“You'd be amazed at what it's like to be in Vietnam": President Bush
President George W. Bush today signed into law a bill that includes establishing permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) with Vietnam. The PNTR provisions were part of a larger bill that dealt with taxes, health and other domestic social provisions that the Republican-controlled Congress passed during the final minutes of its session this month. Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Tam Chien was present at the signing. 
In his speech at the signing, President Bush said that amazing changes is under way in Vietnam and that Vietnam is demonstrating a strong commitment to economy reform
"Vietnam will join the World Trade Organization in January. Isn't that amazing? I think it is," said the President. "; Laura and I just returned. You were there, Mr. Ambassador. You saw the outpouring of affection for the American people. There's amazing changes taking place in your country as your economy has opened up. Vietnam is demonstrating a strong commitment to economy reform. And I believe that's going to encourage political reform and greater respect for human rights and human dignity."
President Bush said the bill will serve to broaden the Vietnam - US trade relations and help Vietnamese people to build a strong economy and raise the living standards. "It's in our interest to help those who struggle. It's in the interest of the United States to promote prosperity around the world, and the best way to do so is through opening up markets and free and fair trade" ./.
Source: VNA.
