site.btaDeputy Economy Minister Pavlov Attends EU Foreign Affairs (Trade) Council Meeting

Deputy Economy Minister Nikolay Pavlov participated in an informal meeting of EU‘s Foreign Affairs (Trade) Council, which took place in Brussels, his ministry reported on Wednesday. The main focus of the meeting was the preparation of the 13th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference, which will take place from February 25-29, 2024, in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

During the meeting, Pavlov identified the reform of the dispute settlement system as a top priority. He stressed the need to preserve what has been achieved so far and to continue building on it until a fully functioning two-instance system is restored. Until then, it will be important to promote the use of alternative forms of appeal against dispute decisions at the WTO, Pavlov said.

He also pointed out that it would be important for Bulgaria to adopt a decision on the continuation of the moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions to avoid unnecessary restrictions on e-commerce. The Deputy Minister noted that Bulgaria supports the launch of a structured discussion on industrial subsidies, the search for progress in agriculture and the negotiations on the fisheries subsidies agreement. He also commented that the formation of coalitions and the engagement of all parties are key to the success of the conference.

Pavlov listed key policies that will aid building open strategic autonomy of the EU, including the implementation of digital transformation; reducing the EU's strategic dependence in critical sectors; promoting investments for a green transition and diversification of supply chains. He pointed out that trade policy can contribute to a more competitive, prosperous and sustainable EU by seeking opportunities to realize the full potential of EU trade agreements.

Pavlov stressed that the EU should focus on expanding strategic partnerships with countries sharing common values in order to build sustainable value chains and promote a rules-based international economic order. The Deputy Minister drew attention to the essential role of small and medium-sized enterprises in strengthening the single market and accelerating the green and digital transition.