United Nations Radio

Only strengthened, more inclusive multilateralism will allow for fast and coordinated action to tackle common threats.

And according to the President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso (photo) , Doha represents a historic opportunity to ensure a concrete follow-up to the G-20 Washington meeting, to put on the table concrete proposals warranting that the global financial and economic governance that is now being re-defined is inclusive.

He warns that failure to make progress in the financing for development agenda will again have consequences mostly for the poorest countries, which already are the world's most vulnerable:

"A successful Doha Trade and Development Round will be a major boost for the world economy and show that we reject protectionism. It would be good for development and good for the global economy. So we want to see an action-oriented outcome this week to maintain, promote and implement the Monterrey Consensus. We are determined as the European Union to see this Doha conference succeed. The success of Doha in trade and Doha on aid will be crucial for the prosperity of the peoples of our planet."

Mr. Barroso warns that a North-South clash would be disastrous and might only provide an excuse for some developed countries not to deliver on their commitments.

This is Donn Bobb reporting for United Nations Radio, Doha.

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