US to contribute $1mn in WTO technical assistance efforts
07 Apr '06
2 min read
US Trade Representative Rob Portman announced the United States will contribute nearly $1 million for trade-related technical assistance (TRTA) to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
This latest contribution will bring total US contributions to WTO TRTA for the Doha Development Agenda to almost $6 million since the launch of negotiations in November 2001.
"Trade coupled with aid and technical assistance provides the strongest results for developing countries," said Ambassador Portman.
"Breaking down trade barriers is essential to economic growth and poverty reduction, but all must ensure that developing countries have the tools to take advantage of these new market openings," Portman said.
There is a lot at stake in the Doha Round - particularly for developing countries.
The World Bank estimates that global free trade in goods would raise developing countries' income by $142 billion in 2015 according to a static estimate.
The WTO's technical assistance program provides training to help developing countries by enhancing their ability to understand issues, assess their interests and participate effectively in the negotiations.
It also assists developing countries in meeting their WTO obligations and benefiting from the results of WTO negotiations.
The US contribution to the WTO was appropriated by Congress as part of the funds it provides to the State Department for voluntary contributions to international organizations.
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