WTO chief calls on PM Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: WTO chief Roberto Azevedo, who is in New Delhi to attend an informal meeting of ministers of the organisation, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi today.

The World Trade Organisation director-general thanked the government for taking the initiative of starting a conversation to explore ways to reinvigorate the multilateral trading system.

The prime minister reiterated that India is a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system. He stated that it is imperative to prioritise the WTO's activities so that it addresses the concerns of developing countries, an official release said.


Urging the WTO chief to make special efforts so that the benefits of free trade and globalisation become more visible in developing countries, the prime minister conveyed his best wishes for the success of the informal meeting of ministers of WTO.

"Had a wonderful meeting with Mr. Roberto Azevêdo, Director-General of the WTO" the PM tweeted and posted a picture with him.

Talking to reporters, Azevêdo said the mini-ministerial meeting will be useful for carrying forward the mandate of the multilateral trade body.

"We are facing many challenges in the WTO and outside. Trade environment globally is very risky at this point of time. We will try to have an open and honest conversation at the informal WTO meeting here," Azevedo said here earlier today.