The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the World Trade Organization (WTO) Secretariat and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) aims to strengthen collaboration in driving inclusive and sustainable development through trade and economic integration, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing environmental sustainability, inclusive growth, and resilience amid evolving global challenges.

Key areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include exchanging information, organizing joint events, engaging with stakeholders, capacity building, publishing joint materials, and sharing best practices. The collaboration seeks to leverage trade and investment to propel economies towards achieving net-zero ambitions and addressing the nexus of trade and climate change.

The WTO, as the global organization responsible for regulating trade between nations, plays a central role in facilitating smooth and predictable trade flows. Meanwhile, the ADB, as a multilateral development bank, focuses on reducing poverty and improving the quality of life in its member countries, with a particular emphasis on addressing climate change and mainstreaming trade and trade policy solutions in its operations.

Through this strategic partnership, both organizations aim to advance sustainable development goals and foster economic integration, contributing to the prosperity and well-being of nations in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.