[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.