In a significant appointment, Saqer Al-Moqbel, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been unanimously chosen as the president of the WTO General Council for the 2025–2026 term. This historic decision marks him as the first Arab and Middle Eastern delegate to hold this prestigious position.

A Landmark Achievement in Global Trade Leadership

The role of the WTO General Council is pivotal, serving as the organization’s highest decision-making body between its biennial ministerial conferences. Under Al-Moqbel's leadership, the council aims to navigate critical global trade issues. Among these priorities are preparations for the 14th Ministerial Conference, set in Cameroon in March 2026, and addressing essential WTO reforms like dispute settlement mechanisms.

Focusing on Key Global Trade Challenges

Al-Moqbel's presidency will also emphasize advancing negotiations on significant agreements such as the Fisheries Subsidy Agreement and tackling concerns surrounding agriculture, food security, and development. A notable goal includes integrating multilateral agreements into the WTO framework—specifically the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement and the E-Commerce Agreement.

Saudi Arabia’s Growing Influence in International Economics

Commenting on his appointment, President Al-Moqbel underscored Saudi Arabia's expanding role within the global economic arena. He highlighted how this leadership position within the WTO General Council reflects the nation’s commitment to leveraging its considerable economic influence to enhance multilateral trade cooperation.

As Al-Moqbel takes on this landmark role, he carries not only the hopes of Saudi Arabia but also those of many nations looking towards more inclusive and equitable global trade policies. His presidency is poised to set a new course for international trade discussions, with a focus on collaboration and sustainable development.

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