GENEVA (TOP) - Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator of Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay accompanied by the representative of the permanent mission of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva, Ambassador Maria de Lurdes Bessa presented the Protocol for accession and acceptance of the fishing subsidy to the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during the WTO General Council Meeting at the WTO Headquarters on Monday, 22 July 2024.
After the delivery of the accession protocol and the instruments for acceptance of the fisheries subsidy, Vice Prime Minister and Coordinator Minister for Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, immediately gave a speech at the WTO General Assembly attended by WTO member countries around the world, which is an important stage in Timor-Leste's history. This step symbolizes Timor - Leste's commitment to the principles of free and fair trade, sustainable development, and Timor - Leste's dedication to the global trade system.
"The journey to becoming a full member of the WTO has been a witness to our collective decision-making and effort. The submission of these documents is not only a formalization of the procedure but a statement of our willingness to hold the responsibility and opportunities of the WTO members," His Excellency Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator of Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, said during his speech at the WTO General Council Meeting in Geneva on Monday, July 22nd, 2024.
“We are working hard and continuing to align our national policy with global trade standards, ensuring that our economic environment is conducive to domestic growth and international cooperation, " His Excellency Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator of Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, said.
Timor-Leste’s Vice Prime Minister and Minister Coordinator for Economic Affairs, Minister of Tourism and Environment Francisco Kalbuadi Lay, added that when Timor-Leste prepares for the post-advocacy phase, it will focus on building a resilient and sustainable economy.
"We have started comprehensive reforms to increase our trade infrastructure, improve access to the market, and promote an inclusive economic environment that benefits all sectors of our society."
“Our strategic plan emphasizes the capacity building of the public and private sectors, the improvement of regulations, infrastructure development, and the promotion of sustainable practices.”
In addition to our preparation after our accession, Timor-Leste's submission to the instrument of acceptance of the Fisheries Subsidy Agreement emphasizes our commitment to advance the blue economy initiative, strengthening the government's priority in diversifying our economy."
He explained that by promoting sustainable fisheries practices and protecting Timor-Leste's marine ecosystem, the objective is to strengthen the fisheries sector, increase food security, and transform Timor-Leste's marine resources into an important driver of economic growth as well as to protect future generations.
"We acknowledge that the accession to the WTO will be the foundation for the integration of Timor-Leste into ASEAN and the future of the Book Trade Agreement (FTA). In line with the WTO standard, we will strengthen our economic relations within the region and at the global level, opening the way for a deeper trade partnership and strengthening economic collaboration."
He, also thanked Ambassador Rui Maceira Portugal and the Head of Timor-Leste's permanent mission, Ambassador Maria Lurdes Bessa for their dedicated support during this process.
"We are also grateful to 10 WTO members — Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Cambodia, the EU, the Philippines, the USA, Thailand, and Indonesia — who are working with us to finalize Timor-Leste's goods and services. In addition, we also acknowledge the great support of our development partners, including PROSIVU (Inclusive Prosperity Partnership) and EIF (Integrated Framework), which have played an important role in our accession and will continue to provide support in post-action."
He presented that, in order to implement the WTO's commitment and take advantage of the opportunity to become a member of the WTO, the support of the WTO and development partners remains important.
"When we start this new chapter, we believe that with your support, we will not only meet our commitment but also contribute positively to the global trade system."
"We ask for an official member of the WTO on August 30, 2024. This day has a significant meaning for us, as it is a sign of the day when the people of Timor-Leste prevent the future of the country. We hope that on August 30th, the people of Timor-Leste will celebrate not only our People's Consultation Day but also more historical moments when we officially join the WTO family."
He also thanked the President of the Republic Jose Ramos-Horta, the President of the National Parliament Maria Fernanda Lay together with all members of the National Parliament, the Prime Minister Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão and all members of the government, as well as the private sector, for their efforts and support to bring Timor-Leste to the WTO accession.
