Spurred by the findings of a joint report on Accelerating progress on nature, climate Change and sustainable development in a shifting international trading system, it aims to foster a “big picture” discussion in the context of WTO reform and efforts to rethink the multilateral trading system in the shifting international trade landscape.

Following an introduction to the joint report, the session will proceed with a forward-looking strategic dialogue on narratives and policy agendas that would advance an international trading system, placing nature and people at its heart. Recognizing the systemic challenges and opportunities that sustainability issues present for the WTO, panelists will react to the report and provide suggestions on pathways and entry points for strengthening trade cooperation in ways that address biodiversity loss, support the climate agenda, and advance implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

15:15–15:20 Welcoming Remarks and Introduction to the Panel

Efraim Gomez, Global Director, Global Policy Impact, World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)

15:20–15:30 Presentation of the Joint Report

Carolyn Deere Birkbeck, Executive Director, Forum on Trade, Environment & the SDGs (TESS)

15:30–15:45 Possible Pathways and Entry Points for Strengthening Trade Cooperation to Address Environmental Challenges and Advance Implementation of the SDGs

Matthew Wilson, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Barbados to the United Nations, WTO, and other UN Organizations in Geneva

Shimukunku Manchisi, Senior Policy Officer, African Future Policies Hub

Valerie Picard, Head of Trade, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

15:45–16:25 Open Discussion Among Participants and Panelists

Moderator: Efraim Gomez

16:25–16:30 Concluding Remarks

Carolyn Deere Birkbeck

Efraim Gomez