India, EU committed to success of Doha talks, says jt declaration

New Delhi, July 8 (UNI) India and the European Union (EU) have reiterated their commitment to the success of the coming WTO Ministerial meeting, saying its successful outcome ''balanced across the full range of market access issues in agriculture, industrial goods and services'' was essential to secure growth in trade and boost global economy.

A joint statement issued by Union Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath and EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson after their meeting in London yesterday regarding the Doha Round of negotiations, said "such an outcome would also further integrate developing countries into the world economy while fully reflecting the developmental objectives of the Round, including sensitivities in agriculture." During the bilateral meeting, various matters including the successful conclusion of the WTO Doha Round were taken up.

The resolution expressed the two sides' determination to ensure that the ministerial engagement on services was substantial and led to strong future offers.

It also remained ''firmly committed to taking forward issues relating to geographical indications and biodiversity.'' World trade ministers will meet in Geneva from July 21 to break the deadlock in the global trade talks.

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