Speech #1000031609

I oppose this amendment because I believe there is a better way to address our trade relations not only with Romania. but all Eastern European countries. I do not dispute the human rights. or foreign policy issues which this amendment raises. Romania is a repressive regime which impedes and violates the right of its citizens to emigrate. I also oppose the inconsistent manner in which Congress and the administration have extended MFN status to Romania and Poland. but have not extended it to other Eastern European countries such as Czechoslovakia. the Germany Democratic Republic. and Bulgaria. Under the JacksonVanik amendment to the Trade Act of 1974. nonmarket countries are not eligible for mostfavorednation [MFN] status. U.S. Government credits. or investment guarantees if that country directly or indirectly limits the right of its citizens to emigrate. Where we have extended MFN status to a nonmarket economy such as Romania. it is inconsistent and often inappropriate for foreign policy reasons. To address this problem.