Charles Rangel: “Mr. Speaker, I rise as an original cosponsor in strong support of H.R. 3074. This legislation would authorize the…”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise as an original cosponsor in strong support of H.R. 3074. This legislation would authorize the President to proclaim duty-free treatment for products of the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and industrial zones that may be created in the region. Similar treatment is granted products of Israel under the United States-Israel free-trade agreement implemented in 1985. In return, the Palestinians have agreed to provide duty-free access to United States products, to prevent illegal transshipments, and to support an end to the Arab boycott of Israel. This legislation is supported by the Israeli Government. The administration supports extension of duty-free treatment as part of the Mideast peace process to promote investment and economic development in the region. I am not aware of any opposition to this bill, and urge its passage.”