Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Harry Theoharis, participated in the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), held in Yaoundé, Cameroon, from 26 to 29 March.
The Conference was described as a “turning point” by the WTO Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who underscored its significance for the future of the multilateral trading system. As she emphasized, it constitutes a crucial opportunity for the Organization’s members to demonstrate flexibility and a spirit of cooperation, with a view to achieving tangible outcomes and strengthening confidence in the WTO.
In the framework of the Conference, the Deputy Minister participated in the EU Trade Ministers Council, as well as in the event hosted by the Cypriot Presidency in support of Ukraine. He also took part in working sessions and in the parallel event “Trade Ministers Coalition on Climate.”
During the proceedings, Mr. Theoharis held meetings with the Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefčovič, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food, Christophe Hansen, as well as with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade of Ukraine, Taras Kachka.
He also held bilateral contacts with the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia, Matt Thistlethwaite, the Principal Secretary for Trade of Kenya, Regina Ombam, as well as with the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry of Cyprus, Michael Damianos, with a view to strengthening bilateral economic relations. Furthermore, he met with the WTO Deputy Director-General, Johanna Hill.
On the sidelines of the Conference, the Deputy Minister had the opportunity to exchange views with the Minister of Commerce and Industry of India, Piyush Goyal, and the Minister for Trade of the United Kingdom, Chris Bryant, on issues of mutual interest.
Finally, Mr. Theoharis visited the Greek community in Yaoundé, where he was welcomed by His Eminence Metropolitan of Cameroon, Gregorios, the representative of the Honorary Consul, the President of the Greek community, Eric Balanos, and members of the Greek diaspora.
March 29, 2026