"Argentina reaffirms its desire to pursue openness and integration with the world. We wish to build bridges with the international community and assume an active role in support of multilateralism," Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie stated today at the inauguration of a seminar for Latin American journalists specialized in economic information, organized by the WTO with a view to its 11th Ministerial Conference to be held next December in Buenos Aires.
Faurie explained that Argentina's decision to play an active role in the global arena is demonstrated not only by the fact that it is the first South American country to host a WTO Ministerial Meeting, but also by "its chairing of the G20 in 2018" and its "interest in becoming a full member of the OECD".
"The international context is marked by growing mistrust of globalization. Some suggest that isolation can be a response, but historical experience shows that real solutions to global problems can only come from greater international cooperation. There must be dialogue and consensus," the Foreign Minister stressed.
The Minister also mentioned that "Argentina is committed to achieving a positive outcome at the upcoming ministerial conference. We must take incremental steps. This is the only forum in which these issues can be addressed. In an era of rapid economic changes, we need more rather than less involvement by the WTO."
"Yesterday, during his address, President Macri highlighted that we must eradicate poverty. In order to do so, we need economic growth and social inclusion policies that boost employment and production. All this can only be sustained through enhanced global trade, for which we need internationally respected rules in order to achieve fair, transparent and balanced trade."
More specifically, the Foreign Minister explained that "Argentina actively participates in negotiations regarding both agricultural and fisheries subsidies," underscoring that "there is no time to lose: the removal of these distortions can contribute to food security, the eradication of poverty and the reduction of inequality."
Finally, the Argentine Foreign Minister explained that "it is essential that in Buenos Aires we discuss ways to incorporate other important issues into the WTO agenda, such as e-commerce, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, and investment facilitation."
The event, held at the Emperador Hotel, is specially intended for journalists who regularly report on information related to economy and trade. The Minister of Production, Francisco Cabrera, and the Chair of the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference, Susana Malcorra, will also attend.
Press release No. 487/17
Press Office: 4819-7375 / 8296 / 7388
www.cancilleria.gob.ar
@CancilleriaARG
