by
Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman
Regarding the U.S. - EU Framework for WTO Agriculture Negotiations
August 13, 2003

“We are pleased that we have been able to significantly narrow our differences with the EU in the WTO agricultural negotiations and to agree upon a framework to guide further negotiations. The framework develops key concepts and formulas, with specific numbers still to be determined.

“We were asked by the WTO leadership to try to reach accord with the EU so that the agricultural and other negotiations could move forward. We have responded, and now appeal to the other WTO members to show similar leadership and flexibility as we near the important Cancun Ministerial meeting.

“The progress in the three important areas for American agriculture - export competition, market access, and domestic support - clearly is along the pathway envisioned in our initial proposal. We view the framework agreement as a significant achievement, even though further difficult negotiations will be required to fully define the package.

“We have been in consultation with our advisory bodies and appreciate their assistance along with the support of our industry. We will need their assistance even more as the negotiations move to the next phase.”

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