2:
Is There A GBD Focus?
A: Yes. All of the work of the Global
Business Dialogue relates to global trade and investment, and almost
all of it relates to the constantly evolving policies of governments
that affect these economic activities. During the past ten years,
most of GBD’s activities have dealt with: a) negotiations in the
World Trade Organization; b) bilateral and regional trade
agreements; or with c) other topics.
These topics have included U.S. visa policy, the relief work
for the 2004 tsunami, the evolution of China’s legal system, and,
more recently, the responses to the economic crisis that began in
2008, including the Buy American provisions in the U.S. stimulus
bill.
Q3: Who Are the Members?
A: Today, there about 70 members of the Global Business Dialogue.
They include major business organizations from Canada, India, Japan,
and the United States; global companies; embassies, law firms and
others. This is a drop from 2008, as GBD has lost members as a
consequence of the recession, budget cuts in major corporations, and
other recent developments. We are rebuilding. A list of current
members can be found at Current Members.
Q4: What is the GBD Mission?
A: Specifically, GBD’s mission is to bring to the public discussion
of trade and investment the perspectives of GBD members and others
who are involved in and affected by these processes. More broadly,
it is to serve the global business community and to help its members
identify and respond to issues of concern to companies, governments
and communities.
Q5: Does GBD Take Positions?
A: No. Neither the staff nor any member of the Global Business
Dialogue is empowered to speak for the collective membership of the
Global Business Dialogue. Rather, GBD activities are founded on the
belief that a rich public dialogue on economic issues is central to
the development of policies that will enhance business opportunities
and improve the quality of life throughout the global economy.
Next page...