LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hector V. Barreto, chairman of The Latino Coalition (TLC,) issued the following statement today regarding the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement:

"Now that President Bush has formally submitted the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement for consideration, we urge the U.S. Congress to pass this treaty without delay.

"Congressional approval of this free trade agreement is very important to the United States in many respects. First of all, it would begin to immediately reduce, and eventually eliminate, tariffs of up to 35 percent on U.S. products entering Colombia. Second, with this free trade agreement, small businesses, especially those Latino-owned, would stand to benefit from additional exporting opportunities to the South American nation, resulting in job creation and economic growth for our country.

"In addition to the trade and economic benefits this trade agreement offers the U.S., its passage is also important from a strategic standpoint. Colombia has been a valuable friend, partner and ally in Latin America. In the face of increasing tensions between Colombia and some of its neighbors, including their actions to destabilize the region, now more than ever the U.S. has to clearly demonstrate that it stands by its friends.

"The passage of the U.S. Colombia Free Trade Agreement is without question a win-win for the U.S. and Colombia. It is time for Congress to bring the trade agreement up for a vote, pass it and send it to President Bush for his signature."

About The Latino Coalition

The Latino Coalition (TLC) is a non-profit, nationwide organization based in Los Angeles, CA, with offices in Washington, DC and Mexico (Mexico City & Guadalajara). TLC was established to address policy issues that directly affect the well-being of Hispanics in the United States. TLC’s agenda is to develop and promote policies that will foster economic equivalency and enhance overall business, economic and social development of Hispanics. For more information, visit TLC’s website at www.TheLatinoCoalition.com.

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