In doing so, it increases the possibility that issues in countries--Venezuela, for example--involving democracy, transparency, freedom of the press can be perpetuated.

if you do not send a message that you cannot with impunity go ahead and violate those trade agreements and arbitration awards...

Do you believe there is an opportunity for that to be realized?

Well, what are we willing to do--maybe, Mr. Secretary, this might be more of your bailiwick.

I have a sense, however, that we have a reticence, when we have exhausted the carrots, not to use the stick, and that is problematic because carrots do not come in unlimited supplies.

I believe this is an important step toward strengthening Mexico's IPR regime and to ensuring trade partners comply fully with their obligations.

while I am all for creating economic opportunity and jobs in the DR and in the CAFTA region, as well as in the African countries, that we need to be concerned about creating jobs here in the United States.

I would expect the administration would take a position that would say unless we have a different set of realities, the administration would be urging us not to extend it.

I am not confused by the Argentineans. I appreciate your diplomacy. The Argentineans send a very clear message.

I am not quite sure that we send the right message.

I urge the administration to take even bolder steps to consolidate our relations with similar democratic nations in the region.

The protection of labor rights and the environment are fundamental tenants of prosperity here in the United States and overseas.