WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States and Britain are optimistic World Trade Organization members can reach a long-sought agreement in the Doha round of world trade talks, President George W. Bush said on Monday.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown understands "that if we're really interested in eradicating poverty, it's important for us be successful in the Doha round," Bush said at a joint news conference with Brown.

"Gordon Brown brought some interesting suggestions on the way forward. He's optimistic that we can conclude the Doha round, as am I," Bush said.