Rich nations still trying to exploit the poor

TRADE ministers from 148 countries are meeting in Hong Kong at the WTO talks where they will make decisions that could radically change the lives of millions of poor people.

However, wealthy countries are still trying to extract maximum concessions from the poorest.

In an exclusive Christian Aid poll, two-thirds of African trade delegations questioned said their economies will suffer if they accept what is currently on offer.

Ninety percent reject the claim by the EU that this is a pro-poor round of ‘development’ talks.

The deal that developing countries will be offered in Hong Kong is likely to harm rather than benefit them, according to the majority of African countries.

If this deal stays on the table, Christian Aid will urge poor countries to walk out rather than sign up to a damaging agreement.

Christian Aid is calling on Ireland and the EU to ensure poor countries can have flexibility in trade agreements so that they can choose trade policies that work for poor people.

Niamh Nic Cárthaigh

Communications & Media Officer

Christian Aid

17 Clanwilliam Terrace

Dublin 2