Statement by the
President of the International Chamber of Commerce,
Richard D. McCormick

Paris, 14 November 2001

The WTO ministers' decision to launch a new trade round is terrific news in light of the troubled world economy.  We applaud the governments' willingness to rise above their differences and pursue further world trade liberalization - which ultimately will benefit everyone.   

This agreement will boost business confidence at a time when it's badly needed.  And although this is only the beginning of a trade round that could take several years - it's an important beginning.

We're 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.

At Doha, the WTO governments - now including China - turned their backs on protectionism.  They chose the path toward more open markets.  A successful trade round will ultimately help everyone - consumers as well as businesses - worldwide. 

For further information, contact ICC Director of Communications, Bryce Corbett in Paris (Tel: +33 6 20 47 32 52) or visit the ICC website, www.iccwbo.org