Press Release of Agriculture Committee Doha Talks Cool Off - Senate Ag Chairman Chambliss statement Contact: 202-224-2035 Monday, July 24, 2006 "Today, I attended the fourth farm bill field hearing hosted by the Senate Agriculture Committee. Trade has been a frequent topic and in every instance it is mentioned, market access takes precedence. Farmers are willing to reduce domestic support only if our trading partners lower barriers that ensure new product flows. It is with this knowledge that I am disappointed the negotiations collapsed in Geneva. "It is not surprising that the European Union continues to dodge blame for refusing to offer a serious market access proposal. Where the European Union desires a deal that only protects their farmers, the United States wants a good deal that lowers barriers to trade. "The World Trade Organization is not a debating society. If the Europeans are serious about the negotiations, they will take advantage of this cooling off period and come back with a proposal that significantly reduces tariffs in developed and developing economies. The United States will not negotiate with itself in an endless cycle that builds barriers between trading partners. "Ambassador Schwab and Secretary Johanns should be applauded for continuing to take a strong position in the negotiations and not caving to pressure calling on the United States to unilaterally disarm. They will be coming home knowing that farmers and ranchers across the country stand firmly behind them." - Chairman Saxby Chambliss Senate Agriculture Committee 259333