[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 35 (Tuesday, March 18, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E493]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     THE UNITED STATES SHOULD NOT PARTICIPATE IN ARAFAT CONFERENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BILL McCOLLUM

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 18, 1997

  Mr. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply concerned that the State 
Department has agreed to participate in an international conference 
convened by the Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. This is part of a 
strategy of confrontation with Israel and would be a serious mistake. 
It is my hope the State Department reconsiders this decision.
  It appears that the Palestinian Government is attempting to drive a 
wedge between the United States and Israel. Distancing the United 
States from Israel encourages the tendency for Palestinians to 
negotiate with the United States instead of negotiating directly with 
Israel. Disregarding the existing negotiation process is 
counterproductive to the peace process.
  Without question, the administration's record of support for the 
United States-Israel relationship has been commendable. Participation 
in this conference, However, would only tarnish that record. The United 
States simply does not belong in any type or organization--formal or 
informal--that is established to isolate and pressure Israel.

                          ____________________