Keeping Promises Among Partners
Secretary Rice (July 24): "Passing this trade agreement will be a culmination and realization of our partnership with Colombia. It will help the Colombian government and people to lock in their democratic and economic reforms. ... And it will send a message across the world that the United States will honor the promises we make to our friends and allies." Op-Ed
Colombia: An Opportunity for Lasting Success
Senior Coordinator Shapiro (May 8): "In today’s world of globalization, countries are not looking inward but rather outward to achieve growth and prosperity. Our friends in Latin America see free trade agreements as the way to accomplish this goal." full text
Colombia Tariff Ticker
Colombia Free Trade Agreement
At this critical moment regarding the Colombia Free Trade Agreement, the President has sent a letter to Capitol Hill urging them to move forward on discussing, voting, and ultimately passing a final measure for his signature. Statement by Secretary Rice | Press Briefing at White House
President Bush Discusses Colombia Free Trade Agreement
President Bush (Apr. 7): "In a few minutes, I will sign a letter to Congress that will transmit legislation implementing the United States' free trade agreement with Colombia. This agreement will advance America's national security interests in a critical region. It will strengthen a courageous ally in our hemisphere. It will help America's economy and America's workers at a vital time. It deserves bipartisan support from the United States Congress." Full Text | Fact Sheet | Statement by Secretary Rice | Op-Ed by Secretary Rice
Opening Trade With Other Countries
President Bush (Mar. 18): "Today we have [free trade] agreements in force with 14 countries. And there are three more agreements pending this year: Colombia, Panama, and South Korea. All three of these agreements are important, and the one with Colombia is especially urgent." Full Text |