About 10,000 farmers protest over US-S Korea trade talks
October 23, 2006
About 10,000 Farmers Protest Over U.S., S. Korea Trade Talks
Nidhi Sharma - All Headline News Staff Writer
Sogwipo, S. Korea (AHN) - In the wake of protests from thousands of farm activists and unionists, South Korean and U.S. negotiators resumed controversial free-trade talks on Monday, on the resort island of Cheju.
The trade officials from both the countries are seeking to solve differences in opening markets for farm goods, textiles, automobiles and pharmaceuticals.
Earlier, there was an informal deadline, set for the end of March in addition to the Bush administration’s authority, to negotiate trade deals that expire in July.
There was not much of progress on Monday, October 23, at the talks as the agreements were sought only in less sensitive areas, Reuters reports.
The chief U.S. negotiator, Wendy Cutler told Reuters that the two countries are yet to start serious talks on opening South Korea’s rice market.
The protesters, which grew to about 10,000, were not allowed to enter the venue where police in full riot gear was holding the talks.
According to the South Korean farmers, the free-trade deal would curb their livelihoods. Farmers also demand extensive compensation packages from the government in the wake of free trade talks.
