Statement by Mr. Mehdi Aliabadi before 15th Special Session of the Commission on Trade and Development

General Statement on International Trade

Statement

By

Mr. Mehdi Aliabadi

Deputy Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations Office and other International Organizations in Geneva

Before

 15th Special Session of the Commission on Trade and Development

General Statement on International Trade

 Geneva, 28 April 2025

*****

بسم الله الرحمن الرحیم

 

Mr. Chairman,

Deputy Secretary-General,

Excellencies,

Distinguished Delegates,

At the outset allow me to thank Mr. Pedro Manuel Moreno for his insightful remarks. I would also thank the UNCTAD secretariat in organizing this august session of the commission.

Aligning myself with the statement made by the G77 and China as well as The Asia Pacific Group (APG), I would like to make the following remarks:

Mr. Chairman,

We underscore the pivotal role of international trade as a catalyst for sustainable development, poverty alleviation, and inclusive economic growth. For developing countries, trade serves as a vital conduit for integration into the global economy, facilitating technology transfer, capacity building, and access to broader markets.

In the current global landscape, the multilateral trading system faces multifaceted challenges, including escalating protectionism, geopolitical tensions, and persistent inequalities. These issues have led to a deceleration in global economic growth, with projections indicating a growth rate of 2.6% in 2024, marking the third consecutive year below the pre-pandemic average of 3.2%. Notably, only one of the 46 least developed countries is on track to meet the 7% annual growth target outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals.

Despite these challenges, developing economies have demonstrated resilience. In 2024, they led global trade growth, with imports and exports rising by 4%, driven primarily by East and South Asia. Additionally, South-South trade expanded by 5% annually, highlighting the increasing significance of intra-developing country trade

Mr. Chairman,

In this context, the Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its unwavering support for a multilateral trading system that is rule-based, transparent, non-discriminatory, and centered on development. We emphasize the necessity of preserving the integrity and inclusiveness of this system, ensuring that all members, particularly developing and least developed countries, can participate fully and equitably in global trade.

We advocate for the continued application of Special and Differential Treatment (S&DT) provisions, which are essential for developing countries, especially those in the process of acceding to the World Trade Organization. Such provisions provide the necessary policy space and flexibility for these countries to integrate effectively into the global economy, in alignment with their national development priorities.

The Islamic Republic of Iran acknowledges the indispensable role of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in supporting developing countries through its three foundational pillars:

1. Independent Analytical Work: UNCTAD's research offers critical insights into global trade trends, enabling developing countries to make informed policy decisions.
2. Consensus Building: By facilitating dialogue among member states, UNCTAD fosters mutual understanding and cooperation on trade and development issues.
3. Technical Cooperation: UNCTAD provides targeted assistance to developing countries, enhancing their capacities to participate effectively in the global trading system.

Mr. Chairman,

We call upon UNCTAD to continue and expand its efforts in monitoring international trade trends, keeping member states apprised of the latest developments, and formulating evidence-based policy recommendations. Such initiatives are vital for enabling developing countries to navigate the complexities of the global trading environment and to harness trade as a driver of sustainable development.

In conclusion, the Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates its commitment to a fair and inclusive multilateral trading system. We urge all stakeholders to eschew unilateral measures and to collaborate in upholding the principles of this system, ensuring that international trade contributes to a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable global future.

Thank you.

---