On January 17, 2025, the Sixth Meeting of the First Council of the Global Alliance for Trade in Services (GATIS) was held in Beijing. The meeting, chaired byPresident Jiang Zengwei, took placeboth inperson and virtually, with eight council members in attendance.

During the meeting, GATIS elected a new Secretary-General (legal representative) and Deputy Secretary-Generals, approved the admission of 30 new members, and deliberated on the Interim Measures for the Management of Professional Committees of the Global Alliance for Trade in Services. It also discussed the expansion of its Council and revisions to the Trial Measures for the Management of Membership Dues of the Global Alliance for Trade in Services, among other issues.

Council members recognized and affirmed GATIS’s achievements over the past year and provided constructive suggestions for further improvement.

President Jiang Zengwei expressed his gratitude to council members for their support of GATIS’s work. He noted that this council meeting was substantial, efficient, and productive. He emphasized that GATIS, taking the establishment of the new secretariat as an opportunity, will continue to work hand in hand with all parties and maintain a more open attitude, practical approach, innovative thinking, and effective operations to promote the sustainable and healthy development of trade in services. Through these efforts, GATIS aims to truly establish itself as an international non-governmental organization and international association with significant influence, driving force, and recognition.

Ms. Almona, Director General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nigeria, expressed her anticipation for GATIS to strengthen cooperation with member enterprises under the leadership of the secretariat and provide higher quality services to members. She also expressed interest in participating in theGlobal Entrepreneurs Summit on Trade in Servicesduring theChina International Fair for Trade in Servicesin September.

Mr. Bruno, President of the World Trade Point Federation, congratulated the establishment of the secretariat and expressed confidence and anticipation in GATIS’s international development, hoping to work together to create a better GATIS.