Pete Domenici: “I rise late in the debate because I know it is an important issue, and I find myself wanting to say to the people of…”

“I rise late in the debate because I know it is an important issue, and I find myself wanting to say to the people of Peru that this Senator who comes from the State of New Mexico, where almost half our people speak Spanish--a commonality between our two countries--would expect that I show the appropriate concern for the people whom this treaty will benefit. That is why I am here. It is entirely proper that the United States show more concern and more consideration and have more relationships of mutual benefit with the countries of Central and South America, without a doubt. I would like to have a few words from this Senator spread on the record to show that with what I have said, I concur. With this treaty, be it not the best because those who look at it from the standpoint of the best find fault here and there, it is as good as we are going to get and we ought to approve it. My vote will show up in favor, and that will be because I understand it. I understand what it means, and I am for the principles and the expected effect of this treaty. I yield the floor.”