Dhaka: Commerce Minister Khandker Abdul Muktadir today underscored the significance of enhancing national capacity to align with the global trading system and ensure compliance with World Trade Organization (WTO) notification requirements. “Notification is an essential element for complying with WTO rules, staying updated, and keeping pace with global progress,” Muktadir stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Minister made these remarks as the chief guest at the inauguration of a four-day ‘National Training on WTO Notification Requirements’ held at Bidyut Bhaban in the capital this morning, as mentioned in a press release. He highlighted the strategic importance of notifications, describing them as crucial tools in the WTO framework, enabling effective participation in the international trade system.
The training was described as a timely initiative to enhance knowledge and skills in international trade while improving coordination among officials of various ministries. Muktadir expressed a personal interest in the workshop’s learning outcomes, emphasizing the importance of applying acquired knowledge to practical work.
Reflecting on the three-decade history of the global trade body, Muktadir expressed hope that the WTO would overcome its current stagnation and resume operations with renewed momentum. He thanked the Ministry of Commerce officials for coordinating with the WTO’s Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation (ITTC) to organize the event, highlighting the positive impact of such initiatives.
Muktadir voiced the need for regular educational platforms to ensure officials remain prepared for their WTO-related responsibilities. The event featured Md Abdur Rahim Khan, Secretary (Routine Duty) of the Ministry of Commerce, as the special guest, while Additional Secretary (WTO Wing) Khadija Naznin delivered the welcome address.
Remarks were also made by Osman Ali Khilji, Counsellor and Head of the ITTC Asia and Pacific Region at the WTO, and Dr. Kenza Le Mentec, Counsellor and Head of the ITTC Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Caucasus Region. A total of 50 officials from various ministries are participating in the four-day intensive training, which includes multiple sessions on critical WTO-related issues and notification processes.