27 January 2009
Minister for Trade attending World Economic Forum in Davos
The Minister for Trade, Simon Crean, will leave tonight for Davos, Switzerland, to attend the 39th World Economic Forum.
With the deepening global financial crisis, it is crucial there is an internationally co-ordinated approach to dealing with the worldwide downturn.
While in Davos, Mr Crean will attend an informal meeting of trade ministers being hosted by Swiss Federal Councillor of Economic Affairs, Doris Leuthard. This will be a critical meeting to regain political momentum to push forward with the Doha Development Round and complete negotiations on modalities.
Mr Crean will also conduct a series of bilateral meetings, including a dialogue with the European Commission’s Trade Commissioner Catherine Ashton.
The Australian Government has already expressed its disappointment with the recent decision by the European Commission to re-introduce dairy export subsidies.
“This decision sends the wrong message at a crucial time,” Mr Crean said. “Now more than ever we need to keep trade flows open and get the benefit of the multiplier effect of world trade. “Resorting to protectionism will not save jobs. “The economic crisis is global and requires a global solution,” Mr Crean said.
In Davos, Mr Crean will also participate in a series of key discussions as part of the World Economic Forum aimed at finding ways to revive global economic growth and to fight protectionism.
Media Inquiries: Mr Crean’s office - Clinton Porteous - 02 6277 7420 or mobile 0403 369 588