The debate was heated, but Moscow eventually traded ratification for support for its efforts to join the WTO.

BBC: NEWS | Science/Nature | Russian firms turn Kyoto pioneers

The President of the United States, President Obama, congratulated President Medvedev, as you heard him say, on the invitation for Russia to join the WTO.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

As for the World Trade Organisation, it is not only us that want Russia to join the WTO but our main trade and economic partners as well.

BBC: Breakfast with Frost

Despite the calls in Washington for some sort of sanctions, Mr Bush is still backing Russia's bid to join the WTO because he believes that having to live by its rules will strengthen the rule of law in Russia.

ECONOMIST: Candid words on Russia's drift from democracy | The

Such factors lie at the heart of China's bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO).

CNN: Open the Gates

Foreign investment has soared since China opened its markets to join the World Trade Organisation (WTO) in 2002.

BBC: A worker loading containers at Yantian Port, Shenzhen

Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhu Bangzao said Thursday the bombing had cast a cloud over the WTO talks, but China still wanted to join.

CNN: Clinton calls Chinese president with apology