The Final Word by Jim Thompson


Historians may look back on the summer of 2006 as one of great importance in world history. And, I don't need to tell you, as the world goes, so goes our pulp and paper industry.

Never mind the conflicts, terrorism, and general mayhem that seems so pervasive.

Ignore the pundits trying to get used to interpreting the musings of a new U.S. Federal Reserver Chairman.

The big issue of the summer may be the collapse of the Doha Round of trade talks. This was a chance for free trade that may not come again for many years. Free trade, for centuries, has been proven to be the one sure way to raise standards of living for all involved. Protectionism has been shown to be a sure path to ruin. It is too bad that statesmanship cannot prevail in these situations.