Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) is leading an eight-member team of lawmakers on a weeklong trip to three nations in Asia to continue negotiations within the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
The delegation, which departed Washington DC on Friday, is scheduled to meet with government officials along with business leaders, bolstering the trade relations between the countries.
“Our economy, our national security and our very standing in the world are all tied to our trade agenda,” Ryan, the House Ways and Means Committee chairman, said. “Other countries are trying to reshape the state of play in Asia, and so we have to stay engaged. Our trading partners need to know that the United States is serious about advancing its trade priorities and strengthening our ties in the region.”
In addition to Ryan, members of the delegation include Reps. Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Devin Nunes (R-CA), Pat Tiberi (R-OH), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Charles Boustany (R-LA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Adrian Smith (R-NE).
“They also need to know that we will not accept just any agreement,” Ryan added. “We will accept only one that truly breaks down barriers for American exporters. I look forward to talking more about expanding economic cooperation with our friends in Asia.”