By James Hoagland, Office of Intergovernmental Affairs and Public Engagement
Today U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman delivered the keynote speech at a luncheon hosted by the Transatlantic Policy Network (TPN). Ambassador Froman discussed the important role the transatlantic economic relationship plays in promoting jobs and growth worldwide, and outlined the potential benefits that would flow from a completed Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP). The TPN’s annual Transatlantic Week aims to foster dialogue between legislators, administrators, academics and business leaders from the United States and the EU on a wide range of issues.
Ambassador Froman focused his remarks on the first round of TTIP negotiations that were recently held in Washington, D.C. He described how extensive efforts by government officials, stakeholders, and interested citizens over the past year and-a-half, on both sides of the Atlantic, had made the launch of TTIP negotiations possible.
Ambassador Froman reminded the audience that tough issues will not be avoided in TTIP, and emphasized the importance of addressing differences in U.S. and EU regulatory and standards systems in particular. Ambassador Froman also encouraged stakeholders to remain engaged so as to ensure that multiple perspectives and a balance of views continue to inform U.S. negotiating positions.
Today, trade between U.S. and the EU accounts for nearly 13 million jobs and supports nearly $3 billion in daily goods and services trade. Through TTIP, the Administration hopes to expand this robust relationship.
To find out more about the proposed TTIP agreement, visit this page. If you’re interested in attending TTIP events in the future, visit our stakeholder page on our website here, or email us at IAPE@ustr.eop.gov.
