Political Quotes

“I am pleased to note that there are several provisions in the FY 1998 Foreign Appropriations bill aimed at curbing human rights violations and promoting democratic ideals. A number of countries affected by these stipulations are Guam's neighbors in the Asia-Pacific region. Not only are we in close proximity to nations such as South Korea and China, the people of Guam also enjoy social and cultural links with them. I stress the importance of promoting democracy and human rights in Asia, and I am confident that certain aspects of this bill will contribute towards greater acceptance of self-determination and individual liberties. For example, the Committee's recommendation that the State Department select a special envoy to facilitate the peaceful resolution of the East Timor dilemma should United Nations efforts fail is a clear signal of American commitment to the plight of the East Timorese. I had the pleasure of meeting Bishop Carlos Ximenes Belo, a co-recipient of the Nobel Prize for his work in East Timor, and was amazed by his dedication to provide the East Timorese with an international voice. We must continue our support for leaders such as Bishop Belo in their peaceful quest for basic human rights. I am also pleased that an arrangement is provided for an East-Asian Pacific democracy fund, as proposed in the President's budget request, which would promote democracy and democratic institutions in China.”