Mr Zoellick was a former US trade representative before becoming Ms Rice's deputy in early 2005.

BBC: NEWS | Americas | Top US diplomacy official resigns

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

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