WTO governments have turned their backs on protectionism - ICC President
 |
| Mike Moore: Something to celebrate at last |
Paris, 14 November 2001 - On behalf of thousands of member companies throughout the world, the International Chamber of Commerce welcomed today's agreement in Doha to launch a new trade round as a badly needed boost to business confidence.
ICC President Richard D McCormick said: "This is terrific news in light of the troubled world economy." He applauded the readiness of 142 member countries of the World Trade Organization to rise above their differences and pursue further world trade liberalization.
"Although this is only the beginning of a trade round that could take several years, it's an important beginning," Mr McCormick, who serves on the boards of several major US corporations, said.
"We are especially encouraged that the views of the developing countries were represented throughout the negotiations. Developing countries especially need greater access to the markets of the industrialized world."
Mr McCormick added: "At Doha, the WTO governmentsturned their backs on protectionism. They chose the path toward more open markets. A successful trade round will ultimately help everyone - consumers as well as business - worldwide."
|