Blake Moore: “I rise in support of both H.R. 2738 and H.R. 2739, the U.S.-Chile and U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreements…”

“I rise in support of both H.R. 2738 and H.R. 2739, the U.S.-Chile and U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreements, respectively. Globalization is here to stay. With markets now linked globally by computers, satellite communications, and advanced transportation networks, international trade and investment will play an increasing role in American prosperity. We cannot, as a nation, afford to retreat from a proactive strategy of trade expansion that takes advantage of our position as the world's most prosperous and dynamic economy. I have great faith in American workers. They are the best in the world. And, I'm convinced they can compete with workers from any other country. Trade liberalization is also an important tool towards developing responsible global relations. It is a tool, as the preamble of the GATT states, for 'raising standards of living, ensuring full employment, developing the full use of the resources of the world and expanding the production and exchange of goods.' Indeed, open markets are an important engine of economic growth, which can expand opportunities, raise living standards, and affect social change. Perhaps most importantly, however, trade liberalization provides our nation with an additional diplomatic tool and a forum within which our nation may deal with international disputes and/or coalition building. Trade's national security component cannot be understated.”