[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 84 (Monday, June 10, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1043-E1044]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING, AND RELATED PROGRAMS 
                        APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 1997

                                 ______


                               speech of

                        HON. PETER G. TORKILDSEN

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 5, 1996

       The House in Committee of the Whole House on the State of 
     the Union had under consideration the bill (H.R. 3540) making 
     appropriations for foreign operations, export financing, and 
     related programs for the fiscal year ending September 30, 
     1997, and for other purposes:

  Mr. TORKILDSEN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the 
Foreign Operations appropriations bill and aid to Israel--our most 
important ally in the Middle East.
  At less than 1 percent of the total budget, foreign aid is a bargain. 
It gives us tremendous leverage when negotiating with nations and 
provides a valuable tool for promoting democracy throughout the world. 
It is also important to remember that 85 percent of aid to Israel comes 
back to the United States through trade, creating and sustaining jobs.
  The Middle East remains the most turbulent and heavily armed region 
of the world, producing a constant threat to Israel's national 
security. Amid unrest and oppression, Israel remains a beacon of hope 
for free people, and a model for those still struggling for the basic 
right to vote. At the heart of Israel's recent elections was the desire 
of all Israelis to live free of violence. American military and 
economic support remains an essential part of this much-needed sense of 
security.
  In recent years, due in large part to ongoing U.S. support, Israel 
has enjoyed a prospering economy. This week, Prime Minister-elect 
Netanyahu stressed his commitment to continued economic growth through 
free market reforms. U.S. economic aid is helping Israel aggressively 
enter the global marketplace as a key trading partner.

[[Page E1044]]

  Regardless of one's view of the outcome, Israel's election was a 
shinning example of democracy at work. I applaud the Israeli people on 
this peaceful election of leadership--the only truly democratic 
election in the region.
  Maintaining a strong Israel is vital to the preservation of peace and 
security in an area of the world characterized by violence and discord. 
I urge my colleagues to support Israel, support peace, and support this 
bill.

                          ____________________