GAO presented its International Relations and Trade issue area plan for fiscal years 1997 through 1999.

GAO plans to assess: (1) foreign affairs structures and management of functions and resources; (2) U.S. bilateral programs to assist and influence other countries; (3) U.S. participation in multilateral institutions; (4) international agreements, arrangements, and programs to promote U.S. security interests; (5) programs to promote and finance U.S. overseas business interests; and (6) trade agreements and efforts to improve U.S. access to foreign markets.