Former U.S. Ambassador Calls Trade Deals with Panama, Colombia Critical to U.S. Economic Growth, Deepening Ties in Hemisphere

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO—The following statement on the proposed deal between Congress and President Barack Obama to advance free trade agreements with Panama, Colombia and South Korea may be attributed to former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Antonio O. Garza:

“The proposal to approve trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea is welcome news as we look to strengthen relationships with key economic and security partners.

“The agreements between the U.S. and our Western Hemispheric trading partners, Colombia and Panama, are especially good news for this region and for our economies.   It’s economic stimulus that will pay dividends in many significant ways and in direct and indirect terms.

“Together it’s anticipated that these three trade deals will reduce tariffs, spur job creation and increase exports of U.S. goods by as much as $13 billion. U.S. farm exports to Colombia and Panama alone could increase by as much as $885 million.

“The deals with our Western Hemisphere neighbors further extend the strong partnerships and opportunities for greater investment and development across our region.

“First proposed under President George W. Bush, these trade deals are long overdue, but the net positive effects they’ll most certainly deliver are extensive, enduring and worth the wait.”

# # #

Media Contact for Ambassador Garza: Jennifer Waisath Harris, (512) 773-7168 or jharris@jwhcommunications.com

Antonio O. Garza is the former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and is counsel in the Mexico City office of White & Case and a partner in Vianovo, a U.S.-based public affairs consultancy. He is online at www.tonygarza.com, on Facebook.com/AntonioOGarza and on Twitter @aogarza.

Tags: