| (WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, will speak later today on the House floor about Colombia’s progress against extremism and drug trafficking and urge approval of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen:
“Through much bravery and sacrifice, Colombia has made tremendous progress against violent extremists and drug cartels and each year becomes more secure and more prosperous.
“However, challenges remain as Colombia is under unrelenting assault by known FARC sympathizers and their supporters like Chavez and his fellow ALBA thugs who attempt to derail Colombia’s progress.
“At a time when U.S. interests throughout the Hemisphere are also under attack, Colombia remains a steadfast ally and an indispensable partner in ensuring security and freedom in the region.
“Although U.S.-Colombian ties are strong, we have only begun to tap their potential. Realizing full potential will require passage of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement.
“Unfortunately, this free trade agreement has been in limbo for three years, because opponents fail to understand the immense benefits to the U.S. that will come from it.
“The U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement means more money, more jobs, and more stability for the American people. It is time for Congress to stop standing in the way. It is time we pass the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement.”
NOTE: The United States-Colombia Free Trade Agreement was signed on November 22, 2006. When the agreement enters into force, Colombia will immediately eliminate most of its tariffs on U.S. exports, with all remaining tariffs phased out over defined time periods.
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