Free Trade Agreement

There is so much misinformation fostered by many that it is becoming essential to find forums to explain the factual advantages of the North American Free Trade Agreement.

American businesses have been the leaders in encouraging open markets for the past 40-plus years. There is no way to turn back history, close borders, or create a market in this country that protects industry that can not compete in world markets.

It is obvious that the U.S. will gain immeasurably by aggressively tapping the relatively sophisticated labor market available in Mexico; and stands to lose so much if we allow production of goods to move instead to Asia, or elsewhere, where benefits to American business are practically nonexistent.

Our challenge is to maintain sufficient high-tech and high-productivity skills to assure adequate employment levels.

EDWIN W. LASHER

Palm Springs