The Office of the United States Trade Representative

Statement of Neena Moorjani, Spokesperson, Regarding the Softwood Lumber Issue
08/12/2005

“Ambassador Portman spoke with Minister Peterson yesterday.  It was a cordial and candid conversation.

“Ambassador Portman conveyed the respect the United States has for the NAFTA process. He explained that this particular ECC decision related to a 2002 ITC determination that has been superceded by a November 2004 ITC determination issued to comply with a separate WTO decision. The 2004 ITC determination is now the basis for the antidumping and countervailing duty orders, which remain in place.  That 2004 ITC determination was not reviewed in the ECC proceeding.

“As we have in the past, we will continue to comply with our trade obligations.

“Ambassador Portman reiterated that it is in the interest of the United States and Canada to reach a permanent negotiated solution.  He also said that he hopes to continue the discussions toward a negotiated solution.”