However, some groups are not in favor of the meeting, which is expected to run through December 15.

A group of congressional leaders has sent a letter to President George W. Bush opposing the meeting.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) president Bob Stallman agrees with their stance.

He says before such a meeting is held there should be sufficient evidence that WTO members are truly committed to granting meaningful market access.

“In light of the deteriorating status of world trade talks, some member nations, especially those considered key emerging economies, still are not committed to opening their markets,” Stallman says.

“In fact several nations are hardening or revising their positions, which further reduces their willingness to make real trade reform.”

According to Stallman, AFBF and several manufacturing

and service organisations have expressed to the president, their strong opposition to a December meeting.