In accordance with its policy platform, the government has reviewed Norway’s position in the WTO services negotiations, including its requests for specific commitments from developing countries. During this process it has also been in close dialogue with trade associations and NGOs, and these have provided a good deal of input on the further negotiation process and the Norwegian position and requests.

The review of Norway’s requests to developing countries has been based on a thorough consideration both of the countries’ interests and of Norway’s offensive interests. The government has emphasised that Norway should not submit requests that could be perceived as restricting the way developing countries organise their public services. The government has therefore decided to withdraw the requests to developing countries relating to electricity distribution, water supply and higher education. There is also general agreement in the WTO that the least developed countries (LDCs) are not expected to undertake commitments in the current negotiating round. Norway will therefore withdraw the two requests that have been presented to LDCs, and will contact the countries concerned directly to clarify its position.

A more open trade regime in the services sector will make an important contribution to economic development in rich and poor countries alike, but this must be weighed up against special development needs, said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. - By withdrawing our requests to developing countries relating to electricity distribution, water supply and higher education, the government wishes to send a clear political signal that we do not intend to put pressure on developing countries to liberalise in sectors that are central to the authorities’ provision of services to their populations.

• The Minister's speech about the WTO negotiations.