EU-US biotechnology consultative forum launched
An EU-US biotechnology consultative forum composed of 'eminent persons' outside of government has recently been set up. The independent forum aims to provoke debate among experts which will contribute towards fostering better understanding of important issues in biotechnology. The group will present its first report at the next EU-US summit on 18 December 2000. The European Union and the United States have also begun a high-level discussion on trade in agricultural biotechnology products. This aims to cover regulatory issues and practical means to facilitate trade in accordance with the regulatory requirements of importers. The group will also report on their discussions at the forthcoming EU-US summit.