[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 21 (Monday, May 28, 2007)]
[Page 657]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8147--World Trade Week, 2007

 May 18, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    World trade is essential to promoting global economic growth, 
development, freedom, and prosperity. During World Trade Week, we 
underscore our commitment to free and fair trade and acknowledge the 
benefits of open markets for our citizens and for people around the 
globe.
    Trade creates wealth and opportunities, and United States engagement 
in the global economy has contributed to rising living standards 
throughout our country. Businesses that participate in international 
trade are more productive, have higher employment growth, and pay 
greater wages. Advancing free trade on a level playing field helps 
ensure that America benefits from the international market.
    My Administration is committed to reducing barriers to trade, 
strengthening our strategic partnerships, and promoting economic growth 
throughout the world. At the beginning of my Administration, America had 
free trade agreements with three countries. Today, we have free trade 
agreements in force with 14 countries, creating benefits for American 
businesses, workers, and consumers. These trade agreements are 
particularly important for small and medium-sized companies to help them 
identify and take full advantage of new trade opportunities.
    The United States continues to work with other nations in the World 
Trade Organization to complete the Doha Development Round, which has the 
potential to lift millions of people out of poverty. I have also called 
upon the Congress to extend Trade Promotion Authority so we can complete 
the Doha Round and continue to negotiate robust trade agreements. By 
working to expand trade, we open new markets for American products and 
services and help build free economies that can raise the standard of 
living for families.
    Now, Therefore I, George W. Bush, President of the United States of 
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and 
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 20 through May 26, 
2007, as World Trade Week. I encourage all Americans to observe this 
week with events, trade shows, and educational programs that celebrate 
the benefits of trade to our Nation and the global economy.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day 
of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 22, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 23. 
This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.