The government of Austria has contributed EUR 200,000 (approximately CHF 200,000) in 2023 to the Global Trust Fund to support the latest phase of the WTO Chairs Programme, an initiative that seeks to boost trade-related academic activities in developing couantries and least-developed countries (LDCs).
Under this capacity-building programme, partner institutions receive financial and technical support from the WTO for trade-related research, curriculum development and outreach activities. The Programme helps to develop the capacity of academic institutions to advise governments and key stakeholders on trade policy issues.
A total of 17 institutions were chosen to join the Chairs Programme under the latest phase launched in December 2021, making the Programme more geographically diversified. It now comprises 36 universities and has generated strong links with government policy makers, businesses and research institutions through its network of universities across the world.
Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said: “I thank Austria for its ongoing support to the Chairs Programme. The funding will help academic institutions develop trade-related research and outreach activities in developing countries and LDCs, with the aim of enhancing the role of trade in improving the livelihoods of people around the world.”
Austria's Federal Minister for Labour and the Economy, Martin Kocher, said: “Austria’s contribution is of utmost importance for strengthening the understanding of trade issues in developing countries and LDCs. Keeping markets open and promoting a level playing field in multilateral trade — especially during these challenging times — can strongly contribute to boosting economic growth and creating jobs in these countries, for the benefit of all.”