Ed Royce: “Mr. Chairman, I have spoken previously about my perception that this bill does allow flexibility. We do have concerns…”

“Mr. Chairman, I have spoken previously about my perception that this bill does allow flexibility. We do have concerns about equal access to U.S. firms. And, yes, there are guidelines in the bill regarding equal access to U.S. firms. But let us go to the subject of this amendment. I applaud the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters) for this good amendment to the bill. Many Members have visited Africa and have spoken with African and American businesses, both large and small, on the issue of U.S.-Africa trade. Indeed, the gentlewoman and myself were on a CODEL where we met with business interests across the continent in Africa. It is entirely appropriate that language be included to support joint ventures between large and small businesses. So this is a good amendment and I support this amendment.”