[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 153 (Thursday, October 13, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1846-E1847]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN SUPPORT OF THE FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS, H.R. 3078, H.R. 3079, H.R. 
                                  3080

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GARY L. ACKERMAN

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 13, 2011

  Mr. ACKERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Korea, Colombia 
and Panama Free Trade Agreements.
  Mr. Speaker, global leadership is not attained with mere rhetoric; it 
is achieved, preserved and strengthened by demonstrating a commitment 
to action. Today, as the U.S. economy struggles through a prolonged 
period of slow-growth, our economic competitors are proactively engaged 
in eliminating or reducing barriers to their exports in foreign markets 
around the globe, especially in Asia and Latin America. If America 
intends to remain a global leader we cannot disengage from our critical 
strategic partnerships with Korea, Colombia and Panama.
  Mr. Speaker, decades ago the U.S.-Korean partnership was forged on 
the battlefield. Soldiers from both of our nations fought and died 
together defending the freedom of the Korean people. Over the years, 
our relationship has flourished and Korea is now one of America's most 
trusted allies in the world. A vote for this trade agreement is a 
representation of America's ironclad commitment to Korea's future

[[Page E1847]]

and a clear demonstration of our enduring friendship with the Korean 
people.
  Colombia and Panama are two of the United States' most critical 
allies in Latin America. With our help, and aided by their own 
determination, these two countries have made remarkable progress. Mr. 
Speaker, these two trade deals will build upon the investments that we 
have already made in these two countries. Colombia has demonstrated--
with concrete actions--a genuine commitment to protecting its own 
people from violence. The rapidly expanding Panama remains a critical 
strategic partner and a literal gateway to maritime commerce in the 
Pacific. These new trade deals demonstrate America's long-term 
commitment to Colombia and Panama.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support these Free Trade 
Agreements.

                          ____________________