Geneva, 26 June 2026 – Five diplomats have today been designated in Geneva to shepherd one of the most consequential processes currently underway at the World Trade Organization (WTO): the reform of the Organization itself.

WTO General Council Chair Ambassador Clare Kelly (New Zealand) presented five facilitators who will support the transition to the next substantive phase of WTO reform negotiations. H.E. Mr. Kairat Torebayev, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the WTO and International Economic Organizations, was appointed alongside the Permanent Representatives of Malaysia, Japan, Botswana, and Peru.

The selection followed an invitation by the General Council Chair to WTO Members to nominate candidates. Following consultations, Members unanimously endorsed the appointment of five Permanent Representatives recognized for their high credibility, extensive experience, and active engagement within the Organization. All facilitators will serve in their personal capacity and on an equal footing.

WTO reform is one of the Organization's foremost priorities, aimed at enhancing its effectiveness in the context of the modern global economy. Central to the discussions are improvements to decision-making mechanisms, the advancement of multilateral negotiations, balancing the interests of all Members, special and differential treatment (S&DT), ensuring a level playing field, and strengthening the foundational principles of the multilateral trading system.

The appointment of Permanent Representative Torebayev reflects the high degree of trust placed in him by WTO Members and the recognition of his active contribution to the work of the Organization. In 2025–2026, he chaired the WTO Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB), overseeing a number of significant reviews, including the first Trade Policy Review of the United Kingdom following its withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit).

Kazakhstan consistently advocates for a strengthened, open, predictable, and rules-based multilateral trading system and will continue to make an active contribution to advancing constructive dialogue and the reform of the World Trade Organization.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa-wto/press/news/details/1248927?lang=ru