WTO chief pledges to support further economic integration of Africa

GENEVA, June 4 (Xinhua / GNA)
– The Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Roberto Azevedo,
announced Monday its support for further economic integration of Africa as a result of
recent free trade agreement of the continent, at a meeting of the African Group
of the WTO.

"I want
Congratulate you on the entry into force of the AfCFTA. The rapid progress that
you have done here is extremely welcome. It shows how much you value trade and
greater integration, "said Azevedo.

L & # 39; African
The Continental Free Trade Agreement (ACOA) came into effect on May 30
it has been ratified by 22 countries – the threshold for its entry into force.

He posed the
basis for what could be the largest free trade area in the world by the number
participating countries, covering more than 1.2 billion people with a
Combined gross domestic product of 2.5 billion US dollars.

The head of the WTO pointed out
its commitment to support the continued economic integration of Africa, across
AfCFTA and through the World Trade Organization, to further fuel the
growth and development.

"Clearly, there
There is a lot of work ahead of us. I hope that the African group will stay at the
avant-garde of these debates. I am ready to help in any way possible ",
Azevedo said.

He said that the WTO is in
contact with the African Union and explore ways to work more effectively
narrowly in specific areas where it can provide more technical support.

GNA