Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) Status for Russia and U.S.- Russian Economic Ties

摘要

At several meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, President George W. Bush stated that his administration will work with the Congress to grant Russia permanent 'normal trade relations' (PNTR) status. The change in Russia's trade status will require legislation to lift the restrictions currently applied to Russia under Title IV of the Trade Act of 1974, which includes the 'freedom-of-emigration' requirements of the Jackson-Vanik amendment. The Bush Administration requested the 108th Congress to act. Two bills were introduced in the Senate and one in the House, but none of them received further congressional action. The second session of the 109th Congress may take up the issue. This report will be updated as events warrant.