Livelihood concerns will be primary issue at Doha: Kamal Nath

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath said here today that farmers concerns of livelihood will be crucial issues at the forthcoming Ministerial meeting in Geneva.

New Delhi, July 16 : Union Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath said here today that farmers concerns of livelihood will be crucial issues at the forthcoming Ministerial meeting in Geneva.

"The Special Safeguards Mechanism and Special Products are not negotiable," Kamal Nath told media persons.

He added that he had consultation with Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on India's negotiating strategy for the crucial five-day meeting being convened from July 21 to finalise the modalities for completing Doha round of trade talks.

"The Prime Minister is of the view that, unless India's interests are protected New Delhi should not move forward. He, however expressed hope that the meeting will be able to conclude a deal," said the Commerce minister.

Kamal Nath further said, unless India's interests are protected it has an option to walk out of the talks.

"Services, which contribute over 55 per cent of the country's gross domestic product, will be the focus of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations," said Kamal Nath and added that India is seeking better access to the world services market in areas like health, research and development, engineering, construction and computer maintenance.

Kamal Nath also made it clear that unless binding commitments are made by developed countries there can be no agreement at the Ministerial meeting.

ANI