Friends of the Earth confronts U.S. Trade Rep. at luncheon on Pacific trade deal
WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman is engaging in a concerted effort to generate political support among environmentalists for the Trans Pacific Partnership trade agreement. On Tuesday afternoon, a major event was held at Charlie Palmer’s Steak House, a restaurant located near the Capitol building, during which Froman asked conservation and environmental groups for their backing.
Friends of the Earth joined community activists to protest Froman’s attempt to characterize the TPP as environmentally friendly. Erich Pica, president of Friends of the Earth, spoke out at the luncheon gathering and had this to say at its conclusion:
Friends of the Earth sent a clear message to Ambassador Froman that while we support enforceable environmental commitments within the TPP, the deal as a whole is a huge danger to the planet. In particular, the investment chapter would allow multinational corporations to undermine important environmental and health regulations. It would also have a chilling effect on future environmental policies that are desperately needed to address climate change, save ecosystems and protect communities.
###
Contact:
William Waren, (202) 222-0746, [email protected]
Adam Russell, (202) 222-0722, [email protected]