[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 36, Number 16 (Monday, April 24, 2000)]
[Page 839]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Congressional Action on Africa and Caribbean Basin Trade 
Legislation

April 14, 2000

    The bipartisan agreement reached by the House and Senate on the 
Africa and Caribbean Basin trade legislation is a major step toward 
enactment of these historic initiatives. This bill is a win-win 
proposition for the United States and our friends in Africa and the 
Caribbean Basin. It will boost investment, economic growth, and job 
creation in these countries, while improving the global competitive 
position of our own textile industry. It will help promote economic 
reform, reduce poverty, and broaden participation in the benefits of the 
global economy. I congratulate congressional leaders from both parties 
who worked hard to reach this agreement. I urge Congress to complete the 
remaining work on the bill rapidly so that final approval can occur 
during the first week after its Easter recess.

 Note:  This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.