WTO: morocco proposes creation of fund to back developing nations

Morocco proposed the creation of a world fund, financed by developed nations, to help developing countries in matters of agricultural production and commerce.

The proposal was made by Moroccan agriculture minister, Ismail Alaoui, at an international conference, held Wednesday in Paris.

The conference, sponsored by the European Union, debated means to lower obstacles facing the development of agriculture in developing countries.

Alaoui called for a more substantial and rapid dismantling of barriers to encourage access of developing countries' products to rich nations' markets.

The minister recalled that agriculture represents the backbone of the economy in several developing nations, noting that this activity employs up to 50 % of the population in some countries.

He also urged developed countries to assist developing nations to promote rural areas, ensure food security and safeguard nature and bio-diversity.