The General Authority for Foreign Trade, represented by the Shared Services Agency and led by Nasser bin Mohammed Al-Daghither, held a virtual meeting with the World Trade Organization (WTO) focusing on collaborative efforts to organize the second Regional Trade Policy Course (RTPC) scheduled for 2025 in the Kingdom. The meeting also featured the attendance of other officials, including Hamoud bin Saad Al-Malki, the Director-General of Human Resources, and Bader bin Nasser Al-Ajlani, the Director of Talent and Development.
The primary agenda of the meeting was to explore various avenues of cooperation to effectively plan and execute the upcoming RTPC, with an emphasis on enhancing the quality and efficiency of the course’s outcomes. The discussions encompassed essential developmental elements aimed at organizing specialized workshops for stakeholders involved in trade negotiations. These workshops are designed to deepen participants’ understanding of the WTO agreements, regulations, and procedures, thereby equipping them with the knowledge necessary for effective engagement in international trade.
Al-Daghither underscored the significance of hosting the trade policy course in the Kingdom for three consecutive years, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s role as a leading economic force in the Middle East. This initiative is aligned with the Kingdom’s broader objectives to enhance the capabilities of trade policymakers in the region, empowering them to meet and align with international standards and regulations in foreign trade practices. Al-Daghither expressed optimism for the success of the upcoming course, building on the achievements of its inaugural session, which was marked by substantial scientific content, fruitful interactions among participants, and the sharing of experiences among representatives from various nations and entities.
It’s noteworthy that the first edition of the Regional Trade Policy Course was conducted in collaboration with King Saud University and the WTO, occurring from October 13 to December 5, 2024. This inaugural session attracted approximately 25 government officials from nine allied countries and involved the participation of 12 governmental entities. The course covered over 24 training topics, reflecting a comprehensive approach to trade policy education and capacity building.
The Kingdom’s commitment to fostering regional collaboration in trade is further illustrated by its proactive stance in stakeholder engagement, underscoring its importance in facilitating meaningful dialogues among countries in the region. This willingness to share knowledge and expertise is expected to bolster trade relations and enhance cooperative strategies, ultimately contributing to stronger economic integration within the Middle East.
As the Kingdom gears up for the next RTPC, it continues to position itself at the forefront of global trade discussions, striving to cultivate an informed and skilled cadre of trade negotiators who can effectively navigate the complexities of international trade agreements. The series of workshops and enhanced course offerings will serve as a critical platform for building a knowledgeable community of trade professionals capable of addressing contemporary challenges and leveraging opportunities in the dynamic trade landscape.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the WTO marks a significant step towards enhancing trade policy expertise not just within the Kingdom but across the broader region. By focusing on developing robust trade negotiation skills and ensuring familiarity with international trade regulations, the RTPC aims to empower policymakers and facilitate a more integrated and efficient regional trade environment. The anticipation surrounding the upcoming course reiterates the importance of collective efforts in achieving sustainable economic growth, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing trade excellence in support of its Vision 2030 objectives.
