We are also holding a series of Listening Sessions with the Department of Agriculture focusing specifically on agriculture, which began early this month and will continue through July. I am pleased to say, Mr. Chairman, that one is taking place today in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our specific negotiating objectives will flow from these consultations, as well as from discussions with Members of Congress, industry leaders and others. Thus, at this point, it is premature to discuss the precise goals we will set. However, I would like to discuss two key areas the Round will address in some more detail.
Reform is in everyone's interest.
The combination of high tariffs and subsidies make European consumers pay prices far above the world market rate for food. Export subsidies in particular place an immense and unfair burden on farmers in other countries, especially developing countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and elsewhere. While many European governments recognize that reform is essential, internal reforms have brought only minor change in the past two decades. Clearly, international efforts to bring significant change, including reduction of border trade barriers, domestic supports linked to production, and elimination of export subsidies through the new Round are essential. A second key focus will be new technologies such as biotechnology.