Minister McClean wants flexibility in global trade rules

By Michelle Nurse Last updated Jan 21, 2016

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean presents a token to WTO Director-General, Roberto Azevȇdo following their meeting today. (Photo via A.Miller/BGIS) — Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Maxine McClean presents a token to WTO Director-General, Roberto Azevȇdo following their meeting today. **(Photo via A.Miller/BGIS)**

Barbados today reiterated its call for the world’s richest countries give special consideration to small vulnerable states.

Prime Minister Freundel Stuart has repeatedly pleaded with larger countries and international financial institutions not to disqualify the Region from accessing concessionary financing based on the level of development. He has contended that small states should qualify because of their vulnerability and fragility.

In welcoming Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) His Excellency Roberto Azevedo today, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Senator Maxine McClean made a similar appeal to the world’s leading rule-making body for international trade.