Political Quotes

“I want today to support H.R. 434. The Caribbean Basin Initiative was proposed in 1982 by President Reagan as a way of promoting economic revitalization and trade expansion opportunities for countries in the Caribbean Basin after peace had arrived. Now, more so than ever, economic revitalization is needed, and this is particularly true of the many countries that were ravaged by Hurricanes Mitch and George a little more than a year ago. As many of my colleagues know, my wife and I have been involved with various humanitarian and charitable activities in Central America and the Caribbean for the better part of 30 years; and during this time it has become increasingly clear to me that what these countries need most in the way of economic stabilization is investment in free trading opportunities. Providing more open trade access to our markets would not only aid the ailing economies of these countries but would help ensure greater political stability as well. Mr. Speaker, the most controversial aspect of H.R. 434 has revolved around textiles and apparel. Being from North Carolina, these industries are particularly important to me, as are the jobs that make up these industries. My particular concern regarding this legislation has been to ensure that textiles and apparel produced in countries in Africa and the Caribbean Basin region are made of U.S. materials, if they are to receive favorable trade benefits.”