GENEVA/ANKARA - World Trade Organization (WTO) Director-General Pascal Lamy asked Turkey to assist to settle difference of views between the United States and the European Union (EU).
Turkish State Minister Kursad Tuzmen met WTO SG Pascal Lamy in Geneva, Switzerland.
Recalling that 50 p.c. of textile exports and 75 p.c. of ready-to-wear are assured by developing countries Tuzmen said ``A new period has started on January 1st, 2005 after (textile) quotas were abolished. High level customs tax reductions will put developing countries in a more difficult situation.``
Tuzmen also informed Lamy about the proposal Turkey submitted to WTO and emphasized that to make customs tax reductions in a more flexible way and by taking into consideration the concerns of the (developing) countries would be in the advantage of every country.
On his part Lamy said, ``there are problems in competition with the Far Eastern countries, however problems will be overcome to an important extend if those countries open their markets to other countries.``
Tuzmen later told A.A. correspondent that ``there are many issues in WTO to be agreed on. Differences of views between the countries have not been overcome yet. As far as I see, this makes Lamy feel concern. Particularly, settling disputes between the United States and the EU has great importance. Mr. Lamy asked Turkey`s support on this issue and suggested that Turkey be a mediator. We will try to do our best.``