[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 125 (Friday, September 29, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1922]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF THE AMERICAN COUNCIL OF YOUNG 
                           POLITICAL LEADERS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 29, 2006

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Mr. Speaker, it is with appreciation that 
I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of the American Council 
of Young Political Leaders (ACYPL). As a bipartisan, non-profit 
educational exchange organization, ACYPL serves a critical purpose in 
helping to ensure strong U.S. public diplomacy around the world.
  ACYPL programs enhance understanding of political systems, cultures, 
and people by fostering relations between young political leaders. 
These international exchanges are an important strategy in a broader 
effort to ensure our nation's security and the protection of U.S. 
interests abroad.
  Through these exchanges young political leaders learn from each other 
and share their experiences. In fact, two of my own staff have 
participated in ACYPL programs, including a program to Egypt and a 
program to Tanzania and Uganda. These experiences have provided 
opportunities for them to share their views on democracy, foreign 
policy issues, and cultural differences--broadening their world views 
and building new international relationships.
  I am also proud that my Congressional Office has hosted several young 
political leaders over the years. This September, my office hosted a 
young political leader from Egypt--Ms. Fatma Zaki-Khalil. Fatma is a 
staff member with the Badrawi Technical Bureau. Dr. Hossam Badrawi, a 
former of the People's Assembly and Chairman of the Education 
Committee, has also hosted young American political leaders, including 
a staff member from my office, through ACYPL exchange programs in 
Egypt.
  Thank you ACYPL. I look forward to continued partnerships in working 
to support cultural and political exchanges.

                          ____________________