The European Commission “expressed disappointment” in a U.S. Department of Transportation decision

to withdraw a proposed rule that would have clarified the definition of “actual control” of U.S. carriers. DOT had proposed the rule to encourage foreign investment, prompting criticism from many within the U.S. Congress. EC vice president Jacques Barrot said the proposal “was an essential element in order to conclude the comprehensive first step Air Transport Agreement with the United States.” The United States plans to send a delegation to Brussels in early 2007 to review the “urgent” situation, according to an EC statement.