Report: Dutch minister says US main hindrance at global trade talks

Report: Dutch minister says US blocks trade talks

AMSTERDAM — The Dutch economic affairs minister has accused the U.S. government of being the most important hindrance to ongoing global trade talks.

In an interview published Tuesday in financial daily Het Financieele Dagblad, Maria van der Hoeven is quoted as saying the U.S. is unwilling to compromise on any significant issues. It’s a position she said was unwise for the world’s largest economy.

She cited the failure of U.S. Congress to confirm a new chief negotiator as an example.

The World Trade Organization talks on a new pact to eliminate barriers to commerce in agriculture, manufacturing and services began in Doha, Qatar in 2001.

Trade officials from G-20 nations are gathering in Geneva this week to take stock of the stalled talks.