Howard Berman

Mr. BERMAN

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to divide my debate time equally with the ranking member, the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Ros-Lehtinen).

Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I plan to be the last speaker. Correct me if I am wrong, but I understand that under the rules, I have the right to close, so I will reserve my time.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 867) calling on the President and the Secretary of State to oppose unequivocally any endorsement or further consideration of the ``Report of the United Nations Fact Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict'' in multilateral fora, as amended.

Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I'm pleased to yield 1 minute to the majority leader, the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer).

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield for the purpose of making a unanimous consent request to the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Moran). (Mr. MORAN of Virginia asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN. Parliamentary inquiry.

Mr. BERMAN. Further parliamentary inquiry. Is it not correct that with the exception of items introduced of more than a certain page, wherein the cost has been to be established and leave sought, that large items can also be put into the Record as part of that unanimous consent request?

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 1 minute to a member of the committee, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Engel).

Mr. BERMAN

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 641) recognizing the 60th anniversary of the founding of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, as amended.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 641, and I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this resolution celebrates 60 years of broadcasting history and the continuing mission of an effective instrument of public diplomacy. Radio Free Europe was established in 1949 by the National Committee for a Free Europe, an anticommunist organization, and made its first broadcast to what was then Czechoslovakia on July 4 of the next year. From its start, the organization approached the Cold War as a war of ideas, pushing back on propaganda that was being spread by autocratic governments behind the Iron Curtain. As it grew and merged with Radio Liberty to reach more people, its purpose became all the more urgent as its broadcasts were banned and Communist authorities used jamming techniques to keep their citizens from tuning in. In fact, those very authorities were said to have relied upon secret transcripts of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty programs so they could have better information about what was happening in their own countries than their own national media could provide. After the Cold War ended, many paid tribute to the role that the American radio programs had played. Nobel Laureate and former Polish President Lech Walesa, who recalled listening to RFE/RL's broadcasts in secret, said their influence ``cannot even be described,'' asking, ``Would there be an Earth without the Sun?'' Today, RFE/RL is located in the very country to which it once beamed its first broadcast, now known as the Czech Republic. From its Prague headquarters, the organization serves as a surrogate broadcaster to places where uncensored or reliable information is hard to come by, where independent media are banned or not yet fully established. Using AM, FM, shortwave, and satellite radio, as well as the Internet and newer social media tools, RFE/RL reaches an estimated 30 million people in Eastern Europe, Russia, the Caucasus, the Middle East, and Central and Southwest Asia. Its programs in Farsi, under the banner of Radio Farda, are widely followed in Iran. Radio Azadi provides unbiased reporting of current events in Afghanistan. And next year, RFE/RL will begin Pashto-language broadcasts to the troubled Afghanistan-Pakistan border region, including the Swat Valley. Mr. Speaker, as this resolution notes, ``RFE/RL has a proven history of promoting freedom and liberty in oppressive and autocratic regimes through news broadcasts based upon the principle that the first requirement of a democracy is a well-informed citizenry.'' H. Res. 641 congratulates the organization on six decades of helping to keep the spark of freedom alive in some of history's darkest hours and salutes the men and women of RFE/RL for their continuing commitment to the free flow of information. I commend the author of this resolution, the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Ms. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, and encourage its support. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the resolution under consideration.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I reserve my time.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 711) calling on the United States Government and the international community to address the human rights and humanitarian needs of Sri Lanka's Tamil internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently living in government-run camps by supporting the release of such IDPs, implementing and facilitating an independent oversight of the process of release and resettlement, and allowing foreign aid groups to provide relief and resources to such IDPs, as amended.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution and yield myself such time as I may consume. This resolution calls upon the Government of Sri Lanka to expeditiously release its internally displaced Tamil population from military-guarded camps and begin the process of political reconciliation. This past May marked the conclusion of a long and brutal civil war between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Tamil Eelam, or LTTE, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization. While the United States and the international community welcome the end to this bloody war and congratulate the Government of Sri Lanka on its military victory, it is now time for the government to accelerate the process of releasing the hundreds of thousands of ethnic Tamils from the squalor camps where they have been confined. By all accounts, the Government of Sri Lanka has made great progress in de-mining the northern part of the country to allow the successful return of the Tamil population. Now with the timeline it previously provided to the international community having come and gone, it must take the next step and provide the international community with a transparent and implementable road map for the release of the remaining IDPs. For the safety of its own citizens who seek a return to normalcy, the Government of Sri Lanka should turn the camps over to proper civilian authorities and allow frequent, unconditional, and uninhibited access to the United Nations, the International Committee on the Red Cross, and other aid groups. It is long past time for the Sinhalese and the Tamil populations of Sri Lanka to turn the page and, hand in hand, begin a new life together as citizens of a whole, peaceful Sri Lanka. But doing so will require the Government of Sri Lanka to support a genuine reconciliation process, one that extends beyond local elections, and to make a determined effort to understand and address the legitimate concerns of its Tamil citizens. I commend the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) for introducing this important and timely resolution, and I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN. 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.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis), the sponsor of this important resolution. (Mr. DAVIS of Illinois asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield 5 minutes to the author of the resolution, who brought this to my attention less than 2 weeks ago, the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer).

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 839) condemning the illegal extraction of Madagascar's natural resources, as amended.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 839, a resolution introduced by the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer) which condemns the illegal extraction of Madagascar's natural resources. On March 17 the democratically elected President of Madagascar was forced from office in a coup and replaced by Andry Rajoelina, who remains in power today. Over the past 7 months, the political situation has remained tenuous as discussions between both sides continue over the possibility of new elections. Meanwhile, policies pursued by the de facto Rajoelina government have done terrible harm to Madagascar's fragile ecosystem, which boasts up to 150,000 unique species of plants and animals. On September 21, the government permitted 13 operators to export 325 containers filled with raw and semi-processed woods. The government reportedly earned almost $12 million in taxes from these transactions. The World Wildlife Fund, Conservation International, and the Wildlife Conservation Society condemned the decision as ``legalizing the sale of illegally cut and collected wood onto the market.'' This decision came on top of months of illegal activities and violent actions in Madagascar's forests. Since political turmoil began in January, local communities and officials have reported that armed groups have entered the previously protected Masoala and Marojejy World Heritage Sites and the Mananara- Nord Biosphere Reserve. The NGO Global Witness reports that 7,000 cubic meters of rosewood and ebony have been shipped out of Madagascar since the beginning of the year. These actions harm not only Madagascar's environment but the local communities that depend on the forests for their income. Without this revenue, communities may be forced to resort to slash-and-burn agriculture, thus furthering damaging Madagascar's sensitive ecosystem. I commend my friend and colleague Mr. Blumenauer for bringing this resolution and this issue before the Congress and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BERMAN

Mr. BERMAN. Madam Speaker, the following is an explanation of S. 1707, the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009. The final text of the legislation reflects an agreement reached by the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. The purpose of this Explanatory Statement is to facilitate accurate interpretation of the text and to ensure faithful implementation of its provisions in accordance with the intentions of the legislation. The core intent of the Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act is to demonstrate the American people's long-term commitment to the people of Pakistan. The United States values its friendship with the Pakistani people and honors the great sacrifices made by Pakistani security forces in the fight against extremism, and the legislation reflects the goals shared by our two governments. The legislation does not seek in any way to compromise Pakistan's sovereignty, impinge on Pakistan's national security interests, or micromanage any aspect of Pakistani military or civilian operations. There are no conditions on Pakistan attached to the authorization of $7.5 billion in non-military aid. The only requirements on this funding are financial accountability measures that Congress is imposing on the U.S. executive branch, to ensure that this assistance supports programs that most benefit the Pakistani people. Summary of Congressional Intent The Enhanced Partnership with Pakistan Act of 2009 (the ``Act'') establishes a legislative foundation for a strengthened partnership between the United States and Pakistan, based on a shared commitment to improving the living conditions of the people of Pakistan through strengthening democracy and the rule of law, sustainable economic development, and combating terrorism and extremism. It is the intent of Congress to strengthen the long-term people-to-people relationship between the United States and Pakistan by investing directly in the needs of the Pakistani people. This legislation is intended to fortify a lasting partnership with Pakistan based on mutual trust. The overall level of economic assistance authorized annually by this legislation is tripled over FY 2008 U.S. funding levels, with the bulk of aid intended for projects such as schools, roads, medical clinics, and infrastructure development. The funds directly authorized by this Act--$1.5 billion in economic and development assistance annually for five years, with a similar amount envisioned for a subsequent five years--place no conditions on the Government of Pakistan. The only requirements are accountability measures placed on the United States executive branch to ensure that the aid directly benefits the Pakistani people. This Act fully recognizes and respects the independence of Pakistan as a sovereign nation. The purpose of this Act is to forge a closer collaborative relationship between Pakistan and the United States, not to dictate the national policy or impinge on the sovereignty of Pakistan in any way. Any interpretation of this Act which suggests that the United States does not fully recognize and respect the sovereignty of Pakistan would be directly contrary to Congressional intent. The certifications in the Act regarding certain limited forms of security assistance are consistent with previous Congressional legislation regarding security assistance to Pakistan and other nations. In all cases, they align with the aims of, and serve to reinforce the publicly-articulated positions of, the democratically- elected Government of Pakistan, and Pakistani military leaders, to combat extremists and militants. Sections 1-4: Strengthening a Relationship Founded on Mutual Respect Sections 1-4 establish the framework and context for the legislative provisions that follow. The Findings and the Statement of Principles demonstrate an unequivocal appreciation for the friendship of the Pakistani people, and for the sacrifices made by the Pakistani security forces and people in fighting extremism. The Findings in Section 3 include: Section 3(1): ``Congress finds the following: The people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the United States share a long history of friendship and comity, and the interests of both nations are well-served by strengthening and deepening this friendship.'' Section 3(4): ``Pakistan is a major non-NATO ally of the United States and has been a valuable partner in the battle against al Qaeda and the Taliban, but much more remains to be accomplished by both nations. The struggle against al Qaeda, the Taliban, and affiliated terrorist groups has led to the deaths of several thousand Pakistani civilians and members of the security forces of Pakistan over the past seven years.'' The Statement of Principles in Section 4 include: Section 4(1): ``Pakistan is a critical friend and ally to the United States, both in times of strife and in times of peace, and the two countries share many common goals, including combating terrorism and violent radicalism, solidifying democracy and rule of law in Pakistan, and promoting the social and economic development of Pakistan.'' Section 4(4): ``The United States supports Pakistan's struggle against extremist elements and recognizes the profound sacrifice made by Pakistan in the fight against terrorism, including the loss of more than 1,900 soldiers and police since 2001 in combat with al Qaeda, the Taliban, and other extremist and terrorist groups.'' Title I: Democratic, Economic and Development Assistance for Pakistan This Title contains the core intention of this legislation: To make a long-term commitment to the people of Pakistan by tripling non-military assistance, free of any conditions on the Pakistani government. The purposes set forth for the $7.5 billion that is authorized here are all intended to reflect the expressed priorities of the Pakistani people. Specifically, Section 101(a) provides that: ``The President is authorized to provide assistance to Pakistan to support the consolidation of democratic institutions; to support the expansion of rule of law, build the capacity of government institutions, and promote respect for internationally-recognized human rights; to promote economic freedoms and sustainable economic development; to support investment in people, including those displaced in on-going counterinsurgency operations; and to strengthen public diplomacy.'' The funds authorized under Title I are intended to be used to work with and benefit Pakistani organizations. Specifically, Section 101(c)(3) provides that: ``The President is encouraged, as appropriate, to utilize Pakistani firms and community and local nongovernmental organizations in Pakistan, including through host country contracts, and to work with local leaders to provide assistance under this section'' Section 102(a) makes clear that there are no conditions placed on the Pakistani government for delivery of the $7.5 billion in assistance. The only accounting requirements are of the U.S. executive branch. Section 102(d) makes clear that a long term commitment to increased civilian assistance for the people of Pakistan is envisioned by stating that it is the desire of Congress that the amounts authorized for fiscal years 2010-2014 shall continue from fiscal years 2015-2019. Section 103(b) authorizes establishment of field offices for Inspectors General to audit and oversee expenditure of this assistance. It is the intent of Congress that such offices would be established in consultation with appropriate Pakistani authorities for the purpose of ensuring optimal management of resources. Title II: Security Assistance for Pakistan The intention of this section is to strengthen cooperative efforts to confront extremism. The purposes of security assistance are intended to be completely cooperative, and reflect the intention that such assistance be used to support Pakistan in achieving its stated objectives in winning the ongoing counterinsurgency, defeating terrorist organizations that threaten Pakistan, and strengthening democratic institutions. Specifically, Section 201(1) ``Purposes of Assistance'' states that: ``The purposes of assistance under this title are-- (1) to support Pakistan's paramount national security need to fight and win the ongoing counterinsurgency within its borders in accordance with its national security interests; (2) to work with the Government of Pakistan to improve Pakistan's border security and control and help prevent any Pakistani territory from being used as a base or conduit for terrorist attacks in Pakistan, or elsewhere; (3) to work in close cooperation with the Government of Pakistan to coordinate action against extremist and terrorist targets; and (4) to help strengthen the institutions of democratic governance . . . .'' The provisions applied to certain limited portions of U.S. security assistance in Section 203 are intended to be fully in line with the existing policy of the Government of Pakistan. Specifically, Section 203(c)(1) reflects our understanding that cooperative efforts currently being undertaken by the Governments of Pakistan and the United States to combat proliferation will continue. Section 203(c)(2) reflects the intent that U.S. security assistance is used in furtherance of the purposes set forth in Section 201 above, e.g., ensuring Pakistan's security, winning the counterinsurgency within Pakistan, preventing territory from being used for terrorist attacks in Pakistan and elsewhere, and coordinating action against extremist and terrorist targets. This section requires a certification by the United States executive branch to Congress regarding the efforts and progress made in achieving these purposes, and includes a series of factors to be considered collectively by the Secretary of State in making this assessment. Section 203(c)(3)includes a provision intended to express support for democratic institutions in Pakistan. Section 203(e) contains a waiver making clear that this certification could be waived if the determination is made by the Secretary of State in the interests of national security that this was necessary to continue such assistance. Title III. Strategy, Accountability, Monitoring, and Other Provisions. The intention of this section is to ensure that there is transparency and accountability in the way authorized assistance is spent. This Title requires the U.S. executive branch to provide various reports to Congress designed to demonstrate that funds are being used for the purposes set forth in Title I and Title II; there are no requirements on the Government of Pakistan. Section 301 ``Strategy Reports'' requires three reports from the United States executive branch that detail a plan for how U.S. assistance to Pakistan will be spent and evaluated and a regional security plan for how the United States can best work with its partners for ``effective counterinsurgency and counterterrorism efforts.'' Section 302 ``Monitoring Reports'' reflects the need for ongoing consultation between the U.S executive branch and Congress on monitoring U.S. assistance to Pakistan, including a ``Semi-Annual Monitoring Report'' where: The Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that describes the assistance provided under this Act during the preceding 180-day period. The many requirements of this report are intended as a way for Congress to assess how effectively U.S. funds are being spent, shortfalls in U.S. resources that hinder the use of such funds, and steps the Government of Pakistan has taken to advance our mutual interests in countering extremism and nuclear proliferation and strengthening democratic institutions. There is no intent to, and nothing in this Act in any way suggests that there should be, any U.S. role in micromanaging internal Pakistani affairs, including the promotion of Pakistani military officers or the internal operations of the Pakistani military. The reports envisioned in this Section are not binding on Pakistan, and require only the provision of information by the executive branch to the U.S. Congress, in furtherance of the Act's stated purpose of strengthening civilian institutions and the democratically-elected Government of Pakistan.