The Centre for Trade and Investment Law (CTIL), in collaboration with the Centre for International Trade Law, National Law University Odisha (NLUO), organised a two-day International Conference on “Role of International Trade in Global Energy Transition” at the NLUO campus in Cuttack under the aegis of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Chairs Programme. The conference brought together leading jurists, academics, policymakers and international experts to deliberate on how global trade frameworks can support climate goals and sustainable energy transformation.
High-Level Participation Marks the Conference
The conference witnessed the participation of several eminent dignitaries, reflecting its global relevance and academic depth.
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Justice Biraja Prasanna, Odisha High Court, attended as the Chief Guest
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Professor N. L. Mitra was present as the Guest of Honour
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Ambassador Ujal Singh Bhatia, Former Chairperson of the WTO Appellate Body, also attended the event
Their presence underscored the importance of the dialogue on aligning legal, trade and institutional frameworks with the goals of global energy transition.
Global Experts Share Insights on Trade and Sustainability
The conference featured special addresses by internationally renowned experts, including:
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Professor Werner Zdouc, Former Director, WTO Appellate Body Secretariat
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Dr. Kaushik Deb, Executive Director, Energy Policy Institute, University of Chicago
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Professor James J. Nedumpara, Head, Centre for Trade and Investment Law
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Ms. Alice Tipping, Director, Trade and Sustainable Development, International Institute for Sustainable Development
Their interventions offered diverse perspectives on the evolving relationship between international trade law, energy policy and sustainability governance.
Focus on Trade’s Role in Global Energy Transition
Discussions during the conference centered on the role of the multilateral trading system at the intersection of trade and climate action. High-level technical sessions explored critical themes such as:
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Green industrial policy
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Sustainable trade frameworks
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Clean energy systems
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Regulatory practices for low-carbon transition
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Carbon governance mechanisms
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Challenges faced by developing economies in the energy transition process
The deliberations highlighted the need for equitable, inclusive and development-oriented trade rules that support climate goals without undermining economic growth in the Global South.
Interactive Sessions Promote Knowledge Exchange
Each panel discussion concluded with interactive question-and-answer sessions, encouraging meaningful engagement between participants and experts. Scholars, students, policymakers and professionals actively engaged in dialogue on how international trade rules can be better aligned with climate commitments and sustainability objectives.
Speakers from international institutions, academia and policy bodies emphasized that such platforms are essential for building consensus-driven, evidence-based policy frameworks.
Conclusion: CTIL and NLU
The international conference at NLU Odisha emerged as a significant platform for advancing discourse on trade and climate governance. By bringing together global experts and thought leaders, the event reinforced the importance of leveraging international trade frameworks to support a just, inclusive and effective global energy transition. The conference also strengthened India’s role as an active contributor to global conversations on trade law, sustainability and climate action.
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Source: PIB
