US Congress to sign Morocco trade pact

WASHINGTON – US President George W. Bush gave Congress notice on Monday of his intention to sign a newly concluded free trade agreement with Morocco.

Negotiators wrapped up the agreement last week after more than one year of talks. US law requires Bush to give Congress 90 days notice before signing any trade pact.Bush also plans to sign new free trade agreements with Australia and five Central American countries this year.However, administration officials have refused to say whether they would seek a vote on the three agreements before the November congressional and presidential elections.Many business lobbyists expect the White House to delay a vote on the US-Central American Free Trade Agreement – the most controversial of the three pacts – until next year.Opponents argue that agreement’s labour and environmental provisions are not tough enough.-Nampa – ReutersUS law requires Bush to give Congress 90 days notice before signing any trade pact.Bush also plans to sign new free trade agreements with Australia and five Central American countries this year.However, administration officials have refused to say whether they would seek a vote on the three agreements before the November congressional and presidential elections.Many business lobbyists expect the White House to delay a vote on the US-Central American Free Trade Agreement – the most controversial of the three pacts – until next year.Opponents argue that agreement’s labour and environmental provisions are not tough enough.-Nampa – Reuters