GMF will host the event "The Role of Trade in Promoting U.S. Global Development Goals," with Ambassador Demetrios J. Marantis, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, on Wednesday, October 14. Please click here to watch the event live from 2:30-3:30pm EST.

Trade can be a powerful engine for economic growth and poverty reduction. Access to new markets for poor country products is a crucial piece of the development puzzle. But there is a growing recognition that for many developing countries - particularly the poorest - gaining market access, even preferential market access, is only half the battle. Market access is necessary but not always sufficient. Together, trade and aid can accelerate efforts to spur economic growth, alleviate poverty and enhance security.

During his recent trip to Africa, United States Trade Representative Ron Kirk affirmed that "the United States is committed to working with our African partners to ensure that trade and development work hand-in-hand" and to "supporting trade capacity building assistance, also known as ‘Aid for Trade.'" How can U.S. trade policies more effectively align with U.S. development goals? Are there opportunities for greater transatlantic and global cooperation on trade and development in light of recent commitments at the G20 Summit in Pittsburgh?