[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 131 (Monday, September 19, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: September 19, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                          ORDERS FOR TOMORROW

  Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that when the 
Senate completes its business today, it stand in recess until 10:30 
a.m., Tuesday, September 20; that following the prayer, the Journal of 
proceedings be deemed approved to date and the time for the two leaders 
reserved for their use later in the day; that on Tuesday, the Senate 
stand in recess from 12:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m., in order to accommodate 
the respective party conferences.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. President, I note the presence of my colleague, the 
distinguished chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. I 
understand he wishes to address the Senate.
  I therefore ask unanimous consent that Senator Pell be recognized to 
address the Senate, and that, upon completion of his remarks, the 
Senate stand in recess as previously ordered.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The Senator from Rhode Island [Mr.  Pell], is recognized.
  Mr. PELL. Mr. President, I congratulate President Clinton for working 
out an agreement to restore the democratically elected Haitian 
Government to power while minimizing the risks to United States forces. 
By making one last effort to resolve the crisis diplomatically, 
President Clinton opened the way for yesterday's dramatic events, which 
accomplished--peacefully--our primary goal in Haiti, and deftly avoided 
sending our troops into a combat situation.
  I would also like to praise President Carter, General Powell, and 
Senator Nunn for their successful mission. Theirs was a difficult and 
delicate task which they carried out skillfully and tirelessly.
  I wish the President and our Armed Forces success in the current 
operation. Today, the Nation is breathing a collective sigh of relief 
that instead of invading, United States troops are entering into a 
peaceful environment with the apparent cooperation of the Haitian Armed 
Forces. We must be fully aware, however, that many uncertainties remain 
which could have an impact on the safety and security of U.S. forces. 
While the streets are quiet today in Port-au-Prince, the potential for 
violence over the coming weeks remains.
  The United States and our allies in the multinational forces still 
face the daunting challenge of securing a stable environment, 
facilitating the transition of power, and aiding in the 
professionalization of the military and the establishment of a new 
civilian police force. While I suspect it may take several months to 
accomplish these goals, I am heartened that goalposts have been set for 
extricating U.S. troops. It is imperative now to define precisely what 
needs to be done to meet those goals, so that they can be completed 
with a minimum of long-term commitment on our part.
  In addition to the difficult tasks facing our United States troops, 
many details have yet to be worked out regarding the transfer of power 
and actions to be taken by the Haitian Parliament. It is imperative 
that all parties abide by the commitments made over the weekend and act 
in good faith as these issues are addressed. Despite opposition at 
home, President Clinton has clearly demonstrated his commitment to the 
restoration of the democratically elected Government in Haiti and the 
coup leaders would be wise not to underestimate his resolve to enforce 
this agreement.
  Mr. President, I fully support the pending resolution and believe 
President Clinton deserves great credit for the leadership, wisdom, and 
prudence he has demonstrated in Haiti.

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