that "South Asia's corruption epidemic is caused by opaque public institutions, lack of protection for anti· 2 UN Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon, message to International Parliamentary Conference on Post-2015 Development Agenda, "Parliamentarians Kay to Financing, Orienting National Sustainable Development Programmes, Secretary-General Tells London Conferenceu, I I http:Uwww.un.org/press/en/2013/sgsm15469.doc.htm, accessed Nov. 13, Z017. ' Baroness Scotland, address at Commonwealth Anti-Corruption Summit, April18, 2016. I•' 2 1.1 ' . " corruption actors and widespread government Interference In the work of anti-corruption watchdogs."• At the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting on 2013, there was a clear and unwavering commitment from all Heads of Government in their communique to the Importance of a strong Public Accounts Committee, reflecting the crucial role that parliaments and legislatures have In rooting out corruption: "Strong and independent parliamentary oversight plays em Important role in preserving the trust of citizens in the Integrity of government, through Public Accounts Committees that are effective, independent and transparent. "5 Through parliamentary PublicAccounts Committees, parliamentarians in LDCs, Small Island States and Indeed the most mature democracies and economically prosperous states alll Small Island Developing States (SIDS) have very nuanced and unique needs. Encouraging the recognition of the special circumstances ofSIDS In various trade and economic agreements Is key, and II' parliamentarians have a very Important role In doing so. I ! Parliamentarians In SIDS should be encouraged to ensure that trade preferences to SIDS are extended, so thatthey.can address global challenges on their paths towards economic growth and development. ~. I, Further, parliamentarians should seek out opportunities for technical assistance for their jurisdictions through programmes to strengthen SIDS capacity to effectively pa rtlclpate in the multilateral trading system, including understanding trade rules and disciplines, negotiating and Implementing trade agreements and formulating and administering coherent trade policies. I' i A key challenge In LDCs and Small Island States across the Commonwealth Is ensuring parliamentarians are equipped to engage In trade dialogue. While governments negotiate international trade agreements, parliament is responsible far examining the government's actions In these trade negotiations, and creating legislation that is fit for purpose and that can unleash their trade potential, j. building productivity capacities, managing trade policy and negotiation, addressing implementation I, gaps, promoting private sector development and creating an enabling environment for global trade architecture. p I An increasingly Important area and challenge for SIDS Is the blue economy and maritime security, ,. which reflects the growing international dimension to a parliament's work. Parliament has a key role in legislating to ensure the country has the legal ability to manage Its maritime resources. Without legal delimitation, it Is very difficult to pollee and address criminality such piracy or illegal and unregulated fishing. Uncertainty over boundaries and entitlements can lead to conflict over access to resources, stifle investment and hinder the development of alternative energy resources. It can also undermine the potential of the seas as an economic resource for fisheries, tourism, minerals and marine 4 http :1/www .heritage. org/i nterna tl on a1-econ om ies/ rep art/south -asIa-region al-l ntegrat lo n-and -greater- economlc-freedom-will#_ftnl6 II ' ' http://thecom monwealth.org/sites/default/files/events/ documents/CHOGM%202013%20Comm unique_O,pdf I' 3 II ' ' ' I biotechnology. Even though many of our small Commonwealth jurisdictions are entitled under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea to Increase their ocean space and make 'extended continental shelf submissions', several small and vulnerable jurisdictions have yet to agree on maritime boundaries with their neighbours losing vital economic opportunities. The Commonwealth, for nearly three decades, has provided advice and technical assistance to help small jurisdictions exercise their legal rights thereby unlocking the value of the blue economy and by promoting ocean governance. Goal14 of the Sustainable Development Goals states: 'Conserve and sustalnably use of oceans, seas and marine resources far sustainable development' and this will help to provide a new Impetus for parliaments which have not already done so, to legislate In this area. The CPA provides a unique platform for parliamentarians from 'Small Branches' (jurisdictions with populations of 500,000 or less) to come together and share their unique and nuanced experiences and challenges on a range of parliamentary and thematic areas, Including trade. The Chairperson of the CPA's Small Branches network, Hon Anglu Farrugia MP (Speaker of the Parliament of Malta), served as the CPA's representative at the 39th Session oft he Steering Committee I, of the Parliamentary Conference on the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which ran from 26th-28th September 2017. His concern was that many parliamentarians present at WTO conferences do not understand the trade issues that are presented at Ministerial conferences and this Is particularly pertinent an issue for SIDS. He asserted that parliamentarians from SIDS, developing Commonwealth nations and Indeed the most developed need to be better equipped to understand these trade agreements to ensure more effective, robust and rigorous scrutiny and for the passing of more effective legislation. In many cases, parliamentarians are not equipped to do so. In a past CPA workshop which was convened to highlight a range of important challenges facing ,, economies In the Caribbean region, the following challenges were highlighted which were specific to SIDS: • small domestic markets; t.~ ,, • limited range of export products and lack of resources to allow for diversification; I • remoteness from markets; • reliance on tourism - which is always susceptible to movements in the global economy; extreme vulnerability to external and exogenous shocks {Including not just natura I disasters but also geopolitical uncertainties and global health emergencies such as SARS); and, ,, • limited human resources. ,, Added to these challenges, many Caribbean economies were being adversely affected by loss of trade preferences and crises In traditional sectors such as banana, rice and sugar Industries. On the latter I I aspects, many workshop participants (all of whom were parliamentarians) placed the blame squarely on the multilateral trading system, While recognising that small economies can derive meaningful gains from a well-functioning multilateral trading system, most workshop participants felt the Caribbean's experience in the system had not been encouraging. First, gains from GAIT were limited. Second, while governments from the region had only limited Influence In the Uruguay Round negotiation, they were obliged to fully to accept the outcomes of the negotiation. Moreover, the result of the Round was an unequal distribution of benefits In favour of developed countries. Third, in the current Doha negotiations under the WTO, issues of vital concern to small economies were not being progressed; nor were developed countries showing any real willingness to open their markets, address their trade distorting supports {especially export subsidies), or give true meaning to the 'development' promise of Doha, I l I' 4 Ll ' ' In this regard, the mood of workshop participants was captured most profoundly by the Minister of Trade and Industry of Trinidad and Tobago, Hon, Kenneth Valley, In his address to the workshop: "Not surprisingly, In the presence of the poor performance of the global economy and the Inequitable distribution of the benefits from trade liberalization In favour of developed countries, many developing economies seem reluctant to engage In further multilateral liberalization Initiatives, They have become increasingly wayy of the multilateral trading system, seeking other seemingly Inviting Initiatives such as regional trading and bilateral free trade agreements, "Further, many developing countries have Instituted the full spectrum of liberalization Initiatives, both autonomously and under the Instructions of the World Bank and IMF, and continue to acquiesce to pressures to provide additional market access. At the same Instance, many [WTO] developed members continue to provide extensive subsidies to their domestic producers and exporters, effectively distorting global production and trade. This 'you liberalize while we subsidize' phenomenon has also served to 6 ! weaken confidence In the International trading system." I I A lack of Institutional and administrative capacity was Identified as a l • What opportunities can be identified within the Commonwealth to foster faster, more transjormotive economic growth, employment and poverty reduction for developing countries through expanding trade and Investment? II ,, The CPA provides Commonwealth parliamentarians with a platform through which to build relationships - between parliaments and between parliamentarians. Trade agreements must benefit both parties, and by creating these relationships, parliamentarians can share the concerns '' of their respective constituents, to establish trade relationships that are mutually beneficial. Intra-Commonwealth trade Is logistically convenient. Commonwealth nations share English as a common language and they share similar administrative and legal systems, lntra·Commonwealth trade Is already understood In terms of its cost benefit as the 'Commonwealth Effect', I I 'https://www.wto.org/engllsh/res_e/booksp_e/wtocpa_mps_dec03_e.pdf ' ' I' 5 1.1 ' ' " According to the Commonwealth Secretariat's report, 'Intra-Commonwealth trade: emerging dynamics and opportunities', trade between Commonwealth nations is 20 per cent higher on average than trade between Commonwealth and non-Commonwealth nations. With Intra Commonwealth trade, we also see trade costs being on average 19 per cent lower than trade between Commonwealth and non-Commonwealth nations.' I I I I I Many Commonwealth nations, particularly developing and SIDS, demonstrate greater focus on I , intra-Commonwealth trade: 'When the proportional importance of intra-Commonwealth goods trade to each country's total trade Is considered, this actually tends to be higher among smaller states. There is an inverse relationship between country sl!e (measured by population) and share of intra-Commonwealth exports In total exports.'' Dominica's intra-Commonwealth exports account for 80 per cent of all exports; Grenada, 73 per cent; Barbados, 66 per cent. For other Commonwealth developing nations (not within the Small Branches division), Botswana's export Is 72 per cent intra-Commonwealth; Swaziland, 70 per cent.' Many Commonwealth countries are at a disadvantage on the international, multilateral trading i. stage due to remote location and Isolation. These remote nations make up the majority of the CPA's Small Branches division. However, although these nations are remote In relation to other Commonwealth regions, In many cases they are clustered regionally, as Is the-case In the Caribbean, as mentioned above, and also in the Pacific. r Nations In these regions can tal This section refers specifically to the work of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Parliamentarians are the link between people and government, bringing the needs of Commonwealth people into the policy-making agenda both on a domestic and international level. Parliamentarians must therefore be equipped and upskllled sufficiently to engage in international trade dialogue, I' !' ensuring that trade can be used •s a tool to harness development throughout the Commonwealth. Through Its unique convening and knowledge-sharing platform, the CPA Is committed to up-s killing parliamentarians and providing them with the tools they need to foster democratic governance and to promote economic growth. Please find below some examples of the CPA's work to promote trade and investment for sustainable development. 7 "Intra-Commonwealth Trade: Emerging Dynamics and Opportunities", The Commonwealth in the Unfo/<1/ng Global Trade Landscape: Prospects, Priorities, Perspectives, Commonwealth Trade Review, {London: commonwealth Secretariat, 2015), p. 38. 11 8 lntra-Commonwealth Trade: Emerging Dynamics and Opportunltiesu, p. 44, ! I 9 11 lntra-Commonwealth Trade: Emerging Dynamrcs and Opportunltlesu, p. 44. 10 11 11 ' ' lntra-Commonwealth Trade: Emereing Dynamics and OpportunitieS 1 p. 42. 6 I. I ' ' In 2017, the CPA launched the CPA Masterdass series. CPA Masterdasses provide concise 'bite size' video briefings for Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff from across the Commonwealth on a subject or topic covering three areas: key policy issues, parliamentary practice & procedure and corporate skills. CPA Masterclasses will be uploaded and disseminated as an online library of videos accessible to Commonwealth Parliamentarians. The CPA Masterclasses are aimed at building capacity and ups killing Commonwealth Parliamentarians and promoting parliamentary debate, dialogue and cooperation to build parliamentary capacity and efficiency. On a policy level, they upsklll Parliamentarians by enhancing their knowledge and understanding on key policy issues. In parliamentary practice and procedure, they strengthen Parliamentarians' understanding of key procedural issues In Parliament and, consequently, improving the effectiveness of parliamentary structures Including committees. On a corporate skills level, they provide Parliamentarians with an opportunity to learn corporate skills which can be applied to a political environment. i The CPA recently delivered several CPA Masterclasses in November 2016 in collaboration with the World Trade Organisation. The Masterclasses were aimed at increasing the understanding of l. parliamentarians in the field of trade. The Masterclasses discussed the 10'h WTO Ministerial Conference and its outcomes; the WTO Dispute Settlement System and the participation of CARICOM countries in said system. t~ I The CPA has also partnered with the WTO to convene specialised workshops bringing together i Commonwealth parliamentarians to engage In trade dialogue to strengthen parliamentarians' understanding of multilateral trade negotiations. One such example was a Regional Trade Workshop In the Caribbean Region to discuss the Impact of the activities of the WTO on the work of parliaments and parliamentarians and their concerns that WTO rules and regulations agreed by governments were encroaching on pollcy-maklng areas beyond tariffs and trade. It was widely agreed during the workshops that a rules-based international trading system had significant repercussions for parllamentary practice and procedure, accountability and scrutiny. The conference gave parllamentarlans the opportunity to share their views and experiences on trade, and to share the challenges experienced by their respective economies. Excerpts from participating parliamentarians and partners on the Impact of the workshop: Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives ofTrinidad and Tobago ! • I ' said: "This three day CPA/WTO Workshop has assisted parliamentarians in better understanding the l. WTO rules and functions; understand the decisions that have been taken at the Bali and Nairobi Ministerial Conferences; look at a way forward on the Post Nairobi Negotiations, including possible ways to conclude the Doha Rounds; and finally, this Is an opportunity for us as legislators to exchange I I views (Jnd our experiences in economic trade policies including emerging challenges that affect our I, economies. "111 Hon. Shirley Osborne MLA, Speaker of the Montserrat Legislative Assembly and Vice Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) said: "As Parliamentarians we are an Important link between constituents and their governments and we provide Information exchanges between domestic and international interests. It Is therefore critical for us to keep the public Informed about the Importance of looking at the world as a global market place where the flow of goods and services ore 11 Hon. Brlgld Annlsette-George, opening remarks delivered at the Regional Trade Workshop for Parliamentarians from the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 22- 24 November, 2016, available at http://www.cpahg.org/cpahq/Maln/Programmes/Openlng Addresses Speeches/Opening Speech Speaker I I I o of Trinidad and Tobago WTO CPA Trade Workshop Nov 2016.aspx. " 7 . I. I ' ' ' ' crucial for the sustenance of our small island states. It Is also Important for us to work collectively to create a world trading system and indeed a global economy that Is equitable and fair and leaves no one behind. This type of workshop from the CPA and WTO a/lows us to gain a broader and deeper understanding of the origins and principles of global trade and to use the principles to serve our people better. I wish to thank most sincerely the World Trade Organisation for their partnership with the CPA and the Parliament of Trinidad and Tobago for hosting this CPA Workshop. "'2 Mr Bernard Kuiten, Head of External Relations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) said: "We cannot deny that people feel left behind because of trade. Yet rising unemployment, diminishing welfare gains and social support cannot be countered by disconnecting from global trade and change in general. It would have the exact opposite effect. To be more inclusive and access new opportunities, we have to embrace change, adapt and support everyone involved and create possibilities for those wanting to be Involved." • What Is the Commonwealth best-placed to do to promote prosperity amongst Its developing country members compared to other development partners such as the World Bank or UN I. agencies? What should the priorities be for a new work programme for the Commonwealth on trade and development over the next 5 years? The Commonwealth is bound by its shared political values as enshrined by the Commonwealth Charter 2013. This provides a unique platform for Commonwealth nations to develop Intra r ; Commonwealth trade relationships based on mutually recognised and shared values such as respect for human rights, gender equality, rule of law, sustainable development, protecting the environment and recognising the needs of small and vulnerable states. ! A lack of trust within developing nations of international organisations, such as the WTO, has often I< been expressed during CPA gatherings of Commonwealth parliamentarians, who often fee'l I i marginalised and excluded during negotiations that favour larger more powerful states In the dialogue, and In their outcome. r Commonwealth nations can build on their existing relationship by fostering stronger relationships between Commonwealth nations and their respective parliaments, and by building the capacity of parliamentarians to be involved in international trade dialogue and create trade legislation that I promotes sustainable economic development and Commonwealth political values. It Developed Commonwealth member nations are important sources of technica I assistance programmes for less deve'loped and vulnerable Commonwealth member nations both on a governmental and parliamentary level. The sharing of experiences and expertise should continue to be leveraged to the maximum benefit, supporting countries' efforts In Improving trade ' infrastructures, facilitation measures, policies, logistics and scrutiny function. ' I' The Commonwealth Is extremely well-placed for promoting cooperation between members and disseminating good practice. The CPA, from a parliamentary perspective, will continue to provide a sustainable and effective platform for parliamentarians to continue to enhance their performance in oversight and scrutiny of trade policy and negotiations. The CPA has identified some priorities as stated below, falling under three key thematic areas: gender, SIDS, and regionally focused trade. "Hon. Shirley Osborne, opening remarks delivered at the Regional Trade Workshop for Parliamentarians from the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 22-24 November, 2016, available at I I http://www.cpahq.org/cpahq/Main/Programmes/Opening Addresses Speeches/Opening Speech Vice Ch ,, ' ' alrperson Trade Workshop Trinidad and Tobngo Nov 2016.aspx. 8 ... ' ' • Gender Incorporating a gender perspective into trade legislation is a vital element In ensuring that trade contributes to development that benefits all citizens. This requires educating parliamentarians on the relationship between gender and development, trade and the economy. This also requires promoting and supporting female presence in parliament and on committees that address trade. The CPA has a dedicated arm specifically geared towards both Increasing the number of women parliamentarians across the Commonwealth, but also crucially designed to support gender-related issues in Commonwealth parliaments and legislatures. The CWP asserts that parliamentarians must incorporate a gender perspective Into trade legislation, and women parliamentarians should be involved in creating trade-related legislation. Existing gender Imbalances are responsible for the way In which men and women experience the impact of trade differently. These gender inequalities then have a negative impact on economic development, and the outcomes of trade policy. I Former Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson {2013-2016), Hon. Rebecca l. Kadaga, MP of Uganda offers Insight Into the relationship between gender, trade and development: 'The effect of trade policy on economic and social activities tend to be different between men and women as they have different economic and social roles and different access to and control over resources, due to sociocultural, political and economic factors. Women tend to be more affected by r I the negative side effects of trade liberal/sat/on and are facing bigger challenges than men when it comes to taking advantage of the opportunities trade offers. This situation Is due to gender biases in education and training, gender Inequalities In the distribution of Income and command over resources, ! as well as unequal access to productive Inputs such as credit, land, and technology, which translate I into significant gender differences in occupational distribution.'" ~ ' I ! Women play in integral role in the global economy. In figures provided by the current CWP Chairperson Hon. Dr. Data' Noraini Ahmad MP (Malaysia), 'women's businesses contributed to over ,_, 20% of world trade'; approximately 37% of women in developing countries own Small to Medium •• • Enterprises (SME), which Is responsible for a significant port"/on of global employment,· women account •' for40% of the global workforce, and 'many of tile sectors that are critical for economic growth In some ' of the poorest countries rely heavily on women employees.'" As women play a vital role In trade and the economy, for development to benefit citizens equally, trade needs to incorporate a gender equality agenda. Parliamentarians must be trained, and have a crucial role, to ensure that trade legislation 'does not undermine women's rights ... [which] requires the explicit recognition of women's contribution to the ~ I economy through both their productive and their unpaid reproductive work.'" Trade policy Impacts men and women differently due to gender dynamics within the economic sector, which dictates what men and women have access to In the economy; what controls men and women have in the economy; and what roles men and women play in society. In line with Han. l 13 Hon. Kadaga, 'Trade from a Gender Perspective/ The Parliamentrrrlan. Issue 3, 2016J p. 200-201. 1 1 4 Hon. Dr. Dato Noraini Ahmad, speech at Parliamentary Conference on the WTO, What Future for the WT0' 1 In Geneva, Switzerland, June 13-14, 2016. " Hon. Dr. Dato Noraini Ahmad, speech at Parliamentary Conference on the WTO, 'What Future for the WTO', in Geneva, Switzerland, June 13-14, 2016. I I 16 1 Hon. Dr. Dato Noraini Ahrnad 1 speech at Parliamentary Conference on the WTO, What Future for the WTO', ' I ' In Geneva, Switzerland, June 13·14, 2016. I' 9 1.1 i-l ,_, • Developing SIDS CPA's 'Small Branches' (as mentioned above) have specific circumstances that differentiate these jurisdictions from larger, more developed nations. As noted above, many Small Branches have demonstrated a trend toward intra-Commonwealth trade. This trend needs to be supported and promoted by all Commonwealth nations, and should be recognised as a valuable tool to promote further development. As stated by the Han. Shirley Osbourne MLA, (Hon Speaker of the Monserrat Legislative Assembly), 'the flow of goods and services are crucial for the subsistence of... small Island nations. Commonwealth trade practice should ensure that small branches can trade In global markets.'" • Regionallv-focused trade Enhancing regional Intra-Commonwealth trade can reduce the limitations faced by remote and regionally isolated Commonwealth nations that may be removed from larger, more developed Commonwealth nations, so they can rely on one another for stronger trade relations. !. ' t" I I ! l. ! t' • ' ' I I' I' . '' 11 Han. Shirley Osborne, opening remarks delivered at the Regional Trade Workshop for Parliamentarians from the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, 22-24 November, 2016, available at http://www.cpahg.org/cpahq/Main/Programmes/Opening Addresses Speeches/Opening Speech Vice Ch airperson Trade Workshop Trinidad and Tobago Nov 2016.aspx. II ' ' I' 10 ••. .J ' ' ~ --1 BUENOS AIRES SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE ON THE WTO Buenos Aires (Argentina), 9-10/12/2017 SESSION DE BUENOS AIRES DE LA CONFERENCE PARLEMENTAIRE SUR L 'OMC . i I. i Organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the European Parliament Organisee conjointement par /'Union interparlementaire et le Parlement europeen r r • ·1 ' PROVISIONAL LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ~ I LISTE PROVISO/RE DES PARTICIPANTS .' 'I I I ' ' .' I I ,_, ' ' -2- I. PARTICIPANTS ALGERIA -ALGERIE ACHOUR, Rachid (Mr.IM.) Member of the Council of the Nation Membre du Conse/1 de Ia Nation BANGLADESH ASHRAF, Ali (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement ISLAM, A 8 Tajul (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement BELAL, Waresat Hussain (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement i' HOWLADER, Abdur Rob (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conse/1/er BELGIUM - BELGIQUE r j MAMPAKA MANKAMBA, A. Dlallo (Mr./M.) senator 1 senateur BENIN I HOUNGBEDJI, Adrien (Mr./M.) President of the National Assembly I. President de I'Assemblee nationale ADOMAHOU, Jem~mie (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemb/ee nationale OKOUNDE, Jean Eudes (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemblee nalionale ALLADATIN, Orden (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de /'Assemblee nalionale ZANNOU, Donald (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller BHUTAN - BHOUTAN •• ZIMBA, Yeshey (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemblee nationale I I BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA- BOSNIE·HERZEGOVINIE TADIC, Ognjen (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Peoples Membre de Ia Chambre des Peuples MEHMEDOVIC, Semsudin (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des Representants KOZUL, Predrag (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membra de Ia Chambre des Representants NINKOVIC, Bojan (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/er BUKARIC KOVACEVIC, Mirsada (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/ere Interpreter 1/nterprete ZUJO, Amila (Ms./Mme) i I ZUZA, Zoran (Mr./M.) Media I ' " I .I ' ' '' - 3. BOTSWANA KENEWENDO, Bogolo J. (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement BRAZIL ·BRESIL CAM ELl, Gladson (Mr./M.) senator 1 Senateur LANDIM, Pees (Mr./M.) Member of the Chamber of Deputies Membre de Ia Chambre des Deputes CAJADO, Claudio (Mr./M.) Member of the Chamber of Deputies Membre de Ia Chambre des Deputes TADEU MUDALEN, Jorge (Mr./M.) Member of the Chamber of Deputies Membre de Ia Chambre des Deputes BACELAR, Jollo Carlos (Mr./M.) Member of lhe Chamber of Deputies ' Membre de Ia Chambre des Deputes I. MONTEIRO, Fernando (Mr./M.) Member of the Chamber of Deputies Membre de Ia Chambre des Deputes CABRAL DE ARAUJO, Silvia (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseillere CAMEROON-CAMEROUN OWONA KONO, Joseph Hyacinthe (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemb/ee nation ale ' BAPOOH LIPOT, Robert (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly ' ' Membre de /'Assembtee nationa/e . MONESSEL, Prosper-Merime (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee nationale t-• I CHINA· CHINE I I ' XIAOCHU, Wang {Mr./M.) VIce-Chairman of the National People's Congress Vice-President de I'Assemblee populaire I nationale I ' FANGLI, Qian (Ms./Mme) Member of the National People's Congress Membre de I'Assemblee populaire nationa/e WEN, Wang (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller YONG, Qin (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er ' ' ZHEYI., Shen (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller JIAN, Chen (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO REPUBL/QUE DEMOCRA TIQUE DU CONGO KUMASAMBA OLOM, J. Baptiste (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assembf(m nationale BIALOSUKA WATA, Jonathan {Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee nationale SIMENE WA SIMENE, Samuel (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de /'Assemblee nationale I I ITOLO BOKONA, Ernest (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er i ' i, MOBANGABI MOKWETI, Camile (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller •.. l ' ' " -4- DENMARK-DANEMARK KJER HANSEN, Eva (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement ECUADOR- EQUATEUR LLORET VALDIVIESO, Juan Crislobal (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemb/ee nationale EL SALVADOR MATA BENNETT, Guillermo Francisco (Mr./M.) Member of the Legislative Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee legislative I.' GREECE - GRECE KAFANTARI, Charoula (Ms./Mme) Member of the Hellenic Parliament Membre du Parlement hellenique ' I ' HUNGARY- HONGRIE r LATORCAI, Janos (Mr./M.) Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Vice-President de I'Assemb/13e natlonale I ADAM SOMFAINE, Katalin (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Consei/Jere l. I GELENYI, Csaba (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conse/1/er NAGY-GERY, Klara (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseiltere ~· INDIA -INDE I i THAKUR, Anurag Sing (Mr./M.) Member of the House of the People Membre de Ia Chambre du peuple SOMAIYA, Kirit Jayantilal (Mr./M.) Member of the Council of States Membra du Conse/1 des Etats I' I. DASGUPTA, Swapan (Mr./M.) Member of the Council of States Membra du Conseil des Etats SINGH, Ashok Kumar (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller r ' INDONESIA- INDONESIE I' All ASSEGAF, Nurhayati (Ms./Mme) Member of the House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des Representants NURSANTY, Evita (Ms.IMme) Member orthe House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des Representants HASAN, Sjarifuddin (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des Representants HARDJONO, Sartomo (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conse/1/er ANGGORO, Heriyono Adi (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller IQBAL, Alan Abdullah (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller ' ' '' !-' ' ' - 5- IRAN ~ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF) -IRAN (REPUBLIQUE ISLAM/QUE D? BAKHTIARI, Esfandyar (Mr.IM) Member of the Islamic Parliament of Iran . I Membra du Partement Islam/que d'lran I I HOSSEINI, Seyedeh Fatemeh (Ms./Mme) Member of the Islamic Parliament of Iran Membre du Parlement Islam/que d'Jran I ITALY -ITALIE ZIN, Claudio (Mr./M.) Senator I Senateur KENYA OMULELE, Christopher (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement I I I LIMO, Joseph (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament 1.. Membra du Par/ement SHINALl, Bernard (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement OMBAKA, Christine (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement I' I I LENTOIMAGA, Alois (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement KABINGA, Wachira (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement WANJIRU MWAURA, Leah (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/ere MAIYO, Chelanga (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er LESOTHO THEKO, Khoabane (Mr./M.) Senator I Senateur SEEISO, Lerotholi (Mr./M.) Senator I Senateur TSEPANE, Maduma (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller MALDIVES MOHAMED, Abdulla Maseeh (Mr./M.) Speaker of the People's Majlis President de Ia Majlis du Peuple ' I MANIKU, Moosa (Mr./M.) Deputy Speaker of the People's Majlis t• I Viae-President de Ia Majlis du Peup/e ! HUSSAIN MANIK, Ahmed Nihan (Mr./M.) Member of the People's Majlis M MEXICO- MEXIQUE ROJAS HERNANDEZ, Laura Angelica Senator I Senatrlce (Ms./Mme) MONGOLIA· MONGOLIE It SARANCHIMEG, Batsukhiin (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament I ' Membre du Parlement '' GANBOLD, Davaagiin (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament ' ' ·~ -6- Membre du Parlement MUNKHBAT, Jamyangiin (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement NARANTUYA, Shar (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/ere MOROCCO-MAROC I KAYOUH, Abdessamad (Mr./M.) First Vice-President of the House of Councillors Premier Vice-President de Ia Chambre des I I Conse/1/ers KOUSKOUS, Ahmid (Mr./M.) Third Vice-President of the House of Councillors Troisieme Viae-President de Ia Chambre des Conseill~:~rs I • BELFKIH, Abdelouahhab (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Councillors Membre de Ia Chambre des Conseillers 1. OMARI, Abdelaziz (Mr./M.) Vice-President of the House of Representatives Vice-President de Ia Chambre des representants SALEK, Bolon (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membra de Ia Chambre des representants LAZREK, Noureddine (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des representants EL HILM, Rahhou (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membre de Ia Chambre des representants 1 I • TOUMI, Ahmed (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives I Membra de Ia Chambre des representants SAAD, Ghazi (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller EL MALKI, Jilali (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller r-· 1. ESSAGHIR, Abdennabi (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller NETHERLANDS- PAYS-BAS THE ROON, Raymond (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Representatives Membra de fa Chambre des Representants •• BECKER, Bente (Ms./Mme) Member of the House of Representatives Membra de Ia Chambre des Representants MEIJERS, Eva (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseillere I I ' .' NORWAY· NORVEGE FOSS, lngunn (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membra du Perfement KNAG FYLKESNES, Torgeir (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parfement SIVERTSEN, Eirik (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Pat1ement NAVARSETE, Liv Signa (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement I I •• i' LJ . ' -7- PAKISTAN NEHAL HASHMI, Syed Muhammad (Mr./M.) Senator I S{lnateur WAZIR, Nauman (Mr./M.) Senator I S{lnateur HAMID-UL-HAQ (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assembf{le natlonele BIN WAHEED, Tariq (Mr.IM.) Advisor I Conseiller PORTUGAL PACHECO, Duarte (Mr./M.) Member of the Assembly of the Republic Membra de I'Assemb/Be de Ia Republique MATOS ROSA, Jose (Mr.IM.) Member of the Assembly of the Republic Membre de I'Assemblee de Ia Republique ALBERNAZ, Rosa (Ms./Mme) Member of the Assembly of the Republic Membre de I'Assemblee de Ia Rl§publique MACEDO, Virgfllo (Mr./M.) Member of the Assembly of the Republic I. Membre de I'Assemblee de Ia Republlque MARTINS, Hortense (Ms./Mme) Member of the Assembly of the Republic Membre de I'Assemblile de Ia Republique REPUBLIC OF KOREA- REPUBLIQUE! DE! CORE!E! YOUNGPYO, Hong (MrJM.) Member of the National Assembly I Membre de I'Assemblee nationale I CHONGSEOK, Kim (Mr.IM.) Member of the National Assembly I Membre de I'Assemblee natlonalr:o l. I • SEOYEON, Cho (Ms./Mme) Interpreter 1/nterprete SEOLHEE, Kim (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conse/1/ere YONGSEOK, Chang (Mr./M.) Advisor I Consei/ler r-· ' , ROMANIA - ROUMANIIE I I PAVEL, Marian (Mr./M,) Senator I Senateur VELA, lon Marcel (Mr.IM.) Senator I Senateur RUSSIAN FEDERATION- FEDE!RATION DE! RUSSIE! i' MAIOROV, Alexei (Mr.IM.) Member of the Council of the Federation Membre du Conseil de Ia Federation ! I TIMOFEEVA, Olga (Ms./Mme) Deputy Chairperson of the State Duma Vioe-Prtisidente de Ia Douma d'Etat '' GAVRILOV, Sergey (Mr./M.) Member of the State Duma Membre de Ia Douma d'Etat ERMOSHIN, Pavel (Mr.IM.) Advisor I Conseiller STAVITSKY, Valery (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller KRASAVINA, Natalia (Ms./Mme) Interpreter 1/nterprete BELOVA, Yulla (Ms./Mme) Interpreter llnterprete SAUDI ARABIA- ARABIE! SAOUDITE ALBADI, Fahad (Mr./M.) Member of the Shura Council Membra du Conseil oonsu/tatif i I ALSAEED, Anas (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er ' ' I' ' ' -8- SOUTH AFRICA- AFRIQUE DU SUD GAMEDE, Dennis Dumisani (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre dLJ Parlement MOHAI, Seiso Joel (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement MACPHERSON, Dean (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement MAKUE, Edwin Ronald (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement FUBBS, Joanmariae Louise (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement MADALANE, Z. (Ms./Mme) Adviser I Conseiller NAME TO BE CONFIRMED Adviser I Consailler GAMEDE, Sipho Vusumuzi (Mr./M.) Adviser I Conseil/er l.i SUDAN -SOUDAN ELAMIN, Omer Ali Mohamed (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlemenl AFODI, Mustafa Mohamed Elfaki (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament Membre dLJ Parlement GADRY, Am in Bashir Falein (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament Membra dLJ Parlement I i I SURINAME I ' I . ABDOEL, Mohammed A. (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee nationale KALLOE, Jitendra (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membrl3 de /'Assembl&e nationale TSANG, Stephen K. (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee nationale ; SWAZILAND I I '. MAGUDVULELA, Prince (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement SITHOLE, Bambumuti (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament ' ' Membre du Parlement '. KHOZA, Celumusa (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller SWEDEN -SUEDE NILSSON, Jennie (Ms./Mme) Member of the Riksdag Membre du Ri/(sdag ORNFJADER, Krister (Mr./M.) Member ot the Riksdag Mlilmbr<;> d(l Riksdag THAILAND - THAILANDE YODMUANGCHAROEN, Siripol (Mr.IM.) Member of the National Legislative Assembly II Membra de I'Assemblee national!illegislative ' ' I, ' ' - 9- NAMCHAISIRI, Chen (Mr./M.) Member of the National Legislative Assembly Membre de /'Assembles natlona/la legislative MONJAMLANG, Prajak (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er TURKEY - TURQUIE KAVCIOGLU, Sahap (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement I I ATICI, Aytug (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament I . Membre du Parlement ! GUNER, Mumtaz (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller UKRAINE OLEKSANDR, Dublnin (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament i Membre du Parlement i,i YURIY, Solovey (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement MAKSYM, Yefimov (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membre du Parlement rl BOGDAN, Matkivskyi (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament Membra du Parlement YULIYA, Pachesyuk (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseillere UNITED KINGDOM- ROYAUME·UN/ EVANS, Nigel (Mr.IM.) Member of the House of Commons Mlilmbre de Ia Chambre des Communes GARDINER, Barry (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Commons Membre de Ia Chambre des Communes MACNEIL, Angus (Mr./M.) Member of the House of Commons Membre de Ia Chambre des Communes NIMMO, Rick (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseil/er URUGUAY MAHfA, Jose Carlos (Mr.IM.) Speaker of the House of Representatives President de Ia Chambre des Repnlsentants VIETNAM PHONG, Tong Thi (Ms./Mme) First Vice President of National Assembly Premier Vioe·Prl§sid<>nt de I'Assemb/ee nation ale GIAU, Nguyen Vawn (Mr.IM.) Member of the National Assembly Membre de /'Assemblf~e nationale MY, Giang Pao (Ms./Mme) Member of the National Assembly Membre de I'Assemblee nationale HA, Vu Hal (Mr.IM.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemblee nationale DUNG, Bui Dang (Mr.IM.) Member of the National Assembly ' Membra de I'Assemblfle nalionale II ' NGHIA, Nguyen Thi (Ms./Mme) Member of the National Assembly . Membre de I'Assemblee nationale '' •• >I -10- YEN, Nguyen Thi (Ms./Mme) Member of the National Assembly Membra de I'Assemblee nafiona/e VIET, Do Hoang (Mr.IM.) Advisor I Conseiller VAN, Nguyen Tuong (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseillere LINH, Cao Manh (Mr./M.) Advisor I Consei/ler CHI, Tran Kim (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/ere HAl, Tran Thanh (Mr./M.) Advisor I Conseiller HAl, Trinh Thanh (Mr./M.) Security officer I Agent de seourite HUONG, Dao Dieu (Mr./M.) Media ZAMBIA - ZAMBIE MUSOKOTWANE, Situmbeko (Mr./M.) Member of the National Assembly Membra de /'Assemblfie nationale I MUKWANKA, Doreen (Ms./Mme) Advisor I Conseil/ere I. * * * * * ,. PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLIES -ASSEMBLEES PARLEMENTAIRES EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT- PARLEMENT EUROPEEN LANGE, Bernd (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement ROBIG, Paul (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement RODRIGUEZ-Pii\lERO FERNANDEZ, Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement lnmaculada (Ms./Mme) MARTIN, David (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement GUERRERO-SALOM, Enrique (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlemenf MCGUINNESS, Malread (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement WINKLER, luliu (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Par/ement SALAFRANCA SANCHEZ-NEYRA, Jose Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement Ignacio (Mr.lM.) MCCLARKIN, Emma (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament I Membr"' du Parlsmsnt p I I' CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN, David (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement TAKKULA, Hannu (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement SCHOLZ, Helmut (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement BUCHNER, Klaus (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement BEGHIN, Tfziana (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament I Membra du Parlement MAYER, Georg (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement STUTZMANN, Alexandre (Mr./M.) Director DG EXPO I Directeur DG EXPO KALAUS, MarUi (Mr.IM.) Head of Unit I Chef d'unite j I i . ' MUSQUAR, Philippe (Mr./M.) Head of Unit I Chef d'unite •• I-I ~-- I HALLDORF ROMERO, Helena (Ms./Mme) Administrator I Administratrioe KAROLCZYK, Joanna (Ms./Mme) Assistant I Ass/stante RIZZA, Pier Giuseppe (Mr./M.) Agent of Political Group I Agent de groupe po/11/que MELIS, Barbara (Ms./Mme) Agent of Political Group I Agent de groupe po/itlque DIAS RODRIGUES, Daniela Soraia Agent of Political Group I Agent de groupe polilique (Ms./Mme) PONDELEK, Ursa Agent of Political Group I Agent da groupe politique DUPRET, Paul-Emile (Mr./M.) Agent of Political Group I Agent de groupe politique ANSELMI, Antonio (Mr./M.) Agent of Political Group I Agent de groupe politique : 1 BUCHHEIT, Markus (Mr./M.) Agent of Political Group I Agent de groups politique !. i ! ' ! COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION (CPA) ! ASSOCIATION PARLEMENTAIRE DU COMMONWEALTH I FARRUGIA, Angelo (Mr./M.) Speaker of Parliament (Malta) President du Parlement (Me/Iii) ; I l I ~ ' I . * * * * * II. OBSERVERS - OBSERVATEURS PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATIONS AND ASSEMBLIES ASSOCIATIONS ET ASSEMBLEES PARLEMENTAIRES ' . •• EFTA PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE COM/TE PARLEMENTAIRE DE L'AELE HANSEN, Svein Roald (Mr./M.) ' ' t' Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement RIKLIN, Kathy (Ms./Mme) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement EGLOFF, Hans (Mr./M.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement PORTMANN, Hans Peter (Mr.IM.) Member of Parliament I Membre du Parlement lANGSHOLT, Camilla (Ms./Mme) Secretary I Secretaire STUCKY, Cedric (Mr./M.) ! ' ' Secretary I Secretaire I ' ; ' p.. l ' ' ... PARLIAMENTARY UNION OF THE OIC MEMBER STATES (PUIC) UNION PARLEMENTAIRE DES ETATS MEMBRES DEL 'ORGAN/SA TION DE LA COOPERATION ISLAM/QUE (UPCI) KILIC, Mahmut Erol (Mr./M.) Secretary General I Seoretaire general MOHAMMAD! SIJANI, Ali Asghar (Mr./M.) I Assistant Secretary General/ secretalre general adjoint I * w *'It* I ' INTERGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS I ORGANISATIONS /NTERGOUVERNEMENTALES I. UNITED NATIONS CONFERENCE ON TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT (UNCTAD) CONFERENCE DES NATIONS UNIES SUR LE COMMERCE ET LE DEVELOPPEMENT (CNUCED) KITUYI, Mukhisa (Mr./M.) Secretary-General/ Secretaire general r OWOKO, Daniel (Mr./M.) Chief of Staff AI/ Chef de cabinet par intMm I VERPLOEGH, Arlette (Ms./Mme) Deputy Chief of Staff I Chef de cabinet adjoint i . I ~~ I I I ' ~ 0 I •• r, i I · I ' ~ ' ' ' ' COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CP'A ASSOCIATION CPA WEEKLY SITUATION REPORT • TO: Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon • CC: Members of the Coordinating Committee • FROM: Mr Akbar Khan, Secretary-General of the CPA • Subject: CPA Weekly Situation Report • Period Ending: Week ending 15 December 2017 PROGRAMMES AND COMMUNICATIONS CPA Activities and Actions this week I • The Parliamentarian Issue 4/2017, containing the content of the 63'' Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), has been printed, with digital copies having been sent to all Branch Secretaries. Printed copies of this issue of The Parliamentarian shall follow shortly. • The Speaker of the Parliament of Malta, Hon. Anglu Farrugia, MP attended the 11'h WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 10·13 December, 2017 in his capacity as CPA Executive Committee Member and Chair of the CPA Small I, Branches. I • A draft CPA Risk Register has been developed by the CPA Secretariat with input I having been provided by all departments within the CPA Secretariat. • As part of the restructuring of the CPA Secretariat's IT infrastructure, a review of all IT contracts has been undertaken by Mr Chinonso Orekie. • The Secretary-General met with the Kenya High Commissioner to discuss closer ,, collaboration ahead of our upcoming Post-Election Seminar planned for Kenya in early spring. ,. CPA Activities next week • A delegation from the Parliament of Kenya will call on the CPA Headquarters Secretariat to discuss the hosting of a Post-Election Seminar in Kenya in 2018. • Staff from the CPA Secretariat will be attending a meeting with the UK Government's Department for International Development (DFID), the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) and the Cabinet Office to discuss the Women's Forum at the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in April, 2018. .' COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY C P~ ASSOCIATION CPA Up-coming Activities/Future Programmes • Post-Election Seminar for the Legislative Council of St Helena, 20-27 January, 2018; • The Commonwealth Youth Parliament, 25 February-1 March, 2018 in Jersey, Channel Islands; • Commonwealth Day event hosted by the CPA Headquarters Secretariat on 12 March, 2018. CPA Secretariat Staff Deployments • CPA Secretary General to lead the Youth Parliament in Jersey. Ms Arlene Bussette, Head of Parliamentary Development, Ms Anna Schuesterl, Programmes Manager and Mr James Pinnell, Programmes Assistant to be deployed. GOVERNANCE AND FINANCE • Review of 2018 budget projections ongoing • Preparations for the Mid-Year Exco Meeting are ongoing • Commitment of preparations for the next Strategic Plan PEOPLE MANAGEMENT CPA Secretariat • The CPA Headquarters Secretariat hosted a Staff Away Day on Monday 11 December, 2017. The Away Day was attended by 12 members of CPA Staff and was facilitated by Mr An is Ghanti, the CPA Secretariat's HR Consultant, and Mr I an Lawson from the Towards Outstanding Leadership Programme (TOLP). " i' ' ' COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY C P~ ASSOCIATION CPA WEEKLY SITUATION REPORT • TO: Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon • CC: Members of the Coordinating Committee • FROM: Mr Akbar Khan, Secretary·General of the CPA • Subject: CPA Weekly Situation Report • Period Ending: Week ending 15 December 2017 PROGRAMMES AND COMMUNICATIONS CPA Activities and Actions this week I I • The Parliamentarian Issue 4/2017, containing the content of the 63'' Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), has been printed, with digital copies having been sent to all Branch Secretaries. Printed copies of this issue of The Parliamentarian shall follow shortly. • The Speaker of the Parliament of Malta, Hon. Anglu Farrugia, MP attended the nth WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 10-13 December, 2017 in his capacity as CPA Executive Committee Member and Chair of the CPA Small Branches. • A draft CPA Risk Register has been developed by the CPA Secretariat with input having been provided by all departments within the CPA Secretariat. • As part of the restructuring of the CPA Secretariat's IT infrastructure, a review of all IT contracts has been undertaken by Mr Chinonso Orekie. • The Secretary-General met with the Kenya High Commissioner to discuss closer ~ . collaboration ahead of our upcoming Post-Election Seminar planned for Kenya in early spring. CPA Activities next week •• • A delegation from the Parliament of Kenya will call on the CPA Headquarters Secretariat to discuss the hosting of a Post-Election Seminar in Kenya in 2018. • Staff from the CPA Secretariat will be attending a meeting with the UK Government's Department for International Development (DFID), the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) and the Cabinet Office to discuss the Women's Forum at the forthcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in April, 2018. COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY C P~ ASSOCIATION CPA Up-coming Activities/Future Programmes • Post-Election Seminar for the Legislative Council of St Helena, 20-27 January, 2018; • The Commonwealth Youth Parliament, 25 February -1 March, 2018 in Jersey, Channel Islands; • Commonwealth Day event hosted by the CPA Headquarters Secretariat on 12 March, 2018. CPA Secretariat Staff Deployments • CPA Secretary General to lead the Youth Parliament in Jersey. Ms Arlene Bussette, Head of Parliamentary Development, Ms Anna Schuesterl, Programmes Manager and Mr James Pinnell, Programmes Assistant to be deployed. GOVERNANCE AND FINANCE I • Review of 2018 budget projections ongoing • Preparations for the Mid-Year Exco Meeting are ongoing • Commitment of preparations for the next Strategic Plan PEOPLE MANAGEMENT CPA Secretariat ,, • The CPA Headquarters Secretariat hosted a Staff Away Day on Monday 11 December, 2017. The Away Day was attended by 12 members of CPA Stall and was facilitated by Mr An is Ghanti, the CPA Secretariat's HR Consultant, and Mr !an Lawson from the Towards Outstanding Leadership Programme (TOLP). •• r• i I' '"