Foreign Relations of the United States, 1977–1980, Volume III, Foreign Economic Policy

200. Memorandum From the Special Representative for Trade Negotiations (Strauss) to President Carter¹

Washington, February 12, 1979

RE

• Administration Textile Program

Pursuant to the instructions you gave Cooper, Eizenstat and me with respect to textiles,² this will advise as follows:

1. We have clearly established that Finley and Chaikin will not only support the MTN as being good for their people and lobby for it, but Chaikin advises he will, if necessary, not only contradict Meany but so testify.

2. Detailed discussions with respect to ambiguities are in the process of being completed. Notes in the respective files clearly reflect the intentions of the parties. There are certain areas where specificity is impossible and in these instances, we are making a record that clearly indicates that where differences of opinion exist they will not be charged to bad faith or failure to live up to commitments.

3. Any necessary language changes will be made.

4. Congressional support is assured.

Is it your desire that when Eizenstat, Cooper and I are satisfied that your concerns have been met, that I should conclude the negotiations or do you desire I bring it back to your desk for a final sign-off?

Option 1. When Cooper, Eizenstat and Strauss are satisfied, conclude the negotiations (Eizenstat recommends)³

Option 2. When Cooper, Eizenstat and Strauss are satisfied, return to my desk for final acceptance or rejection

1. Source: National Archives, RG 364, 364–80–4, Special Trade Representative Subject Files, 1977–1979, Box 8, Textiles Two. No classification marking. Carter initialed “C” at the top of the page.
2. Not further identified.
3. Carter indicated his approval of this option and initialed “J.” On February 15, Carter administration officials reached an agreement with textile industry representatives on a new textile import program. (“U.S. in Pact On Textile Protection,” The New York Times, February 16, 1979, p. D1)