Jasper Packard: “I reluctantly resist and oppose the amendment of my dear friend and colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr.…”

“I reluctantly resist and oppose the amendment of my dear friend and colleague, the gentleman from California (Mr. Radanovich). But I am convinced that, if we allow the section 907 to continue, that it will prevent us from working toward a peaceful solution in Central Asia. I want to commend the gentleman from Louisiana (Chairman Livingston) on his leadership on this issue. There is few people that have understood this issue better than he, and I support his efforts to facilitate the peace and stability that we are seeking between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Section 907 is an outdated provision which hamstrings our foreign policy options in the Caucasus. Azerbaijan remains the only former Soviet Republic barred from receiving broad-based U.S. assistance based upon conditions that no longer apply. Repealing section 907 sends a signal that will encourage investment and competence in Azerbaijan and thus will contribute to the stability of this strategical and vital region. Lifting section 907 is an important component of the comprehensive U.S. strategy for the region and will help facilitate our involvement in Central Asia. For 10 years, we have looked for peace there. The current system is not working. It is time that we change. Section 907 continues to undermine our neutrality in the negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan to promote peace.”