[Congressional Bills 105th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 282 Engrossed in House (EH)]


                 In the House of Representatives, U.S.,

                                                     November 13, 1997.
Whereas 1997 marks the 30th anniversary of the Association of South East Asian 
        Nations (ASEAN);
Whereas the emphasis of ASEAN on cooperation and the nonviolent settlement of 
        disputes has helped to bring peace between the nations of the region 
        which for decades had been characterized by instability and conflict;
Whereas the economies of the member nations of ASEAN have experienced 
        significant economic growth benefiting the lives of many of their 
        people;
Whereas ASEAN as a group is the 4th largest trading partner of the United States 
        and constitutes a larger market for United States exports than the 
        People's Republic of China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong combined;
Whereas ASEAN has successfully fostered a sense of community among its member 
        nations despite differing interests, including the establishment of the 
        region's only security forum, the Association of South East Asian 
        Nations Regional Forum (ARF), and the Association of South East Asian 
        Nations Free Trade Area (AFTA);
Whereas ASEAN has played a pivotal role in international efforts of global and 
        regional concern, including securing the withdrawal of Vietnamese forces 
        from Cambodia and diplomatic efforts to foster a political settlement to 
        the civil war in Cambodia;
Whereas the United States relies on ASEAN as a partner in fostering regional 
        stability, enhancing prosperity, and promoting peace; and
Whereas the 30th anniversary of the formation of ASEAN offers an opportunity for 
        the United States and the nations of ASEAN to renew their commitment to 
        international cooperation on issues of mutual interest and concern: Now, 
        therefore, be it
    Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
            (1) congratulates the Association of South East Asian Nations 
        (ASEAN) and its member nations on the occasion of its 30th anniversary;
            (2) looks forward to a broadening and deepening of friendship and 
        cooperation with ASEAN in the years ahead for the benefit of the people 
        of the United States and the nations of ASEAN;
            (3) encourages progress by ASEAN members toward the further 
        development of democracy, respect for human rights, enhancement of the 
        rule of law, and the expansion of market economies; and
            (4) recognizes the past achievements of ASEAN and pledges its 
        support to work closely with ASEAN as both the United States and the 
        nations of ASEAN face current and future regional and global challenges.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.