Benjamin Gilman: “this resolution properly places the U.S. Congress on record in marking the tragic occasion of the sixth anniversary of…”

“this resolution properly places the U.S. Congress on record in marking the tragic occasion of the sixth anniversary of the July 18, 1994 terrorist bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Eight-seven people lost their lives and two hundred people were injured in this attack. I thank my colleague from our International Relations Committee, the distinguished chairwoman of the Subcommittee on International Economic Policy and Trade, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen of Florida, for introducing this resolution. I have long been interested in seeing that this heinous crime is resolved and those responsible are brought to justice. Last year, the Argentine Congress passed important legislation that allows Investigating Judge Juan Jose Galeano to engage in plea bargaining. Nonetheless, the trial of the Argentine citizens charged with complicity in this terrorist bombing has, regrettably, been unduly delayed. Six years is too long a time to let pass without justice. When the local trial does finally get underway, I urge Argentina's authorities to invite and permit international observers to witness the trial proceedings.”