Now more than ever, in the era of economic globalization, the relatively free flow of goods and services remains the most prudent and wisest course of action for promoting future economic growth. Here at home we must do more to educate all U.S. citizens that the remarkable economic performance of the past six years, under the Clinton-Gore Administration, is the result the U.S.'s embrace of open markets and globalization. But, if the President is to be successful in continuing to open markets for U.S. exports then he must have all the tools necessary, such as fast track authority. Support for other trade liberalization measures such as the Free Trade Area of the Americas, the Caribbean Basin Initiative, deepening of ties with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the launch of a New Economic Partnership with Africa is also critical. In addition, the President's emphasis on lifetime training is also critically important if we are to help our workers adapt to rapid changes in the workplace caused by globalization.
Globalization is an inevitable element of our lives.
We cannot stop it anymore than we can stop the waves from crashing on the shore. The arguments in support of trade liberalization and open markets are strong ones, they have been made by many of you, and we must not be afraid to engage those with whom we respectfully disagree. We must demonstrate that open markets and high standards go hand in hand. Finally, we should work to establish an ongoing dialogue with all constituencies including labor and environmental groups, to better involve them in the policy process. We must be sensitive to, and willing to address genuine domestic fears about the impact of globalization.