Chairman Camp stated: “The WTO Ministerial confirmed the need to find a new path forward to unlock the job-creating benefits of more open and free trade.  For too long our multilateral trade agenda has been held hostage by China, India, and Brazil.  Passage of the trade agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea this summer created good momentum on trade, and we must build on that success. I look forward to working with Ambassador Kirk and his team to utilize this momentum and develop new initiatives that will open new markets to U.S. exports and create good jobs here in the United States.

“The WTO Ministerial also included important outcomes, including Russia’s invitation to join the WTO, a revised government procurement agreement that provides new opportunities for job-creating U.S. exports, and important initiatives to support least-developed countries. Russia’s joining the WTO will create greater opportunities for U.S. workers, businesses, farmers, and ranchers to sell to Russia if Congress grants Russia permanent normal trade relations.”

Trade Subcommittee Chairman Brady added: “I welcome the important progress and decisions made at the WTO Ministerial, including Russia’s invitation to join the WTO.  2012 is the year for us to move forward and develop new initiatives to open markets and expand trade, which will increase U.S. exports.

“Russia’s accession is an important development and will significantly improve the ability for America’s business, technology and agricultural entrepreneurs to gain access to Russia’s growing market.  It’s in America’s interest to have Russia join the rules-based trading system because it increases accountability and provides a means to ensure a level playing field for American companies.

“I look forward to working with the White House, as well as the business and agriculture communities to explain the benefits of Russia’s joining the WTO and to build support for permanent normal trading relations with Russia.”