[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 93 (Monday, June 11, 2007)]
[House]
[Pages H6198-H6200]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING THE STRONG ALLIANCE BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA AND THE
UNITED STATES
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree
to the resolution (H. Res. 295) recognizing the strong alliance between
the Republic of Korea and the United States and expressing appreciation
to the Republic of Korea for its efforts in the global war against
terrorism, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the resolution.
The text of the resolution is as follows:
H. Res. 295
Recognizing the strong alliance between the Republic of
Korea and the United States and expressing appreciation to
the Republic of Korea for its efforts in the global war
against terrorism.
Whereas for more than 50 years since the outbreak of the
Korean War, a close relationship has existed between the
United States and the Republic of Korea, which has been of
enormous economic, cultural, and strategic advantage to both
nations;
Whereas President George W. Bush and President Roh Moo Hyun
have demonstrated their mutual willingness to forge a deeper
alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea
to enhance stability in East Asia;
Whereas the 29,000 United States armed services personnel
who are stationed in the Republic of Korea serve as a
testament to the enduring strength of the 1953 U.S.-R.O.K.
Mutual Defense Treaty;
Whereas the foundation of the relationship between the
United States and the Republic of Korea rests on a shared
interest in and commitment to peace, democracy, and freedom
on the Korean Peninsula, in Asia, and throughout the world;
Whereas the Republic of Korea and the United States are
both deeply committed to the Six Party Talks and have a
mutual interest in keeping the Korean Peninsula free of
nuclear weapons;
Whereas the Republic of Korea has more than 1,200 armed
services personnel deployed in Iraq, constituting the third
largest coalition contingent in Iraq behind the United States
and the United Kingdom;
Whereas the Republic of Korea has more than 200 armed
services personnel deployed in Afghanistan; and
Whereas the Republic of Korea has pledged $460,000,000
toward reconstruction and stabilization in postwar Iraq: Now,
therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives recognizes the
strong alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United
States and expresses appreciation to the Republic of Korea
for its contributions to international efforts to combat
terrorism.
{time} 1530
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from
American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega) and the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr.
Boozman) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from American Samoa.
General Leave
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all
Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks
and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from American Samoa?
There was no objection.
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may
consume, and I rise in strong support of the resolution.
Mr. Speaker, let me first commend our distinguished colleague and
former member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, my good friend and
colleague, the gentleman from New York (Mr. King), for being the author
of and introducing this important resolution.
Mr. Speaker, the strong alliance between the United States and the
Republic of Korea has been a pivotal relationship in world affairs
since our involvement when we fought side by side in the Korean war
over half a century ago. Out of that conflict was born one of the most
significant dividing lines of the Cold War, a demilitarized zone on the
38th parallel that splits the Korean Peninsula and marked the divide
between Communist Asia and democratic Asia. The partnership between our
two countries held this line for decades. Today we help maintain a
stable peace in Southeast Asia.
In the post-Cold War period, the Republic of Korea has remained a
steadfast U.S. ally. It has contributed troops and pledged
reconstruction funds for Iraq, and its forces are deployed in
Afghanistan. As a key member of the six-party talks to denuclearize
North Korea, it shares an important responsibility for broader security
in Northeast Asia. Today we are committed absolutely to compelling the
dangerous North Korea regime to eliminate its nuclear program.
Overall, South Korea is a key partner and an ally in the challenge of
combating world terrorism. The combination of emerging terrorism
threats and the North Korean challenge makes this resolution
particularly important today.
I certainly want to commend my good friend, Assistant Secretary
Christopher Hill of the State Department, for his diligence and efforts
in negotiating with the North Koreans in the six-party talks. I would
be remiss if I did not also recognize a most significant contribution
made by the Republic of China and the help that they have contributed
in bringing the North Koreans to the negotiating table and for which
the negotiations are now ongoing, hopefully to bring about a resolution
to this important problem.
In economic realms, Mr. Speaker, the U.S. relationship with the
Republic of Korea is one of our strongest in Asia. The Republic of
Korea was one of the original East Asian Tigers and served as a model
for other countries in Asia with its booming economic growth in the
seventies, eighties and nineties. South Korea now is the United States'
seventh largest trading partner in the world.
This resolution honors the close alliance between the United States
and the Republic of Korea and recognizes South Korea's important
contributions to fighting not only terrorism around the world, but also
welcomes a strengthening and deepening of the relationship between our
two countries and our peoples.
Mr. Speaker, when I was in Vietnam, I remember vividly the presence
of some 50,000 soldiers from South Korea who served alongside us, the
U.S. forces. I kind of like to say now you know where your real friends
are.
I am reminded of a Chinese proverb: there are many acquaintances, but
very few friends. South Korea was one of those few friends who was
willing to put their action where their talk is; and the fact that
50,000 soldiers were there fighting along U.S. forces and in that
terrible conflict that we faced in Vietnam, I cannot help but express
my personal commendation and appreciation to the leaders and to the
people of South Korea when they were there with us when we needed help.
I visited South Korea several times and I consider them the most
industrious people on this planet. There are over 1 million Korean
Americans living in our country today, some among the most prominent in
the areas of science and doctors. They have become lawyers, engineers
and are in all types of businesses. I have a very strong affection for
the Korean people and those fellow citizens who happen to be of Korean
ancestry.
So I think this resolution is most fitting. Again, I commend my good
friend, the gentleman from New York, for offering and proposing this
resolution.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
[[Page H6199]]
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this resolution, which
recognizes the enduring ties of an alliance first forged over half a
century ago in the crucible of the Korean War. It was heartening to see
the photographs from Seoul of the thousands of South Korean citizens
who gathered in a downtown plaza on June 6, Korea's memorial day, to
express their support of the alliance. They waved South Korean flags
and the Stars and Stripes together to show enthusiasm for the strong
bonds that link our two countries.
Later this month, June 25, marks the 57th anniversary of the North
Korean invasion across the Demilitarized Zone. This surprise attack in
the early hours of a Sunday morning sought to snuff the life out of an
embryonic South Korean democracy. President Harry Truman's immediate
unflinching decision to come to the aid of an embattled South Korea
proved that the United States would not retreat from its rendezvous
with destiny.
Together with our South Korean and other allies, we turned the tide
of war at Inchon and preserved the South Korean state, which we honor
as an ally today.
South Korea's commitment to the alliance is seen in many ways, as in
the 1,200 South Korean military personnel deployed to Iraq, which makes
South Korea's contribution the third largest in the coalition
contingent. There is also the $460 million which the Republic of Korea
has pledged toward postwar Iraq reconstruction, and there are the close
consultations we hold together in the six-party process to resolve the
North Korean nuclear issue. These are the actions of a true and loyal
friend, for which we express our gratitude in this resolution.
Let me also take this opportunity to second the words of the United
States forces Korea commander, General Bell, that South Korea Sergeant
Yoon Jang-ho, who was South Korea's first uniformed casualty in the war
on terror, was a hero. Sergeant Yoon was killed February 27 by a
suicide bomber in Bagram, Afghanistan.
This young soldier, although born in Korea, had spent his high school
and college years in Indiana, graduating from Indiana University. He
returned to South Korea to complete his military service and
volunteered for service in Afghanistan. His loss was deeply felt, both
in his home nation of Korea and his adopted hometown of Bloomington,
Indiana.
The shared mourning of the peoples of two nations for this valiant
soldier is one more concrete indication of the ties that bind our two
nations. Another, of course, is the talent and dynamism of the 2-
million-strong ethnic Korean community in the United States. Los
Angeles represents the largest concentrated urban center of Korean
culture outside of the Korean Peninsula. For this enriching
contribution to America's melting pot, we are extremely grateful.
I therefore urge immediate passage of this resolution which
recognizes this strong and enduring alliance.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may
consume.
Mr. Speaker, again I want to commend and thank my good friend for his
eloquent statement and add that this is not a partisan piece of
legislation. It is fully bipartisan. I certainly commend not only our
distinguished chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, Mr. Lantos,
but also our senior ranking member, Ms. Ros-Lehtinen, for their support
of this proposed legislation.
It is ironic that we are dealing with several pieces of legislation,
earlier on being the Olympics, and now we are dealing with South Korea.
I remember years ago when I attended the Olympics in 1988 in Korea, I
ran into a gentleman who is a Korean American by the name of Dr. Sammy
Lee. I asked him why this Samoan American was so good in the art of
diving, perhaps one of the greatest Olympic divers ever in the history
of the Olympics, whose name is none other than Greg Louganis. I asked
Dr. Sammy Lee, why is it that Greg Louganis was such a great Olympic
diver? He said, Eni, look at his legs. They are Samoan legs, and the
reason for this is that it gives him the ability to jump higher than
any of his Olympic competitors. And because he can jump higher than
anybody, that is what gives him the opportunity to accomplish more
difficult flips than any of the other divers. By the way, Dr. Sammy Lee
was also the trainer for Greg Louganis in the Olympics in 1988.
Another note of interest is that when I talked to Dr. Sammy Lee when
he was training for the Olympics, he could not even train together with
his fellow white Americans while he was training for the Olympics. Can
you believe that? So he had to invent what high diving boards were
supposed to look like, whether it be going on cliffs or other high
platforms to allow him to practice his diving ability. And guess what?
He got the gold medal for the United States for the Olympics, a Korean
American, Dr. Sammy Lee.
I just wanted to make that as a note of interest for my colleagues
and also in view of the fact that we have talked about the Olympics and
we have talked about South Korea.
Again, Mr. Speaker, this resolution is very important to show our
sense of appreciation, especially to the good leaders and the people of
South Korea, how much we care about them, how important they are, how
important they are to our strategic and our economic interests in that
important region of the world.
Ms. JACKSON-LEE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my
strong support for H.R. 295, and, in doing so, I would first like to
commend Mr. King for introducing this resolution. The relationship
between the United States and the Republic of Korea has been a pivotal
relationship in world affairs since our forces fought side by side in
Korean War over a half century ago. Out of that conflict marked the
divide between communist Asia and democratic Asia. The partnership
between us and the Republic of Korea held the divide for decades, and
together we helped maintain stable peace in East Asia.
In the post-Cold War world, the Republic of Korea has remained a
steadfast U.S. ally. Its forces are deployed in Afghanistan and it has
contributed troops and pledged reconstruction funds for Iraq. As a key
member of the Six Party Talks to denuclearize North Korea, it shares an
important responsibility for broader security in Northeast Asia.
Together, we are committed absolutely to compelling the dangerous North
Korean regime to eliminate its nuclear program.
Overall, South Korea is a key partner an ally in the challenge of
combating terrorism worldwide. The combination of emerging terrorism
threats and the North Korean challenge make this resolution
particularly important today.
In the economic realm, too, the U.S. relationship with the Republic
of Korea is one of our strongest in Asia. For example, the Republic of
Korea was one of the original ``East Asian Tigers,'' and served as a
model for other Asian countries with a booming economic growth in the
1970s, 80s and 90s. Currently, South Korea is now the United States'
7th largest trading partner in the world.
Mr. Speaker, I am extremely proud to stand as one of cosponsors of
this legislation. This resolution honors the close alliance between the
United States and the Republic of Korea, and recognizes South Korea's
important contributions to fighting against terrorism around the world.
It also welcomes the strengthening and deepening of the relationship
between our two countries and our peoples. I thank all of my colleagues
who have already signed on to this bill, and I urge those who have not
to support this legislation.
Mr. KING of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H. Res.
295, a resolution recognizing the strong alliance between the Republic
of Korea and the United States and expressing appreciation to the
Republic of Korea for its efforts in the Global War on Terror. As the
sponsor of this resolution, I join with over 35 of my colleagues in
urging the House to pass this resolution today.
For almost six decades, the United States and the Republic of Korea
have maintained a strong alliance that rests on a shared commitment to
peace, democracy, and freedom not only on the Korean peninsula but
throughout Asia and the rest of the world. The nearly 30,000 American
soldiers who remain stationed in the Republic of Korea are a testament
to this relationship.
Since September 11, 2001 we have seen this bond further strengthened
as Korea has joined with the United States and other coalition nations
in supporting the Global War on Terror both militarily and financially.
Korean President Roh truly understands this grave threat and the need
for it to be confronted. Presently, the Republic of Korea has the third
largest coalition contingent of forces in Iraq. Korea also has troops
deployed in Afghanistan and has generously pledged $460,000,000 toward
reconstruction and stabilization efforts in post-war Iraq.
The U.S. and Korea also both remain deeply committed to the Six Party
Talks and have
[[Page H6200]]
a mutual interest in keeping the Korean Peninsula free of nuclear
weapons.
Finally, the U.S. and Korea have been working diligently on a free
trade agreement between our two countries that will deepen economic
ties and boost trade and investment for both countries. I am pleased
that these negotiations concluded on April 1, 2007 and it is my hope
that the agreement will soon be signed and Congress passes the required
enacting legislation.
Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to pass this resolution today.
Mr. TOM DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong
support of H. Res. 295.
This resolution recognizes the tremendous alliance that the United
States shares with the Republic of Korea. Korea has been one of this
country's strongest allies, both in the international war on terror, as
well as in expanding free trade. Korea stands as a shining example of
democracy in action.
In the 11th Congressional District of Virginia, I represent a growing
and vigorous Korean American population. Korean Americans thrive in
areas such as business, medicine, law, art and athletics. According to
the U.S. Census Bureau, Korean Americans own and operate over 130,000
businesses and employ over 333,000 individuals. These are prime
examples of their importance in the United States and to the growth of
our economy. It is clear to me that the strong alliance between the
United States and the Republic of Korea can be seen everyday in the
neighborhoods and workplaces right here in the Washington, D.C. area.
The Republic of Korea's strong belief in upholding individual rights
and liberties serves as an example for the entire Korean peninsula, as
well as beyond. Korea's 2,300 troops deployed in Iraq and 200 troops
deployed in Afghanistan indicate not only Korea's support of our
efforts in ending terrorism abroad, but also illustrate Korea's strong
commitment to spreading democracy throughout the world. Indeed, Korea
has been one of our most ardent and unfailing allies abroad.
I encourage my colleagues to support this resolution.
Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, today we honor an ally who is
standing with us in the Global War on Terrorism. An ally who knows what
it is like to fight for peace and freedom, South Korea. Just over 50
years ago, Korea was the most violent spot on the planet as the North
Korean government, backed by the Soviets and Chinese, swooped in to
destroy the fledgling democracy in the south.
I am a proud cosponsor of this resolution which recognizes the
significant contributions that the South Korean military has made in
Afghanistan and in Iraq. Our South Korean allies maintain the third
largest contingent of personnel in Iraq, where they are helping each
day to rebuild that nation and spread the freedom they too earned with
blood, sweat, and grit.
While as many as 3,600 personnel have at some time served, currently
2,300 work in the country to provide medical services, build and repair
roads, power lines, schools, and other public works.
The Republic of Korea has contributed both men and money to
rebuilding Iraq because they know how difficult it is to rise from the
ashes of war. Since the end of the Korean War, the people of South
Korea have built one of the world's most modern and dynamic economies.
We hope that the Iraqi and Afghani people can look to the South
Korean model to develop into a peaceful and prosperous nation. We thank
the Republic of Korea and the Korean people for their sacrifice and
their stand for freedom.
Ms. BORDALLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res.
295, a resolution that recognizes the strong alliance between the
Republic of Korea and the United States and further expresses
appreciation to the Republic of Korea for its efforts in the global war
against terrorism. The dynamic and strong relations that exist between
the United States and Republic of Korea serve as a model for
partnerships the United States must continue to seek to establish and
cultivate with other countries within the Asia-Pacific region and
throughout the world.
The contributions made by the government of the Republic of Korea
toward helping battle terrorism are vital to providing for safety and
security throughout the world. The efforts on the part of the Republic
of Korea to help fight terrorists in Afghanistan and Iraq and help
develop democratic governance, strengthen civil society, and establish
stronger economies in those countries are of particular importance to
the United States and our allies. These missions are challenging ones.
Their eventual, positive outcomes are less than certain at this point.
The commitment to achieving success in Operation Enduring Freedom and
Operation Iraqi Freedom displayed by the Republic of Korea is
commendable and an important component of the Coalition force
structure.
Efforts on the part of South Korea to encourage the government of
North Korea to act in a responsible manner with respect to its
misguided pursuit of nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology
are also of paramount importance at this time to the United States and
our allies. I am encouraged by the strong partnership that has been
formed between the United States and South Korea and other countries
with respect to this issue.
I welcome the opportunity to continue to work with our South Korean
allies toward ensuring a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous Asia-
Pacific region and world. I am confident that the United States and
South Korea will develop even stronger political, economic, and
security ties in the years ahead. I urge my colleagues to support this
resolution.
Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I yield
back the balance of my time.
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. 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 American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega) that the House suspend
the rules and agree to the resolution, H. Res. 295, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the
rules were suspended and the resolution, as amended, was agreed to.
The title was amended so as to read: ``A resolution recognizing the
strong alliance between the Republic of Korea and the United States and
expressing appreciation to the Republic of Korea for its contributions
to international efforts to combat terrorism.''.
A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
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