OFFICIALS LEGISLATION INTEREST GROUPS PUBLIC STATEMENTS COMMITTEES VETOES

Establishing The House Democracy Assistance Commission For The 110th Congress

Floor Speech

Date: Jan. 30, 2007
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Foreign Aid


ESTABLISHING THE HOUSE DEMOCRACY ASSISTANCE COMMISSION FOR THE 110TH CONGRESS -- (House of Representatives - January 30, 2007)

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Mr. FORTENBERRY. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Florida for her leadership on the Foreign Affairs Committee, as well as our chairman, Mr. Lantos, for your support of the resolution today.

Madam Speaker, I would like to add my voice to those who have commented on the leadership of Mr. Price of North Carolina, and Mr. Dreier of California, as well as the excellent service that the dedicated staff has provided in the formation of the House Democracy Assistance Commission.

Madam Speaker, I was very pleased to receive an appointment to the commission during the last Congress, because I recognized its potential to help legislators around the world who are struggling to give representative democracy a chance. By supporting this program we can provide direct help to build effective legislative institutions worldwide. Through the work of the House Democracy Assistance Commission we bring the best of our practical experience in running this Congress to emerging democratic societies, where people are longing to experience robust institutional systems that value the just principles of self-determination.

Last Congress, the commission selected 12 parliaments from Afghanistan to East Timor for participation in its technical assistance program. Logistical challenges notwithstanding, the commission's dedicated professionals and committed members reached out to help replicate this institution's success stories in legislatures throughout the world.

In reauthorizing the House Democracy Assistance Commission, we can continue to help other countries place their people's aspirations within reach. In helping them to succeed, we can play a direct role in laying the foundations for a more stable and peaceful world.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution today.

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