George W. Bush's last State of the Union address focused on free trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea.
George looked squarely into the camera and identified four compelling reasons that Congress should pass these free trade agreements just like they did for Peru. The first three points were explicit.
Panama, Colombia and South Korea represent 100 million potentional clients for U.S. exports. This is good of course for America exporters.
More South American and Asian clients also mean more jobs if the U.S. can sell more of its Made in America products to these expanding markets.
Thirdly, the U.S. has significantly reduced tariffs for imported goods coming from these countries. Free trade agreements would level the playing field by bringing down adjustment tariffs currently imposed on U.S. exports to Colombia, Panama and South Korea. A more reciprocal arrangement would increase revenues for American businesses.
The fourth point had a more implicit message. Bush commented that these free trade agreements would ensure the survival of American ideals including freedom from oppression from dictatorial regimes. In other words, the free trade agreement with Colombia will enable the U.S. to keeps its eyes on unfavourable leaders like in Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.
Haven't we learned our lesson from Iraq yet? Let's just stick to the international trade agreements.
