Bush Administration negotiating “fast track” deal with South Korea before they lose that authority

The "fast track" issue will play a key role in American politics through June.  The Bush Administration is currently negotiating a trade deal with South Korea -- and trying to insure the deal is done before the President's "fast track" authority expires according to Reuters: 

The White House's "fast track" authority to negotiate trade agreements that Congress must approve or reject without making changes expires at the end of June. The legislation also requires the White House to give Congress 90 days' notice before signing any trade deal, making late March the effective deadline for the pact with South Korea.

The larger-than-usual negotiating teams show both sides are serious about resolving the remaining issues, Cutler said.

Another good sign is "all the negotiating groups are back at the table," including four -- automotives, pharmaceuticals, trade remedies and food safety -- that did not meet last month in Seoul, Cutler said.

One issue of particular concern to the new Democratic majority in the U.S. Congress is whether the agreement will include a binding commitment for the two countries to abide by certain core international labor standards -- such as freedom to organize and bargain collectively.

We'd like to think that core international labor standards are a concern for Bush, the GOP and all the Democratic Members of Congress.  Unfortunately, that's not the case. 

Posted by Staff on Monday, February 12 | Permalink