[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 122 (Wednesday, July 26, 1995)]
[House]
[Page H7794]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


               WELCOMING PRESIDENT KIM YONG-SAM OF KOREA

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from California [Mr. Kim] is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. KIM. Mr. Speaker, as the only Korean-American in Congress, I was 
proud and honored today to listen to Korean President Kim Yong-Sam 
address a special joint session of the Congress. His insightful remarks 
underscored the very historic and close relationship between Korea and 
the United States. They were certainly well received by the Congress.
  President Kim's visit and address to Congress are particularly 
meaningful and timely considering the fact that tomorrow Presidents Kim 
and Clinton will dedicate the Korean War Memorial on the Mall of 
Washington, DC.
  This memorial reminds us that the friendship between the United 
States and Korea is bonded in the blood and sacrifice of each nation. 
It reminds us of our common quest for liberty and our shared 
acknowledgment that freedom is not free. While there are short-term 
differences that may occur between the United States and Korea from 
time to time, these minor disagreements can never crack the solid, 
long-term alliance between us. Just ask those Koreans and Americans who 
are immortalized by the memorial.
  As President Kim pointed out in his speech, Korea's economic and 
democratic achievements are impressive, especially considering they 
have been made under the constant threat of war from the north. I am 
proud that the United States has unselfishly encouraged and supported 
Korea's advancement and this cooperation does warrant special 
recognition. Thus, as we reflect on today's joint session, tomorrow's 
dedication of the Korean War Memorial and all the other events 
associated with this week's state visit by President Kim, I think we 
all will agree that both the United States and Korea are truly 
fortunate to have each other as allies and partners.

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