[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 14 (Tuesday, January 29, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E95-E96]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING HRANT DINK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, January 29, 2008

  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Madam Speaker, a little over a year ago, 
on January 19, 2007, Turkish-Armenian journalist Hrant Dink was 
murdered for reporting on the Armenian Genocide. The first anniversary 
of his

[[Page E96]]

death should serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for improvement in 
Turkish-Armenian relations.
  Hrant Dink worked as the editor of ``Agos'', a bilingual paper 
designed to reach both Turks and Armenians. He was an outspoken 
advocate of democratic change and freedom of speech.
  While Turkish officials rightly condemned the political killing, 
Turkey has not yet repealed Article 301 of the Turkish Penal code, 
which makes it illegal to discuss the Armenian Genocide. This law, 
which criminalizes free speech, hampers Turkey's efforts to restore 
their relationship with Armenia, a goal the Turkish government claims 
to desire.
  Hrant Dink's death was more than an assassination; it was an attack 
on the principle of free speech. Turkish officials should use the 
anniversary of his death as an opportunity to restore open 
communication between the citizens of both countries. Lasting 
reconciliation must be built on uninhibited dialogue and Turkey can 
begin building the road to restoration by recognizing the Armenian 
Genocide.
  We remember the legacy of Hrant Dink by encouraging Turkey to 
tolerate democratic freedoms and rebuild their relationship with 
Armenia.

                          ____________________