UNCLAS ANTANANARIVO 000079

SIPDIS

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR AF/E AND EB/TPP

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: EAGR ETRD PREL FR MA
SUBJECT: FRENCH AGRICULTURE MINISTER REHASHES HIS POSITION

REFTEL: ANTANANARIVO 0060


1. On the margins of a Presidential Delegation visit to Madagascar
to attend the inauguration of President Marc Ravalomanana (Reftel),
Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns met with French Minister of

SIPDIS
Agriculture Dominique Bussereau at Ambassador McGee's residence for
a wide-ranging discussion of agricultural issues. In a candid and
sometimes contentious discussion, they discussed the Doha
negotiations including the upcoming U.S. farm bill, market access,
domestic support, geographical indications, food aid, cotton, and
genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Each side was already
well-versed in the other's position, and no new or significant
ground was covered.


2. For more detailed information, please contact meeting note-taker,
Embassy Pretoria Agricultural Counselor Scott Reynolds, telephone:
(27-12) 431-4000 x4236, fax: (27-12) 342-2264, email:
Scott.Reynolds@usda.gov.

MCGEE