Washington DC – In a keynote address delivered during last night’s National Foreign Trade Council (NFTC) Foundation World Trade Dinner and Award Ceremony, Representative David Dreier (R-CA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, issued a call to action for congressional passage of legislation that would establish permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) with Russia. Rep. Dreier also highlighted the importance of addressing 21st century global trade challenges, including cross-border data flows.
During his remarks, Chairman Dreier stated:
“We have a really very, very important opportunity to now do what we should have done before August 22, which is when Russia was able to join the World Trade Organization, and ensure that U.S. businesses and workers can have access to the 140 million consumers in Russia. And, we need to get that done just as quickly as we possibly can.
“… As we look at where we’re going on the trade issue … we need to have a 21st century vision … The prime issue that needs to be addressed is the issue of cross-border data flows. … There are countries that unfortunately are utilizing it to jeopardize what I describe as the interdependence between political and economic globalization. That needs to be something that we will consistently push.
“… Even though I am going to be leaving Congress in January this year, I will remain dedicated and passionate … about the necessity for us to break down these barriers to encourage the free flow of goods, services, capital, ideas and people as well.”
Prior to delivering his remarks, Chairman Dreier was honored with the NFTC Foundation’s 2012 World Trade Award for his leadership in promoting the benefits of open trade and investment.
“During his more than 30-year tenure on Capitol Hill, Chairman Dreier has been a steadfast champion of international trade and engagement,” said NFTC President Bill Reinsch. “He understands the importance of advancing the U.S. trade agenda to ensure that U.S. businesses and the millions of Americans they employ can compete on a level playing field. We are pleased to have this opportunity to honor his public service and leadership on these critical issues.”
The World Trade Award was established in 1937 by the Dollar family of San Francisco in memory of Captain Robert Dollar, a pioneer in American shipping and world trade and a charter member of the NFTC. In 1938, Cordell Hull, then-Secretary of State, was the first recipient of the Award.
Last night’s NFTC Foundation dinner was held at the Organization of American States. The event was widely attended by policymakers, members of the business community, ambassadors and embassy officials from a number of countries, including Colombia, Egypt, Mexico, New Zealand, Panama, Vietnam, among many others.
About the NFTC Foundation:
Incorporated in 1979, the National Foreign Trade Council Foundation is the educational arm of the NFTC (www.nftc.org). It is a 501(c)(3) organization incorporated under the laws of the state of New York. The NFTC Foundation’s mission is to inspire, encourage and facilitate international trade and investment in order to enhance economic growth and job creation throughout the world.
