September 11... marks the conflict between globalisation and isolationism, between free trade and protectionism

Goh Chok Tong Singapore prime minister

Speaking at the opening of a meeting between trade ministers from 22 countries aimed at clearing the way for new global trade talks, Mr Goh said there was now a clear choice.

"September 11 does not merely mark the conflict between civilised behaviour and terrorism, it also marks the conflict between globalisation and isolationism, between free trade and protectionism," he said.

Sniffer dogs are part of tight security efforts

A full ministerial meeting of the World Trade Organisation is scheduled for November in Doha, in the Gulf state of Qatar.

WTO Director General Mike Moore and the leading member countries want to use that meeting to launch the new set of global talks.

But first the ministers must resolve major differences over the scope of any future negotiations.

The WTO failed in its plan to launch a round at its previous ministerial conference in Seattle in the US in 1999.

There were major divisions between the member countries about what should be on the agenda.

Compromise

The Singapore meeting will be considering a compromise document prepared by Stuart Harbinson, chairman of the WTO's ruling general council, aimed at narrowing differences.

The ministers will discuss "the critical areas of agriculture, environment and competition," Australia's Trade Minister Mark Vaile told the Associated Press news agency.

Australian Trade Minister Mark Vaile

Mr Vaile said agriculture must be one of the items on the agenda for any world trade talks, with the aim of reducing export subsidies.

Japan and Europe want to retain the right to subsidise their farmers in order to preserve the rural way of life.

The trade ministers will also discuss a request by developing nations for more flexible trade rules within the WTO to encourage their economic development.