James T. Callahan: “I fully agree with the gentlewoman from California's concerns regarding media reports of Russian missile transfers to…”

“I fully agree with the gentlewoman from California's concerns regarding media reports of Russian missile transfers to Iran. This is an extremely serious issue, and she is right to draw attention to it. Her earlier discussions with the committee on this issue were greatly appreciated. The committee has focused on this issue under the leadership of the gentleman from California [Mr. Packard], and the bill before us contains very tough language on this subject. Last year's public law contained language prohibiting aid to the Government of Russia unless it terminated nuclear transfers to Iran, along with an ``important to the national security interest'' waiver which the administration has regularly used. This year the committee bill prohibits aid to the Government of Russia if it cooperates with Iran in the nuclear and missile areas. The waiver was raised to vital national security interests, which is a very high standard. If the President does use it, only 50 percent of the funds can be made available. This is very tough language, which reflects the House view, and this is an extremely serious problem. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the gentlewoman's leadership and her attention to this issue.”