For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 23, 2005
Text of a Letter from the President to the Congress of the United States
TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES:
I am pleased to transmit legislation and supporting documents to
implement the Dominican Republic Central America United States Free
Trade Agreement (the "Agreement"). The Agreement represents an
historic development in our relations with Central America and the
Dominican Republic and reflects the commitment of the United States to
supporting democracy, regional integration, and economic growth and
opportunity in a region that has transitioned to peaceful, democratic
societies.
In negotiating this Agreement, my Administration was guided by the
objectives set out in the Trade Act of 2002. Central America and the
Dominican Republic constitute our second largest export market in Latin
America and our tenth largest export market in the world. The
Agreement will create significant new opportunities for American
workers, farmers, ranchers, and businesses by opening new markets and
eliminating barriers. United States agricultural exports will obtain
better access to the millions of consumers in Central America and the
Dominican Republic.
Under the Agreement, tariffs on approximately 80 percent of U.S.
exports will be eliminated immediately. The Agreement will help to
level the playing field because about 80 percent of Central America's
imports already enjoy duty free access to our market. By providing for
the effective enforcement of labor and environmental laws, combined
with strong remedies for noncompliance, the Agreement will contribute
to improved worker rights and high levels of environmental protection
in Central America and the Dominican Republic.
By supporting this Agreement, the United States can stand with
those in the region who stand for democracy and freedom, who are
fighting corruption and crime, and who support the rule of law. A
stable, democratic, and growing Central America and Dominican Republic
strengthens the United States economically and provides greater
security for our citizens.
The Agreement is in our national interest, and I urge the Congress
to approve it expeditiously.
GEORGE W. BUSH
THE WHITE HOUSE,
June 23, 2005.
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