Brussels, 22/12/2003 (Agence Europe) - In its programme for the upcoming six months entitled 'Europeans - Working Together', the Irish Presidency notes with regard to multilateral trade policy that the Council 'will continue to monitor closely developments in relation to the Doha Development Agenda with a view to resuming substantive negotiations and reaching agreement on a new WTO round as soon as practicable. A successful conclusion to the current round of multilateral trade liberalisation is vital for long term economic growth and development in the world, as ell as for continued confidence in the multilateral system. The Irish Presidency will focus efforts in the Council on achieving balanced progress in the negotiations on all issues. A sustained effort has to be made to strengthen the institutions of the multilateral trade system and the integration of the developing countries in them.' (Development is another of the Irish Presidency's main priorities - see Europe of 20 November, p.6, on the speech by the Irish President Mary McAleese to the European Parliament in Strasbourg in this connection.)