Historic Meeting Between India and Pakistan Leaders Offers Hope

HISTORIC MEETING BETWEEN INDIA AND PAKISTAN LEADERS OFFERS HOPE -- (House of Representatives - September 30, 2004)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, a historic meeting took place this past Friday in New York City between Indian Prime Minister Singh and Pakistani President Musharraf. This was an important step toward bringing about a peaceful ending to disputes over Kashmir and fears of nuclear conflict in the region.

Both India and Pakistan have been strong allies of the United States in the war on terror and Secretary of State Colin Powell should be thanked for playing a significant role in bringing these leaders together. This is the latest example of positive progress in South Asia and the Middle East, thanks to the leadership and support of President George W. Bush and his administration.

This month the world's largest Muslim nation, Indonesia, had its first direct democratic election of a president, and earlier this year Libya voluntarily gave up its program to develop weapons of mass destruction. Additionally, millions of Muslims have been liberated by coalition forces from brutal regimes in Afghanistan and Iraq and now will build a civil society which protects American families.

In conclusion, may God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11.