Press Release

05/07/2006

WTO negotiations still without result. Georgios Papastamkos MEP and Robert Sturdy MEP

The EPP-ED is very disappointed at the lack of results during negotiations on the WTO´s Doha Development Agenda in Geneva last weekend. The negotiations on tariff reductions on imports of agricultural and industrial goods seem to be terminally blocked. Many observers have highlighted the United States' refusal to make sufficiently substantial reductions to domestic farm support as one of the main obstacles to reaching an agreement. The EU has already made substantial efforts in increasing agricultural market access during the course of the Round, however many continue to blame the EU for not having gone far enough.

The EPP-ED Group calls on Commissioner Mandelson, as the trade negotiator of one of the biggest trading blocs within the WTO, to do everything in his power to convince partners to stay at the negotiating table, and make real and substantial offers. We urge Mr Mandelson to ensure that any outcome consists of real and substantial assistance mechanisms for least-developed and developing countries. The time for delaying is over. Unless progress is made by the end of this month it will be practically impossible to bring this round to a successful conclusion before the deadline of July 2007. The EPP-ED welcomes the decision of WTO Director-General Lamy to establish intensive bilateral contacts with WTO Member Governments in search of an agreement.

A successful outcome is important for Europe and its citizens. In a globalised world in which economies are increasingly interdependent, the multilateral framework of the WTO is vital to ensure the continuation and growth of international trade. The stakes are high; not only might we lose benefits resulting from trade liberalisation and benefits to the world economy estimated at over €100 billion, we risk destroying the credibility and future of the WTO as an institution to regulate a rules-based system for international trade. The Doha Development Round has made clear the shortcomings of the WTO and its procedures. In order to complete the Round, as well as to achieve the necessary reforms of the WTO itself, greater political will is needed to overcome obstacles than has been shown in recent Doha negotiations.

More Information:
Mr G. Papastamkos, EPP-ED, EP rapporteur on the WTO - Doha negotiations
Tel.: +32 2 2845448
Mr R. Sturdy, EPP-ED spokesman on international trade
Tel.: +32 2 2845294