World Trade Organization WT/MIN(09)/ST/136 3 February 2010 (10-0587) MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE Seventh Session Geneva, 30 November - 2 December 2009 Original: English YEMEN Statement H.E. Dr. Yahya Y. Al-Mutawakel Minister of Industry and Trade (Speaking as an Observer) On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Yemen, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Swiss authorities and the organizing committee for the excellent arrangements, hospitality, and friendly reception. Geneva, as we all would agree, is an excellent setting for such a long over due WTO Ministerial Conference. I would like also to congratulate H.E. Andres Velasco for his election as Chairman of the WTO Seventh Ministerial Conference as well as his Honourable Deputies, whom I believe shall lead this meeting to a very successful conclusion. I equally would like to congratulate the Director-General, the WTO Secretariat, and the General Council Chairman for their