Joe Crowley: “the issue of trade has remained contentious over the years. I believe in the ideals of free trade but it must also be…”

“the issue of trade has remained contentious over the years. I believe in the ideals of free trade but it must also be fair trade. We have to take a close look at each agreement and weigh them on their individual merits. If the President wants to receive overwhelming support on these agreements he has the power to do it. President Bush has the power to make trade an issue that is strongly supported by all of my colleagues, but he refuses to add what Democrats have been demanding on labor and the environment. When I look at an agreement various factors go into making my decision process, are we opening new markets for our goods and services, will labor standards be protected, what is our relationship with our potential free trade partner. As a member of the Middle East subcommittee on the International Relations Committee, I view Oman not as just a trade bill but also as a foreign policy tool. Oman has been a strong friend and ally of the United States and is providing critical assistance in the global war against terrorism and this agreement will continue to strengthen our relationship. The 9/11 Commission has recommended that the United States build stronger relationship with moderate Muslim nations such as Oman to build an economic and political partnership. Besides the economic benefits the United States will enjoy from the implementation of this free trade agreement it also has spurred our friends in Oman to move beyond their current labor laws.…”