    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [May 23, 2002]
    [Pages 859-860]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Trade Legislation
    May 23, 2002

        Today's passage by the Senate of a vital package of trade
    legislation is a critical step in advancing America's trade agenda and
    strengthening the U.S. economy. As I begin my trip here in Europe, the
    passage of this bill sends an important signal to our trading partners
    that we are committed to free and open trade.
        Restoring trade promotion authority will give me the flexibility I
    need to secure the greatest possible trade opportunities for American
    workers, consumers, families, and farmers. The administration also
    supports expanding the Andean Trade Preferences Act in a way that
    reflects the economic realities of the region. ATPA will help the Andean
    economies grow through legitimate trade, while also enhancing our
    counternarcotics strategy.
        Every day the United States goes without trade promotion authority
    is another day the American people are deprived of the benefits of
    trade. Therefore, I urge the House and Senate to convene a conference
    committee immediately so they can resolve their differences and send me
    a trade promotion authority bill I can sign at the earliest opportunity.

    Note: The statement referred to H.R. 3009, the proposed ``Trade Act of
    2002.''

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