    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book I)]
    [June 25, 2003]
    [Page 696]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 696]]

    Joint Statement by President George W. Bush and European Council
    President Konstandinos Simitis and
    European Commission President Romano Prodi on
    Transatlantic Aviation Negotiations
    June 25, 2003

        We are pleased to announce our agreement to begin comprehensive air
    service negotiations between the United States and the European Union in
    early autumn, following the early June decision of the Council of the
    European Union to approve a negotiating mandate for the Commission. This
    is an historic opportunity to build upon the framework of existing
    agreements with the goal of opening access to markets and maximizing
    benefits for consumers, airlines, and communities on both sides of the
    Atlantic. The United States and the European Union will work together in
    a spirit of cooperation to develop a mutually beneficial approach to
    this crucial economic sector in a globalized economy.

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this joint statement.