[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 29 (Wednesday, March 8, 2006)]
[House]
[Pages H692-H699]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
EXTENDING NORMAL TRADE RELATIONS TREATMENT TO UKRAINE
Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the
bill (H.R. 1053) to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory
treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of
Ukraine, as amended.
The Clerk read as follows:
H.R. 1053
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. FINDINGS.
Congress finds as follows:
(1) Ukraine allows its citizens the right and opportunity
to emigrate, free of any heavy tax on emigration or on the
visas or other documents required for emigration and free of
any tax, levy, fine, fee, or other charge on any citizens as
a consequence of the desire of such citizens to emigrate to
the country of their choice.
(2) Ukraine has received normal trade relations treatment
since 1992 and has been found to be in full compliance with
the freedom of emigration requirements under title IV of the
Trade Act of 1974 since 1997.
(3) Since the establishment of an independent Ukraine in
1991, Ukraine has made substantial progress toward the
creation of democratic institutions and a free-market
economy.
(4) Ukraine has committed itself to ensuring freedom of
religion, respect for rights of minorities, and eliminating
intolerance and has been a paragon of inter-ethnic
cooperation and harmony, as evidenced by the annual human
rights reports of the Organization for Security and
Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the United States Department
of State.
(5) Ukraine has taken major steps toward global security by
ratifying the Treaty on the Reduction and Limitation of
Strategic Offensive Weapons (START I) and the Treaty on the
Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, subsequently turning
over the last of its Soviet-era nuclear warheads on June 1,
1996, and agreeing, in 1998, not to assist Iran with the
completion of a program to develop and build nuclear breeding
reactors, and has fully supported the United States in
nullifying the Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty.
(6) At the Madrid Summit in 1997, Ukraine became a member
of the North Atlantic Cooperation Council of the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and has been a
participant in the Partnership for Peace (PfP) program since
1994.
(7) Ukraine is a peaceful state which established exemplary
relations with all neighboring countries, and consistently
pursues a course of European integration with a commitment to
ensuring democracy and prosperity for its citizens.
(8) Ukraine has built a broad and durable relationship with
the United States and has been an unwavering ally in the
struggle against international terrorism that has taken place
since the attacks against the United States that occurred on
September 11, 2001.
(9) Ukraine has concluded a bilateral trade agreement with
the United States that entered into force on June 23, 1992,
and is in the process of acceding to the World Trade
Organization (WTO). On March 6, 2006, the United States and
Ukraine signed a bilateral market access agreement as a part
of the WTO accession process.
SEC. 2. TERMINATION OF APPLICATION OF TITLE IV OF THE TRADE
ACT OF 1974 TO THE PRODUCTS OF UKRAINE.
(a) Presidential Determinations and Extension of
Nondiscriminatory Treatment.--Notwithstanding any provision
of title IV of the Trade Act of 1974 (19 U.S.C. 2431 et
seq.), the President may--
(1) determine that such title should no longer apply to
Ukraine; and
(2) after making a determination under paragraph (1) with
respect to Ukraine, proclaim the extension of
nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations
treatment) to the products of that country.
(b) Termination of Applicability of Title IV.--On and after
the effective date under subsection (a) of the extension of
nondiscriminatory treatment to the products of Ukraine, title
IV of the Trade Act of 1974 shall cease to apply to that
country.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from
California (Mr. Thomas) and the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin)
each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California.
Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
(Mr. THOMAS asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, this is really an exciting time in which we
recognize the continuing maturation and involvement of a new nation,
yet a nation of people who have deserved better over many decades and
are now beginning to see the fruit of their struggle manifest itself.
We are asking today in this legislation to recognize that the country
of Ukraine that has entered into a series of agreements with the United
States and other countries, and I include an exchange of letters
between the United States Trade Representative Rob Portman and myself
as chairman of the Ways and
[[Page H693]]
Means Committee, indicating some certainties as to that agreement, and
to anxiously await the comments by my colleagues as we recognize that
the Ukraine, through very difficult economic and political
transformations, has reached the point of integrating itself into the
world economy.
House of Representatives,
Committee on Ways and Means,
Washington, DC, March 6, 2006.
Hon. Rob Portman,
U.S. Trade Representative,
Washington, DC.
Dear Ambassador Portman: I understand the United States and
Ukraine have concluded the bilateral negotiations on market
access issues related to Ukraine's World Trade Organization
(WTO) accession. The Committee has received the confidential
documents related to the accord, and I congratulate you and
your negotiators on a very strong agreement.
The commitments that Ukraine has made related to market
access for goods and services, as well as on sanitary and
phytosanitary (SPS) obligations and intellectual property
rights, are very important for U.S. exporters and to Members
of Congress. It is essential that Ukraine comply fully with
all of its WTO commitments. To that end, I write to seek your
assurances that you will be steadfast in confirming that
Ukraine fully implements all of its commitments as scheduled,
and that you will not support its accession unless that is
the case.
I look forward to moving legislation through Congress to
grant permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) to Ukraine
quickly after the bilateral agreement is signed.
Unconditional normal trade relations is a basic tenet of WTO
membership, and granting PNTR to Ukraine will allow the
United States to benefit from the WTO commitments made by
Ukraine. I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Bill Thomas,
Chairman.
____
Executive Office of the President, the United States
Trade Representative,
Washington, DC, March 6, 2006.
Hon. Bill Thomas,
Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, House of
Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Thomas: Today, the United States and Ukraine
signed a bilateral market access agreement as part of the
negotiations for Ukraine's accession to the World Trade
Organization (WTO). As we have discussed, this agreement is a
significant step forward in our commercial relations with
Ukraine. In addition to market access commitments that create
new opportunities for U.S. exports, Ukraine's recent efforts
to address intellectual property (IPR) and sanitary and
phytosanitary (SPS) issues are particularly noteworthy
evidence of Ukraine's desire to become part of the global
trade community.
The WTO accession negotiations with Ukraine are proceeding
on two tracks: (1) bilaterally to open up Ukraine's markets
to U.S. exports and investment; and (2) multilaterally to
focus on WTO rules issues that relate to matters such as
transparency, agriculture, customs, IPRs, state-owned
enterprises, and services. The complete WTO accession package
will include: (1) the best of Ukraine's commitments made in
bilateral negotiations on market access for goods,
agriculture, and services; and (2) Ukraine's commitments to
revising its trade regime to adhere to WTO rules. These
commitments will be included in a multilaterally agreed
Protocol of Accession and Report of the Working Party which
are analogous to legislation and the committee report on that
legislation.
Ukraine must still complete its bilateral negotiations with
other Members as well as the multilateral part of the
negotiations. We will continue to work with the Ways and
Means Committee and others in Congress as we continue these
negotiations. Under WTO rules, the Working Party must
approve, by consensus, the final accession package before the
General Council can approve the terms for Ukraine's
membership in the WTO. We will carefully review Ukraine's
implementation of all WTO requirements, including market
access commitments and SPS and IPR obligations, prior to
accession. This will enable us to have confidence that
Ukraine is complying with its SPS commitments to us and will
comply fully with all of the commitments that it will assume
as a WTO member, thus providing the basis for joining the
consensus on Ukraine's terms of accession.
After the Congress enacts legislation terminating
application of the ``Jackson-Vanik'' amendment, the United
States will be able to provide permanent normal trade
relations (PNTR) treatment to Ukraine. WTO membership for
Ukraine means that in addition to our bilateral mechanisms,
we will be able to use the WTO to monitor implementation of
commitments, and as needed, avail ourselves of the various
consultation mechanisms in the Agreement. Finally, should we
be unable to resolve our differences, we will have recourse
to the Dispute Settlement Understanding.
I look forward to working with you and other Members of
Congress on Ukraine's WTO accession and PNTR legislation.
Sincerely,
Rob Portman.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, first, let me thank Mr. Thomas for the
manner in which this legislation has been brought forward, in allowing
us to vote on the permanent normal trade relations with the Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, 1 year ago, in my capacity as ranking member at the
U.S.-Helsinki Commission, I traveled to the Ukraine with my colleague
and chairman, Congressman Chris Smith. We made our trip shortly after
the historic Orange Revolution, and I was impressed by the commitment
of the Ukraine's new leaders to consolidate democracy, promote respect
for human rights, and modernize the country's economy.
{time} 1200
I also was impressed by the leader's commitment to further integrate
Ukraine into the European and Euro-Atlantic community.
I am not the only one to have been impressed by Ukraine's efforts.
International organizations such as Freedom House have acknowledged
Ukraine's progress of recent years in protecting the political rights
and civil liberties of its citizens.
Mr. Speaker, I believe Congress should demonstrate its support for
Ukraine's reforms by approving legislation today that would grant
Ukraine's permanent normal trade relation status, and, therefore, take
it one step closer to becoming a member of the WTO.
The passage of PNTR for Ukraine will also show Congress's support for
the efforts of the Yushchenko government to ensure that the upcoming
March 26 parliamentary elections will be free and fair. I am pleased
that my Helsinki Commission colleague from Florida, Congressman Alcee
Hastings, has been appointed as the OSCE PA Special Coordinator for our
election observation mission there, and I look forward to reviewing the
mission's findings and reports.
So far, the pre-election process, while not completely problem free,
has been dramatically different from the period leading up to the
fraudulent elections of November 2004, which ignited the Orange
Revolution. In the 2004 elections, the Ukraine and government
instructed the media about how to cover the elections and
systematically abused government resources. In contrast, the upcoming
elections are expected to be free and fair.
Mr. Speaker, I also want to take a few moments to comment on the
issues of the underlying legislation we are considering today. The
issue Congress is formally considering today is whether to withdraw the
application of the Jackson-Vanik amendment to Ukraine and thereby grant
Ukraine permanent normal trade relations status. The Jackson-Vanik
amendment, which was adopted in 1975, was intended to provide a way for
the United States to deny trade benefits to countries that are denying
the rights of its citizens, particularly religious minorities.
Mr. Speaker, in light of the commitment that Ukraine has demonstrated
in protecting the rights of religious minorities, I think it is
appropriate that we withdraw the application of the Jackson-Vanik
amendment to Ukraine.
Since independence, each successive Government of Ukraine has
demonstrated a consistent commitment to defending the religious and
ethnic rights of all of the people of the Ukraine. Current President
Victor Yushchenko has continued this unambiguous commitment by pledging
to bring minority groups together and reconciling historic conflicts.
The International Religious Freedom Report of 2005 published by the
United States State Department recognizes, ``President Yushchenko has,
since taking office, spoken publicly about his vision of a Ukraine in
which religious freedom flourishes and people are genuinely free to
worship as they please.''
It must be understood, however, that there remain issues of concern,
most notably the return of communal religious property that was
confiscated during the Soviet era, and the anti-Semitic activities of
Ukraine's largest private university, the Interregional Academy of
Personnel Management.
Mr. Speaker, I have raised both of these issues in recent days with
the Ambassador from the Ukraine and from other Ukrainian officials, and
I have been impressed by their commitment to address these issues.
Ukrainian officials have assured me that the
[[Page H694]]
government is committed to continuing its effort to return communal
property and that the Government of Ukraine will continue to condemn at
the highest levels the anti-Semitic activities of the Interregional
Academy of Personnel Management and any other anti-Semitic activities.
Mr. Speaker, given these concerns, I am pleased that the legislation
we are considering today highlights the importance of Ukraine's
continuing commitment to ensure freedom of religion, respect for
minorities, and eliminating intolerance.
Shortly I will yield time to the gentleman from California (Mr.
Lantos), the ranking member of the International Relations Committee
and our leader in Congress on the issue of human rights, democracy and
religious freedom. Mr. Lantos is the leader in Congress of our Task
Force to Combat Anti-Semitism, and I want to thank him for working with
me, the Helsinki Commission, and the OSCE as we have battled against
the rise of anti-Semitism globally, and particularly within the OSCE
states.
Ukraine has agreed to certain commitments to fight anti-Semitism, as
have all of the 55 participating states of the OSCE. And let me make
this crystal clear: today we intend to hold Ukraine to these
commitments, including the responsibility to denounce anti-Semitism
statements and vigorously enforce hate crime laws and promote diversity
and tolerance in school curriculum. I am pleased that section 1,
paragraph 4 of the resolution before us references these OSCE
commitments.
Let me make a personal reflection here. During my visit to Ukraine
last year, I visited two monuments, the Ukraine Famine Memorial,
honoring the millions of victims of Stalin's genocidal 1932 and 1933
famine, and Babi Yar, where hundreds of thousands of Jews and others
were massacred by the Nazis during World War II.
Mr. Speaker, it was a moving experience for me to lay a wreath at
these sites in the Ukraine. These horrific events were a testimony to
the cruelty and intolerance of dictatorships, and I do believe that
today's independent Ukraine now understands that respect for human
rights and a commitment to democracy and tolerance are the best
inoculation against the horrors like the famine and Babi Yar.
The United States Government, the Helsinki Commission, and the OSCE
look forward to working with a democratic Ukraine as they continue to
build their institutions of democracy, establish the rule of law,
protect human rights and religious freedom and combat corruption.
I commend Ukraine for its progress in promoting political and
economic freedom for its citizens and its integration into the global
rules-based economy. I urge my colleagues to join me in demonstrating
support for the Ukraine's efforts by voting today to grant the country
permanent normal trade status.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. THOMAS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased by the statement of my friend from
Maryland, and am also pleased to underscore the fact that my colleague
and friend from California and I will stand together all the time in
making sure that the conditions under which we examine and approve
normal trade relations follow what should be a model. But, indeed, if
you have to make sure it is followed, it will be followed.
Mr. Speaker, it is now my pleasure to yield 3 minutes to the chief
sponsor of H.R. 1053, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gerlach).
Mr. Speaker, prior to recognizing him, I yield the balance of my time
to the chairman of the Trade Subcommittee, the gentleman from Florida
(Mr. Shaw), and ask unanimous consent that he control the remainder of
the time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Feeney). Without objection, the
gentleman from Florida will control the time.
There was no objection.
Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from
California, Chairman Thomas, and his staff for their cooperation in
bringing H.R. 1053 to the floor today. Also I would like to thank my
colleague from Pennsylvania, Mr. Weldon, and the other cochairs of the
Ukrainian Caucus, Mr. Bartlett, Ms. Kaptur and Mr. Levin, for all of
their hard work in helping to generate such a broad, bipartisan
coalition of support for H.R. 1053.
Most importantly I would like to thank the Jackson-Vanik Graduation
Coalition and all the leaders of the Ukrainian-American community in
southeastern Pennsylvania and throughout the country for their tireless
efforts in support of this legislation, and commend them on the
tremendous job they have done promoting the progress the Ukraine has
made over the past few years.
During the Orange Revolution of 2004, the whole world watched as the
people of Ukraine protested allegations of massive corruption, voter
intimidation and direct electoral fraud. They sent a clear message that
regardless of these obstacles, they wanted and supported with their
votes a pro-democracy, pro-reform candidate for President, Victor
Yushchenko. This election highlighted the commitment of the Ukraine
people to a free and prosperous democracy, and the country overnight
became a role model for the entire region.
Since the election, the government has remained committed to broad-
based reform and economic liberalization. This commitment was evident
most recently on Monday, March 6, when the United States and Ukraine
signed a bilateral WTO Agreement on Market Access, a major step towards
Ukraine ultimately joining the WTO.
H.R. 1053 is another important step for Ukraine as it becomes a
partner in the global economy. The bill lifts the Jackson-Vanik
restrictions and authorizes President Bush to permanently extend normal
trade relations treatment to Ukraine.
The United States Congress adopted the Jackson-Vanik legislation in
1974 to halt normal trade relations between the United States and those
countries that restricted free immigration, especially for persons of
the Jewish faith. Over 30 years later, virtually everyone agrees that
Ukraine's record on freedom of immigration and religious freedom and
tolerance is good.
These restrictions have long been outdated, a fact recognized by the
administration in its granting of normal trade relations status to the
Ukraine on a yearly waiver basis by the President. Because of this, my
legislation will not affect current trade relationships with the
Ukraine on a dollar-and-cents term. However, the message we are sending
by making this relationship permanent is priceless to the people of the
Ukraine. It strongly reaffirms our long-term partnership and support as
Ukraine continues down the path of reform and democracy.
Again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleagues, the
cosponsors of the bill, and the chairman and members of the Committee
on Ways and Means for their work in bringing this bill to the floor
today.
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, it is now my pleasure to yield such time as
he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos), our
champion on human rights here in the Congress and our leader in the
fight against anti-Semitism.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my good friend from Maryland
for yielding, for his eloquent statement and for his leadership on all
human rights issues that come before this House.
Mr. Speaker, like all of our colleagues, I welcome the democratic
strides that Ukraine has taken since the Orange Revolution, and I want
to note that the country has met the basic narrow condition for lifting
Jackson-Vanik restrictions. Jews are allowed to emigrate from Ukraine.
But I am very deeply concerned about the larger human rights questions,
and particularly the failure to deal with rampant anti-Semitism in
Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, the Anti-Defamation League, which monitors anti-Semitic
incidents around the world, reports a disturbing trend in Ukraine. In
2005, 164 incidents of anti-Semitism, ranging from vandalism to brutal
violence, were reported there, three times the incidents reported in
2004.
The principal source of anti-Semitic agitation in Ukraine is the so-
called private university MAUP, which is officially recognized as an
institute of higher education. It is accredited by Ukraine's Ministry
of Education, it has tens of thousands of students enrolled
[[Page H695]]
at various campuses around the country, and it offers courses in many
fields.
But despite the apparent claim of legitimacy, this is the worst kind
of disgrace to academia worldwide. This so-called university organizes
sickening anti-Semitic meetings and conferences and regularly publishes
anti-Semitic articles and statements in two widely distributed
periodicals. Its so-called president and other faculty members have
made it their life's goal to resuscitate and spread anti-Semitism in
Ukraine, a country with a disgraceful history and mass murder in that
subject. The president of this university, Shchokin, is the head of
another organization which also uses its license for purely anti-
Semitic activities.
One of these institution's most appalling actions has been to court
the disgraced and odious American white supremacist David Duke. This
``university'' awarded him a doctorate for a thesis entitled, ``Zionism
as a Form of Ethnic Supremism.'' David Duke holds forth in the
classrooms in Ukraine on history and international relations. He was
also a key participant in a June 2005 conference sponsored by this so-
called university entitled, ``Zionism: A Threat to World Peace.''
Other leading anti-Semites in Ukraine were given star billing at that
conference, including Holocaust deniers.
{time} 1215
Recently the president of the so-called university expressed public
support for Iranian President Ahmadinejad's denial of the Holocaust,
and approved of his threat to wipe Israel off the map.
Mr. Speaker, in meetings with officials of Ukraine and top officials
of our own government, I have repeatedly emphasized that I cannot
support lifting Jackson-Vanik provisions for Ukraine when the
government fails to deal with the issue of anti-Semitism. I have called
upon Ukrainian officials to speak out and publicly denounce this vile
venom from the so-called university and its president.
I am pleased to report to my colleagues, Mr. Speaker, that while this
ugly problem has not yet been fully resolved, over the last few months
a number of positive steps have been taken by the Government of
Ukraine, and that is the reason I am willing to support the lifting of
Jackson-Vanik for Ukraine.
I would like to mention the most positive actions that have been
taken to deal with anti-Semitism in response to the serious concerns
that I have raised with both Ukrainian and American officials. The
President of Ukraine, Victor Yushchenko, on December 5, 2005, publicly
condemned anti-Semitism, and he specifically criticized the so-called
university, MAUP, for its systematic publication of viciously and
violently anti-Semitic articles.
President Yushchenko urged all Ukrainians to join him in condemning
all manifestations of anti-Semitism and xenophobia, which he said the
new democratic Ukrainian state will not tolerate. President Yushchenko
called upon the faculty of this so-called university to respect
citizens of all nationalities and religious faiths and to stop rousing
national hatred.
On January 23 of this year, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, Borys
Tarasiuk, strongly condemned the anti-Semitic actions of this
university. He announced, ``Having exhausted all efforts to convince
the university's leaders to drop their unlawful and wrongful actions'',
the Foreign Minister broke off all contacts with the university a year
ago. The Foreign Minister stressed, ``There is no place for any form of
anti-Semitism or xenophobia in Ukraine.''
The Ministry of Education and Science also issued a statement on
January 23 accusing this so-called university of violating Ukrainian
law. It said that there was persistent noncompliance with requirements
of state licensing rules for universities. The ministry's statements
said this institution pursued ``activities inconsistent with the status
of higher educational institutions in the Ukraine.''
I am calling on the Government of Ukraine to lift the license of the
so-called university to function. It is a disgrace to the new Ukraine,
and it is a disgrace to the civilized world, and I am looking forward
to early action by the Government of Ukraine.
On February 16, Mr. Speaker, the Presidential party made a statement
condemning the anti-Semitic activities of this institution, noting,
``Inflaming hostility, anti-Semitism and xenophobia by leaders of MAUP
is a blatant violation of the rights and freedoms of the people. It
casts a shadow on Ukraine, a country pursuing the way of democracy''.
Just this past Friday, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, Borys Tarasiuk, in
a letter to me, said that his government takes anti-Semitism seriously
and will deal with it in a bold manner. He said that all governmental
departments have ceased cooperation with this institution, that it is
becoming isolated and marginalized. Its future is more than vague, in
view of the ongoing investigations, said Minister Tarasiuk in his
letter. He also stated that formal charges are to be filed in the
coming weeks.
I look forward to the filing of these formal charges and the lifting
of the license of the institution.
Mr. Speaker, at the end of my statement, I will insert into the
Record the full text of all of these documents.
Mr. Speaker, I believe Ukrainian officials are acting in good faith
to stop the nauseating and repulsive anti-Semitic actions of this so-
called university and its vile and despicable leadership. I will
continue to monitor anti-Semitism in Ukraine, and I will continue to
work with the officials of the Ukrainian Government to bring this ugly
process to an end.
I support, Mr. Speaker, reluctantly and with reservations, the
legislation before us today to grant PNT status and to remove the
Jackson-Vanik provisions from Ukraine. Ukraine has taken important
steps forward, and I look forward to working with the Government of
Ukraine under the leadership of President Yushchenko in dealing with
the problem I discussed.
Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record here the materials I discussed
previously:
Ukraine President Condemns Anti-Semitism
Victor Yushchenko urged society to jointly condemn all
manifestations of anti-Semitism and xenophobia, and claimed
that the state would not tolerate them.
The President stressed that government should protect
citizens of all nationalities and religious beliefs. He
pledged that it would consistently fight against national,
racial or religious discrimination in our country.
``There can be no national issue in a civilized country,''
he said. The Head of State is worried that anti-Semitism
spreads throughout Ukraine.
He condemned the Interregional Academy of Personnel
Management (IAPM) as an institution that systematically
publishes anti-Semitic articles in its publication
`Personnel.'
Yushchenko said he had left the supervisory council of the
journal to protest against this inhumane policy. He called on
professors of the IAPM to respect citizens of all
nationalities and confessions and to ``stop rousing national
hatred.''
____
Foreign Minister Tarasiuk: MAUP Activities Unlawful
On January 23d speaking on national television Foreign
Minister of Ukraine Borys Tarasiuk strongly condemned the
anti-Semitic actions of MAUP University in Ukraine. He
confirmed that ``having exhausted all efforts to convince
MAUP leaders to drop their unlawful and wrongful actions'' he
broke off contacts with the University a year ago. According
to Tarasiuk, ``there is no place for any form of anti-
Semitism or xenophobia in Ukraine''.
At the same time the Ministry of Education and Science of
Ukraine issued a press-release accusing MAUP of breaking
Ukrainian law. In particular it pointed out persistent
incompliance with requirements of state licensing rules for
universities, failure to abide with legally binding
procedures of the State Accreditation Commission etc. The
press release qualifies it as ``a general negligence of law
and a desire to pursue activities inconsistent with the
status of Higher Education Institute in Ukraine''. The
Ministry addresses the issue to the Ukrainian law enforcement
bodies with request to analyze to what extent the actions of
MAUP comply with Ukrainian law.
____
Statement by ``Our Ukraine'' of the Our Ukraine Bloc on Manifestation
of Anti-Semitism at MAUP
Inflaming hostility, anti-Semitism and xenophobia by
certain leaders of the Inter Regional Academy of Personnel
Management (MAUP) in MAUP-owned or affiliated mass media is a
blatant violation of rights and freedoms of people. It casts
a shadow on Ukraine, a country pursuing the way of democracy.
A new anti-Semitic article ``Minister of American synagogue''
was published
[[Page H696]]
in the last edition of ``Ukrainian newspaper plus''. It
represents a deliberate xenophobic act towards Ukrainian
citizens.
The Our Ukraine Bloc considers such activity outrageous and
damaging, especially at the time of formation of a free civil
society. The Orange revolution displayed Ukraine as a new
democracy. Anti-Semitic attacks on the side of MAUP damage
Ukraine's image and hamper equal and close relations with its
biggest world partners. Atavistic thinking of MAUP leadership
might create a bizarre picture of Ukraine as a primitive and
nationalistic state.
We consider this humiliation of Ukraine in the eyes of the
world community inappropriate and strongly urge the MAUP
leadership to review their views as harmful and shameful for
Ukrainian people. In the beginning of the III millennium
there cannot be any place for paranoid ideology in public and
political sphere!
Representatives of any nation in Ukraine have a right for
self-realization and development of their national and socio-
cultural identity. There is only one Ukraine for all of us!
____
Minister for
Foreign Affairs of Ukraine,
March 3, 2006.
Hon. Tom Lantos,
House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Lantos: Let me first of all express my deep
respect to you as a long-time supporter of my country. Being
a part of opposition in Ukraine during dramatic elections of
2004 I was encouraged and impressed by the letters you co-
signed in defense of Ukrainian democracy. I also appreciate
the unequivocal support of my country's graduation from the
Jackson-Vanik amendment you rendered right after the victory
of democratic forces in December 2004.
It is my strong conviction that the present moment gives a
precious opportunity to lay a solid fundament for a reliable
Ukrainian-American partnership for decades to come. Let me
assure you that Ukrainian Government won't let marginal
forces like infamous MAUP University thwart that chance.
In December-February President Yushchenko, myself and pro-
presidential party bloc ``Our Ukraine'' have strongly
condemned the anti-Semitic escapades of MAUP leaders. All
governmental bodies have seized their co-operation with MAUP.
All political forces denied them collaboration during the
forthcoming elections.
Politically, MAUP University is isolated and marginalized.
Legally, its future is more than vague in view of ongoing
investigations (the formal charges are to be filed in the
coming weeks). I sincerely hope that you won't see the very
existence of this small group of obscurants in my country as
an impediment on the way of enhancing Ukrainian-American
partnership.
Dear Congressman, anti-Semitism is an issue Ukrainian
Government takes seriously and deals with in an expedient and
bold manner. This is yet another issue on which we are ready
to actively co-operate with the United States. In this
regard, I would appreciate if we could meet and discuss all
range of Ukraine-U.S. issues during my visit to Washington,
D.C. on March 9-10, 2006.
Sincerely,
Borys Tarasyuk.
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
Pennsylvania (Mr. English), a member of the Ways and Means Committee.
Mr. ENGLISH of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this
bill and particularly to congratulate the gentleman from Pennsylvania
(Mr. Gerlach), who is its primary sponsor and who has carefully
shepherded it forward at a very sensitive time in U.S.-Ukrainian
relations.
Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this bill especially when taken in
tandem with economic and political reforms made by the Ukraine, as well
as the efforts of our negotiators to put together a solid WTO market
access agreement.
I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of passage of this bill on the
heels of the other body passing a similar measure under unanimous
consent. Just 2 days ago an agreement on market access was signed
between the U.S. and the Ukraine. This agreement is an excellent start
to fostering a continued growth between our two countries.
We recognize that some frictions remain, but this agreement, along
with the Ukraine's accession to the WTO, will better enable us to
resolve these frictions expeditiously, and in a mutually beneficial
manner. Granting permanent normal trade relations, along with steps
already taken to make government loan guarantees from the Export-Import
Bank available to U.S. exporters to the Ukraine, will significantly
increase U.S. investment in the Ukraine.
Granting the Ukraine permanent normal trade relations status will not
only complement the difficult economic reforms that have been made. It
will also support and reinforce the democratic reforms being made by
President Yushchenko.
It is vital that Congress move forward and reaffirm our commitment to
the Ukraine, to its reforms, both democratic and economic. Mr. Speaker,
I urge passage of this bill.
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that each side be
given an additional 2 minutes.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Feeney). Is there objection to the
request of the gentleman from Maryland?
There was no objection.
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from
Michigan (Mr. Levin).
(Mr. LEVIN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in support of this for
the reasons that they have all given. What happens in Ukraine is
important for its people, obviously. It is important for its neighbors.
It is important for us in the United States, and I think really in the
world. Let me just state why I think it is important in terms of its
economic and democratic development.
Clearly it has met the requirement in Jackson-Vanik as to
immigration. Jackson-Vanik was an amendment to a trade bill, and so it
is relevant for us to look at the economic and democratic developments
within Ukraine. The Jackson-Vanik instrument is our opportunity in the
Congress to deal with the accession of countries to the World Trade
Organization, and that is why we have withheld PNTR in several cases
until we were satisfied in terms of the WTO accession agreements and
could participate in the development of those agreements.
The U.S. has now negotiated with Ukraine a WTO accession agreement,
and it is satisfactory. I think it will be mutually beneficial. I think
also it will spark further reforms within Ukraine, both economic and
also, I think, help the evolution of democracy within that country. So
this is an important moment in terms of the economic role of Ukraine
and the evolution of its democratic processes.
Let me say another word, if I might quickly, about the importance. We
have been working on this legislation for a number of years. In
proposals that we have placed on the record, that we have introduced,
we have talked about various aspects of our relationship with Ukraine,
and various doings within Ukraine, both human rights, how it treats its
workers and many other aspects.
All of these aspects are not covered in this legislation, but I do
think this legislation points out the importance of Ukraine to continue
its democratic evolution. There are challenges ahead. I have had the
chance to talk with constituents, with the large Ukrainian-American
community in the 12th District.
And I want to close with this. To echo what Mr. Lantos has said, and
others, what happens in Ukraine is important, as I said, not only for
its people, but really for the whole world. The Orange Revolution
really resounded throughout the globe. It was an important moment for
all of us, and so is its progress in terms of human rights and in terms
of the elimination of anti-Semitism within Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, so I join in this effort, and I urge that we all support
it.
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from
Michigan (Mrs. Miller).
Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for
yielding me time.
Mr. Speaker, as has been discussed here today certainly, the Jackson-
Vanik restrictions were made as an amendment to a 1974 trade bill
actually to punish the Soviet bloc nations for their despicable human
rights record.
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Jackson-Vanik
restrictions were placed on all of the former Soviet Republics,
including the Ukraine. In recent years, the world has watched as the
Ukraine has embraced democracy and freedom through their Orange
Revolution.
The Ukraine has been a great ally in the war on terror. The Ukraine
has clearly taken appropriate steps to open their society and economy
and becoming an important member of the community of free nations. The
Ukraine should be free of the onerous restrictions, because they have
met each of the tests laid out by the law. In fact,
[[Page H697]]
the Ukraine has been granted an annual waiver from these restrictions
each year for nearly a decade.
Mr. Speaker, my district is home to many people of Ukrainian descent.
In fact, southeast Michigan, I believe, has, if not the largest,
certainly one of the largest Ukrainian populations in our entire
Nation.
These people are great Americans. They are great patriots. For years
they have fought against Soviet oppression of the Ukrainian people and
on behalf of freedom. They now embrace democracy and freedom that has
come to their homeland, and they know it is both appropriate and very
necessary for this Congress to act on this issue.
It is time for us to recognize the friendship of the Ukraine as well
as permanently remove them from the restrictions of Jackson-Vanik.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this very, very
important legislation today on the floor.
{time} 1230
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
Pennsylvania (Mr. Weldon) who is a very active Member of the Congress
with regard to our relationship with the Ukraine.
(Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to revise
and extend his remarks.)
Mr. WELDON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solid
support of this legislation and with deep thanks to the leadership on
both sides of the aisle for their work on this issue.
This is a critically important piece of legislation, not just for the
people of Ukraine but for the people of the world. As a founder and
cochair of the Ukrainian Rada-U.S. Congress relationship, this has been
our number one priority for a number of years. But going back in my own
career as a mayor and former county commissioner, I can recall each
January that, with hundreds of my Ukrainian-American constituents, we
would assemble and light candles. We would light candles for those
people who are being oppressed by the Soviet regime.
In working with groups like the National Council of Soviet Jewry, we
would make visits into the Soviet Union and go to those homes where
people were being oppressed. We understood in a real way the oppression
that was being brought by the Soviet leadership. And those candles that
we lit each January were to show our solidarity with the Ukrainian
people, that one day they would achieve independence and one day they
would achieve the full equal respect of our country.
In the early nineties they achieved their independence. Today they
receive the full respect of America and its people, because today we
grant them equal status as a trading partner.
Ukraine has been working hard to achieve the basic foundation of
democracy. They worked hard as a million people stood in the streets in
the area of the Maden and stood up to the leadership in attempting to
take away the election of the people. They stood tall for the
leadership of President Yushchenko.
President Yushchenko has continuously called for this action that we
take today. And certainly the timing is appropriate because in several
weeks Ukraine will elect a new Rada. This sends a signal that Ukraine
now has the full and equal respect of the government and of the people
of the United States. And it sends a signal to all those other emerging
democracies that you can follow the Orange Revolution.
Ukraine has been very helpful to us, Mr. Speaker, in ways that we do
not often talk about publicly. It was President Kuchma, before
Yushchenko, who laid the groundwork with contacts in Libya through his
Foreign Minister, Konstantin Greshenko, to assist us in getting Gadhafi
to give up his weapons of mass destruction. Quiet discussions among
Ukraine leaders were assisting us to achieve what many thought was
impossible in Libya.
It has been Ukraine and the diaspora in this country that has
constantly reminded us of the economic bonds between our two nations.
Today we stand tall with the people of Ukraine, and we tell them that
we are with them, as we told Prime Minister Yekhanurov when he was here
only a few weeks ago.
Today Ukraine becomes a symbol for all of the world. Hopefully, we
will continue to work with Russia to achieve a similar status before
the end of this year. I was encouraged by the comments of our Trade
Representative in calling for that ultimate conclusion, once Russia has
continued to show success and improvement in their economic relations.
To all of our colleagues, I say vote for this issue.
Slava Ukraine.
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the
gentleman from Florida (Mr. Lincoln Diaz-Balart), a member of the Rules
Committee, a Member who knows what it is to lose freedom and then
regain it.
Mr. LINCOLN DIAZ-BALART of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman
Shaw for his kind remarks. I want to thank all the distinguished
Members who have made possible this legislation today. I think it is
very timely.
I had the privilege of visiting Ukraine last December along with
Under Secretary of State Paula Dobriansky and a humanitarian delegation
from my community. My community has begun a process of helping the
people of Ukraine, especially the sick children who, because of the
decades-long environmental degradation, really attack upon the
environment of the totalitarian regime, are still suffering and for
generations, unfortunately, will have to suffer the consequences of the
horrors of totalitarianism in a most unfair way. So humanitarian
efforts are ongoing, and I am very proud of that, from my community, to
help the people of Ukraine.
I was again very impressed and thank Mr. Lantos for standing up today
and mentioning an extremely important subject area. I want to point out
that in the discussions that we had with President Yushchenko, Under
Secretary Dobriansky, I was impressed by how much emphasis she made and
the seriousness with which she made arguments that were brought out
today by Mr. Lantos. And so I am pleased to see that he will continue
his very important monitoring of really the despicable matters that he
made reference to, and I certainly look forward to joining him in that
monitoring.
That said, I think it is important that a friend that has gone
through, because of really the heroism of its people, has gone through
a democratic transition, and, even after independence from the Soviet
Union, was really still living under the undue influence of Russia.
I think that those hundreds of thousands of people that took to the
streets just over a year ago, they deserve our respect. And the people
of Ukraine deserve our respect. And in the same manner in which
Jackson-Vanik, I am very proud of, was another way in which the United
States stood on behalf of freedom, I think today it is time to remove
Jackson-Vanik from democratic Ukraine, to say congratulations for what
you have achieved, and to say we will be with you as you further
achieve progress in perfecting your democracy and the rule of law.
Mr. CARDIN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, let me once again thank my friends for bringing this
legislation forward. I want to acknowledge again Mr. Lantos and his
strong work on behalf of human rights and fighting anti-Semitism, and
Mr. Levin who authored a bill on our side for PNTR for Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, I include for the Record a letter from the Anti-
Defamation League acknowledging the changes that have been made by the
leadership of the Ukraine, dated January 25, 2006. The Anti-Defamation
League is the premier organization fighting anti-Semitism globally.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the bill.
Anti-Defamation League
ADL Welcomes Ukraine's Strong Condemnation of University Fomenting
Anti-Semitism
New York, NY, January 25, 2006 . . . The Anti-Defamation
League (ADL) welcomed the statements and actions of the
Ukrainian government to condemn anti-Semitism, and
specifically one of the country's leading institutions of
higher education, which ADL has called a hotbed for anti-
Semitic incitement. Ukraine's Foreign Minister and the
Ministry of Education and Science publicly condemned MAUP
University's anti-Semitic activities and called for ``anti-
incitement laws to be effectively enforced.''
In a letter to Borys Tarasyuk, Ukraine's Foreign Minister,
Barbara B. Balser, ADL
[[Page H698]]
National Chair, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director
welcomed his ``strong statement condemning the anti-Semitic
actions of MAUP University as unlawful and wrongful and
proclaiming that `there is no place for any form of anti-
Semitism and xenophobia in the Ukraine.'''
The League leaders also welcomed the statement of the
Ministry of Education and Science accusing MAUP of breaking
Ukrainian law by persistent incompliance with requirements of
state licensing rules for universities and failure to abide
with legally binding procedures of the State Accreditation
Commission.
``We hope the Ukrainian government will continue to condemn
such anti-Semitic activities and ensure anti-incitement laws
will be effectively enforced,'' Ms. Balser and Mr. Foxman
said.
A university with 50,000 students, MAUP has made statements
supporting the President of Iran's denial of the Holocaust
and appeal for Israel's destruction and is a bastion of anti-
Jewish propaganda and incitement in the Ukraine.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Feeney). The gentleman from Florida (Mr.
Shaw) has 7\1/2\ minutes remaining.
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to first of all associate myself with the
remarks from the gentleman from Maryland as well as the gentleman from
California. I think they expressed very well, as did the other speakers
from the majority side, the feeling of the Congress with regard to this
resolution. I rise in very strong support of H.R. 1053 which would
grant permanent normal trade relations to the products of the Ukraine.
Members of the House have the opportunity to show their support for
the important economic and democratic reforms underway by Ukraine by
affirming their support to the PNTR status.
As chairman of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, I routinely
observe the tremendous benefits that free and fair trade can have on
both countries involved. In fact, many times the economic benefit of
trade is a carrot that is held out to encourage movements by countries
towards a free and open society. To most effectively continue
advocating that countries make these reforms, we must take steps to
recognize and reward those efforts to demonstrate the benefits of those
actions.
In addition to rising in support of this legislation, I applaud the
negotiations on both sides for their work on the bilateral market
access agreement reached between the United States and Ukraine on March
6, 2006, just 2 days ago. In particular, I commend the strong
protections for intellectual property rights contained in the
agreement. For example, the Ukraine has agreed to provide 5 years of
data protection for pharmaceuticals and 10 years of data protection for
agriculture chemicals.
I applaud both the Ukraine and the United States Trade
Representative, Mr. Portman, for this and I continue to urge the United
States Trade Representative to press for intellectual property rights
in future agreements, particularly in the discussions with Russia.
Mr. Speaker, Ukraine has made strong commitments in this and many
other areas. In addition, the country has made tremendous economic and
democratic strides. All of us were thrilled to watch actually on
television the Orange Revolution and watch it go forward and watch the
freedom, the human spirit, rise up in the Ukraine and come to bring
them where they are today.
Because of this and other matters, I urge my colleagues to support
permanent and normal trade relations for the Ukraine and vote in favor
of this important bill, H.R. 1053.
Mr. NEUGEBAUER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressmen Hensarling and Moore
and Chairmen Oxley and Bachus for their efforts to bring H.R. 3505 to
the floor today. Regulatory relief is much-needed by our nation's
financial institutions, and I am pleased to support this legislation.
Since 1989, federal banking regulators have adopted more than 851 new
rules and regulations. Regulatory costs, which total $38 billion,
account for 13 percent of banks' non-interest expenses. It is time for
Congress to provide relief.
I am especially concerned about the impact of unnecessary regulations
on community banks and small credit unions, which are the types of
institutions that serve much of rural West Texas. The regressive burden
of regulations has contributed to the decline in the number of
community banks and diminished the investments they are able to make in
small communities.
H.R. 3505 includes a balance of regulatory relief among all types of
financial institutions, and all institutions will benefit from the
elimination of annual privacy notices when they do not share
information or have not changed their privacy policy. There are
provisions in this legislation that provide relief specific to
community banks, national banks, credit unions and thrifts.
I am especially supportive of the much needed relief on Currency
Transaction Reports and Suspicious Activity Reports. Last year banks
filed more than 13 million CTRs and 300,000 SARs, overwhelming law
enforcement with reports. Eliminating CTRs for seasoned customers will
save institutions many hours of paperwork and redirect resources to the
most useful reports. Focusing resources on transactions that pose the
greatest risks benefits law enforcement, financial institutions and
citizens.
I encourage my colleagues to support the long-overdue regulatory
relief in H.R. 3505.
Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the
Resolution offered by Representative Gerlach, H.R. 1053--lifting the
provisions of Jackson-Vanik from the country of Ukraine.
In December 2004, the world watched as a democratic candidate was
poisoned, a stolen victory, and marches in the street by people hungry
for freedom and for a better future for their children.
The world witnessed true passion. We witnessed people expressing
themselves and their will to live freely and democratically. We
witnessed people determined to take charge of their nation's destiny
and risk all to do so. We witnessed young and old, families and
students--all camping outdoors in the blistering Ukrainian cold to
protest against a sham victory and demand true elections. What we
witnessed was true everyday heroism.
While we, the people of the world, witnessed victory--the people of
Ukraine lived it by forcing it. By rejecting tyranny and corruption and
demanding equality and freedom, they brought about peaceful democratic
regime change.
As a result, President Viktor Yushchenko has been able to
democratically reform laws in Ukraine to bring this country to Market
Economy Status. Additionally, Ukraine has continued to bring religious
minorities together, restore privately owned property, and condemn
anti-Semitic remarks from national organization. As a result of
Ukraine's tireless effort to reform, on March 6, 2006 the United States
and Ukraine signed a very important trade agreement that would
eventually help grant Ukraine access to the World Trade Organization.
Now the only piece of the puzzle still left for this fledgling
democracy is lifting of the Jackson-Vanik restriction--and permanently
granting normal trade relations status with the United States.
I am pleased to join with my colleagues and my constituents in
support of H.R. 1053 and grant Ukraine PNTR for the hard work and
democratic reforms that have been instituted after the ``Orange
Revolution'' Let's support this democratically elected government and
grant them Permanent Normal Trade Relations status.
Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman Nancy Kaptur, co-chair of
the Ukranian Caucus, and I have been strong supporters of political
freedom in Ukraine and have advanced the cause of Ukranian culture
internationally and in the United States.
Today we will vote ``present'' on H.R. 1053, a bill to authorize the
extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations
treatment) to the products of Ukraine. We wish to make clear that this
was not a ``no'' vote, but a ``we know'' vote.
We know that democracy is on the march in Ukraine. We also know that
the conditions for a fully functioning democracy are not in place.
We adhere to the principles of a similar bill to life Ukraine from
Jackson-Vanik in the 107th Congress, H.R. 3939. However, that bill
specified certain conditions be met prior to lifting that reflect the
spirit of the law as much as the letter of the law, including that the
government of Ukraine--
(1) Adopt and institute policies that remove undue restrictions and
harassment on labor organizations to freely associate according to
internationally recognized labor rights; (2) Take additional positive
steps to transfer places of worship and related religious property for
all confessions to their original owners; (3) Establish an independent
legal and judicial system with rule of law that is free of political
interference and corruption; (4) Commit to providing funding and
administrative support for reforms of the legislature; (5) Demonstrate
a firm commitment to freedom of the press by prohibiting physical harm
and intimidation of journalists through such means as prevention of
abuse of tax and libel laws; (6) Adopt and
[[Page H699]]
vigorously enforce laws to prohibit the trafficking of women and of
illicit narcotics; (7) Accelerate governmental structural reform and
land privatization policies which benefit ordinary citizens; (8) Adopt
a more comprehensive program to protect the environment; (9) Support
internationally recognized standards of transparency in monitoring of
elections; and (10) Remedy trade disputes involving violation of
international property rights, transshipment of counterfeit goods, and
dumping of such products as steel into the United States market in such
increased quantities as to cause harm to the domestic industry.
Despite our high aspirations for the Ukraine, we do not believe that
these conditions have been met, although we are mindful that there are
people in civil society working to bring these principles to fruition.
The Jackson-Vanik requirement for annual review of the trading
relationship was originally intended as a way to sanction anti-Semitic
regimes. According to the Anti-Defamation League, in a document
attached to this statement, that we attach for the Record, at least one
university in Ukraine, sadly, is still teaching anti-Semitism in
Ukraine.
We have both worked to ensure human rights, labor rights and
environmental quality standards are including in trade agreements.
However, the WTO does not permit trade on this basis. This makes new
entrants into the WTO highly vulnerable to the export of their jobs to
nations which offer cheap labor and no standards. A transfer of wealth
from the great mass of the people of Ukraine to multi-national
corporate interests will result unless there are safeguards. Any
nation, and Ukraine is no exception, which is heavily influenced by
oligarchical interests, could easily be sacrificed. We remain committed
to continuing to work with the valiant people of Ukraine and the
wonderful groups of the diaspora to lift up the economic, political and
social progress of the Ukranian people. We are optimistic about the
blossoming of freedom, economic democracy and human rights in Ukraine.
Ukraine University Schooling in Anti-Semitism
maup: schooling in anti-semitism
MAUP is the main source of anti-Semitic agitation and
propaganda in Ukraine. It organizes anti-Semitic meetings and
conferences, regularly issues anti-Semitic statements and
publishes two widely distributed periodicals, Personnel and
Personnel Plus, which frequently contain anti-Semitic
articles.
At the same time, MAUP is a bona fide university--its
English name is the Interregional Academy for Personnel
Management--accredited by Ukraine's Ministry of Education,
with more than 50,000 students enrolled at campuses in
various locations. Business, political science and
agriculture are among the subjects taught.
The anti-Semitic activities are directed by MAUP's
President, Georgy Tschokin, and a number of his colleagues.
In addition, Tschokin is the head of another body called the
``International Personnel Academy'' (IPA), which he also uses
to issue anti-Semitic statements.
White supremacist David Duke has close links with MAUP: he
``teaches'' a course on history and international relations,
has been awarded a doctorate for a thesis on Zionism and was
a key participant in MAUP's June 2005 conference on
``Zionism: Threat to World Peace''.
On November 22, Tschokin issued a statement of solidarity
with Iranian President Ahmadinejad's threat to wipe out
Israel. The statement blended traditional Christian anti-
Semitism with anti-Zionism: ``We'd like to remind that the
Living God Jesus Christ said to Jews two thousand years ago:
`Your father is a devil!' . . . Israel, as known, means
`Theologian', and Zionism in 1975 was acknowledged by General
Assembly of UNO as the form of racism and race
discrimination, that, in the opinion of the absolute majority
of modern Europeans, makes the most threat to modern
civilization. Israel is the artificially created state
(classic totalitarian type) which appeared on the political
Earth map only in 1948, thanks to good will of UNO . . .
Their end is known, and only the God's true will rescue all
of us. We are not afraid, as God always together with his
children!'' .
MAUP's June 2005 anti-Zionist conference was attended by
anti-Semites from all over the region, as well as Duke,
French Holocaust denier Serge Thion and Israel Shamir, a
Russian Jew who converted to Christianity and is notorious
for publishing anti-Semitic essays on the internet. The
Palestinian Authority representative in Ukraine, Walid Zakut,
was also reported to have attended.
MAUP's anti-Semitic activities can be traced back to at
least 2002. MAUP's leading figures have been at the root of
attempts to bar Jewish organizations in Ukraine and, more
recently, a call to ban ``The Tanya'', a classic work of
Hassidic Jewish literature, on the grounds that it promotes
racism against non-Jews.
maup: context and responses
At the Auschwitz liberation ceremonies in January 2005,
Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko declared that his
country had adopted a policy of ``zero tolerance'' towards
anti-Semitism. Yet over this year, there has been a sharp
spike in anti-Semitic incidents, including the brutal beating
in August of a Yeshiva student in Kiev, who remains
hospitalized in Israel in a coma. Following this attack, 30
Ukrainian rabbis declared: ``Calls to violence against
Judaism and Jews are published in the press, freely
distributed and sold. On the walls of synagogues, buildings,
bus stops and along the road, anti-Semitic symbols appear
more and more often.''
Critically, Mr. Yushchenko has done nothing against MAUP,
aside from resigning from its Board.
Ukraine needs to take decisive action now. Measures could
include the following: Invoking anti-incitement laws against
Tschokin and his colleagues; the Education Ministry revoking
recognition of MAUP diplomas; a statement of condemnation by
Mr. Yushchenko and a ban on David Duke entering Ukraine.
Mr. SHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the
gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas) that the House suspend the rules
and pass the bill, H.R. 1053, 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. SHAW. Mr. 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 question will
be postponed.
____________________