The Japan's statement at General Council, the WTO

Statement by Ambassador Shinichi KITAJIMA
The Japan's statement at General Council, the World Trade Organization

Geneva, 14 October 2008
Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva

 Japan appreciates and supports the continuous efforts made by the DG following the July Ministerial Meeting for the conclusion of the DDA. Against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty triggered by the recent financial crisis, successful conclusion of the DDA has become even more important.

 Japan welcomes the recent re-commencement of negotiating group discussions led by the chairs both in Agriculture and NAMA. Japan is prepared to participate actively in the discussions on the basis of what we have achieved so far, in order to reach the modalities as soon as possible.

Progress in Agriculture and NAMA will provide an impetus for advancement in other areas of negotiations and thereby create momentum for the overall DDA negotiations. In this context, I would like to remind the membership of the WTO that we started this round with a principle of a Single Undertaking, believing that agreement is possible only through a package that includes trade liberalization and the improvement of trade and trade-related rules and that we the WTO can contribute to the promotion of economic development through such a package. We therefore should also work towards progress in areas such as Services, Rules, and Trade Facilitation.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.