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Byline Article on Fast Track Roll Call 4/22/91 [OA 6032]
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Byline Article on Fast Track Roll Call 4/22/91 [OA 6032]
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26
16
7
7
NAME OF SPEECH & DATE OF SPEECH
Roll Call article
4/22/91
NAME OF WRITER : mcNeill
NAME OF RESEARCHER:
SPEECH SYNOPSIS:
POTUS begins by asking
Congress to extend the "fast
track" trade authority to U.S.
Hade negotiatics. Potus cemphaises
that "fast HacR" enables regotations
to go more smoothly i does
not shut congress out. Potus
thank now more than ever
states the importance of "fast
because of three critical hade
negotations now Laking place:
american Intitative POTUS
GATT, NAFTA Enterpiese for the
then speaks on The importance
of NFTa the positive Changes
for the us as a result of This.
POTUS ends by cerpletting the
the need for mo-protectronist
solicies in this June of sweeping
changes around the world.
NAME OF SPEECH & DATE OF SPEECH
NAME OF WRITER :
NAME OF RESEARCHER:
SPEECH SYNOPSIS:
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 16, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
THROUGH:
TONY SNOW TS
FROM:
PAUL MCNEILL
Pm
SUBJECT:
BYLINE ARTICLE ON FAST TRACK FOR ROLL CALL
NEWSPAPER
This article is to appear in Roll Call's April 22 "Policy
Briefing on International Trade."
In it, you present the extension of fast-track as a "test of our
(U.S.) reliability" to stick to an agreement and highlight the
vital nature of international trade and that the Congress is not
shut out of the process.
You also talk about how important fast-track is to the success of
the Uruguay Round of the GATT talks, the North American Free
Trade Agreement, and the trade portion of the Enterprise for the
Americas.
You close authoritatively by highlighting the dangers of trade
isolationism and how America must lead the way in the new
challenge facing the world--economic prosperity.
This article will appear with contributions from many others,
including: Senator Lloyd Bentsen, Senator Ernest Hollings, Carla
Hills, and Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.
(McNeill)
April 16,1990
Draft Two
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked Congress to grant our nation's trade
negotiators an extension of "fast track" trade authority. Fast
track procedures are simple -- but widely misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." It ensures that we
will not alter agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have reached at the bargaining table. Congress will
take those unchanged agreements and approve or reject them.
You don't have to be in business to understand the
importance of being able to reach across the table and shake
hands on a deal. That's just what fast track does: It guarantees
that we won't add last-minute amendments that could force
negotiators to return to the table and start from scratch. It
means that we will be good for our word when we negotiate with
our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. Not true: Congress can express its
views while negotiations take place, and we expect it to do SO.
Moreover, Congress will retain its Constitutional authority to
reject agreements that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed fast-track authority since 1974.
It has helped the U.S. negotiate and implement three
extraordinary trade agreements: the Tokyo Round of multilateral
negotiations, the Free Trade Agreement with Israel and the Free
Trade Agreement with Canada.
Yet fast-track procedures may be more important now than
ever before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports
play a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
Unfortunately, a Congressional decision not to extend fast-
track would jeopardize three crucial trade negotiations -- the
Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North American Free Trade
Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the Americas Initiative.
These three agreements could help open the world to American
products, American ideas, American know-how.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have been trying to reduce trade barriers, build
stronger economies, protect intellectual property rights, and
spread the blessings of economic prosperity to everyone. If the
round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and the United States
will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve our trade ties with two of our largest
trading partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to
these countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4
billion. Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs
in 1986, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.9 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 300,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. Since development is always cleaner than
poverty, NAFTA also can play a pivotal role in helping Mexicans
protect and clean their own environment. In short, NAFTA helps
everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will try to
expand trade relations with the struggling and developing
democracies in South America.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. Our market successes in the
1980s helped inspire people to throw off the shackles of
communism and pursue the cause of liberty. It would be ironic if
we now turned our back on our greatest triumph, and as the Berlin
Wall was crumbling, erected our own wall of protectionism.
We don't need to re-learn the lessons of the Great
Depression, where isolationism and defeatism sent the entire
world into economic decline. We didn't win the Cold War just to
start a trade war. An extension of fast track will let us help
turn the post Cold War world into a world of freedom, growth and
opportunity. As nations turn away from thoughts of war and set
their sights on new prosperity, the United States should be out
front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
04/17/91
DATE:
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY:
SUBJECT:
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
,
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
The attached has been forwarded to the President.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
Potes 4/1-
(McNeill)
91APR17 AM11:48
April 16, 1991
Draft Two
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked Congress to grant our nation's trade
negotiators an extension of "fast track" trade authority. Fast
track procedures are simple -- but widely misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." It ensures that we
will not alter agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have reached at the bargaining table. Congress will
take those unchanged agreements and approve or reject them.
You don't have to be in business to understand the
importance of being able to reach across the table and shake
hands on a deal. That's just what fast track does: It guarantees
that we won't add last-minute amendments that could force
negotiators to return to the table and start from scratch. It
means that we will be good for our word when we negotiate with
our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. Not true: Congress can express its
views while negotiations take place, and we expect it to do SO.
Moreover, Congress will retain its Constitutional authority to
reject agreements that it finds acceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed fast-track authority since 1974. It
has helped the U.S. negotiate and implement three extraordinary
trade agreements: the Tokyo Round of multilateral negotiations,
the Free Trade Agreement with Israel and the Free Trade Agreement
with Canada.
Yet fast-track procedures may be more important now than
ever before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports
play a major role in our economy. Our exports volume has grown
55 percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
Unfortunately, a Congressional decision not to extend fast-
track would jeopardize three crucial trade initiatives -- the
Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North American Free Trade
Agreement (NAFTA) and the trade component of the Enterprise for
the Americas Initiative. These three agreements could help open
the world to American products, American ideas, American know-
how.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have been trying to reduce trade barriers, build
stronger economies, protect intellectual property rights, and
spread the blessings of economic prosperity to everyone. If the
round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and the United States
will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve our trade ties with two of our largest
trading partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to
these countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4
billion. Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs
in 1986, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.9 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico no shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 300,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. Since development is always cleaner that
poverty, NAFTA also can play a pivotal role in helping Mexicans
protect and clean their own environment. In short, NAFTA helps
everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our neighbors elsewhwere in
Latin America and the Caribbean as well. My Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative will try to expand trade relations with the
struggling and developing democracies in South America.
Free trade work for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. Our market successes in the
1980s helped inspire people to throw off the shackles of
communism and pursue the cause of liberty. It would be ironic if
we now turned our back on our greatest triumph. and as the Berlin
Wall was crumbling, erected our own wall of protectionism.
We don't need to re-learn the lessons of the Great
Depression, where isolationism and defeatism sent the entire
world into economic decline. We didn't win the Cold War just to
start a trade war. An extension of fast track will let us help
turn the post Cold War world into a world of freedom, growth and
opportunity. As nations turn away from thoughts of war and set
their sights on new prosperity, the United States should be out
front, leading the way.
#
#
#
(McNeill)
April 16, 1991
Draft Two
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked Congress to grant our nation's trade
negotiators an extension of "fast track" trade authority. Fast
track procedures are simple -- but widely misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." It ensures that we
will not alter agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have reached at the bargaining table. Congress will
take those unchanged agreements and approve or reject them.
You don't have to be in business to understand the
importance of being able to reach across the table and shake
hands on a deal. That's just what fast track does: It guarantees
that we won't add last-minute amendments that could force
negotiators to return to the table and start from scratch. It
means that we will be good for our word when we negotiate with
our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. Not true: Congress can express its
views while negotiations take place, and we expect it to do so.
Moreover, Congress will retain its Constitutional authority to
reject agreements that it finds acceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed fast-track authority since 1974. It
has helped the U.S. negotiate and implement three extraordinary
trade agreements: the Tokyo Round of multilateral negotiations,
the Free Trade Agreement with Israel and the Free Trade Agreement
with Canada.
Yet fast-track procedures may be more important now than
ever before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports
play a major role in our economy. Our exports volume has grown
55 percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
Unfortunately, a Congressional decision not to extend fast-
track would jeopardize three crucial trade initiatives -- the
Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North American Free Trade
Agreement (NAFTA) and the trade component of the Enterprise for
the Americas Initiative. These three agreements could help open
the world to American products, American ideas, American know-
how.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have been trying to reduce trade barriers, build
stronger economies, protect intellectual property rights, and
spread the blessings of economic prosperity to everyone. If the
round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and the United States
will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve our trade ties with two of our largest
trading partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to
these countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4
billion. Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs
in 1986, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.9 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico no shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 300,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. Since development is always cleaner that
poverty, NAFTA also can play a pivotal role in helping Mexicans
protect and clean their own environment. In short, NAFTA helps
everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our neighbors elsewhwere in
Latin America and the Caribbean as well. My Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative will try to expand trade relations with the
struggling and developing democracies in South America.
Free trade work for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. Our market successes in the
1980s helped inspire people to throw off the shackles of
communism and pursue the cause of liberty. It would be ironic if
we now turned our back on our greatest triumph. and as the Berlin
Wall was crumbling, erected our own wall of protectionism.
We don't need to re-learn the lessons of the Great
Depression, where isolationism and defeatism sent the entire
world into economic decline. We didn't win the Cold War just to
start a trade war. An extension of fast track will let us help
turn the post Cold War world into a world of freedom, growth and
opportunity. As nations turn away from thoughts of war and set
their sights on new prosperity, the United States should be out
front, leading the way.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary
For Immediate Release
March 19, 1991
EXTENSION OF FAST TRACK AUTHORITY
FACT SHEET
FAST TRACK PROCEDURES
Historical Background to the Fast Track
o
For the better part of this century, the Congress and the
Executive have recognized that the negotiation and
implementation of trade agreements require special
cooperation.
In the aftermath of the record-high rates of the Smoot-
Hawley Tariff Act of 1930 and the Depression they helped
fuel, both the Congress and the Executive branch recognized
that only by working closely together could the two branches
effectively bring down barriers to our foreign trade and
open international markets for U.S. products and services.
o
This new partnership was reflected in the Reciprocal Trade
Agreements Act of 1934, which gave the President authority
not only to conclude tariff-cutting agreements but also to
implement them without the need for subsequent legislation.
o
As countries began to rely less on tariff protection and
more on non-tariff trade barriers, the scope of trade
negotiations broadened, and the "fast-track" procedures were
created by the Congress as the necessary complement to this
broader trade agenda.
o
Fast track procedures for approval of trade agreements were
included by the Congress in trade legislation in 1974, 1979,
and again in the 1988 Trade Act.
Fast Track is Essential to Successful Trade Negotiations
o
While assuring the Congress meaningful participation
throughout the negotiation process, fast track provides two
guarantees essential to the successful negotiation of trade
agreements: (1) a vote on implementing legislation within a
fixed period of time, and (2) no amendments to that
legislation.
2
These procedures reflect the understanding that trade
agreements, in which results in one area are often linked to
results in others, are particularly vulnerable to multiple
amendments that, while possibly small in themselves, could
unravel entire agreements.
Whether the balance of benefits contained in any trade
agreement is in the overall interest of the United States
can only be determined by looking at the whole package.
Through the fast track, the Congress gave the President the
same bargaining power possessed by his counterparts: the
ability to ensure that the agreement reached internationally
would be the agreement voted on at home.
Without fast track, the President cannot assure our
negotiating partners that the deal they strike is the deal
that will be voted on by the Congress.
Without that assurance, foreign governments are reluctant to
negotiate with the United States and will not make the tough
concessions necessary to reach agreements the United States
would be willing to sign. No trading partner will give its
bottom line knowing that the bargain could be reopened.
Using fast track, the United States has negotiated and
implemented three remarkable agreements that were each
approved by an overwhelming majority in both Houses of the
Congress. These agreements -- the results of the Tokyo
Round in 1979, the Free Trade Agreement with Israel in 1985,
and the Free Trade Agreement with Canada in 1988 -- have
reduced barriers to trade and contributed to growth in the
United States and worldwide.
The United States has much to gain from trade agreements
that open markets and provide rules for free and fair trade.
Maintaining the fast track will preserve our ability to
continue our efforts to liberalize trade and open markets
through the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, through
other multilateral agreements and through bilateral
agreements.
The Congress is an Essential Part of the Fast Track Process
Fast track procedures preserve the role of the Congress
during the negotiation, approval, and implementation of
trade agreements.
To ensure congressional and private sector input, the fast
track statute contains extensive notification and
consultation requirements. At each step along the way, from
3
initiation through implementation, the Congress is an active
partner.
To use the fast track for any agreement, bilateral or
multilateral, the President must notify the Congress 90
calendar days before signature. By the time the President
gives his 90-day notification, our many private sector
advisory committees must report their views on the agreement
both to the Congress and to the President. For bilateral
agreements, the Congress must be given advance notice of the
negotiations; during the following 60 legislative working
days, either the Senate Finance or House Ways and Means
Committee can vote to deny fast track treatment.
Once an agreement is reached, the Congress and the
Administration work in close consultation to formulate
implementing legislation. The process has involved the full
participation of all committees of jurisdiction, not only
those committees traditionally consulted in setting trade
negotiating objectives. If the agreement and its
implementing legislation are still not acceptable, they can
be rejected by a majority vote of either House.
We are today engaged in bilateral and multilateral trade
initiatives that hold unprecedented promise for the
advancement of U.S. economic objectives. With such
initiatives in train, it is clearly in the national interest
to continue a partnership that has proved its worth for
almost 60 years.
Use of Fast Track if Extended
In incorporating the fast track in the 1988 Trade Act, the
Congress expressly contemplated that an extension might be
necessary and appropriate in order for the President to
pursue effectively the trade policy goals set out in the
law.
If extended, the fast track would be available until June 1,
1993, and would be used to implement trade initiatives such
as completing the Uruguay Round, negotiating a North America
Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with Mexico and Canada, and
pursuing the trade objectives of the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
Supporting fast track will allow these I important initiatives
to go forward without in any way detracting from the ability
of the Congress to assess each agreement on its merits when
presented for approval.
4
A Vote Against Fast Track Denies Fast Track for all Agreements
Current fast track authority would have expired on
June 1 if the President had not requested an extension by
March 1. The requested extension is granted automatically
unless either house passes a statutorily prescribed
disapproval resolution before June 1.
The language of the disapproval resolution, which is set out
in the statute, makes clear that disapproval eliminates all
fast track authority, multilateral and bilateral.
The disapproval resolution cannot be amended to eliminate
fast track for some agreements but not others because the
resolution itself cannot be amended. It is not possible,
for example, to vote against the fast track for the Uruguay
Round agreements but preserve it for the NAFTA.
If a disapproval resolution is passed by either House, the
fast track is gone for all purposes, and the President's
ability to successfully negotiate any trade agreement
requiring congressional approval, bilateral or multilateral,
is severely crippled if not eliminated entirely.
Simply put, a vote against fast track is a vote against
trade.
Continuing Fast Track is Essential to Securing Economic Gains
As the world's largest trader, the United States has an
enormous stake in the future of the global trading system.
Exports have become a vital source of strength to the U.S.
economy. In 1990, the nearly 8.5 percent growth in U.S.
exports accounted for 88 percent of U.S. economic growth.
In order to sustain the expansion of exports and consequent
growth, we must continue our efforts to open world markets.
We must maintain our active leadership role. Without an
extension of fast track, those efforts are futile.
Maintaining fast track procedures -- and the partnership
between the Congress and the executive branch that fast
track represents -- will keep on course our joint efforts to
liberalize trade and open markets through the GATT, through
other multilateral agreements, and through bilateral
agreements. No country stands more to gain from those
efforts than the United States.
As we approach the beginning of a new century, we should not
hesitate to pursue the opportunities for expanded economic
growth and prosperity presented by successful trade
negotiations.
5
In order to turn those opportunities into realities, the
Congress and the Executive must continue to work together in
the manner envisioned by the fast track.
THE IMPORTANCE AND BENEFITS OF THE URUGUAY ROUND
Uruguay Round is the Most Ambitious of Trade Negotiations to Date
The world trading system is now vastly more complex than it
was when the GATT was written in 1947. Over one-third of
world trade, more than $1 trillion, is inadequately covered
by international trade rules.
The Uruguay Round negotiations -- in which 108 countries
participate -- are an ambitious effort to strengthen and
expand the global trading system as well as to further lower
trade barriers. Launched in 1986 in Punta del Este,
Uruguay, these negotiations are the eighth round of
multilateral trade negotiations conducted under the auspices
of GATT.
The United States led the call for the far-reaching agenda
of issues in the Uruguay Round. The Congress established
objectives for the Uruguay Round in the Omnibus Trade and
Competitiveness Act, passed in August of 1988.
The negotiating agenda runs the gamut of U.S. interests,
both in opening world markets and in establishing internal
rules of fair play in areas vital to U.S. competitiveness
-- services, investment, agriculture, and intellectual
property. The negotiations fall into four broad categories:
-- market access (tariffs and non-tariff measures, natural
resource-based products, tropical products, and
textiles);
-- the "new" areas of services, trade-related intellectual
property rights (TRIPs), and trade-related investment
measures (TRIMs);
-- agriculture; and
-- GATT rules (dispute settlement, safeguards, GATT
Articles including balance of payments reform, and the
non-tariff measure codes, including subsidies and
antidumping).
*
Moreover, unlike previous GATT negotiating rounds,
developing countries are active participants in every aspect
of the negotiations.
6
The Administration is Committed to Ensuring that the Uruguay
Round Results in Agreements that Truly Meet U.S. Objectives
O
This resolve was demonstrated at Brussels in December 1990.
The U.S. delegation and other important delegations
determined that it was preferable to end the ministerial
meeting without result rather than to lower ambitions and
accept minimal Uruguay Round agreements.
The negotiations formally resumed in all areas on
February 26, 1991, when a framework to negotiate
agricultural reform was reached. The exact pace of
negotiations will depend on how quickly we are able to reach
an acceptable solution on agriculture.
The Administration is not prepared to accept an inadequate
agreement for the sake of an agreement; but we are prepared
to continue to negotiate to obtain a good result.
A Successful Uruguay Round Would Bring Substantial Benefits to
the U.S. and World Economies
O
Exports have become a vital source of strength to the U.S.
economy. Since the Round was launched in 1986, export
expansion has been responsible for 40 percent of total
growth in U.S. GNP. In 1990, export growth accounted for 88
percent of U.S. GNP growth.
An open multilateral trading system is the best guarantee
that U.S. export opportunities continue to expand into the
next century. The Uruguay Round is the most important
initiative to expand these opportunities.
0
Specifically, a successful Uruguay Round would provide
substantial benefits to the U.S. economy, including:
:
Lower tariff and non-tariff barriers to manufactured
products and other goods, which could increase world
output by $5 trillion and U.S. output by over
$1 trillion over the next 10 years, meaning an
additional $16, 000 for every American family of four;
-- Rules to protect the intellectual property of U.S.
entrepreneurs, who lose $60 billion annually through
theft and counterfeiting of their ideas;
-- New markets for U.S. services firms, which export
$115 billion annually and generate 90 percent of new
U.S. jobs;
7
An agreement opening world markets to investment, which
helps generate $240 billion, or two-thirds of total
U.S. exports in goods;
Fair competition and open markets in agriculture,
creating new opportunities for American farmers, who
lead the world with more than $40 billion in annual
exports;
--
The full participation of developing countries in the
global trading system, which could increase U.S.
exports by $200 billion over the next 10 years; and
--
Strengthened rules on dispute settlement, antidumping,
subsidies and trade remedy provisions, which should
provide predictability and certainty in access to
foreign markets and ensure fair trade at home.
Conversely, failure to extend fast track authority will end
the Uruguay Round negotiations, damaging prospects for world
economic growth and cooperation.
A collapse of the Round brought about by removal of U.S.
fast track authority would increase worldwide pressures to
raise trade and investment barriers. A sufficiently sharp
movement away from open markets could contribute to a global
recession, as it did in the 1930s.
Although the ultimate success of the Uruguay Round cannot be
guaranteed, the United States should continue negotiations
because a successful Round is overwhelmingly in our long-
term economic interests.
IMPORTANCE OF A NORTH AMERICAN FREE TRADE AGREEMENT
A NAFTA Would Create One of the World's Largest Free Trade Areas
A NAFTA would create an enormous market, encompassing some
360 million consumers and total output of $6 trillion.
The progressive elimination of barriers to the flow of
goods, services, and investment and strengthened protection
of intellectual property rights would benefit a broad
spectrum of businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers.
Creation of a NAFTA would be a catalyst for economic growth
and development in the United States, Mexico and Canada
through increased trade, investment, and jobs.
8
The Importance of North American Trade
Canada and Mexico are America's first and third largest
trading partners, respectively. In turn, the United States
accounts for over two-thirds of their total trade. In 1990,
three-way trade came to about $237 billion.
Since 1980, U.S. exports to Mexico and Canada have doubled,
rising from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion. Our exports to
our neighbors have grown substantially faster than those to
the rest of the world.
Removal of Barriers Would Create New Trade and Investment
Opportunities
o
Since Mexico joined the GATT in 1986 and started its
unilateral policy of lowering trade barriers, U.S. exports
have more than doubled, growing from $12.4 billion to $28.4
billion.
-- U.S. agricultural exports to Mexico totalled
$2.5 billion in 1990, our third largest market.
-- Consumer goods exports from the United States to Mexico
have tripled since 1986, rising from
$1 billion to $3 billion.
-- U.S. exports of capital goods have grown from
$5 billion in 1986 to about $9.5 billion last year.
We can do better. Mexico has greater barriers to U.S.
exports than we impose on Mexican shipments to the United
States. For example:
-- Mexican tariffs average 10 percent, compared to the
average tariff of 4 percent we impose on Mexican
exports to us.
-- Mexico still maintains a restrictive import licensing
regime, one that affects 40 percent of U.S.
agricultural exports to Mexico.
In addition, while Mexico has liberalized its investment
regime, it is still closed to many U.S. investments, both in
manufacturing and in services, and performance requirements
distort export opportunities for U.S. products.
Mexico has already pledged to improve its protection for
intellectual property rights, and we expect action on those
pledges in the near future. A NAFTA will make those reforms
secure.
9
A NAFTA Offers Benefits to U.S. Producers, Workers and Consumers
Economic analyses show that a NAFTA will have a positive
impact on the U.S. economy and U.S. employment.
U.S. producers and workers will benefit from a NAFTA through
increased sales opportunities, improved operating
efficiencies, and strengthened competitiveness vis-a-vis
Asia and Europe.
U.S. consumers will enjoy increased access to lower cost,
higher quality products.
A NAFTA Strengthens the Broader North American Relationship
o
A NAFTA would help cement the extensive historical,
familial, cultural, and language links the United States has
with both Mexico and Canada.
More prosperous neighbors are better neighbors and better
customers for U.S. goods and services.
We have a broad agenda with both Mexico and Canada that goes
well beyond trade, economic, and investment links. By
boosting economic prosperity in all three nations, a NAFTA
will help us make progress on issues such as the
environment, drugs, and immigration.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079SS
2787
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 APR 17 A7: 49
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST see comments
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
April 16, 1991
TO:
TONY SNOW
NSC concurs with the attached as revised.
Brent Rates for Scowcroft
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
CC: Phillip Brady
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
RECEIVED
91 APR 16 A10. 01
ЛЬК 11
(McNeill)
April 12,1990
91 APR 12 PM 5: 28
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
enter into
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
agreements
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
elsewhere in Latin America and the Caribbean
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
nas well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Borlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis~
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE N/C
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
Melby 4985
SCOWCROFT bootleg
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
Admyear
GRAY
N/C
Dorence Smith
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
91 APR I2 Pil 5: 28
April 12,1990
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis-
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 APR 15 P4: 28
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
connects Roll call sported
this therefically Tomy will it your 2 the too too consong corsough in day needs to for or POTUS PO to not 705 more w Assistant and PHILLIP remarks Staff and Ext. to D. the 2702 Secretary BRADY President
?
(McNeill)
April 12,1990
91 APR 12 Pil 5: 28
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis-
An extension of Last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
May have
more changes
Document No. 229079SS
from USTR.
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 APR 16
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
Are comments. Thanks.
Holly Williamson
4-16-91
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
April 12,1990
91 APR 12 PM 5: 28
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
Drobacher)
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
(sec.
most importantly, congress retains agreements
JUSTR
Needs to seperate be
A the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
13
(they are not
to
1974.
treaties,
emphasize aseragraph
37-
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1940. It has
but
negotiate and implements three extramsinary trade
rather
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
importance.
agreement: Tokyo Round of multilature negotiations, Free Trade Agreement
agree -
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
ments)
with Israel, Agreement and FTA with Canada.
Free Trade/Act with-Canada.
-TS
USTR notes
this is an important
distinction because
as written the otherway
it isnot accurate.
(USTR)
Yet Procedure may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
Qustion
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
or has
Germans
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
svertaken
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
us?
No
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new TS
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
(LLSTR)
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
procedure.
track/authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track,
three
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
crucial trade initiatives would be peaced in jeopanes -
USTR
Care we have have
ever
negotiations the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
of +
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
if about wonld not we began the the $ EAIT tin a EA fllp the
tallver
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his 1986
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
900,000
Kreams)
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
Question
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
Istis net
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
job losses?
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped/set prolong off the great
(Treases)
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionism.
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
sec.
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
Mosbacher
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
suggestal
using
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
some
lenguage
United States should be out front, leading the way.
like:
#
#
#
same in lead trade was we the should we the warg
led storm. in pent
No: the
avdience is the
readership of Roll Call.
I don't think o
Desret storm allusion
would help.
is
Document No. 229079SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 APR 15 P4: 28
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
OK
S.R,
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
April 12,1990
91 APR I2 PM 5: 28
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Borlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionism
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079SS
2787
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST see
comments
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
TO:
TONY SNOW
NSC concurs with the attached as revised.
Brent Scowcroft
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
CC: Phillip Brady
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
91 APR 12 Pil 5: 28
April 12,1990
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
enter into
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
agreements
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the.
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
elsewhere in Latin America and the Caribbean
nas well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Borlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis-
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Roger Porter's comments
(McNeill)
Perover Brad
April 12,1990
Phone
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
agreements
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionism.
An extension of fast track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Date: 4/14/91
TO:
DORRANCE SMITH
FROM: OFFICE OF MEDIA RELATIONS
Room 121 OEOB, x7150 x7152
PAUL MCNEILL an
Attached is a copy of the byline
that is being staffed.
Please let me know if you have
any comments or suggestions.
thanks.
also, nice to see you as aim
thrimorning.
(McNeill)
April 12, 1990
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
IN REALITY IT Does THE OPPOSITE By
Branging C. INTO THE NEGORATIONS
express its views while negotiations take place and CONGRESS it retains MAINTAINS
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
NEAD MAKE TO TH8 pent
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
STRONGER
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionism.
An extension of fast track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
Document No. 229079SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
91 APR 16 APR
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
See comments
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
April 12,1990
91 APR I2 PM 5: 28
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
Trade component of the
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the/Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
Howard
X4657
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
an Trade
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
Howard
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
X4657
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis~
An extension of last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
91 APR 16 P4: 10
April 14, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR TONY SNOW
FROM:
ROGER B. PORTER RBP
SUBJECT:
Presidential Remarks: Presidential Byline on
Fast Track
We suggest replacing the word "treaties" with "agreements"
in the penultimate paragraph of page one as noted.
If you have any questions or we can help in any other way,
please let me know.
CC: Phillip D. Brady
Document No. 229079SS
WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM
DATE: 4/12/91
ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: TUESDAY, 4/16/91 10:00 am
SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
ACTION FYI
ACTION FYI
VICE PRESIDENT
MCCLURE
SUNUNU
NEWMAN
SCOWCROFT
PORTER
DARMAN
ROGICH
BRADY
UNTERMEYER
CARD
ROGERS
DEMAREST
SNOW
FITZWATER
GRAY
HOLIDAY
REMARKS:
Please forward your comments directly to Tony Snow, Rm. 122, x2930,
no later than 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 16, with a copy to this
office. Thank you.
RESPONSE:
PHILLIP D. BRADY
Assistant to the President
and Staff Secretary
Ext. 2702
(McNeill)
91 APR 12 PM 5: 28
April 12,1990
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
AGREEMENTS
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
as well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Berlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis-
An extension of Last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
#
#
#
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
91 APR 17 P2: 58
April 17, 1991
MEMORANDUM FOR TONY SNOW
FROM:
STEPHEN G. RADEMAKER
SR
ASSOCIATE COUNSEL TO THE PRESIDENT
SUBJECT:
Presidential Byline on Fast Track
Pursuant to Phil Brady's request, Counsel's Office has reviewed
the above-referenced matter and has no objection, subject to the
changes indicated on the attached text.
Attachment
CC: Phillip D. Brady
(McNeill)
91 APR 12 Pil 5: 28
April 12,1990
Draft One
PRESIDENTIAL BYLINE ON FAST TRACK
I have asked the Members of Congress to grant our Nation's
trade negotiators an extension of what we call "fast track" trade
authority. Fast track procedures are simple -- but widely
misunderstood.
"Fast track" really means "good faith." You don't have to
be in business to know how vital it is to have the simple
authority to reach across the table and shake hands on a deal.
That's just what fast track does: It guarantees that Congress
will not change agreements that our negotiators and their
colleagues have worked out. It won't add last-minute amendments
that would force negotiators to return to the table and start
from scratch. It means that we will be good for our word when we
negotiate with our allies.
Critics contend that fast track authority shuts Congress out
of the negotiating process. That's just not true: Congress can
express its views while negotiations take place, and it retains
the power to reject treaties that it finds unacceptable.
Presidents have enjoyed this authority since 1970. It has
enter into
helped the U.S. and its trading partners pass important and
fruitful trade legislation agreements in 1974, 1979, and in 1988 with the
Free Trade Act with Canada.
Yet fast-track authority may be more important now than ever
before. America is the world's largest trader, and exports play
a major role in our economy. Our export volume has grown 55
percent in the last four years -- twice the growth rate of our
imports, and last year exports accounted for 88 percent of our
total economic growth. We can't afford to jeopardize our
economic future by refusing to seize the opportunity to open new
markets, take advantage of new opportunities.
However that's just what would happen if we lost our fast-
track authority. If Congress refuses to extend fast-track, we
will have real difficulty concluding three crucial trade
negotiations -- the Uruguay Round of GATT talks, the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Enterprise for the
Americas Initiative.
The world never has witnessed a more ambitious trade
negotiation than the Uruguay Round. The 108 participating
countries have agreed to work toward reducing trade barriers,
building stronger economies, protecting intellectual property
rights, and securing the blessings of economic prosperity to
everyone. If the round succeeds, trade walls will crumble and
the United States will gain access to new markets.
A NAFTA would improve trade with two of our largest trading
partners, Canada and Mexico. Since 1980, U.S. exports to these
countries have doubled from $55.3 billion to $111.4 billion.
Since Mexican President Carlos Salinas slashed tariffs in his
country, the U.S. trade deficit with Mexico has tumbled
dramatically, from $4.8 billion to $1.8 billion. Our non-oil
trade with Mexico now shows a substantial surplus. Freer trade
with Mexico has helped create 150,000 new American jobs, while
improving wages and working conditions in Mexico.
As the Mexican economy develops, Mexico will need more of
the high-tech goods and services we produce: That will raise
living standards in Mexico while opening up new job opportunities
in the United States. NAFTA thus helps everyone involved.
:lsewhere in Latin America and the Caribbean
We can extend the well-being to our South American neighbors
nas N well. My Enterprise for the Americas initiative will help the
struggling democracies regain their footing, and give the good
people of those countries a chance to show pride for a product
well made and for a job well done.
Free trade works for everyone involved. It gives smaller
countries the means and ability to address important concerns
within their borders -- higher wages, better working conditions,
a cleaner environment, healthier food and water supplies, and
improved public services.
A new world of hope and opportunity beckons, and we would be
foolish not to respond to its call. We have seen what
isolationism can do. A trade war helped set off the great
depression of the 1930s. Our example inspired people to throw
off the shackles of communism and pursue the cause of liberty.
It would be ironic if we now turned our back on our greatest
triumph, and as the Borlin Wall was crumbling, erected our own
wall of protectionis-
An extension of Last track will let us help shape the post
Cold War world. It will ensure our reliability as a trading
partner. We did not win the Cold War just to engage in a trade
war: We should accept success and move on. As nations turn away
from thoughts of war and set their sights on new prosperity, the
United States should be out front, leading the way.
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