Gerald R. Ford

“ America's performance in the world marketplace is a true measure of the quality of American products, the extent of American ingenuity, and the dedication of American labor and industry to international commerce. Trade has been indispensable to our economic growth, to the greater well-being of our citizens, and to peaceful progress in our relationships abroad. ”

“ I call upon all Americans to join with business, labor, agricultural, educational, professional and civic groups, and public officials at all levels of Government, in observing World Trade Week with appropriate activities and ceremonies. ”

“ The patriots who declared independence in 1776 set the United States on the path to leadership in the interdependent world of 1976. Their action enabled us, over a period of two centuries, to construct a firm foundation of commercial alliances with nations around the globe. ”