[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 26 (Monday, February 12, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  ESTABLISHING THE HOUSE DEMOCRACY ASSISTANCE COMMISSION FOR THE ONE 
                         HUNDRED TENTH CONGRESS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 12, 2007

  Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 24, 
establishing the House Democracy Assistance Commission for the One 
Hundred Tenth Congress.
  The House Democracy Assistance Commission's mission is to strengthen 
democratic institutions around the world by fostering working 
relationships with emerging or existing democracies and providing 
expert insight into the democratic process. Members of Congress, key 
staff, and Congressional support agencies meet with selected 
legislative leaders from around the world to offer assistance that will 
enhance accountability, transparency, legislative independence, and 
government oversight in foreign parliaments.
  We are in unprecedented times, and today the mission of the House 
Democracy Assistance Commission is especially vital. Promoting 
democracy throughout the world is essential to our Nation's immediate 
and long-term security, and to the future of our global community. As a 
member of the House Democracy Assistance Commission from its inception 
in 2005 through the conclusion of the 109th Congress, I know the 
profound effect these interactions have in the precious development of 
democratic governance in some of the world's fledgling democracies.
  Madam Speaker, I have witnessed firsthand the good that can come from 
the House Democracy Assistance Commission, and I ask that all my 
colleagues join me in supporting H. Res. 24.

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