For the first time, U.S. carriers will be able to obtain licenses to run their own terminal operation in Japan and will be able to carry out operational changes. The Administration has supported the efforts of the FMC under the leadership of Chairman Creel to liberalize Japan's inefficient port system. Transportation Secretary Rodney Slater and Under Secretary of State Stuart Eizenstat particularly praised the Commission's firmness and fairness which was integral to this breakthrough and to the satisfactory resolution of all remaining issues. Secretary Slater and Under Secretary Eizenstat would also like to commend the positive and creative role of Ambassador Saito in helping to bring these complex negotiations, involving governmental and private entities, to a successful conclusion. We expect that the Government of Japan will continue to work with us in a spirit of cooperation to ensure that these reforms are implemented.
Open trade begins with open ports.