[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 103 (Thursday, July 22, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1503]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              PALESTINIAN PARLIAMENT URGES NEEDED REFORMS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DARRELL E. ISSA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 22, 2004

  Mr. ISSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Palestinian 
Parliament for their leadership in demanding reforms in the Palestinian 
Authority.
  By a vote of 43-4, Palestinian lawmakers overwhelmingly approved a 
resolution calling on Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat to accept the 
resignation of Prime Minister Ahmed Qurei and calling for the formation 
of a new government that would have greater control over the security 
forces, the authority to introduce political changes and to combat 
pervasive corruption. Yesterday's vote marks the emergence of the 
Palestinian Parliament as a check to Mr. Arafat's political power.
  If the Palestinian Authority is to gain legitimacy among its own 
people and in the world community, the Palestinians themselves must 
take responsibility for bringing about needed reforms and for 
establishing an effective security apparatus to combat terrorism and 
violence.
  It is clear by yesterday's action that a new power base dedicated to 
reducing violence and chaos in the Gaza Strip is emerging, and the 
United States must encourage and support that effort. I look forward to 
a renewed commitment in bringing stability to this region.
  I am hopeful that seeing the success of this resolution, Palestinian 
lawmakers will assert themselves in the future to serve the greater 
interests of the Palestinian people.

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