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 Proclamations Proc. 7311 vesting in research and development, improving the quality of science and mathematics education in our schools, teaching workers new skills to fill jobs in the technology sector, and keeping e-commerce fair, safe, and com- petitive, we can stimulate our export industries, sustain this remarkable pe- riod of growth and prosperity, and ensure America's continued leadership in the global economy. This week, when the Congress takes up legislation to grant Permanent Nor- mal Trade Relations status to the People's Republic of China, it will have an opportunity to further the progress we have made in building strong trading relationships. PNTR for China will increase America's competitive- ness in the global marketplace, reduce tariffs, and give American workers and farmers unprecedented access to China's more than one billion con- sumers. World trade, whether conducted in person, on paper, or on line, remains a cornerstone of American economic growth. But even more important, trade plays a vital role in improving opportunity and prosperity around the globe. Free and fair international trade is one of the most effective tools we have to bring people together, raise living standards in developed and de- veloping nations alike, promote human dignity, and improve long-term prospects for democracy, stability, and world peace. NOW, THEREFORE, I, WILLIAM J. CLINTON, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitu- tion and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 21 through May 27, 2000, as World Trade Week. I invite the people of the United States to observe this week with events, trade shows, and educational pro- grams that celebrate the benefits of international trade to our economy and our world. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth. WILLIAM J. CLINTON Proclamation 7311 of May 1\365, 2000 Small Business Week, 2000 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation The men and women who own and operate our Nation's 25 million small businesses have made, and continue to make, an indispensable contribu- tion to America's economic strength and success. These entrepreneurs pos- sess many of the characteristics that have always defined the American spirit: a fierce independence, an extraordinary work ethic, and an uncom- promising commitment to building a better life. Taking risks to fulfill their dreams, they have made a profound and positive impact on the lives and futures of their fellow citizens. America's small business owners represent more than 99 percent of all em- ployers, and they employ more than half of the private sector workforce. 83

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