May 7, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC – House Rules Committee Ranking Member David Dreier (R-CA) and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman John Kerry (D-MA) introduced companion resolutions today urging the expansion of the trade relationship between the United States and the Republic of Georgia.  H. Res. 414 and S. Res. 136 express the sense of the House and Senate, respectively, that the U.S. should initiate negotiations to enter into a free trade agreement with Georgia.

“This week’s mutiny attempt in Tbilisi is just another reminder of the need to strengthen Georgia’s democratic institutions and ensure that the Georgian people’s quest for stability, democracy and prosperity can be fulfilled,” said Dreier.  “I can think of no better way to assist them in this endeavor than to expand the international trade that spurs economic growth and brings in new investment.  With adequate economic resources, Georgia will be able to continue to pursue robust democratic development and improve the quality of life of all Georgians.”

“This is a constructive step to assist the people of Georgia with achieving the reconstruction and economic development of their country,” said Senator Kerry. “The Georgian people have endured repeated invasions and reconstructions through the centuries, but have always persevered. A free trade agreement with the United States won’t solve all of Georgia’s problems, but it will have a positive impact. This is an opportunity for our country to lead. I hope Europe will take similar action and I hope Russia will remove the impediments to trade with Georgia it has implemented.”

H. Res. 414 and S. Res. 136 cite Georgia’s gains in democratic and economic reforms since the Rose Revolution of 2003, and the need to continue to solidify these efforts and achievements.  The resolutions highlight the fact that greater trade engagement will bolster both the Georgian economy and the U.S.-Georgia relationship.