A Statement From Microsoft on House Passage of DR-CAFTA

Editors’ note regarding dateline: This statement was issued at 12:30 a.m. Eastern time on July 28 (9:30 p.m. Pacific time July 27).

WASHINGTON, D.C. — July 28, 2005 — Today’s passage of the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA) in the U.S. House of Representatives is a victory for economic growth and innovation in both the United States and the nations covered by the agreement. The ability of Microsoft Corp. and the U.S. technology industry to continue to create jobs and expand exports depends on access to developing markets. Microsoft is pleased that this agreement not only provides this access, but also ensures solid intellectual property, procurement and e-commerce protections. In the spirit of our nation’s long history of working to foster democracy and strengthen ties in the Americas, DR-CAFTA extends to the Central American region the high-level trade standards that the United States is pursuing around the world.

Microsoft commends Congress for moving the agreement forward. In particular, we wish to express our special appreciation to Reps. Norm Dicks, D-Wash.; Doc Hastings, R-Wash.; Cathy McMorris, R-Wash.; and Dave Reichert, R-Wash., for their leadership on this important issue. We look forward to President Bush signing the agreement into law in the near future.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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