Robert LaRussa, counsel in the Washington, DC office whose practice focuses on international trade and investment, spoke on October 20 at the US Commerce Department international trade event titled "The Next 30 Years of Trade."

LaRussa, a former US Commerce Under Secretary for International Trade, was joined by two others who have held that post. The panel, which was moderated by Francisco Sanchez, the current Commerce Under Secretary, focused on a range of issues, including the future of the World Trade Organization; the Obama Administration's trade and investment policies; the bilateral trading relationship with major US trading partners, especially China; and the importance of an open investment climate in the United States.

LaRussa noted that, given the state of the US and world economy, it is critical to maintain an open investment climate in the US, strengthen the World Trade Organization by adhering to its rulings and avoid overly protectionist responses to bilateral trade disputes. US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke gave the keynote address on the Commerce Department's role in export promotion and trade policy.