S and D is about how to learn to compete. No one imagines a lightweight should fight a heavyweight in boxing. We must learn by stages, with technical support. Supachai then remarked that he agreed with Ricupero that balance does not mean equal treatment alone but must include compensation for the past imbalance of benefits. He also agreed that developing countries should reaffirm their need for S and D treatment all the time.
Trade is also an engine for growth.
Seattle was an opportune time to send a positive message to the market to keep the momentum for trade. If Seattle failed to provide for more liberalisation, protectionism would set in, there would be a loss of faith and a breakdown of the MTS, he argued. Supachai remarked that it may be true the bicycle should move ahead to keep from falling, but he also noted that trade openness had not helped some countries in reality as contrasted with in theory. Hendricks said the next Round must be a Development Round and must focus on development and narrowing income disparities. It is crucial that rules not power govern trade relations.