Ben Cardin

I initiated and collaborated on numerous legislative efforts, such as advocacy on behalf of political prisoners in the Soviet Union.

We must always make clear this assistance in no way signals the United States has given up on efforts to create the conditions in Rakhine State.

We need to continue to focus on the immediate needs of these vulnerable populations--basic health and safety.

The United States is the leading donor to the Rakhine State crisis.

I have witnessed the deeply troubling developments in Nicaragua over recent months, as peaceful protests over changes to pensions quickly transformed into a much broader public repudiation of the Ortega Government.

I remain deeply concerned about the approximate 5,300 Nicaraguans who will be forced to return to Nicaragua in early 2019 because of the Trump administration's decision.

I think it is important that we send to some of these countries the same proportion of career diplomats.

The amount of assistance that they need is relatively small and can be a major advantage to security in our region.

Engagement is one of the most important things you can do with the Caribbean.

There are those of us who believe that the United States may not be giving enough attention to the Caribbean states.

I am committed to making sure Congress is briefed as the investigation continues.

Let me just ask, Mr. Palmieri, one question. I talked to you in my office. Do you commit to monitor the Berta Caceres case to make sure that we get independent evaluations as to the fairness of that trial?

I am a supporter of regional organizations.

I would welcome Ms. Williams' thoughts on that, particularly the Caribbean Basin Security Initiatives.

I mention that because in that statute there is a cooperative effort between the executive and legislative branches.

It is important that we have unfiltered information in order to be able to make our judgments.

We have bipartisan support to protect those who are on TPS status because we know the circumstances on the ground are such that it is not safe for their return.

Sustainable solutions can only be found through early, genuinely free and fair, and transparent elections with international observation.

We look for you to use our presence in these countries, our mission of promoting American values.

It was appropriate that this year's Summit of the Americas topic was democratic governance against corruption.

Combatting human trafficking is an issue of personal importance to me, as it is to most of the members of this committee.

The United States is committed to helping Montenegro advance the reforms needed to continue its rapid Euro-Atlantic integration.

Freedom of expression, including of the press, is a cornerstone of democracy, and I pledge to advocate for media freedom in Montenegro.

The substance of any agreement on normalization must come from the parties themselves.

Now is the time for the parties to be creative and flexible.