"The interests of the developing countries must find their rightful place in the Seattle talks, and India will robustly articulate the position of developing countries in Seattle," Vajpayee said.

He was replying to a question about the possibility of developing countries coming under pressure from the United States and European Union on key issues, including linking of labour standards and environment to trade at the WTO meet.

Asked what would be India's stand on issues of labour standards, trade negotiations, as also on agriculture and services, Vajpayee said India rejected linking of labour standards and environment with trade. "Similarly, our views on agricultural subsidies are wellknown."

The Prime Minister said: "Ultimately, what is important is the combined view of the developing countries on these and other related issues."

WTO's 135 rich and poor member-nations will begin their negotiations in Seattle on November 30 to thrash out the agenda for a new round of multilateral trade negotiations. Commerce and industry minister Murasoli Maran is leading a high-level delegation at the talks.