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.

An apparent reluctance to move pending hemispheric trade agreements forward, especially Colombia, is causing U.S. allies to evaluate whether the costs of friendship outweigh the benefits. Long- term U.S. interests are at stake.

This month, AS/COA provides an update on the status of trade legislation and the farm bill. With Congress on recess for the next month, forward movement will have to wait for September.

COA Vice President Eric Farnsworth provided testimony to U.S. Congress, outlining areas to boost relations between the United States. He emphasized the importance of opening foreign markets, sustaining a commitment to democracy, building relations with Brazil, and promoting sustainable development.

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

Topics in this issue
   • Senators debates immigration reform
   • Major legislative provisions
   • The Mexican perspective