Political Quotes

“I rise in support of H.R. 5684, the Oman Free Trade Agreement, because I think it is the right thing to do. I am going to vote for this agreement because I believe that free trade can be a way to promote our national security through international cooperation and economic growth. The country of Oman is an important ally of the United States in a part of the world where we need more friends. It is also a country that is growing, one that will provide economic opportunities and jobs to our Nation through increased exports. Upon passage of this agreement, Oman will provide immediate duty-free access to 87 percent of U.S. agricultural exports and 100 percent duty-free trade in industrial and consumer products. Mr. Speaker, Oman is a friend to the United States and a leader in the Middle East region. Oman has demonstrated this by passing tough new labor laws, normalizing relations with Israel, and supporting the U.S. efforts in Iraq. Passage of this agreement will demonstrate that we can do more to enhance our Nation's national security through cooperation and economic development. Although this legislation is not perfect, approving the Oman Free Trade Agreement is in America's national interest, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bill.”