On November 30th United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk will be in Geneva, Switzerland for the 7th World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference. This Conference brings together trade ministers from the 153 members of the WTO. This blog describes the WTO-backed Aid for Trade initiative.
The Aid for Trade initiative was launched four years ago at the WTO Ministerial Conference in Hong Kong. Although the WTO is not a development agency, its members and other international organizations work together to advance development initiatives. Aid for Trade is one such initiative. Designed to help developing countries overcome constraints, build their economic infrastructure, and increase their competitiveness, Aid for Trade is a critical program that is helping developing countries realize their potential.
Through the Aid for Trade initiative USTR and U.S. development agencies like USAID and the Millennium Challenge Corporation are working with developing countries to ensure that trade needs are part of national development plans. By giving these countries the training and technical assistance necessary to succeed, the U.S. government is helping them build the capacity to take advantage of the opportunities available in the global trading system.
President Obama believes that increased trade can boost growth for developing countries and improve the quality of life of the world's poorest citizens. For the United States, supporting international development is a crucial element of overall trade policy. Each year, global trade lifts millions of people out of poverty by creating stable, well-paying jobs in many developing countries.
The Obama Administration is dedicated to expanding trade opportunities through the Doha Round, as well as through existing programs.
To follow the WTO Ministerial, please visit the WTO Ministerial page here.
