Geneva, Switzerland – The World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) and the World Free Zones Organization (WFZO) have formalized a landmark Partnership Agreement, that promises to reshape how Investment Promotion Agencies (IPAs) and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) collaborate to foster sustainable development and drive global economic growth.
The agreement was sealed during a reception at WAIPA Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland. Attendees included ambassadors from the Permanent Missions of WAIPA’s Steering Committee Members—Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brazil, Dominican Republic, Ghana, India, and Korea—as well as senior directors from international organizations such as UNCTAD, ILO, ITC, and partners like WTO, EIF, and WEF. These distinguished participants spoke at the ceremony, congratulating the establishment of the partnership and voicing strong support for its objectives.
“The Partnership Agreement that we are signing today goes far beyond formalities – we have laid the foundation for a transformative alliance. It is a powerful testament to WAIPA and World FZO’s shared vision of the importance of collaboration, empowering IPAs and SEZs to drive sustainable growth, effectively support innovation and create lasting global impact.” said Mr. Ismail Ersahin, Executive Director and CEO of WAIPA.
Building on Five Pillars
Dr. James Zhan, Chairman of WIC’s Executive Board of WAIPA and Chief Advisor to the Chair of World Free Zones Organization, highlighted the transformative potential of this partnership: We need more and stronger global partnerships to support on-the-ground efforts of trade and investment promotion. The five pillars of the WAIPA-WFZO partnership will empower tens of thousands of special economic zones and investment promotion agencies worldwide to promote and facilitate investment for sustainable development.”
The partnership focuses on five key dimensions:
- Joint Policy Advocacy: Addressing global issues such as sustainability standards and corporate tax reforms.
- Mutual Contributions to Global Conferences: Supporting each other’s annual events through high-level participation and joint parallel sessions.
- Joint Capacity-Building Programs: Offering technical assistance, workshops, and training for SEZs and IPAs.
- Knowledge Partnership: Collaborating on research, data gathering, and best practice development.
- Global and Regional Presence: Enhancing visibility and presence in key global and regional forums.
Shaping the Future of Global Investment
WAIPA and WFZO are committed to ensuring the successful implementation of this partnership through ongoing dialogue and impactful joint initiatives. By combining their networks and expertise, the organizations aim to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and unlock new opportunities for economic growth. Together, WAIPA and WFZO are empowering IPAs and SEZs to lead the way in sustainable economic transformation, shaping a more inclusive and prosperous global economy.
About WAIPA
The World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA) connects investment promotion agencies (IPAs) worldwide and organizes global conferences and joint events with partner organizations. WAIPA engages in global policy advocacy and provides capacity-building services for its members and partners.
About WFZO
The World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote special economic zones (SEZs) as a tool for sustainable economic development and trade facilitation by knowledge sharing and development of best practices for zone administration and utilization.
