[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 48 (Thursday, March 25, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E580]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       EXPRESSING OPPOSITION TO DECLARATION OF PALESTINIAN STATE

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. PAT DANNER

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 16, 1999

  Ms. DANNER. Mr. Speaker, I think it is important that I clarify my 
position regarding the resolution that recently passed in the House of 
Representatives expressing congressional opposition to a unilateral 
declaration of a Palestinian state (H. Con. Res. 24).
  My vote for this resolution was not a comment on the merits of a 
Palestinian state. Rather, my vote is a reflection of my belief that a 
unilateral declaration of a Palestinian state at this time would hamper 
efforts to reach a just and lasting peace between the parties. A 
unilateral Palestinian declaration of an independent state outside of 
the framework agreed upon in Madrid, Oslo and Wye would not bode well 
with the current, precarious state of the peace process. This is the 
position advanced by our Administration. Indeed, the resolution simply 
restates official U.S. policy. Ultimately, this is why I voted for it.
  However, I would note that I chose not to cosponsor the resolution 
because of my concerns with its one-sided approach. I am concerned that 
unilateral actions by any of the parties would have a great potential 
to undermine the efforts we have set forth for peace--whether committed 
by Palestinians or Israelis. The resolution's failure to mention any 
Israeli unilateral actions was, in my opinion, a grave error.
  The Administration has worked hard to keep this process going--to 
keep the hope for peace alive for both Israelis and Palestinians. 
Congress should work diligently to support this effort and maintain 
balance.

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