[[Speaking Monday in Zurich, Portman called specifically on Japan and the European Union to come up with improved offers for reducing agricultural support programs.] The U.S. is willing to take some pain, ... But those who subsidize more need to reduce more.

I'm disappointed because we haven't seen much progress on market access. Time is running out.

[[But Portman also warned that expectations on the final outcome had been pared.] I think we have to lower expectations because the talks have lagged, ... We have not made the progress over the last year or so that all of us hoped for. There are lots of reasons for that. We have an ambitious agenda, and these are tough issues.

I do welcome the give and take from our trading partners and in particular the E.U., but I continue to be very disappointed that the E.U. did not reciprocate with a similar level of ambition on market access as we offered on domestic support.

The E.U. hasn't gone far enough. That's the general consensus.

All countries must also simultaneously deliver real market access.

After the appeal, I understand it wouldn't be until the spring of 2006.

I believe this textile agreement is an example of how the U.S. and China do have the ability to resolve tough trade disputes in a manner that benefits both countries.

Open markets and strong trade relations are key components to a more peaceful, stable and prosperous world. Through expanded trade, the roots of democracy and freedom are deepened, ... Here at home, trade policy opens markets to create good jobs, a higher standard of living, and greater economic growth.