Political Quotes

“I wish to associate myself fully with the remarks of my distinguished colleague from New York. Kodak has compiled volumes of evidence, based on more than 100 years of experience in the Japanese market, that clearly document the thicket of laws and regulations that have the intent--and the effect--of curbing sales of foreign photographic film and paper. Through an elaborate system of restrictions on sales and distribution, Japan has succeeded in severely limiting market access for foreign film and paper. Nearly three years ago, on May 18, 1995, Kodak filed a petition with the U.S. Trade Representative under section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, urging action on the broad range of trade barriers. After a formal investigation, Ambassador Barshefsky found that Japan's practices were indeed in violation of our trade laws, and dispute settlement proceedings in the World Trade Organization were begun. The verdict from the WTO, issued in its final form on January 30, 1998, was a great disappointment. But certainly not the end of the argument, nor the end of Kodak's attempts to penetrate the Japanese market. The resolution that I am pleased to cosponsor today emphatically endorses the initiative that Ambassador Barshefsky and Secretary Daley unveiled on February 3, 1998, which will put the Government of Japan to the test.”