EU- trade commissioner Peter Mandelson has called on member states to present a united front in crucial world trade talks next week as national governments divide into neo-liberal and protectionist camps ahead of the negotiations. The commissioner's call comes after French President Nicolas Sarkozy in an unusually direct attack earlier this month accused Mr Mandelson of contributing to the Irish rejection of EU Lisbon treaty through his trade stance and of making too many promises on reducing subsidies for EU farmers. "If, after seven years, you cannot complete a trade round, what does that say for your prospects of reaching a deal on climate change?" According to the International Herald Tribune, he told a gathering of journalists on Monday (14 July) that the 27 member states should make a "show of unity" and noted that France is "very mindful of its responsibilities as the presidency of the EU."
EU- trade commissioner Peter Mandelson has called on member states to present a united front in crucial world trade talks next week as national governments divide into neo-liberal and protectionist camps ahead of the negotiations.
The commissioner's call comes after French President Nicolas Sarkozy in an unusually direct attack earlier this month accused Mr Mandelson of contributing to the Irish rejection of EU Lisbon treaty through his trade stance and of making too many promises on reducing subsidies for EU farmers.
"If, after seven years, you cannot complete a trade round, what does that say for your prospects of reaching a deal on climate change?"
According to the International Herald Tribune, he told a gathering of journalists on Monday (14 July) that the 27 member states should make a "show of unity" and noted that France is "very mindful of its responsibilities as the presidency of the EU."
