Last night, Rep. Henry Cuellar joined Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel, Bush Administration officials, and House and Senate leaders to announce a new bipartisan trade policy for America.  Congressman Cuellar praised the agreement and commended Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Rangel, Ranking Member Jim McCrery and Rep. Sander Levin for creating a new direction for international trade.

The policy incorporates internationally recognized labor and environmental standards in U.S. free trade agreements.  This shift in U.S. trade policy will expand and shape commerce, spreading the benefits of globalization and raising standards in America and around the world.

“As a native of the largest land port in the country, I know that the preservation of free trade is a vital component of the economy of Texas and across the nation.  I am a long-standing advocate for free and open commerce. I am proud that Congress was able to work with the Administration to reach a consensus that bolsters free trade,” said Cuellar.

“The economic health of our country is vital to spurring growth and progress across the nation.  In Washington, we must address globalization and capitalize on the motivation and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people.  In today’s political and economic climate, boosting free trade will usher in a renewed sense of development.”

The advancement of the new trade policy will expand opportunities for American businesses, workers and farmers while including fundamental operating standards.  It also clears the way for broad, bipartisan support for existing Peru and Panama free trade agreements, and will apply to future accords with South Korea and Colombia.

“What the American people want are real and lasting solutions to the issues they face.  Bipartisanship is often only a buzz word and I applaud my colleagues for finding a new direction for our country to enhance trade.  This bipartisan policy shows that the 110th Congress is committed to fulfilling our promise for a new direction for the United States of America,” said Cuellar.


Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Majority Senior Whip.
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