On the recordMay 4, 2000
If we believe in free enterprise, if we believe in democracy, we should support this legislation. This legislation is good for America, it is good for Africa, it is good for the Caribbean, for our friends in those nations as well as our friends here at home. It is a win/win for all of us. It is an agreement between the House and Senate; it is an agreement that will increase investment in Africa and in the Caribbean, as well as increase investment here in the United States. I would note that these statistics I think really illustrate why this initiative is so important. Let me note that 1998, the Caribbean Basin, the nations of the Caribbean Basin represent our 6th largest export market for American goods. The United States maintains a large and growing surplus in its trade with this region. In fact, in 1998, just 2 years ago, this trade surplus was almost $3 billion, up 73 percent from the previous year.
Source
govinfo.gov
