Since the conclusion of the Uruguay Round of multilateral trade negotiations, the Organization and its Members have been confronted by an urgent need to assist less fortunate Member Governments in their efforts to build the capacity to implement the WTO's trade agreements and take advantage of the opportunities presented by the open, rules-based trading system. Specialized training is an important part of this effort. Facilitating Members' effective participation in the work of the WTO is another part of the effort.

Because of strict budgetary constraints, this work cannot today be adequately financed through WTO's regular budget. Voluntary contributions by a number of Member governments are a big help, but still fall short of WTO's needs. For this reason, on 15 December 2000, the WTO General Council approved guidelines governing the acceptance and use of voluntary contributions from non-governmental donors (see Annex 1). Potential donors, if after looking at the types of projects (Annex 2) they could help realize take an interest in considering a contribution to the newly-established trust fund, should contact Mr. Andrew L. Stoler, Deputy Director-General, for further details on how to pursue a contribution.

  
  
To express an interest in contributing toward the realization of this important work, please contact:

Andrew L. Stoler
Deputy Director-General
World Trade Organization
Rue de Lausanne 154
1211 Geneva 21
Switzerland
Tel: 41-22-739-5300
Fax: 41-22-739-5775
e-mail: [email protected]