The US trade representative, Ron Kirk, said that even sensitive issues such as agricultural subsidies will be up for discussion.

BBC: EU and US free-trade talks launched

"Trade enforcement is critical for ensuring that our clean energy goods and services can compete on an equal footing around the world, " said Ron Kirk, the US Trade Representative.

BBC: US takes India to WTO over solar cell imports

Mr Bayh is holding up the confirmation of Rob Portman, the Ohio congressman whom George Bush has nominated for US trade representative, until his bill is voted on.

ECONOMIST: Putting up the barricades | The