UN General Assembly
2008

countries alike. The world economy is facing turbulence and uncertainty. A more open trade regime would bring increased economic growth and interdependence, which in turn would have a significant stabilizing effect. Trade policy is one of the tools to help developing countries become integrated into the world economy and reap the benefits of trade. Trade reforms are fundamental for sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction. We regret the failure to reach a breakthrough in the World Trade Organization Doha Round. We all share a responsibility to resolve the few remaining issues. The United Nations system — both in the field and at Headquarters — must be reformed in order to ensure coherence and effectiveness. Reforms must also enable the United Nations to work more effectively on gender issues and for the promotion of equal rights and opportunities. The United Nations needs to bolster its capacity to handle the unprecedented demand for peace operations. Cooperation with regional organizations and arrangements, such as the European Union, NATO and the African Union, is essential. Sweden strongly supports efforts to bridge crisis