Max Baucus: “I rise to urge the adoption of H.R. 2603. That is a bill to implement the United States-Jordan Free Trade Agreement. The…”

“I rise to urge the adoption of H.R. 2603. That is a bill to implement the United States-Jordan Free Trade Agreement. The House passed the bill by a voice vote just before the August recess. The Finance Committee reported a virtually identical bill, also immediately before the August recess. Only two Members dissented when the Finance Committee reported that bill out. I have advocated the approval of this agreement since it was negotiated by the Clinton administration last year. Finally, after a number of hitches, a number of setbacks, the administration and Congress appear poised to give final approval to the United States-Jordan Free Trade Agreement. This implementing bill sends an unmistakable signal of support for an important friend, an important ally in the Middle East. That signal was important when the agreement was signed last October. It is even more important now. Jordan has been a steadfast friend in its support for the United States' efforts to bring peace to the Middle East. We all remember the critical role played by King Hussein a few years ago. King Abdullah has maintained that support. As we all know, Jordan has been steadfast in its support for America in the wake of the terrorist attacks against us. In a September 12 letter to President Bush, the King condemned the attacks and pledged Jordan's support in our fight against terrorism.”