Word: mfn
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...Sakharov case hardened congressional opposition to granting the Soviets the most-favored-nation status that is necessary for the expansion of trade. The MFN bill faces a tough battle in the House Ways and Means Committee. Last week Representative Wilbur Mills, the chairman of the committee, said: "I cannot see the U.S. expanding commercial markets with the Soviet Union if the price is to be paid in the martyrdom of men of genius like Solzhenitsyn and Sakharov." Even Secretary of State Designate Henry Kissinger pronounced himself personally "disappointed" and "dismayed" by Soviet repression. At the same time, he reiterated...
...fewer than 77 Senators and 260 members of the House-a potent show of support-have lined up behind amendments to the Administration trade bill that would deny MFN status to any nation that limits free emigration of its citizens. The amendments are primarily aimed at the arbitrary tax that the Soviet Union levies on citizens wishing to emigrate, most of whom have been Jews. Support for the amendments is based on political, ideological and humanitarian concerns. But probably the strongest pressure has come from Jewish lobbying and politicians' concern over the "Jewish vote...
...President has the authority to execute on his own all parts of the trade agreement except one. Most-favored-nation status can be granted only by Congress, and therein hangs a potentially serious threat. No fewer than 76 Senators have gone on record as opposing MFN as long as Soviet officials continue trying to halt the swelling exodus of their Jewish citizens by charging exorbitant exit fees. The Soviets have privately recognized Nixon's lack of full power over the matter, and may be willing to loosen up on some restrictions in order to ensure clearance of the final...