[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 7 (Thursday, January 17, 2008)]
[House]
[Page H298]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          KOREAN AMERICAN DAY

  (Mr. ROYCE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute.)
  Mr. ROYCE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Korean American 
Day, which was held this past Sunday to honor the achievements, to 
honor the contributions of Korean Americans to our country. Back on 
January 13 of 1903, the first Korean immigrants came here to the United 
States; and since that time, Korean Americans have taken root and 
thrived in this country through their strong ties, their hard work, 
their commitment to their rich heritage and values, education, and 
entrepreneurship.
  But, Madam Speaker, we have an ally and friend in South Korea, and 
they have been a friend for the decades. Over this time, South Korea 
has emerged as a major economic power, our seventh largest trading 
partner. It is vital that Congress take up and pass the Korean-U.S. 
trade agreement.
  Let me tell you why: this particular agreement, the U.S. 
International Trade Commission, just released its report. They say this 
agreement can benefit the economy of the United States of America to 
the tune of over $10 billion, between $10 billion and $11.9 billion.
  We stand to gain if this passes. It's vital that we continue to open 
up new markets for our goods and services. This agreement accomplishes 
that.

                          ____________________