Chinese vice premier voices China's strong support for WTO, multilateralism

All parties should resolve differences and disputes through equal-footed dialogue under the framework of the World Trade Organization (WTO), jointly uphold multilateralism and free trade, and promote the stability and smooth functioning of global industrial and supply chains, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng said on Sunday during a meeting with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in Geneva, according to Xinhua News Agency.

He added that China will continue to participate in the WTO reform in a comprehensive and in-depth manner, support the WTO in playing its role as a "stabilizer" of global trade, safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing members, and contribute more to addressing common global challenges.

Okonjo-Iweala noted that the global economy and trade growth are facing severe challenges, and WTO members should work together to uphold an open, rules-based multilateral trading system. She called for strengthened dialogue and cooperation on international trade issues, and for the WTO to play a greater role in advancing trade liberalization, facilitation, and global sustainable development.

He also shared details with the WTO chief on the recent high-level China-US economic and trade consultations.