[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 146 (2000), Part 2]
[House]
[Pages 2734-2735]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]



  SUPPORT HUMANITARIAN RELIEF ASSISTANCE TO THE REPUBLIC OF MOZAMBIQUE

  (Ms. CARSON asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. CARSON. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 431, a bill to 
support humanitarian relief assistance to the Republic of Mozambique. 
The people of Mozambique have suffered tremendous hardship due to rains 
that started over a month ago. The flood's side effects of disease, 
homelessness, and hunger are even more damaging when coupled with 2 
million displaced land mines left over from the civil war.
  Just as the people of Mozambique seem to be turning the corner to 
independence, democratic government, and economic advancement, this 
tragic event has occurred that only, some say, only a God in heaven can 
control.

[[Page 2735]]

  As humans, we cannot rationalize or understand nature's catastrophes. 
As a country, we must follow our belief that not only is the aid to 
Mozambique necessary because of our national interests and stability, 
but also because of our moral interest. If there is any short-term gain 
in this tragedy, it is an opportunity to pass the test of compassion, 
charity, and humanity that God administers.
  I reiterate and encourage the Members of this august body to support 
H.R. 431, which will provide humanitarian relief assistance to the 
Republic of Mozambique.

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