Washington, D.C. (June 12, 2012) – Today John Neuffer, Vice President for Global Policy at the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), issued the following statement on the Russia PNTR legislation.

 

“Establishing permanent trade relations with Russia is an important step for job creation and economic strength in the United States.  It will further open a key market to American goods and services and pave the way for new jobs and expanded exports of U.S. products.  And it will enhance a global trade system that grows stronger with each country that joins its ranks.

 

“Information technology companies compete in a globally integrated economy where the majority of our customers, the fastest growing markets, and our fiercest competitors are overseas. The foundation of our success in international markets rests on a competitive U.S. economy that acts as the driving force for growth and innovation around the world.  Adding Russia to the list of strong trading partners will enhance American companies’ ability to create jobs and build new opportunities here at home.

 

“We also look forward to Russia fulfilling its commitment to join the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) when it enters the WTO, as we consider the ITA the most commercially important WTO trade agreement in existence.

 

“ITI appreciates the hard work that has gone into this legislation by the bipartisan sponsors of the bill – Senator Max Baucus, D-Mont., Senator John Thune, R-S.D., Senator John Kerry, D-Mass., and Senator John McCain, R-Ariz.  Creating new jobs is a bipartisan effort, and passage of the Russian PNTR legislation should be a top Congressional priority.”

 

About ITI

 

The Information Technology Industry Council (ITI) is the premier advocacy and policy organization for the world’s leading innovation companies.  ITI navigates the constantly changing relationships between policymakers, companies, and non-governmental organizations, providing creative solutions that advance the development and use of technology around the world.  We develop first-rate advocacy strategies and market-specific approaches.  And we deliver results.  Visit itic.org to learn more.