The Hindu Business Line : India, US narrowing gap on Doha Round, says Nath

NEW YORK: India and the US are increasing their level of convergence on the contentious issues of farm subsidies and market access under the much-delayed Doha Round of negotiations for a global trade deal, said the Commerce and Industry Minister Mr Kamal Nath.

"At this point of time compared to the last year there is much convergence... that really demonstrates the progress in the negotiations, he said, adding that as India engages with the global economy, it is essential that it has a rule based multilateral system. Mr Nath said they discussed both "our divergences and convergences," including issues of agricultural subsidies by the US and other developed countries after meeting with US Trade Representative Ms Susan C Schwab here on Thursday.

Without reporting any progress on subsidies, the minister said both countries want to move forward on the issue.

Ms Schwab, who was by his side when Mr Nath briefed the press, said that they also want the European Union to move on subsidies.

"There is recognition of India's sensitivities in agriculture and we have to discuss how these sensitivities are to be addressed," Mr Nath added.

When Mr Nath stressed on the market access, Ms Schwab said the Doha Round is primarily, but not exclusively, for market access. Subsidies are also an area where the two countries differ but "we both agree that it has to be part of the negotiations," she added.

"The key is... to act in a way that would generate growth and be respectful of each other's ambitions and sensitivities and try to nudge each other and our trading partners to go far as we possible... to get maximum possible benefits for each other and f or the world," she added. - PTI

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