How does US trade affect US development goals?

Oct 13th, 2009 1:38 PM UTC
By Chris Scott

In DC this Wednesday? Then RSVP for a conversation about the “Role of Trade in Promoting U.S. Global Development Goals” hosted by the Modernizing Foreign Assistance Network and the German Marshall Fund.

The panel will be moderated by former Rep. Jim Kolbe (R-AZ) and feature Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative. It will also include introductory remarks by Ritu Sharma, Co-founder and President, Women Thrive Worldwide.

More info about the event below. You can RSVP by emailing rsvp@gloverparkgroup.com with subject line “MFAN-GMF Marantis Event RSVP”.

Trade can be a powerful engine for economic growth and poverty reduction. Access to new markets for poor country products is a crucial piece of the development puzzle. But there is a growing recognition that for many developing countries – particularly the poorest – gaining market access, even preferential market access, is only half the battle. Market access is necessary but not always sufficient. Together, trade and aid can accelerate efforts to spur economic growth, alleviate poverty and enhance security.

During his recent trip to Africa, United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk affirmed that “the United States is committed to working with our African partners to ensure that trade and development work hand-in-hand” and to “supporting trade capacity building assistance, also known as ‘Aid for Trade.’” How can U.S. trade policies more effectively align with U.S. development goals? Are there opportunities for greater transatlantic and global cooperation on trade and development in light of recent commitments at the G20 Summit in Pittsburgh?

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