"I applaud and thank Senators Graham and Murkowski and their colleagues for introducing legislation today to provide Trade Promotion Authority. Like the legislation introduced by Chairman Crane two weeks ago, this bill would enable the President to meet the negotiating objectives set forth in his 2001 International Trade Legislative Agenda. I appreciate Senators Graham and Murkowski's leadership in putting forth this constructive proposal.

"During the past several months we have made real progress in promoting America's trade interests in Asia, Europe and the Western Hemisphere. Wherever I go, whatever progress we make, others ask whether the Congress will join the administration to promote trade. We need Congress to grant the President the negotiating authority given to five other Presidents. I will continue to work actively with Congress to rebuild a national consensus for trade to benefit our workers, farmers, families and businesses."