[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 149 (Thursday, October 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2564]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        PAKISTAN-U.S. RELATIONS

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                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 15, 2009

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I have been a strong supporter of the 
friendship between the people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and 
the United States, and I have supported efforts to strengthen the bonds 
between the countries as well as efforts that address our mutual 
security interests.
  The current economic situation is the primary challenge to achieving 
these mutual goals.
  Unfortunately, the economy of Pakistan is under considerable stress 
right now. The value of the rupee is at a historical low relative to 
the dollar, and international reserves have declined by $7 billion--
more than half--in one year's time.
  Additionally, the current inflation rate is 25 percent and consumer 
prices are the highest they have been in over 30 years.
  The U.S. wishes to disrupt and dismantle the existence of terrorist 
safe havens in Pakistan to bring stability and peace to the region.
  As such, it is important to examine the root cause of terrorism, 
desperation. This desperation is best addressed by ensuring that U.S. 
foreign policy promotes worldwide economic stability.
  We must lay the foundation of human security and capacity building 
which includes ensuring educational opportunities, economic and social 
justice, and physical and mental health care for everyone.
  As such, I have not supported the current plans by the Administration 
to provide military training and defense articles to Pakistan.
  The foundation of a peaceful society is rooted not in military might, 
but by ensuring that people's basic needs are met. This is the key 
component to achieve human security. In Pakistan, where approximately 
two-thirds of the people of Pakistan are living on less than $2 a day, 
there is much that must be done to ensure that this key component to 
human security is achieved.
  Additionally, I have vociferously opposed U.S. drone attacks on 
Pakistan. These attacks cause devastation to the innocent civilian 
population. I understand the opposition to the drone attacks by the 
government of Pakistan. I will continue to work with my colleagues in 
Congress to address this issue and pursue a dialog with Special Envoy 
Holbrook.
  Some have proposed establishing free trade agreements with Pakistan. 
The current U.S. model for free trade is flawed. For example, labor and 
environmental protections are inadequate. With the current lack of 
stability in Pakistan it is difficult to imagine that these protections 
could be assured.

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