[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 130 (Tuesday, October 2, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1778-E1779]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  THE VISIT OF MINISTER JASWANT SINGH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, October 2, 2001

  Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome to the United 
States India's Minister of External Affairs and Minister of Defense, 
Jaswant Singh.
  As a leader of the world's largest democracy, Minister Singh's visit 
to America is timely. In light of the tragic events of September 11, it 
is increasingly important for leaders of the world's great nations to 
unite to protect the freedoms and liberties of democracy.
  On behalf of the United States government and the American people, I 
would like to thank Minister Singh and the government of India for 
strongly condemning the terrorist attacks on the United States, and for 
expressing their unconditional willingness to assist in fighting the 
new global war against terrorism. Sadly, approximately 250 Indian 
nationals and persons of Indian origin were killed in the September 
11th attacks. To the victims and their families I extend my deepest 
sympathies.
  As has America, India has experienced first-hand the devastating 
consequences of cross-border terrorism. In the past fifteen years, 
approximately 53,000 civilians in India have been killed by 
indiscriminate terrorist acts. The global nature of terrorism and its 
far-reaching effects require concerted global action. We trust that 
future cooperation with India's leaders to combat terrorism, not only 
in South Asia and here in the U.S., but together around the world, will 
strengthen and will reinforce the important relationship between our 
countries.
  In recent years, the United States and India have moved towards 
increased cooperation and improved understanding. The trend towards 
improved bi-lateral relations is evidenced by the US-India Summit 
Meetings held in New Delhi in March of 2000, and the formation of our 
Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism early that same year.
  In light of the current situation in the U.S. and instability in 
South Asia, we recognize that open communication, dialogue, and 
partnership between our democratic nations must be maintained and 
enhanced as we strive together to achieve common goals and to promote 
peace in the region. We remain committed to cooperating with the 
government and people of India on issues of common interest, and we 
commend India for the role that she has undertaken in working towards 
greater prosperity and stability in South Asia.
  Of particular importance now, however, is the return of Pakistan to a 
democratic government, and the establishment of peace in the Kashmir 
region. Such shared goals offer opportunities for collaboration, and 
indeed, require international collaboration if they are to be realized. 
Clearly, these issues remain central to South Asia's future stability.
  The war on terrorism aside Mr. Speaker, as a member of the India 
Caucus, I look forward to continuing work to improve America's trade, 
investment, and military cooperation with India. It is my hope that we 
will continue the processes begun in past years to construct a valuable 
working relationship with India, one that is mutually beneficial to 
both our countries. We recognize India's role as a political,

[[Page E1779]]

economic, and military force in regional and world affairs, and thus 
seek her continued cooperation and partnership.
  I extend my sincere wishes to your Minister Singh for a most 
productive visit to Washington. Your country is an extremely important 
friend of America's, and I again thank you for the support that your 
nation has offered to the United States.

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