Okonjo-Iweala holds follow-up with Xi on trade reforms

Abdullateef Fowewe

World Trade Organisation Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has announced a follow-up meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping focused on advancing WTO reforms and strengthening the multilateral trading system.

The discussion took place on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, where both leaders were present among a roster of global dignitaries attending the two-day gathering.

Photos from the encounter show a formal handshake and seated discussion in an official venue, underscoring the diplomatic weight of the engagement.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Okonjo-Iweala said, “Excellent follow-up with H.E. President Xi Jinping on China‘s role in and support for @wto reforms. President Xi reiterated the importance to global trade of a reformed and well-functioning Multilateral Trading System and China‘s support for this. Thank you, Mr President.”

She highlighted that President Xi emphasised the value of a reformed WTO to global trade, with China pledging continued support for the organization’s reform agenda.

The meeting aligns with wider BRICS-level calls for WTO reform, including restoring a fully functioning two-tier dispute settlement mechanism and curbing unilateral trade measures that disrupt supply chains.

Okonjo-Iweala’s presence at the summit has been framed by Indian officials as a boost to discussions on inclusive trade and reforming the global trading system.