Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, a little over twelve years ago, on September 13, 1995, Clinton Administration officials played a critical role in addressing a pressing issue in the Balkans and Europe. With American-led mediation, our longstanding friend, ally and strategic partner Greece signed an Interim Accord at the United Nations in New York with the newly-established former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, a state that emerged from the disintegration of former Yugoslavia.

This agreement paved the way for the normalization of relations between Greece and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. Following the signing of this Interim Accord, Greece, like the United States, strongly supported the newly established state, both politically and economically. Greece fully backed FYROM's aspirations to join the key institutions of the European and Euro-Atlantic community, and Greece became the number one investor in that country, with $1.1 billion invested capital.

Unfortunately, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has not fully reciprocated these gestures and I am concerned about unacceptable propaganda impugning Greece's history and cultural heritage. It is critical that Skopje address this propaganda and show increased flexibility during the ongoing U.N. negotiations, with a view to finding a mutually acceptable solution on the name issue. Resolution of this issue is not just a bilateral issue with Greece, but has regional and international dimensions.

As Chairman of the Europe Subcommittee in the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, I have been working in a bipartisan fashion with the subcommittee's ranking member, Congressman Elton Gallegly to support efforts to resolve this long-standing issue, including introducing House Resolution 356. This resolution expresses the sense of this House that the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) should not violate provisions of the United Nations-brokered Interim Agreement between the FYROM and Greece regarding ``hostile activities or propaganda'' and should work with the United Nations and Greece to achieve longstanding United States and United Nations policy goals of finding a mutually-acceptable official name for the FYROM.

House Resolution 356 already has 73 cosponsors and I would urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to cosponsor this resolution and urge authorities in Skopje to join Athens and meet their obligations deriving from the U.S.-brokered Interim Accord.

Mr. Chairman, a co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Intellectual Property Promotion, I rise in strong support of this patent reform legislation because it is critical for the continued growth of American businesses and the creation of high-paying jobs in America.

This bill will nurture and protect inventors, thereby promoting future Alexander Graham Bells and tomorrow's Microsofts.

For more than 200 years, strong patent protection, along with timely examination of patent applications, has helped secure the economic success of the United States by empowering inventors and encouraging the development of American business both large and small.

Every day, Americans rely on the innovation that comes from our patent system. From new computer technologies to medicines for America's seniors, the American patent system provides the fuel for our most important technological accomplishments.

In America today, our capacity to come up with new ideas actually outstrips the value of the goods we make. The licensing of U.S. patents contributes approximately $150 billion to our annual economy, and intellectual property, including patents, is the only economic area where the United States maintains a solid trade surplus with the rest of the world.

A well-functioning patent system is vital to America's commercial and scientific entrepreneurs and preserves the incentives for innovation guaranteed under the United States Constitution.

This legislation will make America more competitive in the global marketplace, not less. We need to support Mr. Berman and Mr. Conyers in their effort to produce what I would respectfully suggest is the most important economic legislation that this House will pass. This is excellent for America's workers; it's excellent for America's universities and our economy at large.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly support H.R. 1, Improving America's Security Act of 2007, which includes critical security provisions endorsed by the 9/11 Commission as well as an overdue expansion of the visa waiver program, VWP.

Mr. Speaker, the visa waiver program is an immensely valuable program for the United States, and the legislation before us will not only enable us to expand the visa waiver program to additional allies who already offer U.S. citizens visa-free travel to their countries, but simultaneously strengthen the security aspects of the program.

Although H.R. 1 expands the VWP, I would have preferred that the program expand to all the roadmap countries, among them some of America's most important and loyal allies, and I am hopeful Congress will take steps to address this issue in the near future.

Despite my concerns that some roadmap countries may be excluded, this legislation is an important step towards addressing the security concerns that members of Congress have articulated about the visa waiver program. I am confident that once the security measures outlined in H.R. 1 are implemented, those members of Congress who previously had concerns about the program will be open to considering further expansion of the visa waiver program.

In the meantime, it is imperative that the Bush Administration and Congress continue to work with our allies, who deserve to participate in the program. The United States should also provide assistance to help these governments reduce their visa refusal rates and meet all the necessary requirements detailed in the Improving America's Security Act.

It is clear that H.R. 1 fulfills key 9/11 Commission recommendations and improves the security aspects of the visa waiver program, and I applaud my colleagues for their efforts to make our country safer and further expand this program. However, America cannot successfully fight the battle against international terrorism without the cooperation and trust of our allies. I would like to remind my colleagues that the 9/11 Commission also stressed the need for diplomacy and cooperation with other Nations to address the threat of international terrorism. In this vein, further expansion of the visa waiver program can play a vital role in strengthening America's relationships and security partnerships with our most trusted allies--which is essential to preventing another 9/11 disaster.

Madam Speaker, I, too, would like to be recognized as just expressing my support for H.R. 2347.

Madam Speaker, I rise in recognition of the 1-year anniversary of the kidnapping of Eldad Regev and Ehud Goldwasser, two soldiers in the Israeli Defense Force who were kidnapped by Hezbollah operatives on the border with Lebanon on July 12, 2006. Their kidnapping came only a few weeks after the abduction of Gilad Shalit, an IDF officer seized by Hamas militants on June 25, 2006, during a horrific attack near Kibbutz Kerem Shalom, on the border of the Gaza Strip.

These three brave young men are among eight Israeli soldiers kidnapped or missing in action over the last 25 years. Staff Sergeants Zachary Baumel, Zvi Feldman, and Yehuda Katz have been missing since June 11, 1982, after a battle at Sultan Yakoub in Lebanon. Major Ron Arad was captured on October 16, 1986, when his aircraft was shot down inside Lebanon. Israeli solider Guy Hever disappeared on August 17, 1997, from an army base in the southern Golan Heights.

Since my first day in the United States Congress, I have made advocating for the safe return of all Israeli soldiers a priority. During an official trip to Israel last July, I met with Benny Regev, brother of Eldad Regev, to express my deepest sympathy and concern and assure him of America's commitment to securing his brother's release. Today, I urge my colleagues to join me in renewing our commitment to secure the release of all Israeli prisoners of war and to hold those individuals, organizations, and governments involved in these abductions accountable for their violation of international law. In marking the anniversary of the kidnapping of these brave soldiers, we should also acknowledge the sacrifice of their families and of the Israeli people as they continue to defend their borders in the ongoing struggle for regional stability and peace.

As Israel's strongest ally and friend, the United States must continue to support Israel's right to self defense, and advocate for the safe return of all of Israeli soldiers missing in action and being held as prisoners of war.

Thank you, Mr. Lantos.

Mr. Speaker, President Bush stubbornly refuses to end the war in Iraq. It is up to Congress to step forward and mandate that our troops return home. Congress must deliver to the American people what they voted for in November. It is Congress that must end this disastrous war. At long last, this legislation delivers a responsible withdrawal of American troops.

The stark reality is that the President's escalation strategy has been an utter failure. Instead of a successful surge, the President's policy in Iraq has regressed, and the death toll of American troops and Iraqi civilians has mounted.

This President is unwilling to change course, despite overwhelming American opposition to the war, despite failing to meet political, economic and security benchmarks, and despite calls by Senate Republicans urging a change in course. The President is in denial, and it is time for Congress to deliver a reality check.

Our troops have sacrificed enough. Our military families have suffered enough. American taxpayers have spent enough. Congress must bring our troops home, and this bill does it.

Mr. Speaker, I first and foremost want to thank Chairman Conyers for his cooperation and great support for H.R. 2286. I also want to thank Ranking Member Lamar Smith for working in such a bipartisan fashion.

I especially want to thank Congressman Keller, Mr. Forbes mentioned just a moment ago. Mr. Keller and I have worked hand in hand in pushing the Bail Bond Fairness Act, and I know very much that he wished to be here to speak this evening.

I also want to thank Mr. Forbes for his very kind words and his cooperation as well, as well as the subcommittee chairman, Mr. Scott of Virginia.

Mr. Speaker, the Bail Bond Fairness Act will ensure equality and fairness for all Federal defendants and will make it possible for bail agents to once again write bonds in Federal courts. This bill addresses a serious problem in the Federal bail bond system, created by requirements that bail agents not only ensure the appearance of defendants in court, but also guarantee other conditions beyond the agent's control, such as alcohol consumption and curfews.

As a result, bail bond agents have stopped writing bonds in Federal cases, and lower-income defendants have become unable to post bail while wealthier individuals do so easily. The result is that poor defendants can't afford bail and must, therefore, stay in jail at taxpayer expense.

H.R. 2286 would remedy these problems and allow professional bail agents to return to the Federal court system. The bill mandates that a bail bond may be forfeited only if a defendant fails to appear in court as ordered.

This legislation reaffirms the original purpose of a bail bond, to guarantee the defendant appears in court. Bail agents must be allowed to serve this purpose and cannot be expected to serve as full-time nannies for defendants whom judges determine are safe to be released.

It is important to note that the Bail Bond Fairness Act totally preserves the authority of the judge to grant or refuse bail. The judge, and the judge only, will continue to make a determination on flight risk and any possible threat to the community.

Judges will still have the discretion to determine who is eligible and who is not for pretrial release, what conditions accompany that release, and whether or not a suspected criminal is a flight risk. We all agree that if a suspected criminal is a threat to the society, to the community, he or she should stay in jail.

The bottom line is that bail bonds should guarantee appearance in court. Any other appropriate conditions set by the judge, such as alcohol or drug consumption, should not be tied to the bond.

This bill enjoys a great deal of bipartisan support, and I again want to thank Congressman Keller, my colleague from Florida, as one of the prime sponsors and again thank Chairman Conyers.

Madam Speaker, I rise today before the House to honor the memory of 3 young men: Andrew Goodman, James Chaney, and Michael Schwerner. Forty-three years ago, today, these young men paid the ultimate price when they were ruthlessly murdered by those who wished to silence their outcry for equality.

On June 21, 1964, in Neshoba County, Mississippi, Goodman, Chaney and Schwerner were pulled over and subsequently arrested for allegedly speeding. After being denied their basic rights as prisoners, they were fined $20 and released. But Mississippi in 1964 was a dangerous place for civil rights workers; they were followed and assaulted by a group of Ku Klux Klan members. The young activists were never seen alive again.

The summer of 1964 became known as Freedom Summer. Students from around the country were united in a single vital struggle against racial inequality. Over 1,000 young volunteers traveled to Mississippi that summer with the intention of registering African American voters. They defied the local authorities, who were determined to undermine their efforts and succeeded in establishing dozens of quality summer schools and registering thousands of voters.

These volunteers came for various reasons. Some, like Schwerner and Goodman, came to Mississippi from the North to express their commitment to social justice. Others, like Chaney, volunteered because they were dedicated to the improvement of their own community. However, the unlikely trio of 2 New York Jews and an African American from the South were united in their unwavering devotion to ensure civil rights for all.

Even today, we must continue in the struggle for universal civil rights, as our society is not yet free from bigotry and injustice. The terrible murders of Andrew Goodman, James Chaney, and Michael Schwerner acted as sparks that further ignited the passion of everyday Americans to take a public stand against prejudice. As we remember these heroes of the civil rights movement, we must also aspire to emulate their tireless commitment to fairness and equality.

Madam Speaker, I hope Americans today will remember the sacrifices of these 3 young men to underscore our commitment to the continuing efforts towards achieving the full potential of our great Nation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the people and Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan--as they prepare to celebrate Republic Day on May 28.

Republic Day commemorates the day Azerbaijan first declared independence from the Russian Empire in 1918. Though the Azerbaijan Republic later succumbed to Soviet forces in 1920, in its 2 years of independence Azerbaijan achieved a number of measures on state- building, armed forces, education, economy, and universal suffrage, from which it benefits today.

Azerbaijan's second opportunity for freedom and independence began in 1990 as Azeris began gathering in protest against Soviet rule. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan declared anew their independence.

On August 30, 1991, Azerbaijan's Parliament adopted the Declaration on the Restoration of the State of Independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and on October 18, 1991, their Constitution was approved.

Azerbaijan is a key global security partner for the United States. Azerbaijan was among the first nations to offer our United States unconditional support in the war against terrorism, providing use of its airspace, airports, and troops for Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Azerbaijan was also the first Muslim nation to send troops to Iraq.

Azerbaijan works with the United States regionally through the GUAM Organization for Democracy and Economic Development (Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan and Moldova), to prevent illegal trafficking and to secure borders.

Azerbaijan contributes significantly to the diversification of the western energy supply. The Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, an initiative supported by the Clinton and Bush administrations, reached a milestone when its first oil reached the Mediterranean Sea on May 28, 2006. The following March, the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding--designed to increase the level of cooperation between our two nations--with Azerbaijan to engage in high level dialogue on energy security in the Caspian region.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of my colleagues, I congratulate the Republic of Azerbaijan on the celebration of Republic Day, and I look forward to further collaboration between our two nations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a distinguished and decorated Jewish war veteran, Mr. Leonard Herman, by naming the postal facility at 601 Banyan Trail in Boca Raton, Florida, as the Leonard W. Herman Post Office. Mr. Herman signed up for two tours of duty during World War II, serving as First Lieutenant from December 12, 1942 through January 29, 1946. His courage during the war and the tenacity with which he fought, after the war, to change U.S. policy towards the survivors and displaced persons of concentration camps makes him a real American hero.

As a bombardier in the United States Army, Leonard Herman flew numerous combat missions over Germany and committed numerous acts of bravery that helped save countless lives. On October 8, 1943, he shot down an enemy fighter aircraft as it closed in on his plane. This courageous act saved his crewmen and earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross Award. In addition, the heroism he displayed during his tour won him several high honors, including an Air Medal, three Oak Leaf Clusters and the Purple Heart.

Perhaps one of Mr. Herman's greatest achievements was his contribution to the efforts of a few young soldiers, including his brother Edward Herman, who sought to save the lives of thousands of ``survivors'' of German concentration camps who continued to die because of the lack of adequate food, clothing and medical supplies. According to the accounts of Professor Robert L. Hilliard, ``Lt. Leonard Herman took it upon himself to advise and seek the help from many of our government leaders regarding the plight of the survivors. His efforts were instrumental in President Truman's learning about the Displaced Persons situation in U.S. occupied Germany. The President changed U.S. policy and issued orders to provide the assistance and material needed by the Holocaust survivors. Lt. Herman played an important role in saving thousands of their lives.''

It is my greatest honor to sponsor this legislation that will recognize Mr. Leonard Herman for his bravery and service to this country. The Post Office designation is a fitting and long overdue tribute. I urge Members of the Committee to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, today in Tamarac, Florida, 11 outstanding Broward elders will be honored at the Annual Senior Hall of Fame Breakfast. These 11 seniors being honored have volunteered in their communities and have contributed countless hours to helping others. Their outstanding character and compassion have truly set them apart. Those being honored are Dr. Kamala Anadam, Lucille D'Orso, Ron English, Elizabeth ``Betty'' Mate, Evelyn Miller, Pearl Monchek, Commissioner Allegra Webb Murphy, Sister Germana Sala, Charles Singer, Eleanor Sobel, and Willie Mae Williams.

Dr. Kamala Anadam of Weston, a former professor of Child Development in India, has been participating in the Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers Project since 1998. She personally coordinated the Project in her congregation, overseeing 22 volunteers and visiting frail homebound elderly in their homes. Dr. Anadam is a Member of the Fort Lauderdale Branch of America Association of University Women, a member of the Broward County Chapter of the United Nations of U.S.A., and a Member of the Advisory Committee of Senior Volunteer Services, Inc.

Lucille D'Orso of Lauderdale Lakes, a retired hairdresser, has been volunteering for the Foster Grandparents Program for over 32 years and has spent a majority of her time at several Broward County elementary schools, including Pinewood Elementary in North Lauderdale for 10 years, Northside Elementary in Fort Lauderdale for 15 years, Oriole Elementary in Lauderdale Lakes, and Larkdale Elementary in Fort Lauderdale.

Ron English of Fort Lauderdale has a passion for caring for the marginalized and less fortunate members of the community, leading to the creation of ground-breaking institutions such as AmFar (American Foundation for AIDS Research), the Sunshine Cathedral Foundation, and SunServe, the world's first

senior center designed to meet the needs of gay and lesbian frail seniors and their caregivers.

Elizabeth ``Betty'' Mate of Fort Lauderdale has been associated with the Alzheimer's Family Center since 1997 and has served on the agency's Board of Directors. In 200?, she became Chairman of the Alzheimer's Family Center's Black Tie Gala Committeee, and she recently completed a training program to volunteer for Project Lifesaver.

Evelyn Miller of Tamarac is Broward President of the National Alliance for Mental Illness. She also serves on the Board of the Florida Alliance for Mental Illness, and through her legislative advocacy and facilitation of model programs, has established the local Mental Health Court, the Court Project, the Florida Assertive Community Treatment Teams, the Crisis Intervention team Model within local law enforcement, and the Peer-to-Peer and Family-to-Family Programs.

Pearl Monchek of Hollywood is a lifetime member of the Jewish War Veterans Auxiliary and the Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary. She also discovered the Southeast Focal Point Senior Center more man 10 years ago and often fills in for the Site Manager for Broward Meals on Wheels. During the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma, Pearl came to the aid of residents of the apartment complex adjacent to the Senior Center, purchasing and delivering food and supplies to needy individuals.

Commissioner Allegra Webb Murphy of Oakland Park has served on the City of Oakland Park's Beautification Advisory Board, Charter Review Board, and Oakland Park Main Street Inc., in the offices of Vice President and Executive Board Secretary, and has contributed time as President of the Harris Chapel United Methodist Women's Group. Allegra actively participates with the Lakeside Homeowners Association, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and the Oakland Park Kiwanis Club, and she holds the distinction of being the first African American Mayor of the City of Oakland Park.

Sister Germana Sala of Davie spent 15 years teaching mentally disabled children in North Miami and since then, has spent a majority of her time at Hope Outreach, providing Social Services to the low- income, poor, and multicultural residents in and around the Davie area. Germana also visits the homebound, disabled, and frail elderly at home, nursing facilities, and hospitals.

Charles Singer of Pompano Beach helped pursue the creation of Broward Homebound Program, Inc., an affordable in-home program to prevent the need for premature institutionalization. Charles has also served as President of the Central Bureau for Jewish Aged Association, Founder of the National Association of Jewish Homes for the Aged, Treasurer of the Men's Golf Association of Palm Aire and the B'nai B'rith Housing in Deerfield, and Vice President of the Auxiliary of the Memory Disorder Center.

Eleanor Sobel of Hollywood was elected to the Broward School Board in 2006 and is a former Florida State Representative. Eleanor served as Chair for Women in Power in the 1980s and as President of the Hollywood Chapter for the National Council for Jewish Women, and was the City Commissioner in Hollywood for 6 years in the 1990s. As a State Representative, Eleanor brought the concerns of citizens in Hollywood and Pembroke Pines before the state legislature and was influential in enacting reforms on many issues of importance.

Willie Mae Williams of Lauderdale Lakes served as the Northwest Federated Woman's Club of Broward County for more than 25 years. As Second Vice President, Willie Mae diligently chairs the Food and Social Committee, and has raised funds for the organization by coordinating and implementing a weekly fish fry.

Madam Speaker, I would like to again congratulate these 11 outstanding Broward County citizens who are being honored at the Annual Senior Hall of Fame, and thank them for their years of service to their fellow Floridians.

Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support for the Fiscal Year 2008 Budget Resolution, H. Con. Res. 99. For far too long, the former Republican leadership in Congress and the Bush Administration were complacent in allowing poor public policy and misguided spending priorities to become a driving force behind mounting Federal deficits and an ever increasing national debt. Additionally, trillions of dollars in tax cuts for the wealthy and billions of dollars for a deteriorating war in Iraq have resulted in the President proposing repeated cuts to vital domestic priorities such as healthcare, education, and the environment.

Today, the House of Representatives is finally considering a budget that meets the social and economic needs of the American people, while taking the necessary steps toward addressing the mounting fiscal hurdles facing the Federal Government.

Our Nation has been in a budgetary crisis for too long. According to the Congressional Budget Office, CBO, estimates, President Bush inherited an estimated 10-year budget surplus of $5.6 trillion when he arrived in office. Today, that same 10-year period (2002-2011) is projected to show a budget deficit of $3 trillion under the President's policies. The Democratic Budget Resolution will set the country's finances back on track by balancing the budget by 2012, and it does this without sacrificing programs vital to our national security, our economy, and most importantly to the social welfare of the American people.

This budget will provide the largest veterans' healthcare spending increase in our Nation's history, ensuring that the 1,788,496 veterans in Florida receive care worthy of their sacrifice. It will facilitate significant increases in healthcare funding to expand access to Florida's 733,000 uninsured children, and makes a firm commitment to support education and affordable housing programs. It

also promotes environmental protection and conservation, and accommodates important energy legislation aimed at investment in renewable resources that will move our country toward energy independence.

This budget resolution restores the fiscal responsibility and accountability that the American people deserve and reflects the values and priorities that the American people expect. It is time to put this country's finances back on track and truly invest in America's prosperity. I urge my colleague to support passage of this important resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 228) recognizing the 186th anniversary of the independence of Greece and celebrating Greek and American democracy.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to pay tribute on Greek Independence Day to one of America's most important European allies, Greece, and one that holds immeasurable importance to millions of Americans.

I would also like to thank my good friend from Florida (Ms. Ros- Lehtinen), who has been a leading supporter of U.S.-Greek relations in Congress.

Western civilization as we know it today is undeniably connected to Greece. For every American, Greece is known as the cradle of democracy. As a nation that still seeks to perfect its democracy in civic society, America looks to Greece and its universally known philosophers and leaders for political inspiration and wisdom. In fact, the very word ``democracy'' is a Greek word. The history of Greek independence is inspiring, especially given America's own history and drive for independence from tyranny and oppression. Greeks have been willing to fight for independence, sacrifice for the sake of freedom, and have stirred others to do the same.

As a Member of Congress with a large Greek-American community, I am especially pleased that we are passing this resolution today, which also highlights the extraordinary contributions of a community that has contributed greatly to the shared prosperity of our Nation. Today, the Greek-American community remains the bedrock in the unbreakable bond between the United States and our ally, Greece. As ambassadors of goodwill between the United States and Greece, Greek Americans have for decades shaped this long-standing friendship, creating a partnership based on freedom, democracy and peace.

Today, some 5 million Americans claim Greek ancestry, with understandable pride. Greece is one of less than a handful of nations that have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States in every major war of the 20th century. Our close relations became even closer after World War II. The Truman Doctrine helped save Greece from communism, indeed helped save it for the Western world, and the Marshall Plan helped pave the way for economic success.

In 1952, Greece joined NATO, formalizing the deep mutual commitment of Greece and the rest of the western world to protecting freedom. Now, as an integral member of the EU for two decades, Greece has become increasingly prosperous, a democratic role model for the nations of the world.

Greece remains a critical strategic partner in today's post-Cold War world. We cooperate closely in promoting peace and stability in the Balkans. Athens has supported efforts to settle the Cyprus problem and to end the divide on the island. And I am especially supportive of Greece's critical efforts in recent years to resolve historic differences with its neighbor, Turkey, including supporting that country's membership in the EU.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Greek people on the 186th anniversary of their independence and strongly support this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to give Ms. Jackson-Lee of Texas, a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, 5\1/2\ minutes.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlelady from New York (Mrs. Maloney), who also is the cochair of the Hellenic Caucus.

Mr. Speaker, I too want to thank Mr. Poe. And we also do not have any more speakers, so we will yield back.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 230) recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Treaty of Rome signed on March 25, 1957, which was a key step in creating the European Union, and reaffirming the close

and mutually beneficial relationship between the United States and Europe.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 230, and yield myself as much time as I may consume.

I first want to thank Chairman Lantos for introducing this resolution with me. If there is anyone in Congress who fully understands the significance of this moment, it is Congressman Lantos, who has been an unwavering supporter of the transatlantic alliance and the creation of the European Union.

In addition, I want to thank the ranking member of the Europe Subcommittee, Mr. Gallegly, for his efforts in bringing this resolution to the floor.

Mr. Speaker, on March 25, 1957, in an attempt to recover from destruction caused by two devastating world wars, six European nations, France, Italy, Belgium, The Netherlands, the Federal Republic of Germany, and Luxembourg, joined together in common interest to form the foundations of a new economic and political community. The resulting Treaty of Rome laid the framework to promote an ever closer union among the peoples of Europe.

At that time, the Treaty of Rome provided for the establishment of a common market, a customs union and common policies, expanding on the unity already established in the European Coal and Steel Community. The founding members, keen on ensuring the past was not to be repeated, were particularly interested in the idea of creating a community of peace and stability through economic ties.

The success of the European Economic Community inspired other countries to apply for membership, making it the first concrete step toward the creation of the European Union. The Treaty of Rome established the basic institutions and decision-making mechanisms still in place today. The European Union, now comprised of 27 countries and over 450 million people, is a unique and a historic example of nation- states transcending their former divisions, deciding to come together for the sake of freedom, peace and prosperity, and resolving their differences in the interest of the common good and rule of law.

The success of the EU over the past 50 years has also benefited greatly the United States. Today, the United States and Europe enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship that has a long and established history.

As the world's most important alliance, the U.S. and the EU are intimately intertwined, cooperating on regional conflicts, collaborating to address global challenges, and sharing strong trade and investment relations.

It is clear that the strongest possible relationship between the United States and Europe is a prerequisite for addressing the challenges of the 21st century. The U.S. and EU are working closely to promote reform and peace in the Middle East, rebuild and enhance security in Afghanistan, support the goals of democratization and prosperity in Eastern Europe, the Caucasus, Balkans and Central Asia, prevent genocide in Darfur and end the violence and terrorism in Lebanon.

The anniversary of the Rome Treaty is a reminder of the importance of the transatlantic alliance in an increasingly difficult global environment. However, the 50-year EU experiment is an example of the enduring possibilities of democratic transformation and a brighter future for millions.

It is my hope that the EU will continue to keep its doors open and remain a beacon of hope to the citizens of Europe who aspire to obtain the peace and prosperity that have blossomed over the past 50 years.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Treaty of Rome, and strongly urge the passage of H. Res. 230.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 222) expressing the support of the House of Representatives for the Good Friday Agreement, signed on April 10, 1998, as a blueprint for a lasting peace in Northern Ireland, and for other purposes.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration, as well as H. Res. 228.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution, and yield myself as much time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I would first like to thank my good friend and colleague, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy of New York, who has been a passionate and tireless advocate for peace and justice in Northern Ireland throughout her distinguished career in Congress.

Over the past several years, the peace process in Northern Ireland has taken many twists and turns. The Good Friday Agreement, designed to bring an end to the conflict in Northern Ireland, has been declared dead time and again. The Northern Ireland Assembly and the Executive established by the Good Friday Agreement have been suspended since 2002.

During the past few months, however, we have witnessed incredibly promising developments in our efforts to fully implement the Good Friday Agreement, which was signed almost 9 years ago on April 10, 1998.

The St. Andrews Agreement of October 2006 established a firm timetable for the restoration of the government in Northern Ireland. In the agreement itself and in subsequent declarations, both sides of the conflict committed themselves to the rule of law, effective policing, and a strong criminal justice system. Most importantly, the elections called for by the St. Andrews Agreement were carried out successfully just last week.

Now the hard work begins, Mr. Speaker. Over the next 2 weeks, Northern Ireland's political parties must agree to share power according to the democratic mandate of the Good Friday Agreement. A failure to reach a power sharing deal will lead to the dissolution of the Northern Ireland Assembly, a development which would be profoundly damaging to the long-term prospects for peace in Northern Ireland. With passage of this resolution, Congress urges Northern Ireland's political leaders to make the tough compromises necessary to bring about a power sharing arrangement. With such a deal, the great promise of the Good Friday Agreement and the St. Andrews Agreement can come to fruition.

The resolution before the House is designed to support the forward movement towards peace and to help pave the way to a time when the conflict in Northern Ireland is only a subject for the history books.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this timely resolution, and reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. McCarthy), who is the sponsor of this resolution.

Mr. Speaker, I too want to thank Mr. Poe. And we also do not have any more speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.