Today's conference is particularly welcome, and timing is excellent. Moreover, you have pulled together participants from so many different countries and backgrounds, providing us with very different perspectives throughout the day. I particularly welcome the participation of members of the European Parliament and representatives of NGOs. The key to the success of the ESF is that it is a forum, open to all stakeholders, including civil society. The issues at stake must be discussed openly.
Openness is critical.
It lends a diverse perspective, and thereby greater strength, perhaps I could even say greater legitimacy, to our negotiating efforts. The role of services in the modern economy is approaching adulthood. Indeed, some would say that our economies are gradually becoming service economies. However, the GATS, whilst a fast-growing child, is just 5 years old. Parents of five-year olds here will recall that they have learned to walk and talk, started to run, outgrow their clothes rapidly, and have learned the trick of showing disrespect for their parents.