    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
    [April 15, 1991]
    [Page 371]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Meeting With
    Senator Lloyd Bentsen of Texas
    April 15, 1991

        President Bush had lunch today with Senator Lloyd Bentsen in the
    West Wing of the White House. The President and the Chairman of the
    Senate Finance Committee discussed Fast Track legislation and related
    trade issues. ``Senator Bentsen has been a strong and steadfast leader
    in the Senate on the Fast Track legislation,'' President Bush said. ``He
    is one of our most knowledgeable leaders on trade matters, and his
    support is crucial as we pursue the Fast Track legislation.''
        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.