*EPF510 09/12/2003
Transcript: USTR Zoellick Praises WTO Accession by Nepal, Cambodia
(Expresses hope of better future for two countries) (450)

U.S. Trade Representative Robert Zoellick has welcomed the accession of Cambodia and Nepal to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

In a statement delivered late September 11, the second day of the WTO ministers' meeting in Cancun, Mexico, Zoellick called attention to the two countries' dedication to open markets while overcoming a violent history.

"Cambodia will always be associated with suffering," he said, "so I can only admire and respect that Cambodia is seeking to look forward to create a very better future for its people."

Striving for democracy amid insurgency, Nepal deserves credit for seeking rule of law and openness, he said.

"We also know that to make trade most effective," Zoellick said, "that we and others need to combine both for Nepal and Cambodia aid along with trade to make your accession to the WTO a true success."

Following is a transcript of Zoellick's statement:

(begin transcript)

OFFICE OF THE UNITED STATES TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
WASHINGTON, D.C.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
SEPTEMBER 11, 2003

U.S. Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick
Remarks at the Accession of Cambodia and Nepal to the WTO
World Trade Organization Fifth Ministerial Meeting
Cancun, Mexico
September 11, 2003

We want to welcome Cambodia and Nepal to the WTO. It is an important achievement for both of your countries.

Cambodia is a land rich with culture and a wonderful people. Yet it has been a country that has endured tragedy and very great sadness. Cambodia will always be associated with suffering. So I can only admire and respect that Cambodia is seeking to look forward to create a better future for its people. We want Cambodia to be associated with opportunity and with hope. Today shows that trade can be part of building that brighter future. And we want to build on that day.

Minister and your delegations, Nepal is another country of quiet dignity. It has worked to restore democracy and stability in its insurgency. Nepal also is a least-developed country, and we greatly respect that you appreciate that a better climate for trade and investment and the rule of law and openness are fundamental to overcoming poverty. We also know that to make trade most effective, that we and others need to combine for both Nepal and Cambodia, aid along with trade, to make your accession to the WTO a true success.

Through this process, for both Cambodia and Nepal, we have also benefited. We have learned more about two very wonderful countries, and we look forward to drawing on that experience to build partnership and deeper friendship. Congratulations.

(end transcript)

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

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