Geneva: The General Authority of Foreign Trade (GAFT) took part in the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) General Council meeting, which was held from December 16 to 17. The meeting focused on preparations for the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference (MC14) set to take place from March 26 to 29, 2026, in Yaound©, Cameroon.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the agenda for the MC14 will be presented to ministers with input sought from heads of delegations, particularly concerning the topic of reforming the World Trade Organization. Fareed bin Saeed Al-Asaly, GAFT Deputy Governor for International Agreements and Organizations, highlighted the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 15th Ministerial Conference (MC15) in 2028, emphasizing the Kingdom’s commitment to organizing an exceptional event and extending a warm welcome to all member states in Riyadh.

The General Council of the WTO, which meets quarterly at its headquarters in Geneva, rotates its presidency among member states. The council is chaired by an ambassador or permanent representative of a member state for a one-year tenure, and Saudi Arabia is set to hold the presidency in 2025. This appointment underscores the Kingdom’s prominent role within the organization and its engagement in various leadership capacities.