Activists stage protests as WTO talks kick off

THOUSANDS of farmers and anti-globalization activists in Asia, Europe and in Cancun itself yesterday staged protests as the World Trade Organisation started a five-day meeting in the Mexican seaside resort.

About 30 protesters, who managed to gain access to the conference, jeered as officials delivered their opening speeches.

Holding aloft banners that read: “WTO anti-development,” the protesters chanted slogans denouncing the trade body.