Political Quotes

“I know I will be joined by every Member of the Senate as I express my deepest condolences to the families of Fernando Buesa and Jorge Diez Elorza, who were tragically killed in Tuesday's bombing attack by the Spanish terrorist group ETA in Vitoria, Spain. I point out Fernando Buesa was the head of the Socialist Party in the Basque Assembly, so he was a political leader of some note and a highly respected leader in his own country. In the aftermath of this attack on human rights and peaceful coexistence, I also offer my thoughts and prayers to the people of Spain and the Spanish community around the world. Reports of terrorist violence in Spain are becoming far too common. It was only one month ago that an ETA car bomb in central Madrid killed one man and injured innocent children on their way to school. This cowardly type of terrorist expression must be stopped. Over a year ago, I was pleased when I heard reports of the historic ETA cease-fire. Under this cease-fire, Spain remained free of terrorist violence for 14 months and enjoyed the increase in tourism that peace affords. Unfortunately, in December of 1999, ETA renounced its cease-fire, once again plunging Spain into the horrific terrorist violence that marked its past. I believe that a majority of the people in Spain, both Basque and Spanish, are tired of this endless violence. It is time for ETA to renew its cease-fire and negotiate a peace agreement with the Spanish government.”