Chris Van Hollen: “I'd like to congratulate the Appropriations Committee for putting together a bipartisan bill that provides assistance…”

“I'd like to congratulate the Appropriations Committee for putting together a bipartisan bill that provides assistance for such important issues as global health, humanitarian assistance in Sudan, the environment and peacekeeping operations around the world. The 2008 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill reinforces the notion that foreign policy is about more than the use of military force and that foreign assistance and humanitarian aid are important components of foreign policy making. The bill provides $949 million for Sudan, of which $210 million is for critical humanitarian and peacekeeping programs in Darfur. The remaining funds are for development assistance and to strengthen democratic institutions in southern Sudan. Global health efforts also receive funding in this bill. The bill provides $5 billion for HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention and care programs around the world. The bill also includes $501 million for clean energy and biodiversity programs worldwide. Educational and cultural exchanges receive more than $500 million to fund participation of over 42,000 individuals in educational, cultural, and professional exchange programs including Fulbright exchanges. The bill also contains funding for programs in many countries around the world, including Pakistan. The U.S. appreciates Pakistan's effort in the fight against global terrorism.”