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Senator Rubio Welcomes Brazilian President’s Visit, Urges Passage of Tourism Boosting Policy

Apr 9, 2012 | Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere Affairs, issued the following statement regarding Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff’s visit to Washington today to meet with President Obama:

“Brazil is an indispensable trade partner and American ally. As Brazil continues its rise as a global power, President Rousseff’s visit is a reminder that the U.S. must continue strengthening our economic relationship, boost cooperation on security and energy issues, and also encourage them to use their platform to be a voice for human rights in Latin America and worldwide.

“Of all the issues of mutual interest to the U.S. and Brazil, one that already has broad bipartisan support and should move forward immediately is the JOLT Act. The JOLT Act would boost tourism to the U.S., particularly by Brazilians visiting Florida, by reforming a burdensome visa process that has become a roadblock to economic growth. 

“President Obama and Congress should build on the recent bipartisan momentum following approval of the JOBS Act to move forward with the JOLT Act and help bring more foreign tourist dollars to Florida and the U.S.”