Lamy praises Portman, welcomes USTR nominee Schwab

Director-General Pascal Lamy today praised Rob Portman, outgoing US Trade Representative, for his contribution to the global trading system while welcoming the announcement by US President George Bush that Deputy US Trade Representative Susan Schwab, has been nominated as Mr. Portman's successor. Mr. Portman has been nominated by President Bush to serve as White House Budget Director.

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“It has been a pleasure to work with Rob. His sense of leadership, constructiveness and his excellent relationship with US Congress have been greatly appreciated within the trade negotiators' community,” Mr. Lamy said. “I have had a rich and productive working relationship with Rob, who has been instrumental in efforts by the US towards reaching greater convergence in the negotiations. I look forward to working with Susan as we enter a decisive phase in the negotiations, when key players will be asked to take bold moves, in order to secure a successful conclusion of the Round by the end of this year.”