Frank Lautenberg: “I am joining with other members of the Senate Foreign Operations Subcommittee in sponsoring the pending amendment to…”

“I am joining with other members of the Senate Foreign Operations Subcommittee in sponsoring the pending amendment to relieve the remainder of Jordan's debt to the United States. I do so because this initiative is integral to the ongoing peace process in the Middle East. This action will make good on the promise President Clinton and the American people made to King Hussein--that the United States would support Jordan as it took risks for peace. In line with this commitment, last summer, President Clinton told King Hussein that he would ask the Congress to relieve Jordan's debt to the United States if Jordan took a bold step toward peace. As the first step on the road to peace, Jordan and Israel signed the Washington Declaration and King Hussein and Prime Minister Rabin appeared for the first time together in public last July. It was a historic moment. Many of us sat in the Capitol and marveled as King Hussein and Prime Minister Rabin--two former enemies--stood together before the Congress and spoke publicly about strengthening ties between their nations, about moving toward a comprehensive peace treaty. We were inspired by their courage. We were moved that the two leaders were taking concrete steps to bring their nations together. That they were committing themselves publicly to waging a battle for peace. In response, and consistent with the President's commitment, the Congress forgave a portion--$220 million--of Jordan's debt to the United States.”