WASHINGTON - United States Trade Representative Robert B. Zoellick today issued the following statement in reaction to the release of trade principles by the New Democrats:

"Today the New Democrats released a serious outline of their trade objectives. I am encouraged by their constructive proposal to move the trade agenda forward. Their trade principles reflect a pragmatic approach to trade and an understanding of the challenges we face in opening foreign markets.

"A great deal of work remains to fulfill the President's objective of passing U.S. Trade Promotion Authority by this year, and I hope we can move forward expeditiously when Congress returns. I look forward to continuing to work on a bipartisan basis with Members of Congress."