PROVINCE HOSTS INFORMATION SESSION ON WTO NEGOTIATIONS

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman, Canada's chief agriculture negotiator at the WTO Steve Verheul, and Government Relations' Deputy Minister Harvey Brooks were among the speakers at a Saskatchewan stakeholder information session held today in Regina.

"As a net-exporter, Saskatchewan has a vested interest in creating clear, enforceable rules surrounding the exchange of goods and services," Wartman said. "We need rules that ensure that Canada is on a level footing with countries that are considerably larger in terms of economic size, population and influence."

The session, attended by approximately 60 people representing 46 agriculture industry associations, focused on Canada's position with regards to agriculture at the current round of WTO negotiations. The session's format allowed industry representatives to provide their viewpoints to government officials.

"We are at a critical point in these negotiations," Wartman said. "I believe that forums such as this provide us with an important opportunity to exchange information and participate in the process."

The current round of WTO agriculture negotiations commenced in 2000. It is hoped that a resolution will be reached on specific details of the framework agreement by December 2005.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031