    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1997, Book II)]
    [October 30, 1997]
    [Page 1459]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Fast-Track Trade Legislation
    October 30, 1997

        I applaud Speaker Gingrich for scheduling a vote in the House of
    Representatives for next Friday, November 7, on the renewal of
    traditional trade negotiating authority. I am grateful for his
    commitment to move forward and work to secure passage of this
    legislation that is vital to our national interest.
        Renewal of traditional trade negotiating authority, which every
    President has had since 1974, will allow me to negotiate strong trade
    agreements that break down foreign barriers to our goods and services
    and directly benefit American workers and American companies. This
    authority represents a partnership between the President and the
    Congress in support of both American jobs and American leadership in the
    world today. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Speaker
    Gingrich and others in both the House and Senate on a bipartisan basis
    to secure enactment of this legislation this year.