[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 37 (Friday, March 7, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E401]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            PURSUE A MULTI NATIONAL STRATEGY TO DISARM IRAQ

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                           HON. RICK BOUCHER

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 6, 2003

  Mr. BOUCHER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge in the strongest terms 
that the administration pursue a multi national strategy as it takes 
the necessary steps to disarm Iraq.
  I share the administration's view that Saddam Hussein's weapons of 
mass destruction must be removed. In his present armed condition, he 
poses a significant threat to our Nation and to all peace loving 
nations around the world. I have no doubt that he possesses highly 
dangerous weapons, and based upon his past conduct, I also harbor no 
doubt that he would use those weapons against us or against our allied 
nations whenever he believes that doing so serves his interests.
  It is clear that Saddam Hussein must be disarmed.
  However, it is essential that the disarmament take place in the 
proper manner. The best opportunity for obtaining the disarmament of 
Iraq without the necessity of armed conflict lies in the assemblage of 
a large group of nations who collectively will insist that the 
disarmament occur. If, under the auspices of the United Nations, most 
nations of the world are facing Saddam Hussein united in the 
determination to remove his arms peacefully if possible but by force if 
necessary, the best chance is achieved for a peaceful disarmament to 
occur.
  Then, if conflict is necessary, a broad assemblage of nations will 
share responsibility for taking the necessary steps. Moreover, that 
same large assembly of nations with United Nations participation, can 
then share both the cost and the responsibility for the administration 
and reconstruction of post-war Iraq.
  Ten years ago, under a United Nations resolution, Iraq was expelled 
from Kuwait. The diplomatic offices of this nation were put to good use 
in persuading our allies to participate with us in the exercise.
  That same course must be followed again, and I urge the 
administration in the strongest possible terms to take the time which 
is necessary to assure that broad international support underlies our 
efforts to ensure our security and the security of other nations 
through the disarmament of Iraq.

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