Benjamin Gilman: “while I have some reservations concerning the textile provisions in this bill, I do rise in strong support of the Africa…”

“while I have some reservations concerning the textile provisions in this bill, I do rise in strong support of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act, H.R. 1432. This legislation is a result of years of bipartisan congressional efforts to develop a comprehensive trade and development policy toward the countries of sub-Saharan Africa. On May 22 and June 25 of last year, the Subcommittee on Africa and the full Committee on International Relations held markups on this important legislation. On both dates, it was approved by voice with strong backing on both sides of the aisle. This legislation promotes economic reform through free trade initiatives, creation of equity and infrastructure funds, the refocusing of development assistance, and the creation of special advisory committees on sub-Saharan Africa for the Export-Import Bank and the Overseas Private Investment Corporation. Under its provisions, the President is directed to determine eligibility for benefits under this bill based on a sub-Saharan country's adherence to human rights norms and a demonstrated commitment to economic policy reforms. Africa, as we all know, is comprised of some 48 nations. It includes over 500 million people and supplies many important natural resources to our Nation, from petroleum to uranium to timber. Trade between our Nation and Africa is greater than that between the United States and the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe combined.”