Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Peter Allgeier made the following statement February 11, 2004 after the World Trade Organization's General Council granted Iraq observer Status at the WTO.

" We very much welcome Iraq's request for WTO observer status.

In pursuing this request, Iraq has made clear its commitment to the rule of law and the principles that underlie the WTO.

Of particular note is the importance that they attach to the WTO as part of their ongoing efforts to rebuild their economy.

We believe that these efforts hold great promise to the people of Iraq.

We are pleased to join with our fellow WTO Members today in collectively welcoming and accepting Iraq's outstretched hand. "