Urgent information regarding MC12 date and developments related to the COVID-19 virus

Together with the Chair of the General Council, Ambassador David Walker, and in consultation with the delegation of Kazakhstan, DG Azevêdo circulated a note to members saying that “it is our considered view that holding MC12 as previously agreed from 8-11 June (in Kazakhstan) will not be feasible”.

Moreover, in light of developments related to the COVID-19 virus and after meeting with UN agencies and observers in Geneva, we have taken a decision to suspend all meetings at the WTO until the end of April 2020. This decision will be reviewed as appropriate,” the Director-General said. “Additionally, all WTO Secretariat staff (except on-site critical staff) are to work from home until the end of March 2020.