World Trade Organization’s (WTO) mini-ministerial on Monday kicked-off as the political storm in New Delhi kept affecting it.

The place of commerce and industry minister Kamal Nath has already been taken over by commerce secretary GK Pillai, through the trust vote in the first two days of the meet. Further, in case the UPA government is voted out, it will lead in collapsing the negotiations.

A senior official said, "Everybody is watching closely the developments in India. If the government collapses, it is possible they may wrap up the talks.”

The high-voltage political events are being keenly observed by trade ministers of countries like the US, Brazil, China — along with WTO director general Pascal Lamy and EU trade commissioner Peter Mandelson.

Mini-ministerial being the meeting where only 30 key ministers are present and represent various interest groups, thus the presence of each participant is vital for the negotiations to be held.

It also a known fact that India had an important role to play in every aspect of the negotiations, whether it be market access in industrial and agriculture products, special dispensation for developing countries or farm subsidy reduction by developed countries, India has an important role in WTO and thus there can be no deal without the mentioned nation.

The senior official also reported, “If India is unable to continue with the negotiations, it could provide the WTO with an alibi to suspend the turbulent talks. It suits those who do not want a deal at the moment. At least, there will not be a blame game.”

Commerce minister Kamal Nath would only return to Geneva on Wednesday and continue with negotiations only if UPA Government wins the confidence motion. Currently GK Pillai would be present at the negotiation process.