Jeff Miller: “I rise in support of Nepalese democracy. I would like to commend my colleague from New York, Mr. Walsh, for introducing…”

“I rise in support of Nepalese democracy. I would like to commend my colleague from New York, Mr. Walsh, for introducing this important bill and appreciate the opportunity to speak in support of it today. The Nepalese people, like all people, deserve to live in a country free from conflict and to be represented by democratically elected officials. These elected leaders need to create a professional, non-political military force that can adequately deal with the Maoist rebels who have been destabilizing the country for so long. Currently as a result of the Maoist rule, nearly one third of the Nepalese people live below the poverty line; if the government of Nepal doesn't live up to its moral obligation to effectively govern many more will fall into destitution. To those citizens who are fighting for democracy through non-violent methods, by standing up grass-roots organizations and educating people on the benefits of a free society, I say keep up the good work. Continue working to ensure freedom of the press and that the rights of all citizens are respected and not abused. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to working in the future with Mr. Walsh and the other cosponsors of this bill to ensure that Congress focuses on democratic progress throughout the world.”