. /.WORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/MIN(01)/ST/119
12 November 2001
(01-5708)
MINISTERIAL CONFERENCE
Fourth SessionDoha, 9 - 13 November 2001Original:  English
SWEDEN
Statement by H.E. Mr Leif Pagrotsky
Minister for Trade
When the WTO was launched in 1995, few of us could imagine the rapid and dramatic
challenges that this new Organization would be facing in its first years.
The features and failures of globalization have put pressure and created expectations since the
WTO, like few others, possesses capacity and capability to shape globalization.
Many of our citizens and voters believe globalization is beyond control.  We Ministers must
prove them wrong.
During this meeting I have heard everyone speak about the need for political will.  Now,
during the final hours, we ministers have an obligation to demonstrate this will.
Two years ago we failed the Seattle Round.  We have learned a lot and come a long way
since.  Still on the threshold of a new round, the fina l steps seem difficult.  Maybe old behaviours and
attitudes are lingering?  Or why otherwise is it that we still refer to opening up as "concessions"?  To
my mind it is improved market access that brings about growth and development, not extended
transitional periods.  And I think we should focus our efforts where the real development potential is.Nobody can get rich from more protection.  But increased market access is the key to prosperity.
A new round can demonstrate an offensive attitude and point out the direction for the future;
where do we want the trading system to take globalization?  For me the answer is clear; towards
global prosperity, global justice and a more human world.
The open multilateral trading system is a strong instrument to obtain global prosperity.  The
gains of opening up markets further are enormous.  A 50 per cent cut in trade barriers would increase
global income by US$400 billion per year.
Can we afford to refrain from such a step?  We could ask the consumers.  In my country, a
family of four loses about US$1,500 a year due to trade restrictions on food and clothes.  Whether we
open our own market or access others – we all gain.
Global justice must be another aim of a new round. WTO is a powerful instrument but not
always fair.  The benefits obtained have not been shared in a way that benefits the poorest most.
Imbalances between rich and poor remain.  A new round must therefore bring new opportunities to
the poorest among us.
In my view, this requires, for instance, that we seriously tackle agricultural subsidies of
OECD countries.  Clearly these agricultural policies  are severe obstacles to developing countries and
must be reformed.WT/MIN(01)/ST/119
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Trade liberalization is just one ingredient in a range of policies required for development.
Many developing countries need support to increase their capacity to export and take advantage of the
opportunities of trade.  Development cooperation can play an important catalytical role. Increased
technical support to developing countries should also be one of the first commitments.  A new roundshould also be used to promote good governance and combat corruption which are other keys to
development.  Rules on trade facilitation and greater transparency are important elements.
No international organization that wants to be relevant can ignore the pressing need to
achieve global sustainable development, both in the field of environment and social development.
Therefore the WTO must extend its contribution to a more human world.
Most of us have, as governments and members of the ILO, adopted the ILO core labour
standards.  Still too many workers are deprived of these internationally recognized fundamental
human rights.  This is a global problem and it needs a global solution.  The WTO must take its share
of the responsibility.  Concrete WTO support for the ILO is required.  And I fail to see why this
should be controversial to any country that is a member of both organizations.
Mr. President, through the launch of the Doha round, we have a unique opportunity to boost
global economic confidence, to enhance prospects for trade, investment, employment and growth, and
to make the trading system more equitable and responsive to the needs of all people.
Let us not lose it. Let us start a process that can make a real difference.  I trust that all
Member countries will recognize the importance of this venture and I urge negotiators to make very
effort to settle remaining differences.  And let us remind ourselves again that what we are doing here
in Doha is to start a negotiation, not to conclude it.
I wish to end by extending my sincere appreciation and thanks to the hosts of this meeting,
the Government of Qatar.  And let me conclude by quoting the Emir of Qatar in his introductory
statement to this conference:
"A successful meeting will be the best possible demonstration that all nations, rich and poor
alike, are working together for a better and more just world."
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