Ron Kirk: “We will continue to push Russia to adhere to international norms.”

They have made some great strides in the last several years, and they acknowledge that it is because of U.S. support and investment and cooperation that they've been able to make some tremendous progress there.

Failing to lift Jackson-Vanik and extend PNTR will not penalize Russia, nor will it provide a lever with which to change the government's behavior.

I want to make it plain. We are not trying to impose our U.S. labor code on other countries.

If there is any reason for us to repeal Jackson-Vanik and grant PNTR, it is that we no longer have to hope.