Kerry Urges Resolution of TPP Trade Deal

“As with any complex negotiation – and I’ve watched them for years in the Senate, voted for them, may I say, for the trade agreements – there remain details to be hashed out, but the reasons why each of the TPP countries are pressing on to work through tough negotiations or even some of the most sensitive issues of those negotiation is very, very clear. … But the Trans-Pacific Partnership is about a lot more than just creating economic opportunities, and this is really important to focus on. It’s about raising standards. This agreement initiates a race to the top, not a race to the bottom. Under this pact, every participant will have to comply with core international labor and environmental standards; every participant will have to refrain from using under-age workers, unsafe workplaces. … Because major economies are committing to TPP’s high standards, its influence will be felt not just through the region but well beyond. It will send a message to people within the TPP and outside of support for good governance, transparency, accountability. It will bear witness to what we have seen in both Singapore and the United States – that sustainable development and prosperity are nurtured by the freedom to innovate, experiment, and compete economically on a level and open playing field.”