Europe is determined to see the proposed study forming the basis of a wider multilateral agreement providing for non-discrimination in government procurement. On environment, we have agreed that the WTO Committee on Trade and Environment will actively continue the useful work that it has already begun. We must ensure that WTO rules and environmental protection are mutually supportive. There is widespread concern at the lack of concrete results so far, and Europe will certainly want to see a renewed effort. Investment indeed seems to me the top priority for WTO in the years ahead.
Investment brings benefits to all.
It is also an issue which is primarily for the WTO because it involves the development of an appropriate framework of binding rules. We should be under no illusion that all firms, whatever their size, prefer to invest in large and secure markets. Bigger countries have no problem attracting funds. But many small and medium-sized countries need a secure legal environment to attract their fair share of investment capital. WTO rules will help provide the necessary underpinning.