The BJP records its profound appreciation of the resolute defence of national interests by the Minister of Law and Commerce Sri Arun Jaitley and the Indian delegation to the WTO summit in Cancun.

Sri Jaitley's tough and skilful negotiating stance enabled India to emerge as the leader of the developing countries. India forged two separate and influential alliances, on agricultural subsidies and the Singapore issues.

These alliances have altered the balance of power in the WTO in favour of the developing world. Earlier, we were alone on issues and today majorities of the countries are supporting us. The BJP considers this as a major achievement for India.

The BJP is happy that India has become the voice of the developing world and the entire country is happy about the way in which the Indian point of view has been put forth.

In line with the nationalist policies of the NDA Government led by Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India refused to allow some developed countries to bulldoze a regressive agricultural agenda. The NDA Government has successfully upheld the interests of Indian farmers.

The BJP reiterates its view that globalisation can only be achieved if the principles of fair trade are followed by the developed countries. The Cancun summit has shown that WTO must address the key issues of discriminatory policies and human suffering. India will take a lead in ensuring this happens.

(Shyam Jaju)
Co-incharge,
BJP Central Office