    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [September 19, 2006]
    [Page 1674]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Passage of the United States-Oman Free Trade
    Agreement
    September 19, 2006

        I commend the Senate for passing the U.S.-Oman free trade agreement,
    which will deliver benefits to both America and Oman. This agreement
    will level the playing field for U.S. workers and businesses, provide
    additional market access for U.S. goods, help Oman's leaders develop
    long-term opportunities for their people, and advance our shared goal of
    building a Middle East free trade area.
        By strengthening our relations with a strategic friend and ally in
    the Middle East, this important agreement will also help protect
    America's national security interests.
        I look forward to signing this legislation into law.