Political Quotes

“I am honored to rise in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 405, which commemorates the independence of East Timor and supports the establishment of diplomatic relations with the newest member state of the international community. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the good people and leaders of East Timor for their perseverance in overcoming centuries of colonization and decades of occupation by Indonesia to gain independence yesterday. With a tremendous sacrifice of blood and lives, the East Timorese people fought to exercise their right to self-determination, voting overwhelmingly in 1999 for independence. Today, their dream has become reality. Through the legislation before us, the Congress honors the achievement of the people of East Timor, urges diplomatic relations with the new government, and pledges continued U.S. support and assistance for the nation's economic and political development. The legislation further calls upon Indonesia for the release of East Timorese refugees held captive in West Timor camps and that our nation should maintain appropriate restrictions and prohibitions on engagement with Indonesia's military until accountability for the atrocities committed against the East Timorese people is reached.”