Trade Talks to Resume, but Divides Remain


By VIKAS BAJAJ
New York Times
Published: September 4, 2009


NEW DELHI — Trade ministers from around the world said Friday that they would resume negotiations on a stalled free-trade agreement even as it became clear that developing countries and the United States remain far apart on critical issues.

After two days of meetings in the Indian capital about how to restart the trade talks known as the Doha Development Round next year, trade ministers said they were committed to reaching a deal in 2010. But the tenor and substance of their comments suggested that few are willing to soften their stances.

The global economic downturn, which analysts say has led to increased protectionism around the world, was a strong undercurrent to the meeting. While all the delegates said the downturn made reaching a deal imperative, some bluntly said it would be harder now to sell any trade deal back home because political leaders are especially concerned about protecting domestic farmers and businesses.

“At this point of the game, we all have empty pockets, notably after the outset of the world economic crisis,â€