*EPF516 09/14/01
Text: USTR Zoellick on Proceeding with WTO Meeting in Doha
(Noting security concerns, he views open trade as crucial) (290)

In the aftermath of terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York and on the Pentagon, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick says the World Trade Organization (WTO) ministers' meeting scheduled for November in Doha, Qatar, should proceed.

"While we will take every possible step to ensure security," Zoellick said, "it is important that the World Trade Organization meeting in Doha proceed so that the world trading system can continue to promote international growth, development, and openness."

Following is the text of Zoellick's statement:

(begin text)

September 14, 2001

USTR Zoellick Statement on World Trade Ministerial in Doha

WASHINGTON -- United States Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick today issued the following statement regarding the November World Trade Organization (WTO) meetings in Doha, Qatar:

"America has been attacked by those who want us to retreat from world leadership. Let there be no misunderstanding: the United States will continue to advance the values that define this nation -- openness, opportunity, democracy and compassion. Trade reinforces these values, serving as an engine of growth and a source of hope for workers and families in the United States and the world. Trade is particularly vital today for developing nations that are increasingly relying on the international economy to overcome poverty and create opportunity.

"While we will take every possible step to ensure security, it is important that the World Trade Organization meeting in Doha proceed so that the world trading system can continue to promote international growth, development, and openness."

(end text)

(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S.
Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
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