Modest progress made so far in negotiations on the Doha Development Round: WTO chief

The head of the World Trade Organization says progress has been modest so far in this week's discussions in the Trade Negotiations Committee. Pascal Lamy characterized the consultations as "constructive, with a strong commitment to engaging directly and in good faith." He told delegates they all have the responsibility to provide a launching pad, that is, a clear workable basis, for finishing this Doha Development Round by the end of this year. "The outcome of our meetings here this week should be able to provide the much awaited green light that both the developed and developing world expects from us. This is a heavy responsibility and we must not let this chance slip away." The main task of the WTO members is to settle a range of questions that will shape the final agreement of the Doha Development Agenda. This is Donn Bobb... [read full story]