[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 21 (Tuesday, February 20, 1996)]
[Senate]
[Page S1275]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO AMBASSADOR RAY OF INDIA

  Mr. PRESSLER. Mr. President, I want to take a moment today to pay 
tribute and bid a fond farewell to a very distinguished statesman, a 
good friend to the United States and a dear friend of mine--Siddhartha 
Shankar Ray, India's Ambassador to the United States. Ambassador Ray 
has decided to return to his home country, and more specifically to 
West Bengal, to run for a seat in the Indian Parliament. I wish him 
great success in this and in his future endeavors.
  As all my colleagues know Ambassador Ray has worked tirelessly during 
his more than 3 years here to strengthen Indo-United States relations. 
It is safe to say he has performed his duties with great distinction 
and even greater success. His service to his country here in Washington 
came at a vital period in Indo-United States relations. With the end of 
the cold war, past barriers to better relations with India have gone 
with it, and vast new opportunities have emerged. We have seen 
increased investment, trade, and cultural exchanges between our two 
countries. We also are laying the groundwork for discussions on 
security issues. Ambassador Ray has played a vital role in this 
exciting new era. I am certain he will continue to do so.
  Ambassador Ray is an industrious and articulate diplomat, and a 
tenacious advocate for his country. The secret of Ambassador Ray's 
success is simple. As Sister Mary Lauretta once stated: ``To be 
successful, the first thing to do is fall in love with your work.'' 
Ambassador Ray loves India. He believes in India's future. His love of 
country and faith in his fellow citizens were evident throughout his 
service here.
  I had the opportunity to spend time with Ambassador Ray and his wife, 
Maya, last week at his farewell dinner. Both have been positive forces 
for their country. Now, they intend to continue their already 
distinguished service at home. No matter what path Ambassador Ray may 
take, I am certain that all of India will stand to benefit.
  Ambassador and Mrs. Ray will be sorely missed by all of us in the 
Washington community. But it is safe to say we can always look to 
Ambassador Ray to be an essential element in our strengthening ties 
with India. Again, I wish my friend Ambassador Ray and his family the 
very best.

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