Canada On The Suspension Of WTO Talks In Seattle

STATEMENT BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ON THE SUSPENSION OF WTO TALKS IN SEATTLE

The following is a joint statement issued by International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew and Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lyle Vanclief.

Canada is very disappointed that attempts to launch a new round of global trade talks at the World Trade Organization have been suspended. Discussions are already under way on when talks should resume, and Canada believes that the foundation has been laid for a future agreement.

Important progress was made on agriculture, on issues relating to least-developed countries, and on other important topics. This progress has been locked in and will not be lost. Negotiations on agriculture and services, mandated in the last round, will proceed in January 2000, in Geneva.

Over the last few days in Seattle, Canada held its position on every key area. Canada made it clear to its citizens that it would seek trade agreements that would contribute to its economic growth, advance its vital social interests, and open up the system to greater scrutiny and participation. We held firm to those goals in Seattle and are still committed to them.

No single issue led to this suspension. It was the culmination of complex issues and processes.

Canada played a major role at these talks in a very difficult and complex negotiation. We worked tirelessly to find a mix that would advance Canadian interests, but also benefit the world's poorest nations. We are looking forward to the time when talks can resume and the next steps can be taken.

The Government of Canada also looks forward to continuing the dialogue with Canadians on trade that had begun before Seattle and continued throughout the conference. The advantages of an open and rules-based global trading system are clear and irrefutable. We are committed to moving forward.