Farmers March in Geneva to Protest GATT
Farmers from around the world demonstrated Saturday against “American imperialism” and the GATT trade accord they fear will ruin hundreds of millions of farmers and uproot centuries-old traditions.
The agreement, sponsored by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, aims to cut farm production and export subsidies, roll back trade barriers and end import bans.
“GATTASTROPHE,” read one banner, summing up the mood of the estimated 3,000 demonstrators.
Police in riot gear sealed off the entrance to GATT headquarters and fired tear gas to disperse bottle-throwing demonstrators. No injuries or arrests were reported.
The protesters included contingents from Europe, Japan, India and Canada.
A small delegation met with GATT Director General Peter Sutherland, who told them their objections were unfounded, a GATT official said.
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