The YSU Faculty of Economics and Management hosted an online lecture titled "Inside the WTO: How Global Trade Works," delivered by international trade policy expert Vonai Muyambo.
At the opening of the lecture, Faculty Dean Karlen Khachatryan welcomed attendees and thanked the speaker for her willingness to deliver a lecture. He also emphasized the role of such initiatives in supporting students' professional development and expanding engagement with the international academic community. It was noted that meetings of this kind provide students with an important opportunity to explore international experience and global developments.
Muyambo, Head of the Regional Trade Policy Course Unit at the WTO Institute for Training and Technical Cooperation (ITTC), is involved in developing and implementing training programs for government officials from developing countries, helping strengthen their understanding and application of WTO agreements and trade policy frameworks.
The lecture addressed the fundamental principles of international trade, the role and functions of the WTO, and the importance of global trade rules in the modern world. Discussions also covered the features of international economic cooperation, mechanisms for regulating trade relations, and the key challenges facing developing countries.
A key component of the event was the practical session, during which students participated in interactive exercises and analyses of real trade scenarios. Students presented their proposals and approaches to resolving various trade-related issues, demonstrating active engagement and analytical thinking.
Notable and effective solutions to the proposed tasks were presented by first-year Finance students Vittorio Harutyunyan, Karine Tumanyan and Ruzanna Sahakyan, as well as third-year Management student Liana Ayvazyan.
Among the many questions raised, one from first-year Finance student Karine Tumanyan stood out: "How can WTO membership affect Armenia's economy and exports?"
Responding to the question, Muyambo emphasized that even amid current global economic and political tensions, the WTO continues to play an important role in regulating international trade and ensuring cooperation among countries. According to him, the organization's effectiveness largely depends on the willingness of member states to uphold its principles and international agreements.
Speaking about her impressions of the event, Karine said: "As a first-year student, it was very interesting for me to participate in this lecture dedicated to the World Trade Organization. Since this was my first experience in such a format, it was especially impressive and useful. The lecture helped me better understand the WTO's role in the global economy and international trade relations. I value the opportunity to gain new knowledge beyond classroom instruction by listening to an experienced international expert. Such lectures and discussions deepen our interest in our field of study."
The event featured lively discussion and active student engagement. Students praised the lecture's dynamic format, practical focus, and the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the functioning of the global trading system from an international expert. According to participants, such initiatives contribute not only to the expansion of professional knowledge but also to a broader understanding of international economic processes.
