It's a great pleasure for me to welcome you to the WTO Public Forum 2009. This year's theme is “Global Problems, Global Solutions: Towards Better Global Governance”.

As in previous years, the Public Forum provides you with the opportunity to voice your opinions on any aspect of the multilateral trading system. And this year, at a time of economic crisis, your contribution is needed more than ever as we come together to seek global solutions to global problems.

Trade is one of the areas that has been hardest hit by the global economic crisis. Amid concerns over rising levels of protectionism, shrinking global demand, reduced trade volumes and diminishing trade finance, this year’s Forum will look at the role of the WTO and the multilateral trading system in addressing the crisis. There will be a particular focus on the relevance of the Doha Round of negotiations during these difficult times and on the main challenges facing the multilateral trading system once the crisis is over. Also up for discussion is the impact of the global economic crisis on developing countries, in particular the least-developed countries.

The “global” nature of the crisis underlines the need for an international response that unites the weakest with the poorest, that gathers together the valuable contributions that governments, non-governmental organizations, academics, businesses and students can provide collectively.

Your participation in the Public Forum is essential for ensuring a fruitful debate. This forum is YOUR forum. You set the agenda and organize the sessions and we provide our undivided attention. I look forward to listening to your views and encourage all of you to participate in this year's event.

Pascal Lamy

Played at the plenary opening

> Animation

> Plenary Opening

> Session 9: Finance for Trade