Bush Calls for Approval of International Trade Pact with Colombia

US President George W. Bush recently called for the Congress to give Colombian President Alvaro Uribe a fair hearing regarding a proposed free trade agreement between the US and Colombia. Last Wednesday, Mr. Bush also urged the Congress to approve the proposed international trade pact despite scandals affecting the Colombian government. In a speech delivered at the White House South Lawn, the US leader said that Mr. Uribe was in Washington in order to speak strongly about his record. Mr. Bush also thanked the Congress for giving the Colombian leader a hearing. It must be noted that Mr. Uribe is the staunchest ally of Mr. Bush in the Latin America. The proposed FTA seeks to improve the international trade ties between the US and Colombia.

Mr. Uribe's morning meeting with Mr. Bush marked the start of a three-day lobbying trip to the US. The Colombian leader visited Washington in order to revive the FTA and seek the support of the US Congress for the proposed international trade deal. The US-Colombia free trade agreement was signed by the Bush administration in November 2006. But the proposed FTA is still in the US Congress for review and approval. It must be noted that the Democrat-controlled Congress has raised concerns regarding the record of Colombia on human rights, as well as its ties with right-wing paramilitary groups.

But during his speech last Wednesday, Mr. Bush urged the Congress to consider the benefits of the proposed international trade agreement with Colombia. Besides Colombia, the US has also signed separate free trade agreements with Panama and Peru. The US leader said that it was very important for Colombia to maintain ties with governments that protect the dignity and rights of people.

Mr. Bush stressed that the proposed FTAs with Colombia, Panama, and Peru were more than just international trade pacts. Meanwhile, Mr. Uribe thanked the US for its assistance, saying that his country needed security for all people. It must be noted that his country and the US have been involved in joint efforts to combat drug trafficking, promote democracy, and eliminate terrorism.

The proposed international trade agreement with Colombia has been opposed by the Congress due to concerns of possible job losses in the US. Other issues raised by the Congress include Colombia's military focus and record on the protection of union leaders. If the proposed FTA is approved, it would significantly boost international trade between the US and Colombia. It must be noted that the US has been working to strengthen its presence in the Latin American region in terms of trade.