Dan Burton: “Had I been here I would have voted ``aye'' for rollcall vote 8, on H. Con. Res. 16--Congratulating the people of the…”

“Had I been here I would have voted ``aye'' for rollcall vote 8, on H. Con. Res. 16--Congratulating the people of the Ukraine for conducting a democratic, transparent, and fair runoff presidential election on December 26, 2004, and congratulating Victor Yushchenko on his election as President of Ukraine and his commitment to democracy and reform. The voice of the Ukrainian people spoke loudly on December 26th as Ukrainians united and re-affirmed their commitment to reform, democracy, and further Trans-Atlantic cooperation with their selection of Mr. Yushchenko as President. The peaceful, orange-clad demonstrators who rallied throughout Ukraine and helped achieve this historic moment should be an inspiration to all of us. And Mr. Yushchenko's peaceful inauguration, and smooth transition to power, displays yet another positive sign for a bright future for the Ukrainians and sets an exceptional example of the power of freedom and democracy for the entire region. As a senior Member of the House International Relations Committee, I extend my personal congratulations to Mr. Yushchenko and wish him all the best as he works to bring Ukraine into the community of democratic nations.”