Trade Leaders Express Desire for Successful Doha Round
USTR Portman and Ag Secretary Johanns report from Geneva that ministers are optimistic about a successful round.
Jacqui Fatka
Published: May 4, 2006
The world remains committed to a successful conclusion to World Trade Organization talks. And the way to get there is an agreement allowing greater market access, explains top trade leaders in Geneva Wednesday.
In a conference call, U.S. Trade Representative Rob Portman and Ag Secretary Mike Johanns reported they've met with 90 member countries' representatives in Geneva this week. Despite the missed April 30 deadline, all expressed a deep desire to move forward. Portman adds a number of countries told him increased market access is a top concern.
"I believe trade in agriculture in this world cries out for reform," Johanns says. "Too many parts of this world have barriers too high. Too many parts of the world cannot economically subsidize agriculture; they don't have the treasury of other parts of the world."
Both leaders reiterated that the United States is willing to negotiate on its October offer if others, specifically the European Union, propose substantial market access improvements. Unlike previous press reports, Portman says the U.S. proposal was not a "take it or leave it" offer.
During this week's meetings Portman did remind WTO member trade leaders that just because one member of Congress makes a statement about the negotiations, that doesn't necessarily represent the U.S. official position.
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