Throughout the eight-week programme, participants engaged in interactive modules and simulations and learned how to use WTO databases. In addition to exploring topics such as dispute settlement, ongoing trade negotiations and WTO agreements' transparency provisions, participants interacted with experts from international organizations and attended WTO committee meetings.

Speaking at the course's closing ceremony, Saqer Almoqbel, Saudi Arabia's WTO Ambassador and Patron of the course, congratulated the participants, highlighting their active engagement and dedication as pivotal to its success. “As you head back to your home countries, I wish you every success in your future endeavours. The expertise and knowledge you have gained here will undoubtedly contribute to the continued development of our global trade frameworks,” he said.

The Director of the WTO's Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation, Bridget Chilala, thanked Ambassador Almoqbel for his support and commitment to the success of the course. Congratulating the participants on successfully completing the programme, she also underscored the value of knowledge-sharing. “It is my sincere hope that when you get back home, you will share the knowledge you have acquired with your colleagues and serve as ambassadors to help raise awareness on WTO issues,” she stated.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Desiree Huggins, from the Regional Integration and Diaspora Unit of the Prime Minister's Office of Saint Kitts and Nevis, underscored the transformative impact of the programme. She said: “As we look to the future, it is clear that the knowledge we have gained will serve as a foundation for our professional journeys. We are now better equipped to address the complex trade issues that lie ahead. We are more confident, more informed and more motivated to contribute to the global trading system in ways that promote sustainable growth and inclusive development.”

The advanced trade policy course represents the highest-level training for generalists organized through the WTO technical assistance programmes. It is aimed at empowering government trade officials from WTO developing and least-developed members and observers.