Geneva - A demonstration in Geneva, ahead of a World Trade Organization meeting, turned violent Saturday, with protestors burning cars and police using tear gas. Around 3,000 people took part in the march against the WTO and policies of industrialized nations that negatively affect the world's developing nations, according to organizers.
The incidents took place shortly after the demonstration began, when radical so-called "black bloc" protestors smashed several shop windows, including those of a jeweller and a hotel.
At least three cars were burned. Police stepped, using tear gas.
Organizers called off the demonstration, that saw the participation of at least 40 organizations.
The WTO begins its first ministerial meeting in four years in the Swiss city on Monday. Previous WTO talks have been characterized by violent protests.
