The House Ways and Means Committee voted in support of the U.S.-Peru Trade Agreement this week. Congressional approval is expected in October with the deal viewed as a potential model for other bilateral pacts. COA testimony notes the agreement's passage provides an opportunity to advance strategic policy goals and promote U.S. economic, labor, and environmental interests.

In testimony to the U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, COA Vice President Eric Farnsworth notes that passage of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement is a rare opportunity to advance fundamental strategic policy interests while promoting U.S. economic, labor, and environmental interests.

Topics in this issue
   • Democrats and Bush administration reach compromise on trade
   • Enforcing labor standards
   • Revising intellectual property rights
   • Environment
   • Effects on Trade Promotion Authority

Canadian Minister of International Trade David Emerson emphasizes that strategic interests reach well beyond North America. His country is committed to helping its hemispheric partners create opportunities and reduce poverty through greater economic cooperation.

David L. Emerson, Canadian Minister of International Trade, addessed COA on May 2, 2007.

Colombian President Álvaro Uribe and key Western Hemisphere ministers explored issues at the forefront of the U.S.-Western Hemisphere agenda during the 37th Annual Washington Conference on the Americas. View a pictorial and summary of the conference.

Can Peru maintain its robust economic growth? Minister Carranza Ugarte discusses future economic scenarios along with the importance of investment in social development and passage of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement.