    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2004, Book I)]
    [February 13, 2004]
    [Page 219]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Letter to Congressional Leaders Transmitting a Notice of Intention To
    Enter Into a Free Trade Agreement With Australia
    February 13, 2004

    Dear Mr. Speaker:  (Dear Mr. President:)
        In accordance with section 2105(a)(1)(A) of the Trade Act of 2002
    (the ``Trade Act''), I am pleased to notify the Congress of my intent to
    enter into a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Government of
    Australia.
        This agreement will create new opportunities for America's workers,
    farmers, businesses, and consumers by eliminating barriers in trade with
    Australia. Australia is already a major trade and investment partner of
    the United States, as well as one of the strongest and most dependable
    friends this country has ever had. This agreement will provide
    opportunities to further deepen this important relationship, for the
    mutual benefit of our two nations.
        Consistent with the Trade Act, I am sending this notification at
    least 90 days in advance of signing the United States-Australia FTA. My
    Administration looks forward to working with the Congress in developing
    appropriate legislation to approve and implement this free trade
    agreement.
             Sincerely,

                                                              George W. Bush

    Note: Identical letters were sent to J. Dennis Hastert, Speaker of the
    House of Representatives, and Richard B. Cheney, President of the
    Senate. The notice is listed in Appendix D at the end of this volume.