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A supportive international economic environment is crucial. Agenda 21 calls for “a supportive international climate for achieving environment and development goals by: (a) promoting sustainable development through trade liberalisation; (b) making trade and environment mutually supportive; (c) providing adequate financial resources to developing countries dealing with international debt; and (d) encouraging macroeconomic policies conducive to environment and development.” 

Trade and and sustainable development were discussed at the first, second, third, fourth and fifth session of the Commission. Within the framework of the Commission’s multi-year programme of work, this issue was again discussed at the eighth session, together with economic growth and investment, as one of the major cross-sectoral themes. 

Recognizing the major role that trade can play in achieving sustainable development and in poverty eradication, the Plan of Implementation encourages WTO members to pursue the work programme agreed at the Fourth WTO Ministerial Conference.