Former New Zealand Prime Minister Shipley Advocates for the Renewal of Multilateralism
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Madrid, Dec 17 (NationPress) Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jennifer Shipley advocated for the renewal of multilateralism and global cooperation, emphasizing the need to reform international institutions to tackle escalating global issues.
The institutional framework of multilateralism is fragile. While it has served the world effectively, it requires both reform and commitment,” Shipley stated on the sidelines of the 2024 Imperial Springs International Forum that took place last week in Madrid, Spain.
She highlighted the fragility of current multilateral frameworks and underscored the necessity for nations to commit to strengthening these systems.
“Global mechanisms must be alive and relevant,” she asserted.
Shipley identified trade as a crucial domain where multilateral cooperation is essential, urging nations to prioritize dialogue over unilateral actions.
“If there is conflict, there must be a venue for resolution, and the WTO is not operating as it should,” she remarked, calling for leadership, reform, and revitalization of the global trade institution, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Regarding the ongoing disputes between the European Union and China over Electric Vehicles (EVs), Shipley criticized the protectionist policies from the region, which she claimed obstruct progress in combating climate change.
She pointed to New Zealand’s acceptance of Chinese EVs as a case study on how competition and collaboration can be advantageous for both consumers and the environment.
“At a time when we are striving to reduce emissions globally, it is foolish not to allow EVs that are accessible to citizens to flow freely,” she stated, adding that protectionist measures hinder essential transitions to competitive markets and harm consumer interests.
“Why would European car buyers prefer to pay more for their vehicles when there is an equally high-quality option, if not better, available?” she questioned.
In light of the rising uncertainties surrounding potential global trade wars, Shipley urged major economies to steer clear of protectionism. “We must avoid a trade war at all costs. No one wins a trade war; no one emerges victorious in almost any war,” she said.
“I believe in inclusion, I endorse open trade, and I welcome China’s ongoing commitment to further opening up and to global trade commitments,” she concluded.
