Ed Royce: “In closing, let me commend the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Menendez], the ranking member of the Subcommittee on…”

“In closing, let me commend the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Menendez], the ranking member of the Subcommittee on Africa, who has worked with us on this resolution. We have worked together on several measures throughout the year. I would also like to commend Special Envoy James Baker for his work. Morocco is a longtime ally and the United States has been improving relations with Algeria, which supports the Polisario Front. The issue of self-determination for Western Sahara poses a danger of instability for the northwest African region. The issue must be resolved so that the likelihood of long-term problems there is diminished. Peace in Western Sahara will allow for economic development and democratization in the region and could be a beneficial example for other nations in North Africa and the Middle East. That is the purpose of this resolution.”