WTO: Reform facilitator's report triggers tensions ahead of GC meeting (PRIV)
(D. Ravi Kanth, Geneva)
The facilitator's report on World Trade Organization reform, circulated just days before the General Council (GC) meeting on 10-11 March, appears to have generated both procedural and substantive tensions that are likely to shape the political atmosphere heading into the WTO's 14th ministerial conference (MC14), to be held in Yaounde, Cameroon on 26-29 March, according to people familiar with the development.

WTO: Critical issues sidestepped in "Road to Yaounde" schedule for MC14 (PRIV)
(D. Ravi Kanth, Geneva)
A "Road to Yaounde MC14 - Modalities, Schedule of MC14 Sessions and Minister-Facilitators" document issued by the World Trade Organization's Director-General on 6 March appears to have confused several member countries, prompting a rethink on participation, according to people familiar with the development.

UN: Middle East conflict fuels price spike, risks worsening hunger crisis (PRIV)
(Kanaga Raja, Penang)
The sharp rise in food and fuel prices triggered by the escalating conflict in the Middle East is likely to deepen hunger among vulnerable populations both within the region and beyond, the UN World Food Programme (WFP) has warned.