Robert Zoellick, the US Trade Representative, said the White House was "disappointed" with the outcome.

BBC: EU scores in trade war with US

"Government-authorised piracy would undermine chances for a settlement, " said a spokeswoman for the US Trade Representative's office.

BBC: US warns Antigua and Barbuda over 'piracy site' plan

The US trade representative, Ron Kirk, said that even sensitive issues such as agricultural subsidies will be up for discussion.

BBC: EU and US free-trade talks launched

"Trade enforcement is critical for ensuring that our clean energy goods and services can compete on an equal footing around the world, " said Ron Kirk, the US Trade Representative.

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Mr Bayh is holding up the confirmation of Rob Portman, the Ohio congressman whom George Bush has nominated for US trade representative, until his bill is voted on.

ECONOMIST: Putting up the barricades | The

Many newspapers there carried comments from the state's senior Democratic representative calling for changes in trade and tax policy to help US automakers better compete with overseas rivals.

BBC: NEWS | Business | Media focus on Ford uncertainty