[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 139 (Tuesday, October 16, 2001)]
[House]
[Pages H6792-H6795]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE OF UNITED STATES-AUSTRALIAN
RELATIONSHIP
Mr. HYDE. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the
concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 217) recognizing the historic
significance of the fiftieth anniversary of the alliance between
Australia and the United States under the ANZUS Treaty, paying tribute
to the United States-Australia relationship, reaffirming the importance
of economic and security cooperation between the United States and
Australia, and welcoming the state visit by Australian Prime Minister
John Howard, as amended.
The Clerk read as follows:
H. Con. Res. 217
Whereas the relationship between the United States and
Australia extends beyond security cooperation and is based on
common values, mutual respect, and a shared desire to see a
world at peace in which all peoples can enjoy the benefits of
democratic governance, fundamental human rights, and the
prosperity that market-oriented economies bring;
Whereas the United States and Australia are jointly
committed to combating terrorism around the world;
Whereas the United States and Australia share a wide range
of common interests in Asia and the Pacific, such as growth
and liberalization of international trade, regional
cooperation on economic development, environmental
protection, and the peaceful settlement of disputes;
Whereas the United States and Australia share the goals of
effective multilateral cooperation in arms control and
nonproliferation, halting the spread of weapons of mass
destruction, and ensuring the effective operation of
nonproliferation and arms control regimes;
Whereas the Australia-United States Trade and Investment
Framework Agreement (TIFA) provides for consultations on
trade and investment policy issues;
Whereas since 1985 the United States and Australia have
held annual bilateral Australia-United States Ministerial
Talks (AUSMIN) to develop and enhance their relationship;
Whereas United States Presidential visits to Australia in
1991 and 1996 and visits of the Australian Prime Minister to
the United States in 1995, 1997, and 1999 have underscored
the strength and closeness of the alliance;
Whereas the Sydney Declaration of 1996 reaffirmed and
strengthened the defense alliance between the United States
and Australia and the intention of both countries to work
cooperatively with other states in the region and to
encourage collective solutions to problems and security
challenges in the region;
Whereas the United States and Australia are committed to
close bilateral cooperation on legal, counternarcotics, and
other global issues through the Mutual Legal Assistance
Treaty (MLAT) of 1997;
Whereas the United States and Australia have worked
together closely in the World Trade Organization (WTO), as
active members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
(APEC) forum, and as strong supporters of the Association of
South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the ASEAN Regional Forum
(ARF) to encourage and improve regional cohesion;
Whereas the various phases of the multinational and United
Nations operations in
[[Page H6793]]
East Timor were a striking example of regional cooperation to
achieve shared goals;
Whereas as evidenced by the recent situation in East Timor
and the economic crisis of 1997, the international and
economic security in the Asia-Pacific region is dynamic and
the vitality and relevance of the alliance since the end of
the Cold War is obvious;
Whereas the alliance between the United States and
Australia during World War II was formalized in a 1951
security treaty commonly referred to as the ``ANZUS Treaty'',
which provides that the United States and Australia will act
to meet a common danger in the event of an armed attack in
the Pacific against either country and strengthen the fabric
of peace in the Pacific region;
Whereas Australia and the United States have maintained a
close relationship with one another, and with the United
Nations, regional organizations, associations, and other
authorities in the Pacific region as a means to maintain
international peace and security;
Whereas forces of the United States and Australia have
served alongside one another in many theaters of war and as
part of United Nations peacekeeping operations throughout the
world;
Whereas the alliance between the United States and
Australia has been characterized by an extraordinary degree
of cooperation that includes information sharing, combined
exercises, joint training and educational programs, and joint
facilities;
Whereas the Australia-United States security relationship,
having proved its value for five decades, will remain a
cornerstone of Asia-Pacific security into the 21st century;
and
Whereas September 1, 2001, marks the 50th anniversary of
the ANZUS Treaty: Now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate
concurring), That Congress--
(1) expresses its appreciation to the Government and people
of Australia for the support given to the United States in
the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001;
(2) pays tribute to the relationship between the United
States and Australia and looks forward to the continued
growth and development of all aspects of the relationship;
(3) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to its
alliance with Australia under the ANZUS Treaty and to the
importance of security cooperation between the United States
and Australia and the importance of their mutual security
commitments, as was demonstrated by their joint decision to
invoke Article IV of the Treaty, which commits both countries
to act to meet a common danger;
(4) reaffirms the importance of the trade and economic
relationship between Australia and the United States and
expresses its commitment to further strengthen it; and
(5) expresses its strong support for continued close
cooperation between Australia and the United States on
economic and security issues in the Asia-Pacific region and
globally.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from
Illinois (Mr. Hyde) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) each
will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde).
General Leave
Mr. HYDE. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may
have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks
on the resolution under consideration.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from Illinois?
There was no objection.
Mr. HYDE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Madam Speaker, of the United States' many formal relationships around
the world, our alliance with Australia is among the most important and
enduring. This year, we celebrate the 50th anniversary of that
alliance, one which I am pleased to say is as strong today as when the
ANZUS Treaty was signed half a century ago. But the bonds connecting
the United States and Australia are far deeper than those outlined in a
simple piece of paper, regardless of its undoubted importance. We share
common origins, common political institutions and governing principles,
a common commitment to peace and freedom around the world. That
commitment was tested many times in the past century, when Australian
and U.S. forces fought side by side in a series of conflicts from World
War I and World War II to the wars in Vietnam and the Persian Gulf.
Many of the fallen share common graves.
Today, we recognize not only the past importance of our alliance with
Australia but its continuing significance in a new century of
unfamiliar challenges and unplumbed dangers. The strength of that
alliance was newly demonstrated in the wake of the terrorist attacks on
America September 11 when our Australian ally immediately pledged its
unconditional support for the United States. That support included the
decision by the Australian government to invoke article IV of the ANZUS
Treaty which commits both countries to cooperate in responding to an
attack. I should note this was the first time that article IV has been
jointly invoked in the 50-year history of the ANZUS alliance.
In this new century, the United States and Australia will have need
of reliable friends and proven allies. The knowledge that we do not
face our challenges alone, that we will meet them with steadfast
partners such as Australia, is of incalculable importance and
reassurance to the United States. It is for these and other reasons
that I call up this resolution, recognizing the historic significance
of the 50th anniversary of the alliance between Australia and the
United States under the ANZUS Treaty. I look forward to the day when we
will celebrate the first century of that alliance.
Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 217.
I would first like to commend Chairman Hyde for introducing this
important resolution. I would also like to express my appreciation to
the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Leach) and the gentleman from American
Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega) for joining us as original cosponsors.
Madam Speaker, 5 weeks ago today, the House was scheduled to consider
this important resolution which commemorates the 50th anniversary of
the ANZUS treaty. This critical treaty established the strong security
bonds between the United States and our friend Australia. Then came the
horrendous attacks on the twin towers and the Pentagon. The Capitol was
evacuated and the congressional schedule was dramatically altered.
Australia's outstanding response to the September 11 attacks has
given us a firsthand opportunity to appreciate fully the strength of
the relationship between the United States and Australia and the role
that this treaty can play in furthering our relationship.
On the 12th of September, Madam Speaker, Australian Prime Minister
John Howard, in Washington for an official visit, joined us in this
very hall to hear President Bush address the Nation. The Prime Minister
had already offered his full and complete support for a strong and
united response against the acts of terrorism. And President Bush
rightfully acknowledged that strong support.
On the 14th of September, Australia invoked article IV of the treaty
which requires the United States and Australia to act to meet a common
danger. And on the 28th of September, Australia froze the assets of all
27 terrorist organizations identified by the President in an executive
order, including Osama bin Laden and his cohorts.
On the 4th of October, Australia formally committed a wide range of
air, ground, and naval forces to join with American forces in the fight
against terrorism, including a detachment of special forces and air-to-
air refueling aircraft.
{time} 1430
The Australian Government announced that it is ready to consider
further military contributions as well.
Madam Speaker, the last 5 weeks have shown that the United States-
Australia relationship is stronger than it has ever been, and the
reasons for considering this important resolution are more important
and compelling today than ever before.
But we should not be surprised at the overwhelmingly positive
response of our Australian friends to the September 11 attack. From
human rights to trade to international peacekeeping, the United States
and Australia have a common agenda, and the relationship between our
two nations simply could not be closer.
Australia assumed the leadership role in the Asia-Pacific region and
has contributed greatly to the economic and political stability of the
region. East Timor is the perfect example of Australia's leadership in
the Asia-Pacific area. The Australians led the charge in bringing peace
and stability
[[Page H6794]]
to the troubled island after the Indonesians and the militias they
support burned their way out of East Timor. Their military peacekeepers
have been the backbone of the United Nations peacekeeping force still
in East Timor. We are all pleased, Madam Speaker, that the East
Timorese have recently conducted their first free elections since
becoming independent from Indonesia.
The resolution before the House today recognizes the importance of
the 50th anniversary of the treaty; and it reaffirms the importance of
close economic security, political and cultural ties between the United
States and our friends in Australia. Our resolution recognizes the
strong support provided by Australia to the United States in the
aftermath of the September 11 terrorist outrage.
Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support H. Con. Res.
217.
Madam Speaker, I am particularly pleased to yield 5 minutes to my
friend, the gentleman from America Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega), the
ranking Democrat on the Subcommittee on East Asia and the Pacific.
(Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA asked and was given permission to revise and extend
his remarks.)
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of House
Concurrent Resolution 217. I am honored to join the chairman of the
House Committee on International Relations, the gentleman from Illinois
(Mr. Hyde); our ranking Democrat member, the gentleman from California
(Mr. Lantos); and the Chair of our Subcommittee on East Asia and the
Pacific, the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Leach), in jointly introducing
this measure which honors the close friendship and extraordinarily deep
relationship between Australia and the United States.
As many of our colleagues may know, last month marked the 50th
anniversary of our alliance with Australia under the ANZUS Treaty. The
resolution before us properly recognizes that this vital security
relationship has made historic and significant contributions to peace
and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and will continue to do so
throughout the new century.
Even before the ANZUS Treaty was signed in 1951, however, Australia
and the United States have worked together in partnership to confront
common threats to democracy. From the summer of 1918, when the U.S.
33rd National Guard Division joined Australian troops at the Battle of
Le Hamel in France, we have fought together as allies in World War I,
World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and, more recently, in
conflicts in the Persian Gulf and even Somalia.
Madam Speaker, it was during World War II in particular at the Battle
of the Coral Sea where United States and Australia naval forces joined
in one of the allies' finest hours in the Pacific Theater. On May 4,
1942, the joint forces of American and Australian warships stopped the
Axis armada, which had never before been defeated, in its historic
march across the Pacific region. By crushing the fearsome enemy fleet,
a planned invasion of Australia was stymied and marked the strategic
and pivotal turning point in World War II, leading to the victory for
allied forces and the protection of the free world.
It was this victorious alliance between the United States and
Australia that the ANZUS Security Treaty was born, which holds that the
U.S. and Australia will act to meet the common danger in the event of
an attack against either country.
Madam Speaker, when the horrific terrorist attacks against our Nation
occurred on September 11 of last month, Australia took immediate steps
to demonstrate their commitment and support of the United States in
this crisis.
I deeply commend Prime Minister John Howard, who was in Washington at
the time, for his strong leadership and standing in solidarity with
America. Within days, Australia invoked article IV of the ANZUS Treaty,
following with a concrete commitment of military assets, including
special forces detachments, military aircraft and amphibious command
capability. When requested by President Bush, Australia also took steps
to immediately freeze the assets of terrorist organizations.
Madam Speaker, the quick and timely response of Australia in coming
to our Nation's aid to combat international terrorism leaves no doubt
in our minds that our friends are indeed very serious about their
security commitments to the United States.
In addition to our extensive defense and intelligence cooperation,
Australia has worked closely with the United States to combat global
problems such as the HIV-AIDS crisis, the international criminal
syndicates and narcotics trafficking, and the proliferation of weapons
of mass destruction and missile technology.
We have also served together in international peacekeeping forces,
for which in particular Australia should be deeply commended for its
outstanding leadership of multinational operations in East Timor, which
resolved the crisis and restored stability in that new-born nation.
Madam Speaker, the United States and Australia also share a robust
trade relationship. We are Australia's second largest trading partner,
with an annual trade exceeding $22 billion a year; and our two nations
consult and work closely in the World Trade Organization and APEC for
the promotion of international trade and regional economic development.
To further boost our trade relationship, it is necessary and
appropriate that a free trade agreement be finalized between our
nations.
Madam Speaker, for all these reasons and more, I urge our colleagues
to support passage of this measure that honors our common heritage with
Australia: the respect of human rights, the rule of law, the trust in
free market economies, and our fundamental belief in government by
democratic rule.
Madam Speaker, adoption of this measure sends a strong message
reaffirming the deep respect and enduring bonds of friendship that have
bound and will always bind the people of the United States with the
good people of Australia.
Mr. BEREUTER. Mr. Speaker, as a co-sponsor of House Concurrent
Resolution 217, this Member rises in strong support for the bill which
recognizes the historic significance of the fiftieth anniversary of the
alliance between Australia and the United States under the ANZUS
Treaty. The measure also pays tribute to the United States-Australia
relationship, reaffirms the importance of economic security cooperation
between the United States and Australia, and welcomes the state visit
by Australian Prime Minister John Howard.
This member would like to commend the efforts of the distinguished
gentleman from Illinois and Chairman of the International Relations
Committee (Mr. Hyde), and the distinguished gentleman from California
and Ranking Minority Member of the International Relations Committee
(Mr. Lantos) for introducing and moving forward this legislation.
Mr. Speaker, when the ANZUS Treaty was signed on September 1, 1951,
no one could have anticipated that 50 years later, Australia would
invoke Article 4 of the treaty to assist the U.S. in its efforts
against the threat of terrorism. Indeed, the treaty was negotiated and
signed during the Cold War when the spread of Communism to Pacific
countries loomed as the major threat. It was considered much more
likely at that time that the U.S. would need to invoke the treaty to
aid and defend the other signatories. Now, the threat of Communism has
disappeared, but U.S.-Australian military ties remain very strong and,
in fact, poised to defeat the new threats to global security, including
threats to financial, transportation, and immigration systems.
Currently, Australia has offered the services of 150 elite Special
Air Service soldiers and 2 Royal Australian Air Force Boeing 707
refueling aircraft. Additionally, the Australian Government has
indicated that, if necessary, they could contribute long-range
surveillance support and an amphibious command ship to the war on
terrorism.
Mr. Speaker, this commitment on the part of the Australians is to be
commended as is the role it has previously played in defending the
shared interests of the U.S. and Australia. Indeed, in every major 20th
Century conflict--World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the
Gulf War, Australian forces have joined American forces on the front
lines. It is important to note that Australia's defense forces have
cooperated and coordinated closely with the U.S. The command, control,
and communications systems of both countries in important respects are
integrated. Also, Australia has long been designated as one of
America's most important non-NATO allies. Japan is the only other
country in the Asia-Pacific region to share this distinction.
Not only has Australia been a key ally to the U.S. in previous
conflicts and continues to be so in this current conflict, it has been
a stabilizing force in its neighborhood. Australia did
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not shirk from its regional responsibilities when a crisis erupted in
East Timor. Australia stepped forward readily, early, and decisively to
lead the multi-national peacekeeping intervention in East Timor and it
remains a principal guarantor of security there. Australia's continued
leadership in the Pacific will be critical following the terrorist
attacks of September 11th as Indonesia, a neighbor and the world's most
populous Muslim country, and the Philippines grapple with their
response to the attacks.
Mr. Speaker, the U.S. and Australia share similar backgrounds as
former British colonies and as destinations for huge numbers of
immigrants who were seeking a fresh start. Freedom flourishes in both
countries. Indeed, the U.S. and Australia are very much like close
cousins. Now, we, as cousins, are facing a potentially long and
complicated war in a world very different from the one which
necessitated the ANZUS Treaty. This Member urges his colleagues to vote
for H. Con. Res. 217 to show continued support for Australia--our
international cousin, our friend, and our very valuable and trusted
ally.
Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I
yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. HYDE. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I
yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mrs. Biggert). The question is on the motion
offered by the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde) that the House
suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution, H. Con.
Resolution 217, as amended.
The question was taken.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds of
those present have voted in the affirmative.
Mr. LANTOS. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX and the
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be
postponed.
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