In a strategic move to promote Africa’s cotton industry, the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, met with Her Excellency, Alimatu Shadiya Assouman, Minister of Industry and Trade of the Republic of Benin. The meeting aimed to advance plans for the first-ever celebration of World Cotton Day to be held in an African country.
World Cotton Day, observed annually on 7th October, serves to highlight the global significance of cotton. According to the WTO, this day provides an opportunity to underscore the role of cotton in job creation and economic stability, particularly in least-developed countries (LDCs) where cotton production is a key economic activity.
Expressing her enthusiasm about the meeting, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala welcomed Her Excellency Shadiya Assouman, commending Benin’s resilience and strong economic performance amidst global uncertainties. The focus of their discussion extended beyond the celebration of World Cotton Day to encompass broader trade-related issues, with an emphasis on expanding the cotton value chain in Africa.
The upcoming celebration of World Cotton Day in an African country signifies a significant step towards promoting sustainable trade policies and enabling developing nations to benefit more from participating in the cotton value chain. The event is expected to foster partnerships and innovations that will enhance the competitiveness of African cotton in the global market.
The meeting between Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Minister Shadiya Assouman underscores the commitment of African nations to leverage their natural resources for economic development and to strengthen their position in the global trade arena.
