Eni Faleomavaega

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Is it any wonder we have had such a difficult time locating Osama bin Laden? He has been moving between Pakistan and Afghanistan for all of these years. Madam Speaker, I do not believe invoking the 1973 War Powers Act to require the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan is appropriate at this time. In September 2001, Congress passed a joint resolution, signed by the President 4 days later, which granted the President the authority to use all necessary and appropriate forces against those whom he determined planned, authorized, committed or aided the September 11 attacks in 2001. So, whether one agrees with the war in Afghanistan or not, whether one agrees with the administration's new strategy or not, there should be no doubt that House Concurrent Resolution 248, with all due respect to my friend from Ohio, is not the way to force a withdrawal of U.S. troops. Therefore, I urge my colleagues to vote against this proposed resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2009. This important piece of legislation is to reaffirm the special political and legal relationship between the United States and the indigenous Native Hawaiians for purposes of continuing a government-to-government relationship. I certainly want to thank Chairman Nick Rahall and the members of our Natural Resources Committee for their support. I especially want to thank and recognize my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from the State of Hawaii (Mr. Abercrombie) for his leadership and tireless efforts in bringing this legislation to the floor for consideration. For some 20 years I have had the privilege and honor of working closely with Mr. Abercrombie on legislation that have benefited not only my constituents, but certainly the great State of Hawaii. I also want to thank my colleague and my dear friend, Ms. Hirono, and other Members for cosponsoring this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, the legislation before us is very important for many reasons, but none more critically important than for Congress to extend proper and appropriate recognition for some 400,000 indigenous Native Hawaiians in the State of Hawaii and those living outside of Hawaii. Constitutionally, Congress has the authority to address the conditions of the native people of the United States. And the indigenous people of the Hawaiian Islands are a distinctively native community that for many years existed as a sovereign entity. History shows us from 1826 until 1893, the United States Government recognized the Kingdom of Hawaii as a sovereign and independent nation. It was accorded full diplomatic recognition. The kingdom entered into treaties and conventions of peace, friendship, and commerce with the Kingdom of Hawaii, governing trade, commerce, and even navigation in the years 1826, 1842, 1849, 1875, 1887. Mr. Speaker, yes, even our government, the United States of America, was party to these treaties and conventions with the sovereign Kingdom of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, more than 100 years ago ambitious descendants of U.S. missionaries and sugar planters, aided by an unauthorized and illegal use of U.S. military forces, overthrew the sovereign Kingdom of Hawaii, which at that time was ruled by Queen Lili'uokalani. In 1993, Congress reaffirmed such a travesty on the Kingdom of Hawaii when they passed a joint resolution to acknowledge and apologize on behalf of the United States for the illegal and unlawful overthrow of the Hawaiian kingdom in 1893, and for the deprivation of the rights and privileges of the indigenous Native Hawaiians to self-determination. To this day, Mr. Speaker, the status of indigenous Native Hawaiians was never properly addressed by the United States Congress. And it is within Congress's constitutional authority to do so. Congress and the U.S. Supreme Court decisions properly determined that American Indians of the lower 48 States are an indigenous people. In fact, recognition of the Native Alaskans as indigenous people of the U.S. demonstrates this constitutional authority. And even the U.S. Supreme Court has recognized this constitutional authority and has accepted a broader conceptualization of indigenous peoples, allowing Congress to recognize indigenous groups, even those who are culturally and genealogically distinct from the narrow concept of being an Indian or as a tribe. In the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1921, Congress expressed and reaffirmed the special and trust relationship between the United States and the Native Hawaiians. In addition, the act also recognized the Native Hawaiians as a distinct and unique indigenous people. Native Hawaiians are in fact indigenous, aboriginal people living within what is now the borders of the United States and those living in the State of Hawaii, and it is unfortunate that even today the status of some 400,000 indigenous Native Hawaiians have yet to be afforded the same recognition as our first Americans. Mr. Speaker, over the years the treatment of indigenous Native Hawaiians by the U.S. Government has been piecemeal at best. There is estimated over 150 laws that have been passed by the Congress related to the social, educational, economic, and cultural needs of the indigenous Native Hawaiians. This proposed bill sets the institutional framework for the establishment of a relationship between the United States and the indigenous Native Hawaiians, just as Congress has done for the indigenous American Indians and indigenous Native Alaskans. I submit, Mr. Speaker, there are only three distinct indigenous groups under the U.S. sovereignty: American Indians within the continental United States, Native Alaskans, and Native Hawaiians. Mr. Speaker, the bill we have before us today will continue the long but necessary road towards full recognition by the Congress of the rights of the indigenous Native Hawaiians.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. The underlying issue in this piece of legislation is not about the existence of Native Hawaiians. That much has been already determined. This bill is to establish a process giving the indigenous Native Hawaiians the same status that we have done for the indigenous American Indians and the indigenous Native Alaskans. Nothing to do with race. It is about giving proper recognition, and also as a moral imperative on the part of our government, give proper recognition to the Native Hawaiians. They deserve this. They are not begging for anything. Just give them proper recognition. I ask my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the ``Native Hawaiian Government Reorganization Act of 2009.'' This important piece of legislation is to reaffirm the special political and legal relationship between the United States and the indigenous Native Hawaiians for purposes of continuing a government-to-government relationship. I want to thank Chairman Nick Rahall and members of the Committee on Natural Resources for their support. I especially want to commend and recognize my good friend and colleague, the gentleman from Hawaii, Mr. Abercrombie, for his leadership and tireless efforts in bringing this legislation to the floor for consideration. For some 20 years, I've had the privilege of working closely with Mr. Abercrombie on legislation that has benefited both constituents and the great State of Hawaii. I also want to commend my good friend, Ms. Hirono, and other Members for their cosponsoring this legislation. The legislation before us is very important for many reasons, but none more critical than for Congress to extend full recognition to some 400,000 indigenous Native Hawaiians in the State of Hawaii. Constitutionally, Congress has the authority to address the conditions of the native people of the United States and the indigenous people of the Hawaiian Islands are a distinctly native community that for many years existed as a sovereign entity. History shows that from 1826 until 1893, the United States government recognized the Kingdom of Hawaii as a sovereign and independent nation; accorded full diplomatic recognition to the Kingdom of Hawaii; and entered into treaties and conventions of peace, friendship and commerce with the Kingdom of Hawaii to govern trade, commerce, and navigation in 1826, 1842, 1849, 1875 and 1887. Yes, even our government, the United States of America was a party to these treaties and conventions with the Sovereign Kingdom of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, more than 100 years ago, ambitious descendants of U.S. missionaries and sugar planters, aided by the unauthorized and illegal use of U.S. military forces, overthrew the sovereign Kingdom of Hawaii which at that time was ruled by Queen Lili'uokalani. In 1993, Congress reaffirmed such a travesty on the Kingdom of Hawaii when they passed a joint resolution to acknowledge and apologize on behalf of the United States for the illegal and unlawful overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1893, and for the deprivation of the rights of the indigenous Native Hawaiians to self-determination. To this day, the status of the indigenous Native Hawaiians was never properly addressed by the United States Congress. And it is within Congress' constitutional authority to do so. Congress and U.S. Supreme Court decisions have properly determined that American Indians of the lower 48 States are an indigenous people. In fact, recognition of the Native Alaskans as indigenous people of the U.S. demonstrates this constitutional power. And even the U.S. Supreme Court has recognized this constitutional authority and has accepted a broader conceptualization of indigenous people, allowing Congress to recognize indigenous groups, even those who are culturally and genealogically distinct from the narrow concept of being an ``Indian'' and ``tribe.'' In 1971, Congress enacted the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), adopting special legislation to deal with Native Alaskans' land claims and creating a governing structure (corporations) through which to manage the federal relationship with the indigenous group even though the Alaska Natives differed culturally, historically, and genealogically from American Indians. In the ANCSA, ``Native'' in defined to mean ``a citizen of the U.S. who is a person of one-fourth degree or more Alaska Indian, Eskimo, Aleut blood, or combination thereof'' and ``Native Group'' to mean ``any tribe, band, clan, village, community, or village of Natives in Alaska.'' The indigenous Native Hawaiians also meet these definitions. In the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act of 1921, Congress expressed and reaffirmed the ``special'' and ``trust'' relationship between the United States and the Native Hawaiians. In addition, the Act also recognized Native Hawaiians as ``a distinct and unique indigenous people.'' Native Hawaiians are, in fact, indigenous, aboriginal people living within what are now the borders of the U.S. and it is unfortunate that even today the status of some 400,000 indigenous Native Hawaiians have yet to be afforded this same recognition as our First Americans. Although Rice vs. Cayetano has no bearing on this legislation, I should note that the Supreme Court's decision states, ``Congress . . . has determined that native Hawaiians have a status like that of organized Indian tribes.'' Even the author of the State's brief, now Chief Justice John Roberts of the U.S. Supreme Court, clearly explained that the Congress has plenary authority that is not limited to only American Indians by stating the following: Congress is constitutionally empowered to deal with Hawaiians, has recognized such a ``special relationship,'' and--``in recognition of that special relationship''--``has extended to Native Hawaiians the same rights and privileges accorded to American Indian, Alaska Native, Eskimo, and Aleut communities.'' Congress has established with Hawaiians the same type of ``unique legal relationship'' that exists with respect to the Indian tribes who enjoy the ``same rights and privileges'' accorded Hawaiians under these laws. Over the years, the treatment of indigenous Native Hawaiians by the U.S. government has been piecemeal at best. There is estimated over 160 laws that have been passed by the Congress related to the social, educational, economic, and cultural needs of the indigenous Native Hawaiians. This proposed bill sets the institutional framework for the establishment of a relationship between the U.S. and the indigenous Native Hawaiians just as Congress has done for the indigenous American Indians and indigenous Native Alaskans. I submit, there are only three, district indigenous peoples, under U.S. sovereignity--American Indians within the continental United States, Native Alaskans and Native Hawaiians. Mr. Speaker, the proposed bill that we have before us today will continue the long but necessary road towards full recognition by Congress of the indigenous Native Hawaiians. The underlying issue in this piece of legislation is not about the existence of the Native Hawaiians. That much has already been determined. This bill however is to establish a process by giving the indigenous Native Hawaiians the same status as we have done for the indigenous American Indians and the indigenous Native Alaskans. I respectfully urge my fellow colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I want to say that I fully support the gentleman's substitute amendment, and I want to ask if we could do a little colloquy in the process. I note with interest there has been several references made by our friends on the opposite side concerning the Hawaii Admissions Act suggesting there was nothing whatsoever that Congress at will, as part of the provisions of the Hawaii Admissions Act, taking care of Native Hawaiians. And I believe this is something that I think our colleagues need to understand a little better, that after the Hawaii Admissions Act, it didn't mean that we just completely forget anything and everything to do with the needs of Native Hawaiians. Am I correct on that?

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I also want to ask my good friend, as you had indicated and our friends have indicated Governor Lingle's opposition to the proposed substitute, am I to perceive that certainly Governor Lingle, with all due respect, is entitled to her opinion and some of the issues affecting the proposed legislation which she has supported for the past 7 years. Do you see anything that cannot be done in a way that by accepting this proposed substitute we can still take corrective action, whatever it might be, the concerns that she might have later on?

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. There's also been a reference made, I ask my colleague, that the idea of comparing Native Hawaiians to American Indians is somewhat absurd. I would like to ask the gentleman if such a description, as our friends on the other side have suggested, is totally irrelevant. The fact of the matter is, there are only three truly indigenous aboriginal groupings under the sovereignty of the United States. The American Indians in the 48 continental States that we lived in with some 565 tribes fully recognized; there were some 100 other tribes not recognized, by the way.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank the gentleman for yielding. I just want to say 565 tribes are recognized by the Federal Government. Does it stand a chance to suggest that Native Hawaiians cannot be recognized in the same way giving some sense of self-esteem and dignity to the people who are Native Hawaiians to the State of Hawaii?

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. I thank the gentleman for yielding. I have the utmost respect for my good friend, Mr. Hastings, for proposing his amendment, but I do have some very serious concerns about the amendment. In the first place, when we talk about the event that took place in 1959, it was a referendum of whether or not the voters or the people of Hawaii would accept statehood. What we are establishing here is a very dangerous precedent, in my humble opinion, so that for everything now we are going to be referring to referendums to State governments to tell us the will of the people of the State, when in fact this should be done that the Congress expresses that will for collectively all, on behalf of our Federal Government. So I do oppose the gentleman's amendment.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the service of my good friend, His Excellency Zhou Wenzhong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the United States. Ambassador Zhou is completing his term as Ambassador to the United States after more than five years of service. During his long and distinguished career working for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zhou has been deeply involved in building United States-China relations serving as Attache and then Third Secretary of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China to the United States from 1978 to 1983, Deputy Consul General in San Francisco from 1987 to 1990, Deputy Director General of the Department of North American and Oceanian Affairs from 1993 to 1994, Consul General in Los Angeles from 1994 to 1995, Minister of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China to the United States from 1995 to 1998, Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2001 to 2003, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2003 to 2005 and, most recently, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic to the United States from 2005 to 2010. Ambassador Zhou has effectively represented his country with honor by ensuring constructive cooperation and effective communication between United States and Chinese leaders through many initiatives including the establishment of new senior-level political dialogues such as the United States-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Ambassador Zhou has also been a strong advocate for deeper United States-China economic relations, helping Chinese companies to increase their investments in the United States and demonstrating to Americans the opportunities presented by markets in China. Ambassador Zhou has personally visited nearly every state in the United States to meet with American businesses and workers to promote bilateral economic relations. Through frequent and productive communications with the United States Congress and by strengthening the United States-China Interparliamentary Exchange, Ambassador Zhou has helped foster mutual understanding and respect between the two governments. Ambassador Zhou has also helped to inform America's understanding of China by overseeing numerous educational and cultural events during his time as Ambassador and, during his tenure, there has been a dramatic increase in people-to-people exchanges as more United States citizens travel to China and more Chinese citizens visit the United States. For these and many other reasons, I pay special tribute to Ambassador Zhou and commend him for his leadership and tireless efforts in promoting goodwill between our governments and people. I offer Ambassador Zhou and his dear wife, Madame Xie, my sincere best wishes as they return to their home in China. They will be greatly missed.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, amid regional combat, conflicts, and challenges, Kazakhstan assumed leadership this month of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), an organization of 56 member states with vast potential for strengthening regional and global cooperation, security, peace, and prosperity. This is a remarkable historic achievement for a nation that only 19 years ago gained its independence from the former Soviet Union. It is also a recognition of the vision and leadership of Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev who has charted a course to establish not only a modem state but an emerging democracy. In the early days of its statehood and under the leadership of President Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan demonstrated to the international community its commitment to nuclear disarmament and nonproliferation. It voluntarily renounced the world's fourth largest nuclear and missile arsenal and shut down the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site. This decision has enhanced global security and reduced the threat of weapons of mass destruction falling into the hands of terrorists. Kazakhstan's experience qualifies it to lead the OSCE in its efforts to increase regional security. Meanwhile, Kazakhstan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the principles and values that OSCE member states embrace. The nation has achieved significant progress on democratization, human rights, and economic liberalization. This is no small feat for a country in which more than 140 different nationalities and 40 religions are represented. Yet surprisingly in Kazakhstan, these people and faiths coexist peaceably because of a commitment to the shared values of tolerance, understanding, cooperation, and unity. Great steps have been made on the path of democracy, but many more strides must be taken before the goal is reached. That is why Kazakhstan views democracy not as a sprint but a marathon; its perspective is not for the short but the long term. Because Kazakhstan understands the challenges of democracy-building and the importance of inter-ethnic and inter-faith dialogue to avoid or resolve conflict, this perspective and experience will serve it well in its OSCE leadership role. Kazakhstan is a leading democratic force in Central Asia today, a region of growing strategic importance to the United States, the OSCE, and the world. Central Asia is where East and West meet. Increasingly, it is where much of our focus will and must be now and in the years ahead. As Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs subcommittee overseeing this region, I can state this unequivocally. It is also the reason my colleague Representative Buck McKeon and I recently established the Congressional Caucus on Central Asia. Kazakhstan moves and interacts with ease and confidence in its home region and the surrounding areas that include Afghanistan, Iraq, Pakistan, and Iran--all areas where it has interests that make dialogue and cooperation possible but not involvement that precludes it. Because of this, Kazakhstan can function as an honest and trusted broker, helping the United States and other OSCE members. This can lead to improved East-West dialogue and, hopefully, to conflict resolution. For all the strengths, experiences, and perspectives that Kazakhstan offers, OSCE member states' choice of this new democracy to lead the organization showed correct judgment and foresight in light of the challenges and threats confronting the world. President Nazarbayev has matched the OSCE's judgment and foresight in appointing Secretary of State-Foreign Minister Kanat Saudabayev to serve as the OSCE Chairman- in-Office. This skilled and seasoned diplomat, who once served as Kazakhstan's Ambassador to the United States, will bring to his new post and the OSCE the needed leadership and focus on measurable results. His recent speech in Vienna outlining Kazakhstan's priorities during its OSCE chairmanship reveals a commitment to revitalize the organization, reestablish its relevance on key issues, and refocus it to achieve meaningful outcomes. I am encouraged by the vision he sketched. In a world where new crises often seemingly intractable, even insoluble--emerge almost daily, we need an OSCE infused with purpose and energy and committed to full engagement and results. Knowing the OSCE Chairman-in-Office as I do, I am confident that he can and will lead the organization to achieve the outcomes that all OSCE member states desire. As a major step toward that end, I fully support the proposal that President Nazarbayev and OSCE Chairman-in-Office Saudabayev have put forward--namely, that of holding an OSCE summit. Not since 1999 has a summit been held. In my view, such an assembly would offer many advantages and opportunities to the United States and other OSCE member states for advancing the prospects and priorities of regional and global cooperation, security, peace, and prosperity. The proposed summit warrants the United States' support and is worthy of our best efforts because it is in our national interest. For this reason, I call on President Obama and Secretary of State Clinton to help facilitate the summit through their good offices, and I look forward to working with Chairman-in-Office Saudabayev and the leaders of OSCE member states in any way I can to help execute the forward- looking vision that Kazakhstan has outlined for the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, last week, on January 13, we marked the 107th anniversary of the first Korean immigrants to the United States. From those few Korean individuals who came in 1903 to Hawai'i, then a U.S. territory, the Korean American community has grown to nearly two million people. For the first few decades of the 20th century, Korean immigration was impeded by U.S. law. Regrettably, until the 1960s, U.S. law refused to admit immigrants from East Asia. Fortunately, as attitudes about race and ethnicity changed and matured in the wake of the civil rights movement, these shameful barriers were removed. America became a land of opportunity not just for Europeans seeking refuge and comfort, but for people from Africa, Asia, and Latin America, as well. Korean Americans have contributed immeasurably to our society and culture. They have raised families and built successful businesses, strong neighborhoods, active civic associations, churches, and charities. Korean Americans have served in the armed forces, been elected to public office, and been appointed to positions of authority in President Obama's administration. In my capacity as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific, and the Global Environment, I have paid close attention to issues of concern to the Korean American community. With many Korean Americans still having family ties to the Korean Peninsula, they care deeply about the continuing resilience of the U.S.-Korea alliance. When I served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in the 1960s, I met many Korean soldiers who fought side by side with Americans, just as Americans had fought side-by-side with Koreans in the Korean War a decade and a half earlier. The close alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea has included South Korea's important contributions to fighting terrorism around the world and promoting democracy and liberal values. The Republic of Korea has remained a steadfast ally of the United States and ought be considered America's greatest foreign policy success in the post-World War II era. It is worth noting today that, later this year, we will be commemorating the 60th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War. Veterans of that conflict, both Korean and American, have strong feelings about the U.S.-Korea alliance. I have attended many ceremonies at which Korean War veterans pay tribute to their fallen comrades and share their memories of the battlefield. Many of them have returned to Korea in peacetime to visit the friends they made and--in some cases-- the families of their spouses. Korean War veterans and members of the Korean American community are significant stakeholders in the maturation of the U.S.-Korea alliance, whether that means a security alliance in our mutual effort to denuclearize North Korea, whether it means growth in the number of Korean students who attend American colleges and universities, or whether it means broader and deeper business and trade ties. The U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), which was signed in June 2007 and awaits ratification and implementation, will bring substantial benefits to both of our countries. The U.S. International Trade Commission has forecast that the elimination of tariffs on U.S. goods under the KORUS FTA would increase the GDP of the United States by over $10 billion annually. The agreement will also eliminate regulatory and other non-tariff barriers that have historically restricted access by American farmers, manufacturers, and service providers to the South Korean market. Korea's economy is beginning to recover from the worldwide recession, with a special emphasis on creating ``green jobs'' and encouraging growth in 21st century industries that look to the future. At the same time, Korea remains a major market for American goods and services, for agricultural products, raw materials, and finished goods. With growing uncertainty about our economy, it is critically important that we make every effort to spur U.S. economic growth and create new American jobs through securing access to markets in which U.S. farmers and businesses can compete and succeed. The KORUS FTA stands to further increase U.S. exports to Korea and will generate new jobs for Americans. This agreement will be a triple-win--a win for workers, a win for businesses, and a win for consumers. Beyond trade, the United States and Korea share similar values and goals. Both countries are democratic republics, both desire peace on the Korean Peninsula and work to assure that nuclear weapons do not proliferate in Northeast Asia, and both want to see economic growth and opportunity throughout the world. It is in this context that Korea will host and chair a meeting of the G-20 in November 2010. It is a remarkable achievement and one that is emblematic of how far Korea has come considering that 60 years ago, it was a war torn nation. I am confident that Korea will set an ambitious agenda for the G-20 to include how nations can turn to ``Low Carbon, Green Growth'' sectors to spur economic growth in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. Last August, I had the privilege of visiting Korea to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Chonbuk National University. I had numerous opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue with our Korean friends on a host of issues. But above all, I was struck by the kind generosity and hospitality of the Korean people. The same has always been true of our Korean American friends as well. Madam Speaker, this is why it is my honor to recognize January 13 as Korean American Day pursuant to House Resolution 487, which was passed in 2005 and introduced by my good friend Representative Tom Davis of Virginia. I urge my colleagues to offer their own expressions of support in recognizing the Korean American community and their achievements and the importance of a comprehensive U.S.-Korea alliance in diplomacy, business, and culture.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished service of my friend, His Excellency Abdulaziz Kamilov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the United States. With distinction, Ambassador Kamilov has represented Uzbekistan in the United States for the past seven years. Before he accepted his assignment to come to the United States in 2003, he was a State Advisor to the President of his home country. Some three years after the collapse of the Soviet Union, Mr. Kamilov became the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, the highest diplomatic position in the newly-formed Republic. He served in this prestigious post for nine years. Mr. Kamilov holds a Ph.D. in the History of International Relations and Foreign Policy. He was President of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy for almost a decade. Ambassador Kamilov spent much of his early career in rigorous study of the Middle East. He held numerous positions in the Middle East Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the USSR. He is fluent in English and Arabic. His Excellency Kamilov is an experienced diplomat who understands that the U.S. and Uzbekistan have mutual interests, and our relationship has been immeasurably enhanced by his professionalism, intelligence and friendship. At times when relations between our country and Uzbekistan were uncertain, Ambassador Kamilov remained steadfast, becoming a key figure in strengthening and rebuilding our security and economic alliance. Ambassador Kamilov is to be commended for his loyalty in discharging his duties to his President, His Excellency Islam Karimov, and the people of Uzbekistan. As Ambassador Kamilov moves on to new responsibilities and assignments, I extend to him and President Karimov my highest regards and best wishes.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share with you and our colleagues and to commend the CBS ``60 Minutes'' program that was aired last week on Sunday, January 17 of this year. As it was narrated by CBS reporter Scott Pelley, the television program was called, ``American Samoa--Football Island.'' It highlighted the fact that from an island of less than 70,000 people, there are more than 30 players of Samoan ancestry currently playing professional football in the National Football League and estimated more than 200 playing currently in Division I college football. Indeed, it is estimated that a boy born to Samoan parents is 56 times more likely to get into the NFL than any other kid in the United States, period. This is an exceptional bit of information considering that the six little high schools that we have there in the program do not have locker rooms, no weight rooms for training, no proper equipment or other needed facilities and resources. This is also considering that most of these athletes do not start playing organized football until they're in high school. For the first time this year, we have organized a Pop Warner football program. What is interesting about this, Mr. Speaker, is that a good number of these young Pop Warner players would be disqualified if they were playing in the U.S. for the simple reason that they were too big. I know this is true in the State of Hawaii where, in the Pop Warner program, many of these young Samoan football players had to organize their own ``Big Boys'' football program because they would be disqualified to play Pop Warner. I know this is true in the little town of Hauula in Laie in the State of Hawaii. Now, I don't want to give the impression to my colleagues that Samoans are a lot of muscle and brawn but no brains; no, this is not true. I know from my own given experience when I played high school football in my alma mater, Kahuku High School in Hawaii, it was like a tradition that all Samoans would play the line, the quarterback would be the Japanese, the Filipinos would be the halfbacks, but the fullback would be a Samoan. Now all that has changed, we also play quarterback these days. In American Samoa, there were no youth or development programs until this year when they started the American Youth Football Samoa program, but still coaches and recruiters crowd our little territory for raw talent. Mr. Speaker, it was important for the whole world to see some of the challenges that the kids of American Samoa have to go through to make it to the collegiate level so that they can afford an education and for most to play in the highest level of professional football. The fact that a Samoan boy is 56 times more likely to get into the NFL is most interesting and can be attributed not only to the size of the people but to the values of the Samoan culture. From respect to discipline and making sure that there is respect in the process, one can appreciate that the young men and women of Samoan descent hold true these values of humility. I know that these athletes with these values would be welcomed by any coach in any sport. I want to take this opportunity to recognize the Polynesian players who were fortunate enough to make it into this year's NFL Conference Championships and will be playing in New Orleans this weekend. They are Aaron Francisco of the Indianapolis Colts; Fili Moala, the Indianapolis Colts; Ropati Pitoitua, the New York Jets; Sione Pouha of the New York Jets; Naufahu Tahi of the Minnesota Vikings. I want to personally congratulate them and their families for their success. Also, I want to offer special recognition for our first Samoan Polynesian of Tongan ancestry, Mr. Haloti Ngata of the Baltimore Ravens, who is not only headed to his first Pro Bowl in Florida after the Super Bowl, but today is also his 26th birthday. Haloti Ngata is in his fourth year in the NFL, was drafted by the Ravens in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, and is a graduate of the University of Oregon. At 6 feet, 5 inches and almost 350 pounds, Haloti finished the year with more than 30 tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. The success of this new generation of football players, Mr. Speaker, is a result of the pathway paved by pioneers like Samoan football player Al Lolotai, who played for the Washington Redskins in 1945, Charlie Ane of the Detroit Lions, Jack ``The Throwin' Samoan'' Thompson, Manu and his son Marques Tuiasosopo, Dan Saleaumua, Wilson Faumuina, Frank and his son Brandon Manumaleuna, Jesse Sapolu, Junior Seau, Troy Polamalu, Lofa Tatupu, Domata Peko, Rey Maualuga, Jonathan Fanene, Joe Salave`a, Pita Elisara, Esera Tuaolo, Falaniko and his brother Al Noga, Junior Ah You, and many others. I am often asked why Samoan men have so much success on the football field. Well, there are many factors. I am reminded of the late Coach Vince Lombardi of the Green Bay Packers when he said that ``Football is like life. It requires perseverance, self-denial, hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and respect for authority.'' This is very much part of the heart and soul of the Samoan culture which centers on the importance of families sharing each other's needs and respect for others.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor and pleasure to welcome Rev. Samuel Tialavea to the Chamber today. Rev. Tialavea, or ``Sam'' as he is popularly known in our Samoan community, is from my home district in American Samoa. Rev. Tialavea is currently the General Secretary of the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa, a position he has held now for some 8 years. He was appointed Secretariat of the Partnership Consultation Committee on Ministry and Mission of the United Church of Christ and the Congregational Christian Church, again, a post he has held for some 8 years now. He was ordained in the mid- 1990s, where he became pastor of the Bread of Life Church in Honolulu prior to his election as the General Secretary of the CCCAS. This is a historic occasion for my district. To my knowledge, Rev. Tialavea is the first ever Samoan to give the opening prayer to begin a regular House congressional session. I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge Rev. Tialavea's lovely wife, Fa'aipoipoga, who is present with us in the gallery. Also with her to witness this momentous occasion are Rev. Elder Leatulagi Faalevao, who is the vice chairman of the Congregational Christian Church, and his wife, Vagai; and Rev. Reupena Alo, who is the assistant to the General Secretary, and his wife, Deanne. It is my distinct honor and privilege again to welcome to the House today my good friend, Rev. Samuel Tialavea, Sr.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support a doubling of assistance by developed countries for developing nations in helping them adjust to the impacts of global warming. Increased commitments are essential if we are to achieve a successful international climate change agreement, one that will prevent the most devastating effects of global warming. Ironically, the poorest and most vulnerable countries are the ones that will suffer the most from rising sea levels, severe weather events and other consequences of climate change--despite the fact that those nations have contributed only negligibly to the problem. U.S. leadership is vital if we are to prod other developed countries to step up to the plate and provide appropriate levels of assistance. And in the aftermath of House passage of the Waxman-Markey cap-and-trade legislation earlier this year, the Senate must now act. That is why my colleagues--Rep. Raul Grijalva, Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, Rep. Maxine Waters, Rep. Pete Stark, Rep. Dennis Moore, Del. Donna Christensen and Rep. Michael Honda--sent a letter today to Sen. John Kerry, the Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee and leader on climate change legislation in the Senate, urging him to double assistance for developing countries in legislation the Senator is currently drafting. As our letter states, ``the amount of funding developed countries are currently promising to developed countries is grossly insufficient to meet the need. . . . Given the magnitude of the problem developing countries face, and given the responsibility of developed countries for the majority of historic greenhouse gas emissions, we believe that U.S. climate change legislation should double the emissions allowances currently dedicated in the House bill to international adaptation and mitigation in developing countries.'' Madam Speaker, for the Record, I include a full copy of the letter to Senator Kerry. Congress of the United States, House of Representatives, Washington, DC, December 15, 2009. Hon. John F. Kerry, Chairman, Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Mr. Chairman: We want to commend you for your valuable contributions toward enacting climate change legislation. We particularly appreciate your introduction of S. 2835, which focuses on the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of global warming. We sincerely hope that with that measure as well as the recent pledges by China and India to curb their emissions relative to economic growth, and President Obama's support for mobilizing developed countries to contribute $10 billion a year by 2012 and implementing longer-term mechanisms to assist developing countries with adaptation and mitigation, Copenhagen makes substantial progress toward completion of a binding agreement to limit climate change. The bill you are working on with the Senators Graham and Lieberman offers a crucial opportunity to advance that agreement. We urge you to include an adequate commitment of resources for the nations and peoples most vulnerable to the consequences of global warming in that legislation. The needs of developing countries are manifest. As noted by the recent World Development Report 2010, even if average global temperatures rise only 2 degrees Celsius above pre- industrial levels, ``Between 100 million and 400 million more people could be at risk of hunger. And 1 billion to 2 billion more people may no longer have enough water to meet their needs . . . It is estimated that developing countries will bear most of the costs of the damages--some 75-80 percent.'' As the Stern Review made clear, even if greenhouse emissions ceased today, the world would still face at least two decades of increasing global temperatures. In the very near future, higher temperatures will lead to economic and political instability, refugee crises and conflicts over ever-scarcer natural resources in developing nations, all of which will have direct, negative implications for developing and developed countries alike. That is why the United Nations negotiating blocs of Least Developed Countries and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS)--which together represent 80 countries least responsible for climate change but most severely affected by it--have recently called for a minimum 45 percent reduction of greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by 2020. They are further requesting that there be no more than a 1.5 global temperature rise from pre-industrial levels, and that atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations return to below 350 parts per million of carbon dioxide equivalent. As AOSIS has pointed out, `` Serious adverse impacts are already being felt by island states at the current 0.8C of warming, including coastal erosion, flooding, coral bleaching and more frequent and intense extreme weather events. The U.N.'s lead agency on refugees has already warned that some particularly low-lying island states are `very likely to become entirely uninhabitable'.'' Estimates vary on the level of funding needed by the developing world to lessen the destabilizing impacts of climate change that will likely occur regardless of the adoption of an international agreement. However, the UN's latest Human Development Report estimates that additional adaptation finance needs alone will amount to $86 billion annually by 2015. And last week in Copenhagen, Yvo de Boer, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, said that developed countries should expect to contribute $100 billion annually to developing nations. Yet the amount of funding developed countries are currently promising to developed countries is grossly insufficient to meet the need. The United States must demonstrate leadership if the developed world is to meet its obligation to provide appropriate sums. The Congressional Research Service's calculation of the funding produced by H.R. 2454 for developing countries--based on the current percentage of emissions allowances dedicated to international adaptation and international clean technology deployment and the allowance prices used in the EPA/ IGEM Model--suggests that less than $1 billion per year would be available in 2012, rising to less than $1.6 billion by 2020. Given the magnitude of the problem developing countries face, and given the responsibility of developed countries for the majority of historic greenhouse gas emissions, we believe that U.S. climate change legislation should double the emissions allowances currently dedicated in the House bill to international adaptation and mitigation in developing countries. While such enhanced allocations would amount to substantial sums of money, we believe they will more than pay for themselves over time when compared to American commitments of troops and resources that would likely be required to address adverse impacts in developing countries affecting vital U.S. interests. As retired Marine Corps General Anthony Zinni, former commander of U.S. Central Command, has noted, ``We will pay now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions . . . or we will pay the price later.'' Again, we applaud your efforts at addressing the enormous challenge of climate change. As legislation moves toward passage in the Senate, we sincerely hope that it provides increased commitments to the countries and peoples most vulnerable to the consequences of global warming. Sincerely, Eni F.H. Faleomavaega, Member of Congress. Raul M. Grijalva, Member of Congress. Emanuel Cleaver, Member of Congress. Maxine Waters, Member of Congress. Pete Stark, Member of Congress. Dennis Moore, Member of Congress. Donna M. Christensen, Member of Congress. Michael M. Honda, Member of Congress.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 2194, the Iran Refined Petroleum Sanctions Act of 2009, aimed at checking the government of Iran's clandestine effort to acquire a nuclear weapons capability. That effort is particularly troublesome given the country's ongoing support of international terrorism and its programs to develop ballistic missiles. An Iranian regime armed with nuclear weapons and the systems to deliver them, and no compunction about targeting innocents, will present a grave security threat to the United States, the Middle East and the entire globe. And make no mistake: Iran has global ambitions, now encompassing the Pacific Islands. Last year, for example, Iran provided a $200,000 scholarship fund to the Solomon Islands for students living there to study medicine in Cuba. This year, the Solomons voted in favor of a U.N. resolution regarding the seriously-flawed Goldstone Report on the Gaza conflict. Meanwhile, today's Washington Post reports that Iran's indigenous scientific and technical capabilities appear to have put Teheran on the threshold of becoming a nuclear weapons state. And as Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton noted yesterday, diplomatic engagement with Iran over its nuclear activities, ``has produced very little in terms of any kind of a positive response from the Iranians.'' H.R. 2194, sponsored by the Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, the distinguished gentleman from California, Mr. Berman, provides the Administration one more instrument for its diplomatic tool kit: explicit authority to impose additional sanctions on the Iranian regime if it fails to abandon its quest for nuclear weapons. While I hope that the President will not have to exercise that authority, I believe having it available will increase his diplomatic leverage. It is time for the government of Iran to heed the call of the international community and abandon its nuclear ambitions. I ask my colleagues in the House to reinforce that call by supporting H.R. 2194.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 890, which welcomes the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, His Excellency Dr. Manmohan Singh, to the United States, and commends the maturation of the U.S.-India relationship. That relationship has made remarkable strides in the past 2 decades. And one of the critical elements helping launch our improved ties was the series of economic reforms India initiated in 1991, reforms developed and implemented under the leadership of then Finance Minister, Dr. Singh. With his rise to Prime Minister in 2004, Dr. Singh provided the leadership required for his country to strike the landmark U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Initiative with us, a deal that facilitates nuclear cooperation and offers the bilateral relationship a major strategic opportunity. After his party's victory in this year's general elections, Dr. Singh became the first full-term Indian Prime Minister to be returned to power since 1962. The particularly strong electoral mandate he received in the recent election is testament to his accomplishment. It also offers our two countries a chance to move our partnership to an even higher level, better positioning us to advance solutions to the key regional and global challenges we confront, from pandemic disease, to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, climate change, and poverty. Reflecting India's emergence as a major international player and the importance of the U.S.-India relationship, the Prime Minister's visit here next week will be the first official state visit by any foreign dignitary to the Obama White House. The Prime Minister should know that the United States Congress values his leadership and our bilateral partnership just as much as the new Administration, and so I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H. Res. 890.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, God is good. I rise in full support of the health care needs of all our fellow Americans. God bless America. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 3962, legislation to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending, and for other purposes. This bill will control rising medical costs and also extend health care coverage to uninsured American citizens throughout the United States and its Territories. I want to thank Speaker Nancy Pelosi for her leadership and my colleagues in Congress for their support on this important bill. Especially, I extend my gratitude to the Chairmen of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Henry Waxman; and the House Committee on Ways and Means, Congressman Charles Rangel for listening to the concerns of the Territories and for their willingness to work with the Territorial delegates on resolving their concerns. I also want to commend my fellow Territorial delegates for their hard work and efforts, in working hand-in-hand to reduce health disparity facing the Territories. I especially want to recognize Congresswoman Donna Christensen for her work in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Pedro Pierluisi and Congressman Gregorio Sablan for their advocacy in the House Committee on Education and Labor and to Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo for her leadership as the Chairwoman of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus Healthcare Task Force. Madam Speaker, the Affordable Health Care for America Act, or H.R. 3962, will improve health care for Americans living in the insular areas. Under the provisions of this legislation, from FY2011 through FY2019, American Samoa will receive additional Medicaid funding in the amount of $239.5 million. Moreover, its Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) will be raised to the highest FMAP applicable to any of the 50 States and District of Columbia. As a result American Samoa will assume an FMAP no less than 75 percent, the FMAP for Mississippi which has the highest among the 50 States. American Samoa will also work together with the Secretary of Health and Human Services on a plan to transition the Territory to full parity by 2020. And to make this transition, the Secretary will also assist to make appropriate modifications to the Territory's existing Medicaid programs. This will require comprehensive assessment of the existing Medicaid program and health care services in American Samoa. I am pleased that American Samoa and the insular areas will have the opportunity to become part of the Exchange program, the centerpiece of the Health Care Reform legislation. Again I thank my Territorial delegates for their hard work to ensure that Congress continues to recognize the need and unique set of circumstances we have in the Territories. To help carry out the Exchange program, $300 million is to be allocated among American Samoa, the CNMI, Guam, and the USVI, based on consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services. If American Samoa or any Territorial government chooses not to join the Exchange, its allocation will be added instead to that Territory's Medicaid funding. Madam Speaker, H.R. 3962 will bring much needed improvement to the health care system in American Samoa. The fact of the matter is rising medical costs and limited health care coverage, exacerbated by American Samoa's remote location and exponential rate of chronic diseases, have led to a high number of people in the Territory with minimal or no access to quality health services. Indeed, findings from the American Samoa Health Survey conducted in 2005 estimated only 25 percent of the population have insurance. Subsequently, there is a tremendous need to address these concerns in a viable health care policy for the Territory. For this reason, in a letter sent June 22, 2009, I wrote members of the Fono (American Samoa Legislature) to address the need to improve the health care system in the Territory. I specifically requested that the Fono should take advantage of the report from the Coverage for All in American Samoa (CAAS) project, which includes policy recommendations on ways to improve the Territory's health care system. I commend the American Samoa Government especially the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and staff for their dedication and commitment to the CAAS project that was completed in 2007. I also want to commend the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) for committing total funding of $1.2 million from 2004 to 2007 to complete the CAAS project. My hope is for the American Samoa Government to follow through on the policy recommendations in the CAAS report and adopt the framework for health care reform that is now in place and supported by H.R. 3962. The Affordable Health Care for America Act, H.R. 3962, carries with it our expectations and hopes for quality and affordable health care for our people and with it a commitment; a commitment to ensure that every American is provided quality health care that they are entitled to and to receive health services that they so critically need. I urge my friends and colleagues to support H.R. 3962 and pass this historical health care reform legislation.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I certainly would like to thank our distinguished chairman of our Foreign Affairs Committee and our senior ranking member, the gentlelady from Florida, for their leadership and sponsorship and certainly support for this important resolution. I also would like to particularly thank my colleague, the gentleman from Oregon, for his authorship of this important bill. I think I know something about earthquakes, since recently my own district was just devastated by an 8.3 Richter scale earthquake for which the distance was only about 120 miles south of Samoa. Traveling at about 500 miles an hour, the shock wave was such that, within a matter of minutes, we ended up with a 20-foot tsunami that caused tremendous devastation in property, our homes, and villages, and the deaths of many people. I do want to commend my good friend from Oregon for his leadership and for raising this important issue to our colleagues and also to commend the two citizens who really wanted just to investigate how was it that, because of faulty construction of these classroom facilities, that these children died, and the government of China did not allow these investigations to go on. I have tremendous respect for the leaders of the People's Republic of China, given the fact they have only been in existence for about 60 years. As I remind my colleagues sometimes, when China was founded in 1948, there were 400 million people living in China at the time. Yes, under Communist rule, China has evolved itself, and it still has a lot of serious problems, like any other country. I think also in the time I have that I want to express very much the concerns that I have that I think it is time, especially under the circumstances on how these children ended up dead because of faulty construction of the buildings and the Chinese government refused to have this kind of investigation, for which these two citizens of China were victimized and prosecuted and certainly abused by the Chinese officials. This is not right. I want to again thank my good friend from Oregon, David Wu, for bringing this matter to the attention of our colleagues, and I urgently urge my colleagues to support this resolution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, one month ago, the U.S. Territory of American Samoa was struck by the world's most powerful earthquake of 2009, which set off a tsumani that left untold damage and loss. Once more, I want to thank the Obama Administration, the U.S. Congress, and our friends in the House and Senate, including the Hawaii Delegation and the Territorial Delegates who have stood by us every step of the way. I especially thank Senator Daniel K. Inouye, HI, Senator Daniel K. Akaka, HI, Congressman Neil Abercrombie, HI, Congresswoman Mazie Hirono, HI, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, GU, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, MP, Congresswoman Donna Christensen, VI, and Congressman Pedro Pierluisi, PR for their unwavering support. I also thank the many foreign nations and non-government organizations who have been so generous in helping us rebuild. I also want to recognize Cathy Barnhardt of the Combined Airline Ticket Office, CATO, and those at the United Airlines government desk including Debbie Smith and Darlene Sacha, and also Debbie Trance- Mordecai of United Global Services at the JFK airport in New York for the outstanding service they provide at all times. Above all, I pay tribute to the people of American Samoa for the strength, courage and faith they have shown in the face of adversity. My heart also continues to go out to the families of those who have lost loved ones, and I ask for your continued support and prayers on their behalf. Again, I express my sincere gratitude for everyone, named and unnamed, for lending us a hand when we need it most. I appreciate your kindness and assure you that the people of American Samoa are grateful for your service.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I submit the following message of support from Seung Youn Kim, Chairman of the Hanwha Group, in response to the massive tsunami that struck American Samoa on Tuesday, September 29, 2009. October 1, 2009. Hon. Eni Faleomavaega, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Congressman Faleomavaega: I would like to offer my deepest condolences to you and the people of Samoa for the losses and sufferings caused by the natural disaster yesterday. Everyone in my family was shocked by seeing the devastated sites of Pago Pago and Leone through the media, I am greatly concerned on the tragic news, not as a bystander but a personal friend of yours. I can only imagine the grief that you must feel and the immensity of the tasks you face, but I also know that you are a man of undefeatable courage who will once again lead the way out from this disaster. It is slightly relieving to me that acts of courage and kindness surfaced and that the U.S. government and the international society take the matter seriously moving quickly in aiding the region. I heard that you have already flown out to Samoa, and I only wish I could come to the area and join you in person to help. I am personally committed to supporting you, pondering over how I could help you on the efforts for the recovery of Samoa and its people. Once again, my heart and thoughts are with you and the people of Samoa wishing safety and hope for all those who have been affected. Truly yours, Seung Youn Kim.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I submit the following message of support submitted by Governor of Jeollabuk-do Province Kim Wan-Joo of the Republic of Korea in response to the massive tsunami that struck American Samoa on Tuesday, September 29, 2009. October 1, 2009. Hon. Eni F.H. Faleomavaega, Chairman, Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives. Honorable Eni Faleomavaega, On behalf of Jeollabuk-do, please accept my warmest thanks for your visit to be appointed an Honorary Citizen and Goodwill Ambassador. There is no doubt that you have enriched Jeollabuk-do with your works, speech and spirit. For that reason, the value of such visits is immeasurable and we truly appreciate the opportunity to have you as one of us. It's only been less than a month since we shared our celebratory nights with Samoan soldiers. We were overwhelmed by their and your spiritual reunion and warm hearts.I was mournful with the latest and yet tragic news of the earthquake and the tsunami. My deepest sympathies are with American Samoans and other Samoans who have lost loved ones, especially with Samoan soldiers in Korea and with you. There is no doubt that you are the sons of warriors. I know you will only be stronger. I hope that Samoa is in good hands and will recover sooner and better. You and Samoa are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely yours, Kim Wan-Joo, Governor, Jeollabuk-do Province.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I submit the following message of support submitted by Tom Beanal, Chairman of the Papua Presidium Council, in response to the massive tsunami that struck American Samoa on Tuesday, September 29, 2009. Presidium Dewan Papua, Jayapura, October 7, 2009. Hon. Eni F. H. Faleomavaega, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Congressman Faleomavaega, on behalf of the people of West Papua, we are writing to express to you our greatest sympathy for the losses and sufferings of the people of American Samoa and other Pacific Islands caused by the recent tsunami. Please accept our sincerest condolences to you. Please also extend them to your people. We are with you all in our hearts, tears, and prayers. With God's grace, may you, our dear Congressman, and the people of American Samoa, find the strength to endure in this tragic tragedy. Tom Beanal, Wakil Ketua. Herman Awom, Moderator. Thaha Mohammad Alhamid, Sekretaris Jenderal.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I submit the following message of support submitted by Ambassador Don Pramudwinai on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Kasit Piromya of the Kingdom of Thailand in response to the massive tsunami that struck American Samoa on Tuesday, September 29, 2009. Royal Thai Embassy, Washington, DC, October 7, 2009. Hon. Eni F. H. Faleomavaega, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. The Honorable Eni F. H. Faleomavaega, I have the honor to transmit herewith a condolence message on the earthquakes and tsunami incident in American Samoa from His Excellency Mr. Kasit Piromya, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand to the Honorable as follows: The Honorable Faleomavaega, It is with profound sorrow that I learned of the intense magnitude of the undersea earthquakes and tsunami that hit the United States territory of American Samoa on 29 September 2009, causing a terrible loss of lives, widespread property damage and left so many people homeless. I would like to extend my sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy to you and, through you, to those families who lost their loved ones as well as those who were distressed by this dreadful disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this time of sorrow. In 2004, Thailand suffered through the devastating effects of a tsunami, and therefore, we share your grief and understand very well the hardship besetting the people of American Samoa. I am certain that with strong spirit of solidarity of the people of American Samoa, the affected areas will be quickly rehabilitated and restored. Accept, the Honorable, the renewed assurances of my highest consideration. Kasit Piromya, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand. Please accept, the Honorable, the assurances of my highest consideration. Don Pramudwinai, Ambassador.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 816) mourning the loss of life caused by the earthquakes and tsunamis that occurred on September 29, 2009, in American Samoa and Samoa, as amended.