Pelosi Statement on House Passage of Peru Free Trade Agreement

'Today, the House built upon President John F. Kennedy's legacy of free trade by passing an agreement that promotes both free and fair trade.

'The Peru Free Trade Agreement represents a remarkable breakthrough because Democrats were able to secure enforceable, basic labor rights and environmental standards in the core text of a free trade agreement.  Many of us have been fighting for these priorities under both Democratic and Republican administrations, and for the first time, we were able to ensure that labor and environmental standards would be on par with commercial obligations under the agreement.

'I commend Ways and Means Committee Chairman Rangel and Subcommittee Chairman Levin for their tireless efforts on behalf of America's workers, businesses, and farmers.  I look forward to working with them as we continue our efforts to help American workers and communities compete and thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.'