On the recordApril 16, 2012
Last week, the North Korean regime sent a clear message of defiance to the world community. Rather than work toward a peaceful agreement, North Korea would prefer its people starve in order to pursue its nuclear ambitions. The failure of the long-range missile test undermines the credibility of the North's new leadership and requires the United States to stand firm in support of stronger penalties. North Korea has one ally in the region that has the power to force them to negotiate in good faith. It's time China stepped up and realized that its economic success is dependent on peace in the region and around the world. With China's rise comes responsibility. I encourage China to use this opportunity to force the North Korean regime to abandon its nuclear missile program and support the welfare of its people; and I encourage the United States to continue a strong posture, peace through strength, in the hopes that someday strength makes war obsolete. ____________________
