72. The representative of Egypt said that his delegation considered it important that the substantive discussion on this issue continue over the year 2000. Egypt reaffirmed its support for the paper presented by the African Group on this issue during the preparation for the Seattle Ministerial Conference. Egypt wanted to stress that the stability of Article 27.3(b) should be maintained. There was no reason for having a special mandate to review the Article. Article 27.3(b) did not specify a deadline for finalizing this review. He expressed support for the Chairperson's proposal to continue the debate on the basis of a list of key issues, in order to help organize and structure the Council's debate and to facilitate its work. His delegation was open to discuss this issue in a constructive manner allowing the Council to reach an outcome which would be in the interest of all participants.
