Fed: Howard expected to address Congess on US visit

AAP General News (Australia)
08-14-2001
Fed: Howard expected to address Congess on US visit

Prime Minister JOHN HOWARD is expected to be given the honour of addressing the United
States Congress during his visit to Washington next month.

A spokesman for Mr HOWARD says the program for the visit hasn't yet been confirmed.

But the powerful head of Congress' International Relations Committee HENRY HYDE is
expected to confirm the address when he brings a formal invitation with him during a visit
to Australia in the near future.

Mr HOWARD will become the first Australian leader to address a joint sitting of Congress
since former Labor leader BOB HAWKE 13 years ago.

While his last US visit two years ago during the administration of Democrat President
BILL CLINTON was a low-key affair tainted by an argument over lamb tariffs, the upcoming
visit will be far more upbeat.

Australia is yet to decide whether to challenge US tariffs in the World Trade Organisation,
despite demands from farmers.

AAP RTV rft/hn .

KEYWORD: HOWARD CONGRESS (CANBERRA)

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