DG Okonjo-Iweala thanked H.E. Mr Mechichi for his visit and for his interest in the work of the WTO, and said: “We have had a very useful exchange on the challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and on Tunisia's potential for vaccine production.”

DG Okonjo-Iweala also commended Tunisia for its continued commitment to the WTO and requested H.E. Mr Mechichi's support during the preparations for the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12). She added: “We have discussed the preparations for MC12, the role of trade in the post-pandemic economic recovery process and the need for trade to be more sustainable and inclusive, in particular for women and small and medium-sized enterprises.”

H.E. Mr Mechichi said: “The WTO is a reliable partner for Tunisia. We stand ready to work with the WTO and other international institutions on Tunisia's response to the pandemic.  Tunisia is a long-standing manufacturer of vaccines with a highly developed and mature pharmaceutical industry that has the capacity to produce vaccines.” He went on to say: “Tunisia will continue working constructively with WTO Members to ensure meaningful outcomes at MC12 and to provide an environment conducive to youth and women's empowerment initiatives and more sustainable economies.”

Tunisia has been a WTO Member since 29 March 1995.