Secretary Evans Expresses Optimism About Future of Trade Relations With Russia Urges U.S. Senate to Send Signal By Passing Trade Promotion Authority

Samara, Russia - Secretary Evans today said that his third trip to Russia as Secretary of Commerce has made him more optimistic than ever about the United States' trade relationship with Russia and restated his commitment to furthering the economic relationship between the two nations. Evans based his comments on a small but growing number of new projects by American companies in Russia as well as an increase in exports from American companies to Russia.

"The benefits of open trade are universal, and the rewards of increased trade between our countries will be felt on every Main Street, factory floor and farm in the United States and Russia," Evans said. "President Bush and President Putin are committed to strengthening our trade ties, and I am optimistic that because of their common objectives trade between our nations will continue to expand."

Evans' visit to the Samara Region came on the second day of his trip to Russia, where he has been meeting with Russian government officials and business leaders. Evans also visited the site of a future Case NewHolland service center that was created as the result of an $11 million agreement brokered by the Export Import Bank that allows the company to sell tractors and farm equipment to farmers of the region. .

While in Russia, Evans expressed his frustration that the Senate has not yet voted on the final Trade Promotion Authority legislation, which he said "seriously undermines President Bush's ability to negotiate trade agreements around the world." Evans urged the "Senate to pass TPA without further delay and send a strong signal to Russia and other prospective trading partners that the U.S. is committed to opening up borders for our products and to expanding economic opportunity to all corners of the globe."