Vice Minister Chen Xiaohua met with Mr. David Shark, Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), in Geneva of Switzerland on June 29, 2016.
Vice Minister Chen noted that as the only global multilateral trade organization, the WTO has always played an irreplaceable and authoritative role in world trade governance. Taking development as the goal, the Doha Round Negotiations in agricultural sector aim at promoting reforms in agricultural trade, and providing a more favorable international environment for developing members to boost agricultural trade, facilitate agricultural development, and eradicate poverty and hunger.
Vice Minister Chen underlined that agriculture is crucial for food security, farmer's livelihood, rural employment and social stability. On the basis of respecting the Doha Round mandate and existing negotiations, China is ready to work with other members and promote the Nairobi agricultural negotiations in a down-to-earth manner.
Mr. David Shark expressed his understanding, indicating that he was willing to explain China's stance and concerns to other members in future negotiations.