H12010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 16, 1999 from Puerto Rico (Mr. ROMERO- national competition. Wyoming gen- CONDEMNING ARMENIAN BARCELO´ ) each will control 20 minutes. erates approximately 2 million tons of ASSASSINATIONS The Chair recognizes the gentleman soda ash per year. Other countries, in- Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to from Utah (Mr. HANSEN). cluding China and India, with vast sup- suspend the rules and agree to the con- Mr. HANSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield plies of Trona have erected tariff and current resolution (H. Con. Res. 222) myself such time as I may consume. nontariff barriers to support their own condemning the assassination of Arme- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. less efficient producers, making it dif- nian Prime Minister Vazgen Sarksian 3063, a bill to amend the Mineral Leas- ficult to export U.S. soda ash. and other officials of the Armenian ing Act of 1920 with respect to limita- The gentlewoman from Wyoming Government and expressing the sense tions upon the amount of acreage an (Mrs. CUBIN) believes that giving the of the Congress in mourning this tragic entity may hold within any one State. Secretary of Interior the discretion to loss of the duly elected leadership of This bill would grant discretion to the raise acreage limitations will have a Armenia. Secretary of the Interior to raise the beneficial effect on the industry’s abil- The Clerk read as follows: statutory limitation upon the amount ity to remain competitive. H. CON. RES. 222 of acreage a company may hold on a Congress set forth acreage limits in statewide basis for sodium leases and Whereas on October 27, 1999, several armed the Mineral Leasing Act to ensure that individuals broke into Armenia’s Parliament permits. no single entity held too much of any and assassinated the Prime Minister of Ar- Mr. Speaker, the current limit was single mineral reserve. The lease limi- menia, Vazgen Sargsian, the Chairman of the established by a 1948 amendment to the tation ensures that there is sufficient Armenian Parliament, Karen Demirchian, Mineral Leasing Act and was set at competition while providing an incen- the Deputy Chairman of the Armenian Par- 15,360 acres, a reasonable size at that tive for development of these reserves liament, Yuri Bakhshian, the Minister of Op- time during mining. But, Mr. Speaker, and ensuring a reasonable rate of re- erative Issues, Leonard Petrossian, and other members of the Armenian Government; a modern operation requires a mine- turn to the Federal and State treas- plant complex which may cost well Whereas Armenia is working toward de- uries. mocracy, the rule of law, and a viable free over $300 million to build. We expect any future Secretary of market economy since obtaining its freedom Like other industries today, consoli- the Interior who uses this discre- from Soviet rule in 1991; and dation to achieve higher efficiency is tionary authority to raise acreage lim- Whereas all nations of the world mourn the taking place in this soda ash business. itations for sodium leases to include a loss suffered by Armenia on October 27, 1999: H.R. 3063 before us today would give finding that raising an acreage for a Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the the Secretary of the Interior the au- producer would not have a negative ef- thority to raise the now too low acre- Senate concurring), That the Congress— fect on either Federal royalty revenues (1) deplores the slaying of the Prime Min- age limit, after he has, in due course, or competition. determined it would not be anti- ister of Armenia, Vazgen Sargsian, the The Clinton administration testified Chairman of the Armenian Parliament, competitive to do so. Otherwise, Fed- in favor of this bill. We have no objec- Karen Demirchian, the Deputy Chairman of eral lessees may need to surrender tions on passing this under the suspen- the Armenian Parliament, Yuri Bakhshian, mined-out leases before backfilling un- sion of the House rules. the Minister of Operative Issues, Leonard derground voids with tailings currently Petrossian, and other members of the Arme- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of stored on the surface, a method which nian Government struck down in this violent my time. the Bureau of Land Management would attack; like to see remain available. Mr. HANSEN. Mr. Speaker, I have no (2) strongly shares the determination of Also, solution mining of the under- further speakers on this, and I yield the Armenian people that the perpetrators of back the balance of my time. these vile acts will be swiftly brought to jus- ground pillars left in place cannot ´ tice so that Armenia may demonstrate its occur if the leases are returned to the Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO. Mr. Speak- er, I yield such time as he may con- resolute opposition to acts of terror; Government prematurely. From a roy- (3) commends the efforts of the late Prime alty flow viewpoint, it is desirable for sume to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Minister and the Armenian Government for our domestic industry to have these TRAFICANT). their commitment to democracy, the rule of options available. Mr. TRAFICANT. Mr. Speaker, I sup- law, and for supporting free market move- The administration testified last port the current bill. ments internationally; and month before the Subcommittee on En- Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ . Mr. Speak- (4) continues to cherish the strong friend- ship between Armenia and the United States. ergy and Mineral Resources in support er, I have no further requests for time, of H.R. 3063. and I yield back the balance of my The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to time. ant to the rule, the gentleman from support this legislation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The New York (Mr. GILMAN) and the gen- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of question is on the motion offered by tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PALLONE) my time. the gentleman from Utah (Mr. HANSEN) each will control 20 minutes. Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ . Mr. Speak- that the House suspend the rules and The Chair recognizes the gentleman er, I yield myself such time as I may pass the bill, H.R. 3063. from New York (Mr. GILMAN). consume. The question was taken; and (two- GENERAL LEAVE (Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ asked and thirds having voted in favor thereof) Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask was given permission to revise and ex- the rules were suspended and the bill unanimous consent that all Members tend his remarks.) was passed. may have 5 legislative days within Mr. ROMERO-BARCELO´ . Mr. Speak- A motion to reconsider was laid on which to revise and extend their re- er, H.R. 3063 would amend the Mineral the table. marks on H. Con. Res. 222. Leasing Act to grant the Secretary of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there the Interior the discretion to increase f objection to the request of the gen- a number of Federal leases which may tleman from New York? be held by any one producer in a single There was no objection. GENERAL LEAVE State. Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield The present acreage limitation for Mr. HANSEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask myself such time as I may consume. sodium leases of 15,360 acres has been unanimous consent that all Members (Mr. GILMAN asked and was given in place for 5 decades. The bill would may have 5 legislative days within permission to revise and extend his re- increase the limitation to 30,720 acres which to revise and extend their re- marks.) per producer. marks on H.R. 2862, H.R. 2863, H.R. 2541, Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I support The U.S. soda ash producers, four of H.R. 2818, and H.R. 3063. the motion to suspend the rules and which are in Wyoming, are competitive The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there pass this concurrent resolution, H. with one another for a share of their objection to the request of the gen- Con. Res. 222, introduced by the gen- relatively flat domestic market. They tleman from Utah? tleman from California (Mr. ROGAN), are also faced with strong inter- There was no objection. which is identical to the language of a

VerDate 29-OCT-99 01:29 Nov 17, 1999 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16NO7.027 pfrm02 PsN: H16PT1 November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H12011 resolution introduced by a bipartisan special praise and recognition is appro- Prime Minister Sarksian was com- group of Members of the Senate. It is priate for the way Armenia’s president, mitted to the goal of reform, rebuild- hoped that this will have the support of Robert Kocharian, and the entire Ar- ing the Nation after decades of Soviet my colleagues in the House as well. menian government have moved swift- domination. He supported integration The killings that took place in ly to restore stability to the political of Armenia’s economy with the region Yerevan, Armenia, on October 27 were leadership. and the world, and he sought to pro- deplorable. While the perpetrators A special session of Parliament re- mote a society that protects private claimed to be acting on behalf of the cently elected a new speaker and two property with a stable currency and a Armenian people, their means of act- deputy speakers. President Kocharian balanced budget, while providing social ing, the murders of top officials, are appointed Aram Sarksian, the 36-year- protections to its citizens. During his certainly not the way to build a true old brother of the slain prime minister, visit to Washington, he had the oppor- democracy of Armenia or another such to the post of prime minister. The new tunity to meet also with Vice Presi- struggling countries. prime minister is a relative new-comer dent GORE as well as other Members of This resolution properly calls for the to politics, although he has been active Congress. trial of those accused of these murders. in a major veterans’ organization. I wanted to say also, Mr. Speaker, We hope that the process of fair trial As President Kocharian stated during that Speaker Demirchian had been the and judgment can help Armenians bet- a special session of Parliament, ‘‘Our leader of Armenia during Soviet times, ter understand the motive behind these state structure is stable and has proved but in the post-Soviet Armenia had murders. This process should be as to be able to deal with such crisis.’’ emerged as a champion of reform. I had much a part of democracy in Armenia The Parliament’s choices for the new the opportunity to meet with him dur- as it is here. True democracy cannot be leadership posts will help ensure sta- ing a congressional delegation to Ar- created by senseless murders. bility, since they come from the ruling menia that I participated in this sum- Armenia faces serious difficulties, coalition that enjoys a majority under mer with four of my colleagues, and I not just the economic and political dif- the Unity banner. The new Speaker of know the sponsor of this resolution, ficulties that face all the States in the Parliament, Armen Khachadrian, said, the gentleman from California, also former Soviet Union, but the need for a ‘‘All programs that were envisioned had the opportunity to travel to Arme- peaceful resolution of a conflict with will be implemented.’’ nia this summer to meet with the neighboring Azerbaijan that has been Mr. Speaker, the events of 3 weeks Prime Minister and the Speaker. merely suspended by cease-fire for the ago have been a source of shock and I think I can take the liberty of char- past 5 years. sadness for all the friends of Armenia acterizing all of my colleagues as being The murders of top officials in Arme- in this Congress and for all the Amer- as impressed as I was with the new nia certainly did not help that small ican friends of Armenia, including leadership, a sort of triumvirate of nation to resolve their serious prob- more than 1 million Americans of Ar- President Kocharian, Prime Minister lems, but the adoption of this concur- menian descent. But our sadness is Sarksian, and Speaker Demirchian, to rent resolution by the House may be tempered by the knowledge that Arme- represent an extremely strong team helpful by making it clear to the Arme- nia will continue to move forward with poised to lead Armenia into a new era nian people that our Nation continues the political and economic reforms it of economic prosperity and peace. to support democracy and their nation began when it won its independence While I am sure President Kocharian and opposes such acts of terrorism. more than 8 years ago. Mr. Speaker, I fully support the mo- For me and many of my colleagues will work to continue that legacy, he tion to suspend the rules and pass this here, there was a particularly haunting has lost two valuable partners; Arme- concurrent resolution, and I invite my and poignant feeling when we heard of nia and the world have lost fine lead- colleagues to join in support. the death of Prime Minister Sarksian. ers. I also wanted to say, Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The prime minister was our guest in that as elected Members of our Na- my time. this very Capitol building just a few tion’s legislative branch, we are par- Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield weeks ago, on September 30. More than ticularly horrified that elected rep- myself such time as I may consume. 30 Members of Congress, and many of Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support our staff, had the opportunity to hear resentatives, our counterparts in Ar- of this resolution. The original version the prime minister give a very strong menia, were attacked while conducting of this legislation was cosponsored by speech in which he stressed his com- the people’s business. Our thoughts and 50 Members of this House from both mitment to continuing with economic prayers are with their families, friends, sides of the aisle, evidence of the wide- reforms while working for a settlement and colleagues; and we hope and pray spread sense of sadness felt by all of us of the Nagorno Karabagh conflict and for the complete recovery of those who over the tragic events in Armenia on greater integration between Armenia were wounded in this deplorable act of Wednesday, October 27. and her neighbors. We also had the op- violence. On that day, Prime Minister Vazgen portunity to chat with the prime min- I also want to take this opportunity Sarksian was assassinated in an attack ister on an informal basis. to commend President Kocharian for by four gunmen who stormed into Par- Vazgen Sarksian had only been prime his decisive leadership during the ac- liament while it was in session of the minister since May of this year, fol- tual crisis, for bringing it to a peaceful Armenian capital of Yerevan. Other lowing nationwide elections for the Na- conclusion with no further bloodshed. lawmakers and government officials tional Assembly. His party was the The effective response of Armenia’s were killed in the attack in the par- Unity Federation. Prior to becoming government, its security forces, help to liament chamber, including the chair- prime minister, he served as defense maintain calm in Yerevan and man of the National Assembly, in ef- minister from 1995 to 1999. throughout the Nation. Given the po- fect the Speaker of Parliament, Karen tentially destabilizing nature of this b Demirchian. 1300 attack, it was imperative for the gov- While we mourn the loss of all of And like many political figures in ernment to assure the Armenian people these dedicated public servants, I want Armenia, his involvement in politics and the rest of the world that this iso- to stress, Mr. Speaker, that democracy began in 1988 as the Soviet Union was lated act of violence did not represent in Armenia is strong. The commitment collapsing. That year he joined the Na- a fundamental threat to Armenia’s de- on the part of Armenia’s elected gov- tional Liberation Movement for the mocracy. ernment leaders and the vast majority Independence of Armenia and Constitu- Mr. Speaker, this is an important of Armenia’s people to democracy, to tional Self-Determination of Nagorno week for Armenia and the surrounding the orderly transfer of power, to peace Karabagh. Also, like many of the polit- region. Later this week, in Istanbul, and stability within Armenia and in ical leaders of today’s Armenia, Prime Turkey, President Clinton will join the region, all remain as strong as Minister Sarksian was quite young. He with a number of other heads of state ever. was only 40 years old, and had an ex- and government for the annual summit Clearly, Armenia is still reeling from tremely bright future ahead of him as of the Organization for Security and the shock of recent events. But I think the leader of his country. Cooperation in Europe. The President

VerDate 29-OCT-99 01:29 Nov 17, 1999 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16NO7.030 pfrm02 PsN: H16PT1 H12012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 16, 1999 will meet with both President nia’s Prime Minister and Speaker and vile acts must be brought swiftly to Kocharian and the President of Arme- mourning their loss, along with other justice. Our resolution also commends nia’s neighbor, President Aliyev. A members of the democratically-elected the efforts of the late prime minister group of us in the House are currently Armenian government. Armenians and the Armenian government for their circulating a letter to President Clin- have suffered for many years not only deep commitment to democracy, to the ton urging that these meetings be an from the Turkish genocide, but perse- rule of law, and to their support of free opportunity for the U.S. to strengthen cution throughout this world. This sad market reforms. our ongoing effort to conclude the incident was a setback in what has As a result of the late prime min- Nagorno Karabagh peace process as been an increasingly stable role to- ister’s leadership, Mr. Speaker, Arme- well as to enhance opportunities for re- wards stability in Armenia. nia is considered today one of the most gional cooperation. My good friend from Fort Wayne, politically stable countries in the re- In addition, we are strongly encour- Zorhab Tazian, had just had the oppor- gion and one of the most market ori- aging President Clinton to extend tunity to join the victims in Armenia ented. Armenia has approved the most President Kocharian an official invita- to discuss the current political situa- liberal trade legislation among the tion to Washington. While his counter- tion. Zorhab’s clear impression at that newly independent states of the former parts in Azerbaijan and Georgia have meeting was that all the participants Soviet Union. Unfortunately, Arme- paid official visits to the U.S. in the shared increasing optimism that the nia’s economic development has been past, President Kocharian has not had government would continue its suc- severely impeded by the protracted the same opportunity; and we believe cesses in expanding the Armenian de- conflict over Nagorno-Karabagh, the that such a visit will further strength- mocracy and developing a healthy Armenian populated autonomous en- en the U.S.-Armenia relationship and economy. It is a tragedy that their clave in neighboring Azerbaijan. is long overdue. leadership was cut short in such an un- The war has taken a heavy toll on Finally, Mr. Speaker, the fact that timely and ugly way. both sides of the conflict, Mr. Speaker, the upcoming summit is taking place Our best memorial to the victims of but in recent months there has been in Turkey, Armenia’s neighbor to the the Armenian violence is to help con- some movement on the possible settle- west, is particularly significant. Turk- tinue their work. We cannot and will ment of this conflict. All of us in this ish-Armenian relations have been dif- not allow acts of political violence to body earnestly hope that progress will ficult for, among other reasons, the deter us from our support to the course continue despite these horrible assas- hostile blockade that Turkey still of freedom and the opportunity that sinations. maintains against Armenia. There has so promisingly begun in Armenia. I Mr. Speaker, the brother of Arme- have been, however, some potentially commend President Kocharian’s strong nia’s late prime minister has been se- hopeful signs of a trend towards better response to this incident and swift ef- lected to replace him, and I want the relations. This summer when I traveled forts to ensure the stability of Arme- new prime minister to know that the to Armenia with a bipartisan group of nia’s government. United States stands ready to continue my colleagues, we saw firsthand evi- I hope my colleagues will continue to to assist Armenia as it develops its dence of moves towards a new cross- support the causes of democracy, sta- economy and attempts to bring peace border relationship between the Arme- bility, and a free market economy in and stability to the region. nian city of Gyumri and the Turkish Armenia. We can do so through sup- Now, these recent assassinations in city of Kars. Also, I was very encour- porting economic assistance to pro- Armenia have been particularly dif- aged to see that Turkey sent a delega- mote privatization and tax reform, cap- ficult on our fellow citizens of Arme- tion to Prime Minister Sarksian’s fu- ital market development, legal reform, nian-American ancestry. Armenian- neral last month. I encourage Presi- and other steps critical to continuing Americans must know that the United dent Clinton to use the considerable progress on advancing the Armenia States Congress is not only following U.S. clout with Turkey to urge that economy. We can also continue to help developments closely, but we will re- country to improve its relation with Armenia by supporting it on the issue main actively engaged in helping the Armenia and also to persuade Turkey of Nagorno Karabagh, including our people of Armenia to achieve the peace to use its influence with Azerbaijan to vigilance over providing American aid and prosperity they have fought for for promote increased cooperation with to Azerbaijan in light of its continued so long and that they so richly deserve. Armenia. blockades. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Despite our grief, we want to take Although it is a sad and difficult my time. this opportunity to emphasize our be- time in Armenia, we should also view Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield lief in Armenia’s commitment to de- it as a time of continued optimism for 3 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- mocracy, economic reform, peace, and the great potential that lies in Arme- fornia (Mr. ROGAN). stability within Armenia and through- nia’s future. We should let nothing Mr. ROGAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank out the region. We take this oppor- deter us in our continued progress to- the gentleman for yielding me this tunity to reiterate our full confidence gether towards peace and freedom, and time. that this commitment is deeply held by I am confident Armenia’s great people Mr. Speaker, it is with a great heavi- the government and by the majority of will continue to move ahead in build- ness in my heart that I rise and ask my the Armenia people. Armenia has been ing a great nation. There can be no colleagues to join me in supporting cruelly deprived of gifted politicians more or better fitting tribute to the House Concurrent Resolution 222, hon- and statesmen who were leading it into fallen Armenian heroes. oring the victims of the recent ter- a new millennium. While we mourn Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield rorist attack in Yerevan, the capital of their loss, we encourage President myself such time as I may consume, Armenia. Kocharian to redouble their efforts to and I rise in strong support of this res- Armenian Prime Minister Vazgen keep Armenia free and strong. And as olution. Sarksian, Chairman of the Armenian Members of the U.S. Congress, we A few weeks ago, the Armenia people Parliament Karen Demirchian, Deputy stand ready to assist in any way that suffered a tragic loss. A group of armed Chairman of the Armenian Parliament we can. terrorists broke into Armenia’s par- Yuri Bakhshian, Deputy Speaker of Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield liament and assassinated eight polit- Parliament Rouben Miroyan, Minister 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indi- ical leaders, including Armenia’s prime of Operative Issues Leonard Petrossian, ana (Mr. SOUDER). minister. These political leaders were and Members of the Armenian Par- (Mr. SOUDER asked and was given killed in the midst of exercising their liament Mikael Kotanyan, Henrik permission to revise and extend his re- duty as elected political representa- Abrahamyan and Armenak marks.) tives. Armenakyan were murdered by terror- Mr. SOUDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise as a This resolution before the House ists in the parliament building in member of the Armenia Caucus in today deplores these outrageous assas- Yerevan. strong support of this resolution con- sinations and expresses the sense of the I came to know the late Prime Min- demning the violence against Arme- House that the perpetrators of these ister during my recent trip to Armenia

VerDate 29-OCT-99 01:29 Nov 17, 1999 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K16NO7.032 pfrm02 PsN: H16PT1 November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H12013 and Nagorno Karabagh, which was or- will not be deterred towards estab- chael Kutanian, were killed when gunmen ganized by the Armenian Assembly. I lishing itself as a strong democracy burst into the Parliament Chamber in Yerevan, again met with the Prime Minister and a strong ally of our great country. Armenia. here in Washington just three weeks I say this primarily because and out The purported leader of the gunmen before his death. He and his slain col- of recognition of my own grandfather’s claimed they were targeting Sargsee-ehn and leagues were moving their country for- history and his past. My grandfather were launching a coup to quoteÐunquote ``re- ward by dealing with economic reform, came to this country, Mr. Speaker, be- store democracy'' and end poverty. Mr. the rule of law, seeking a resolution of fore World War I and returned to his Speaker, I fail to see how assassinating and the Nagorno Karabagh conflict, and re- homeland to fight against tyranny and holding hostage members of a democratically gional cooperation. fascism, earning two Russian medals of elected government will accomplish that goal. Armenia has taken great strides honor. He came back to this country I have met Prime Minister Sarksyan personally since gaining independence over eight and made a life for his family and for and have witnessed first-hand his commitment years ago. Then Armenia was a captive us. to a peaceful, economically successful, demo- nation, struggling to preserve its cen- I know the Armenian spirit is strong; cratic Armenia. I am shocked and saddened turies-old traditions and customs. and I know that, with our proper sup- by this terrible act of violence. My thoughts Today, the Republic of Armenia is an port, as this resolution will provide, and prayers are with the people of Armenia independent, freedom-loving nation Armenia will prevail. and with the families and friends of those who and a friend to the United States and And I like most others demand that the men were killed. This deplorable attack, however, to the democratic world. who committed these vile acts be brought to must not deter Armenia and the United States As evidence of this progress, commu- justice. I was appalled to see this horror take from pursuing our mutual goals of democracy, nities throughout Armenia recently place in my own grandfather's homeland. The open markets, and peace in the Southern held local elections that were deemed assassination of Prime Minister Vazgen Caucasus. We cannot allow the very small mi- free and fair by the European Commu- Sarksian, as well as several other duly-elected nority of individuals who oppose the peace nity. This signaled to the world the ac- officials is a tragedy beyond words. As Arme- process to thwart the valiant efforts made by complishments of Prime Minister nia moves forward with its strong commitment all parties involved. Significant progress has Sarkisian and his slain colleagues. It to the ideals of democracy, after a history been made in recent months in Armenia's also signaled that the future of Arme- filled with so much tragedy, these incompre- transition from a socialist republic to a demo- nia, even after the loss of these men, is hensible acts of terror might seem to make it cratic, free-market country. Free and fair local a bright one that bodes well for the ad- more difficult to move toward self rule but I elections were held in Armenia earlier during vancement of democracy. As a testa- currently believe that it will not deter the Arme- the week of the attack. In addition, recent ment to Prime Minister Sarkisian and nian spirit. Armenia has shown itself to be a meetings between Armenian President the other slain officials’ patriotism and valued ally of the United States, and of the Kocharian and Azerbaijan's President Aliyev leadership, well over 100,000 Armenians world. Further, this tragic loss comes at a time have produced positive signs in negotiations paid their respects when they were laid when we should be praising Armenia's over the Nagorno-Karabagh peace process. to rest. strength and determination in working toward At this difficult time we must remain focused On a more personal note, the loss of democracy, the rule of law, and a viable free on supporting the people of Armenia and the these Armenian martyrs has deeply af- market economy since obtaining its freedom Armenian government. Now we must reaffirm fected my district, which is home to from Soviet rule in 1991. Not only would I like our commitment to assist Armenia in its con- nearly 100,000 Armenian-Americans. As to express my most deep and heartfelt sym- tinued progress toward a proud, democratic Armenia now turns toward the task of pathies to the people of Armenia, but I would nation. rebuilding its government, I trust the like to commend them for continuing the drive Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I Congress will join me in expressing toward democracy, even in the face of great rise in support of H. Con. Res. 222, con- continued friendship with Armenia and adversity. demning the assassination of Armenian Prime with Nagorno Karabagh. I am proud to share a common heritage with Minister Vazgen Sargsian and other Armenian Additionally, we must express our the Armenian people. My own grandfather was Government officials. A total of nine people support for a just and speedy resolu- a native Armenian, raised in a land ravaged were killedÐin addition to the Prime Minister, tion to the Nagorno Karabagh conflict, by hate, and a witness to the genocide of his Speaker of Parliament Karen Demirchian was and that all economic blockades in the people. The experiences of his childhood shot, as were two deputy speakers of par- region will be speedily lifted so that fueled his desire for freedom for his homeland liament. Indeed, it seemed as if much of Ar- prosperity and peace will be enjoyed by in the First World War, so he returned there, menia's political elite, except for President all. where he was awarded two Russian Medals of Robert Kocharian, had been removed in one In honor of the great sacrifice made Honor for his bravery in the fight against fas- surreal afternoon. The horrifying events of Oc- by Armenia’s leaders, and in recogni- cism. tober 27 were all the more shocking consid- tion of their commitment to pursuing Mr. Speaker, my grandfather is a singular ering that Armenia appeared to have estab- democracy, I ask my colleagues to join example of the esprit de corps that lies deep lished a framework for political stability and ef- me in supporting this important reso- in the heart of every Armenian. This deter- ficient government. After the May 1999 par- lution. mination to be free continues today and was liamentary elections, President Kocharian, Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield clearly shown through the life's work of the Prime Minister Sargsian and Speaker such time as he may consume to the late Prime Minister Sarksian. I share in the Ar- Demirchian constituted the legs of a troika gentleman from New York (Mr. menian people's loss of a great leader, but uniting the three most influential politicians in SWEENEY). take comfort in knowing that they shall over- Armenia. They had practically reached agree- Mr. SWEENEY. Mr. Speaker, I want come this loss and move toward greater ment on the budget, one of the most pressing to thank the gentleman from Cali- things, as they have so many times before. problems facing Armenia. Perhaps most im- fornia (Mr. ROGAN) for introducing this Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise portant, President Kocharian apparently had resolution condemning the assassina- today in strong support of this resolution and the support of his Prime Minister and Speaker tion of Vazgen Sarksian. join my colleagues in condemning the assas- of Parliament, as well as other Armenian polit- I, being one of only two Members of sination of Armenian Prime Minister Sargsian ical leaders, in his bilateral negotiations on the House and Senate of Armenian de- and other officials of the Armenian Govern- Nagorno-Karabakh with Azerbaijani President scent, feel compelled to come to the ment, and I appreciate the opportunity to ex- Heydar Aliev. Those talks, which began this floor today and voice my support very press my sorrow at the loss of the duly elect- spring, have been the most promising devel- strongly for this resolution. ed leadership of Armenia. On October 27th of opment in the long road to resolving the con- There has been a lot of comment and this year, Armenian Prime Minister Vazgen flict. In short, there was reason for cautious discussion about this resolution and Sargsian, his ally, Parliamentary Speaker optimism on any number of fronts in the South about the horror of this unprecedented Karen Demirchyan, Deputy Parliamentary Caucasus. attack. Speakers Yuri Bakhshyan and Ruben Miroian, Alas, the murder of the Prime Minister, the Let me just say this: knowing the Ar- Operative Issues Minister Leonard Petrossian, Speaker and others has set back the talks on menian spirit as I do, I believe Armenia and other members of the Armenian Govern- Nagorno-Karabakh. Judging by public state- is going to continue to move forward, ment, including a senior economic official, Mi- ments in Baku and Yerevan last week, instead

VerDate 29-OCT-99 01:29 Nov 17, 1999 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K16NO7.058 pfrm02 PsN: H16PT1 H12014 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE November 16, 1999 of an agreement, which many had been hop- for the losses that gave rise to this legislation earlier this year. During this trip I had the op- ing for, only a general statement of principles and the tragedy it decries. portunity to meet with Prime Minister Sargsian might be signed this week at the OSCE Sum- On October 27th, a small group of terrorists and Chairman Demirchyan and was very im- mit in Istanbul. But, Mr. Speaker, I trust that stormed the Armenian Parliament building pressed by their dedication to the well-being of despite the tragedy of October 27, Presidents murdering the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the country and its people. They repeatedly Kocharian and Aliev will continue their efforts the Parliament, and seven other members of articulated their deep sense of commitment to to find a solution to this knottiest of problems. the Armenian government. bringing peace and prosperity to the region. There is some consolation, at this time of This bill condemns their assassinations and Their loss will be acutely feltÐand even more sober reflection and mourning, in that these expresses the sense of the Congress in so because of the real strides that have been two leaders obviously understand that peace mourning the tragic loss of the duly elected made to establish an open and democratic Ar- is in the best interest of their peoples. leadership of Armenia. menia and in seeking a meaningful and lasting Mr. Speaker, the perpetrators are in custody The loss and bloodshed is tragic but Arme- peace with Nagorno-Karabakh and Azerbaijan. and the investigation into the events of Octo- nia's government and its people have not and Prime Minister Sarksian addressed the peo- ber 27 continues. Many questions remain un- will not allow this event to destabilize the ple of Armenia in late July, shortly before our answered about their motives and the possible country. Their remarkable spirit continues in Congressional delegation arrived in Yerevan. involvement of other conspirators. In the last Armenia, showing the worldwide community of During this television broadcast he articulated week, Armenian authorities have arrested sev- their dedication to democracy, to the rule of the window of opportunity that Armenia had eral more people, including a member of par- law, and to the importance of peace. for the peace process as well as the opportu- liament. It is imperative to get to the bottom of After separating from the Soviet Union in nities to increase international trade. He also this matter, and the United States should offer 1989, many wondered if the newly established squarely addressed the problem of corruption, any assistance Yerevan may request to accel- nation would be able to survive. the need to prevent it and his vision for trans- erate and facilitate the inquiry. It is important The Republic of Armenia has not only done parency and openness in the government. He to show the Armenian public, Armenia's neigh- that, but has also built a democratic nation for received tremendous applause because it was bors, and all the world that despite the tragedy its people during unsettled and difficult times. indeed a very courageous and heartfelt of October 27, Armenia is a stable countryÐ Prime Minister Sargsian has fought for re- speech. He will be greatly missed. able and willing to address its problems, to forms to bring Armenia into the next century Mr. Speaker, when speaking of courage, pursue peace with its neighbors and to take its with a market economy and strong democratic President Kocharian must also be commended rightful place in the international community. traditions. This will not end with the tragedy for his decisive leadership in responding to Mr. PORTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong that occurred. this tragedy and in bringing it to a conclusion support of this resolution. The tragedy that oc- The efforts of President Kocharian are to be without further loss of life. curred in Yerevan on October 27th was de- applauded to bring the recent tragedy to a Regrettably, it seems that acts of violence plorable. It has become clear that the gunmen peaceful resolution as he leads Armenia for- are becoming all too common. However, may involved in this incident were acting alone and ward during this arduous time. the deeds of these brave men who lost their not part of a larger group. President Let us reaffirm America's strong support for lives far overshadow this senseless act. Kocharian's personal intervention in ending and renew our commitment to Armenia by This tragedy must not be permitted to deter the stand-off with the gunmen and containing supporting H. Con. Res. 222 today. Armenia's resolve and commitment to democ- the potential repercussions of this event were Mr. MCKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to racy, the rule of law, economic reform, peace very admirable. I encourage him to remain honor the victims of the terrorist attack in and stability. strong and continue to rebuild the leadership Yerevan last month. Like many of my col- Mr. Speaker, I urge support for this resolu- of the government and bring stability back to leagues, I was shocked and deeply saddened tion. Armenia. by the fatal shootings in the Armenian Par- Ms. STABENOW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Armenia has made important progress on liament. to express my support for H. Con. Res. 222. many domestic and foreign policy fronts, and For this reason, I rise in support of H. Con. This important resolution deplores the slayings this tragedy should not hamper the continu- Res. 222 to denounce the terrorist attack and of the Prime Minister of Armenia, Vazgen ation of these developments. To be sure that express our sympathies in mourning this dev- Sargsian; the chairman of the Armenian Par- progress in Armenia continues, it is critical that astating loss of the leadership in the Armenian liament, Karen Demirchian; the deputy chair- the U.S. continue to strongly support President government. man of the Armenian Parliament, Yuri Kocharian, his government and the people of When a tragedy as horrific as this one oc- Bakhshian; the minister of operative issues, Armenia. curs, it is important to extend our support for Leonard Petrossian; and other members of the I extend my condolences to the families, the families of the victims as well as the peo- Armenian government struck down in a violent friends and colleagues of those that were ple and leaders of Armenia. We must encour- attack on Parliament on October 27, 1999. slain. To properly honor these individuals, it is age them to follow the beliefs and ideals prac- This important resolution demonstrates to imperative that Armenia not waiver in the poli- ticed by those who were victims of this trag- our friends in Armenia that we support them in cies it is pursing. None is more important than edy. this time of great tragedy for their nation. the resolution of the Nagorno-Karabagh Since its independence over eight years While condemning these violent acts, this res- conflict. ago, Armenia has struggled to promote de- olution also shares the determination of the I have followed very closely the Nagorno- mocracy for its people. These important Armenian people that the perpetrators of these Karabagh conflict. For the first time in many strides must not be forgotten during this time acts be swiftly brought to justice. The bill also years, significant progress is in the making. of mourning and great loss. It is my hope that commends the efforts of the late prime min- President Kocharian and his Cabinet officials the people of Armenia will continue build upon ister and the Armenian government for their have spent many hours with their counterparts the principles of freedom they have worked so commitment to democracy. in Azebaijan developing the terms for an hard to achieve. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be a cosponsor agreement. I am hopeful that they are con- For this reason, I commend my colleague of H. Con. Res. 216, the initial legislation tinuing their work and will have some resolu- and friend from California (Representative which H. Con. Res. 222 is based upon. I want tion to present at the OSCE Summit that is JAMES ROGAN) for introducing this resolution to to express my support for this resolution and scheduled to begin in Istabul next week. Presi- condemn the attack and commend the leaders urge the adoption of this important measure. dent Kocharian should not let this progress be of Armenia for their commitment to democ- Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, we have sidelined by the tragedy in Parliament. Peace racy. no further requests for time, and I in Nagorno-Karabagh is imperative for long I urge all of my colleagues to support this yield back the balance of my time. term prosperity in the region and there is a resolution. Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, we real opportunity for such a resolution. Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker I rise in strong have no further requests for time, and I will continue to strongly support President support of H. Con. Res. 222 condemning the I yield back the balance of my time. Kocharian, his government and the people of assassination of Armenian Prime Minister The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Armenia as they struggle to cope with the Sargsian, the Chairman of the Armenian Par- BALLENGER). The question is on the deaths of their elected officials. I encourage all liament, Karen Demirchian and other Govern- motion offered by the gentleman from of my colleagues in Congress to do the same. ment officials and Members of Parliament. New York (Mr. GILMAN) that the House Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Mr. Speaker, I had the honor of leading a suspend the rules and agree to the con- support of H. Con. Res. 222 with great sorrow Congressional delegation to the caucus region current resolution, H. Con. Res. 222.

VerDate 29-OCT-99 01:29 Nov 17, 1999 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A16NO7.070 pfrm02 PsN: H16PT1 November 16, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H12015 The question was taken. the remarkable achievements of the riod of a month, by mobilizing civil Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, on that I largest democracy in the world, to rec- servants, students, and other volun- demand the yeas and nays. ognize the recent election in India and teers to ensure that the elections are The yeas and nays were ordered. the importance of ending the remain- fair, professional, and accurate. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ing sanctions of an economic nature Often, Mr. Speaker, when we talk ant to clause 8 of rule XX and the that were imposed so that relations about the Subcontinent, we imme- Chair’s prior announcement, further with India can continue to improve for diately focus on the relationship be- proceedings on this motion will be the benefit of our country. tween India and Pakistan; and this is postponed. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he not an inappropriate moment to focus f may consume to the gentleman from on that relationship. b 1315 Nebraska (Mr. BEREUTER), the sub- While India undertook this monu- committee chairman. mental free and democratic election, EXPRESSING SUPPORT OF CON- (Mr. BEREUTER asked and was there was a military coup in Pakistan GRESS FOR RECENT ELECTIONS given permission to revise and extend where the democratically elected gov- IN REPUBLIC OF INDIA his remarks.) ernment was thrown out of office and Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, I its leaders imprisoned. move to suspend the rules and agree to thank the gentleman for yielding me I think it is important for all of us, the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. the time. Members of Congress and presidential 211) expressing the strong support of Mr. Speaker, H. Con. Res. 211 was candidates, to understand that a mili- the Congress for the recently concluded considered by the Subcommittee on tary coup is not something that should elections in the Republic of India and Asia and the Pacific on October 27 and be applauded by the American people urging the President to travel to India. was unanimously approved. It is intro- or Members of our Congress or any po- The Clerk read as follows: duced by the gentleman from New litical figure. CKERMAN H. CON. RES. 211 York (Mr. A ), the gentleman One of the most important relation- Whereas the Republic of India is a long- from New York (Chairman GILMAN), ships we have is the relationship with standing parliamentary democracy where and others. the world’s largest political democ- citizens may freely change their govern- The resolution rightly congratulates racy, India. ment; the people of India on a successful elec- For a long time, Mr. Speaker, people Whereas India has a thriving multiparty tion where over 350 million voters cast were making comparisons between system where a broad spectrum of political their ballots. China and India, pointing out how ef- views are represented; The reelection of Prime Minister fective China’s leadership has been in Whereas India recently conducted a suc- Vajpayee reflects a vibrant multiparty cessful round of elections, involving over bringing economic progress, even system where parties with strongly dif- 650,000,000 registered voters and resulting in though they maintain their police fering views can compete in a way that a 60 percent voter turnout and re-election of state and their dictatorship. is uniquely Indian. We certainly wish Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee; In recent years, we have come to see Whereas India and the United States share the BJP party and its ruling coalition with great pleasure that India was not a special relationship as the world’s most well as it prepares to continue to lead only able to maintain its political de- populous democracy and the world’s oldest the country. democracy, respectively, and have a shared The resolution rightly alludes to the mocracy but was able to make tremen- commitment to upholding the will of the strategic relationship between the dous strides in the economic field. people and the rule of law; The resolution before us today com- Whereas the President has expressed his United States of America and India. We certainly have such a strategic rela- mends the Indians on their recent elec- continued desire to travel to South Asia; and tions, congratulates Prime Minister Whereas India continues to be a shining ex- tionship with India, just as we have a ample of democracy for all of Asia to follow: strategic relationship with many other Vajpayee on his reelection, and calls on Now, therefore, be it countries in the region. our President to visit India as part of Resolved by the House of Representatives (the I urge adoption of the resolution. his scheduled South Asia trip and urges Senate concurring), That the Congress— Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I re- the President to further broaden and (1) congratulates the people of the Repub- serve the balance of my time. strengthen our relations with our fel- lic of India on the successful conclusion of Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield low democracy, India. their recent national elections; myself such time as I may consume, I urge my colleagues to support H. (2) congratulates Prime Minister Atal Con. Res. 211. Bihari Vajpayee on his re-election; and I rise in strong support of this res- (3) calls on the President to travel to India olution. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of as part of any trip to South Asia; and Mr. Speaker, first I want to commend my time. (4) urges the President to broaden our spe- my distinguished colleague, the gen- Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am de- cial relationship with India into a strategic tleman from New York (Mr. ACKER- lighted to yield such time as he may partnership. MAN), for introducing this resolution, consume to the gentleman from Con- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. as well as my colleagues on the other necticut (Mr. GEJDENSON), the distin- BALLENGER). Pursuant to the rule, the side, the gentleman from New York guished ranking member of the Com- gentleman from California (Mr. CAMP- (Mr. GILMAN), the chairman of the com- mittee on International Relations. BELL) and the gentleman from Cali- mittee; the gentleman from Nebraska Mr. GEJDENSON. Mr. Speaker, I fornia (Mr. LANTOS) each will control (Mr. BEREUTER), the chairman of the want to join my colleagues, particu- 20 minutes. subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific; larly the gentleman from California The Chair recognizes the gentleman and my good friend, the gentleman (Mr. LANTOS), in his articulate support from California (Mr. CAMPBELL). from California (Mr. CAMPBELL). for the resolution commending India GENERAL LEAVE I also want to commend the gen- on its election. Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask tleman from Connecticut (Mr. GEJDEN- India stands in stark contrast to al- unanimous consent that all Members SON), the ranking Democrat on the most all of its neighbors from Burma may have 5 legislative days within committee, for his efforts in bringing and over to China, obviously, and the which to revise and extend their re- this legislation before the body. very sad situation recently with the marks on H. Con. Res. 211. Our resolution, Mr. Speaker, ex- coup in Pakistan. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. presses our strong support and admira- What we see is India, which is among BALLENGER). Is there objection to the tion for the recently concluded elec- the poorer countries in the world, hav- request of the gentleman from Cali- tions in India. It is not easy to have a ing an incredibly vibrant democracy. fornia? society with over 650 million registered Oftentimes we think there is a certain There was no objection. voters, many of them living in condi- fundamental level of economic Mr. CAMPBELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield tions of dire poverty, to undertake this strength before countries can have myself such time as I may consume for monumental democratic effort. But the democratic institutions. India con- just a brief comment on the impor- Indian government got the job done by tinues to build its democratic institu- tance of this resolution to recognize stretching the elections out over a pe- tions, its economic reform package will

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