WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says the newly sealed free trade deal with South Korea is a big victory for American farmers and ranchers, the aerospace and electronics industries, and U.S. automakers.
The agreement, which requires congressional approval, is intended to help open the growing South Korean market to more American goods.
The president says the pact also further cements the strong alliance between Washington and Seoul, particularly at a time of heightened tension on the Korean peninsula.
He says the agreement shows the alliance is stronger than ever — at a time of unprovoked attacks by North Korea on the South.
Obama says that with the latest jobs report showing disappointing results, this trade deal will help create jobs and aid the U.S. economy.