Russia's Bid for WTO Accession
SUMMARY
Russia's chief WTO negotiator revealed Dec. 19 that Russia would
present new proposals to the WTO in February 2001 in a bid to
accelerate its negotiations for accession. Membership in the
organization, whose 140 members account for nine-tenths of global
trade, would open up more trading and investment opportunities for
Russia. But Moscow's chances of membership are negligible due to
internal economic problems and external political factors.
ANALYSIS
Russia has sought to join the World Trade Organization since 1993.
Membership in the WTO, whose 140 members account for nine-tenths of
global trade, would open up new trading and investment
opportunities for Moscow. Maxim Medvedkov, Russia's chief
negotiator, revealed Dec. 19 that he would present new proposals in
February 2001 in a bid to accelerate accession negotiations.
Although the details remain undisclosed, the proposals probably
differ little from those offered over the past seven years, and
Moscow's chances of membership are likely to remain as negligible
as ever.
Joining the WTO enjoys broad political support in Moscow. But
realizing the economic rigor required for membership is only now
dawning in the Kremlin. Over the past two months, Moscow's
accession target has slipped from early 2001 to mid 2002. Medvedkov
has even acknowledged that the process could take years, although
he insists the fault lies with other states, not in Russia's lack
of qualifications.
In all probability, Medvedkov is correct: the process will take
years. But the principal obstacles lie within Russia. Its economic
problems and negotiating stance will delay membership or, more
likely, keep Russia out altogether. In negotiations, Russia's
position officially consists of exchanging opinions on what Russia
should do.
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