Eni Faleomavaega

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, an opinion editorial on diplomacy in Fiji. [From The Hill, Jan. 25, 2012] Landlubber Diplomacy Won't Work in Fiji (By Rep. Eni F.H. Faleomavaega (D-American Samoa) Having no policy of its own, the U.S. marched in time, applying section 508 sanction law which severed U.S. aid to Fiji. U.S. sanctions, however, have had no consequence because U.S. aid to Fiji was less than $3 million per year. Of consequence is Pakistan. In 1999, when General Pervez Musharraf overthrew the democratically-elected government of then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the U.S. waived 508 sanction law, despite the fact that for nearly ten years General Musharraf never made good on his promise to resign his military commission and hold free, fair and transparent elections in Pakistan. The U.S., like Australia and New Zealand, cooperated with Pakistan's regime--even providing billions in aid--because we understood then like we should understand now that engagement is vital to our interests and necessary if our long-term objectives are peace, stability and democracy. Do Australia, New Zealand and the U.S. consider Fiji vital to our interests? If not, I believe we should given China and Iran's growing presence in the region. If so, we need a new way forward. The U.S. can no longer rely on landlubber diplomacy which seeks to force democracy by isolation. Every tautai (navigator) knows--democracy can't be forced. Force is contrary to the order of democracy and contrary to our innate desire to choose. To succeed in Fiji, we must start from the beginning. The legacy of Fiji's colonial past has never been fully resolved since Fiji gained its independence in 1970. To date, Indians control many of the small businesses. Australia and New Zealand control major banking and commercial enterprises, and indigenous Fijians control much of the communal land and military establishment, with serious divisions existing between traditional leaders and lower-ranking Fijians. So far, no resolutions have been established to provide balance and fairness to both Fijians and ethnic Indians. In the past 20 some years, Fiji has had four coups and three constitutions. In the two coups of 1987 and the political crisis of 2000, ethnic tensions played major roles. Until we understand this beginning and begin to converse about it, democracy will not get underway. Having had several discussions with interim Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and dozens of others during my visits to Fiji, I believe U.S. leadership can help strengthen bilateral ties and improve regional conditions. By employing smart diplomacy in Fiji--which has been the hallmark of President Obama and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's foreign policy initiative even in Myanmar--I have every hope that we can achieve equal suffrage and other political, economic and social reforms targeted under the ``Strategic Framework for Change,'' just as the interim Prime Minister seeks.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Meruyert Saudabay, born in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Meruyert graduated from George C. Marshall School in Ankara, Turkey. After high school, she moved to Sydney, Australia where she studied for one year at the University of Sydney. She continued her studies in London Richmond University where she studied law. Meruyert obtained her LLM from Georgetown University Law Center. Meruyert's career began in London's Chevron Corporate office. Her portfolio included merger and acquisitions. She was a member of a leading legal team during the Chevron Texaco merger. After returning to Astana, Kazakhstan, Meruyert worked for Kazakh National Oil and Gas Company (KazMunaiGas) in the Business Development division. After earning her LLM degree, Meruyert joined communications services firm ``APCO'' where her focus was on Russia and the firm's business development in the Commonwealth of Independent State (CIS) countries. In 2009, Meruyert began her long-anticipated diplomatic career following in her father's footsteps. Meruyert's father--His Excellency Kanat Saudabayev--is a prominent international political figure. He was the first Ambassador ever from an independent Kazakhstan. He served as Kazakhstan's Ambassador to the United States from 2000 to 2007. In 2007, President Nursultan Nazarbayev promoted him to the position of Secretary of State. In 2009, he was appointed Secretary of State- Minister of Foreign Affairs. In 2010, during Kazakhstan's Chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), Mr. Saudabayev held the position of Chairman-in-Office. I have known the Honorable Kanat Saudabayev for nearly 15 years. He is my dear friend and brother and has been since we met and began working side-by-side when he was appointed Kazakhstan's Ambassador to the United States. His daughter is my daughter, and Meruyert has made us both proud. As Meruyert puts it, ``I have worked in multinational corporations. I have experience in lobbying. But my highest honor has been to put my time to use for the benefit of my country.'' In her position as Minister-Counselor at the Embassy of Kazakhstan in the United States, Meruyert serves her country with distinction. I commend her for her tireless efforts in promoting U.S.-Kazakhstan relations. Meruyert carries forward the vision of President Nazarbayev, who is also my friend. I applaud President Nazarbayev for changing the course of history and renouncing nuclear weapons. Kazakhstan inherited the world's fourth- largest nuclear arsenal after gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 but President Nazarbayev immediately and boldly renounced these weapons and transferred them under great security by means of an unprecedented joint program with experts from Kazakhstan, Russia and the United States. President Nazarbayev headed this heroic effort because, for more than 40 years prior to Kazakhstan's independence, the Soviet Union used Semipalatinsk in northern Kazakhstan as a test site to detonate more than 500 nuclear explosions. More than one million people were exposed to radioactive fallout. I continue to call upon the Nobel Peace Prize Committee to recognize President Nazarbayev's contributions to world peace as no other world leader has done so much to safeguard humanity from the terrible dangers of nuclear terrorism. I also thank Minister-Counselor Meruyert Saudabay for standing with her father and me and many others in strong support of President Nazarbayev's mission to modernize and balance the Nuclear Non- proliferation Treaty. I extend to Meruyert my highest and kindest regards and, for the unwavering support they provide to her, I especially thank Meruyert's family including her husband Daulet Orynbayev and their daughter Ayah; her sister Aray; her brother Ermek Saudabayev, his wife Altynai, their daughter Merey and son Nurbol; her brother Yerbol, his wife Elaine Bekmyrza and their daughter Amira; and her father and mother Kanat Saudabayev and Kullikhan Saudabayeva. I wish each of them the very best and I thank them also for the support they have always extended to me.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my friend and brother, Mr. Nguyen An Ha of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Mr. Nguyen has been working for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam since 1993. He was assigned as Political Counselor at the Embassy of Vietnam to the United States in March 2011, and also serves as Deputy Director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 2007 to 2011, Mr. Nguyen served in the America Department of MOFA. From 2003 to 2007, he worked as Second Secretary of the Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations (UN). From 1996 to 2003, Mr. Nguyen worked as an expert at the Department of International Organization in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 1994 to 1995, he studied at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. Mr. Nguyen graduated from the University of Foreign languages in Hanoi. He is married to Hoang Thi Hai Yen, and he and his lovely wife have a beautiful daughter, Nguyen Hoang Minh Ngoc. Mr. Nguyen is the son of Mr. Nguyen Huu Xuyen and Mrs. Nguyen Thi Kim Huong. On behalf of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Mr. Nguyen has spared no effort in strengthening U.S.-Vietnam relations. He has served his country and colleagues with distinction and honor. As Political Counselor, he worked side-by-side with His Excellency Nguyen Quoc Cuong, former Ambassador of Vietnam to the United States, and also with Dr. Luan Thuy Duong, former Minister at the Embassy of Vietnam to the United States, to promote Vietnam's stance in calling for a peaceful resolution of disputes in the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Because of their tireless efforts and leadership, the U.S. House of Representatives finally passed for the first time ever a Resolution calling for such support. H. Res. 714, a Resolution I introduced in support of peaceful and collaborative resolution of maritime and jurisdictional disputes in the South China Sea and the East China Sea as provided by universally recognized principles of international law, was unanimously passed by the House on December 2, 2014. In my official capacity as Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I have relied on Mr. Nguyen's expertise regarding many matters affecting the security of the Asia-Pacific region, as well as the U.S.-Vietnam relationship. Mr. Nguyen has been a tremendous help to me and I will miss him when he returns to Vietnam next year. Because so many in diplomatic missions serve so well, it is rare for me to include a statement in the Congressional Record in honor of diplomats. But Mr. Nguyen has served exceptionally well--in a way that deserves to be recognized and preserved in the records of U.S. history and so I am including a statement as I also did for Dr. Luan Thuy Duong and Ambassador Cuong. On a more personal note, knowing and serving with Mr. Nguyen, Dr. Duong and Ambassador Cuong has been one of the highlights of my career. I am thankful for our friendship and I will always be grateful to them for all they did to bring about recognition of the interim board of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam. Forevermore, I will also hold a special place in my heart for Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, President Truong Tan Sang, the Politburo, Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong, the National Assembly, MOFA, Public Security and the countless other individuals, departments, organizations and individuals who supported recognition--a cause that meant so much to me. As I now leave the U.S. House of Representatives, I hope I will be remembered as having given all I could on behalf of the leaders and people of Vietnam, too. Once caught up in a war I knew little about, I thank God I was able to return to Vietnam later in life as both Chairman and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific. In returning, I found a people I love. This is why I have repeatedly called for the United States to clean up the mess it left behind and do right by the victims of Agent Orange. I have also advocated for the United States to boost bilateral relations in several sectors, including defense, trade and security. Strong U.S.-Vietnam ties are key to stability in the Asia-Pacific region, and H. Res. 714 is a step forward. I thank Mr. Nguyen, once more, for his work in bolstering the U.S.- Vietnam relationship. Until we meet again, I wish Mr. Nguyen the very best, and I extend to him my highest regards.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend congratulations to the people of Kazakhstan and President Nursultan Nazarbayev on the occasion of Kazakhstan's national holiday--Independence Day. Under the leadership of President Nursultan Nazarbayev, Kazakhstan has reached considerable success in economic development, increased the living standard of its nation and enjoys authority in the region and in the world arena. Promoting the ideals of democracy and progress as well as standing for ensuring comprehensive security and stability, Kazakhstan has become an active member of the global community and America's strategic partner. Successfully hosting the OSCE Summit in Astana, serving as the chair of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and President Nursultan Nazarbayev's personal contribution to promotion of inter-ethnic and religious tolerance demonstrates that in the last twenty three years of independence Kazakhstan has reached great success in its development as a sovereign, stable and a prospering state. Kazakhstan plays an important role in Central Asia and by far is a rightful leader in the region. The United States is grateful for Kazakhstan's steadfast friendship and solidarity in the Global War on Terrorism, and its adherence to stabilization and rehabilitation of Afghanistan. President Obama highly commended Kazakhstan's efforts in the organization and holding of Iran 5+1 nuclear talks in Almaty in 2013. The dialogue on strategic partnership between the U.S. and Kazakhstan continues to demonstrate the common vision and commitment we share to solve modern challenges. From Project Sapphire and the Degelen Mountain to the closure of an anthrax factory in Stepnogorsk, Kazakhstan has not just talked but has acted and delivered in making the world a safer place. Kazakhstan has become a state with stable institutions and a dynamic economy. It has become a member of the international community, recognizing its responsibilities both at regional and international levels to maintain dialogue among religions and cultures. Kazakhstan is especially a stabilizing influence in Central Asia. This holiday is considered a symbol of freedom and independence of our state. During the short historical period the people of Kazakhstan have managed to construct the democratic, legal and economically independent state. Kazakhstan has launched an ambitious national program to make the country one of the 30 most competitive nations in the world by 2050. President Nursultan Nazarbayev announced the plan on December, 2013 in his annual state of the nation address and laid out wide-ranging reforms. The nation's new economic strategy, the Nurly Zhol (Bright Path) announced by President Nazarbayev at a recent state-of-the-nation address on Nov. 11, 2014, serves as a clear vision for efficient and sustainable development in Kazakhstan. In this period of global economic instability, the strategy will allow Kazakhstan to strengthen its already strong trajectory of sustained growth. I have every confidence that Kazakhstan will achieve the objectives of the Kazakhstan 2050 strategy and that the United States will support these efforts.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about the funding of an Upward Bound program at American Samoa Community College in 2003. [Press Release, Oct. 9, 2003] Faleomavaega Speaks Out About Confusion Surrounding ASCC's Upward Bound Program Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he is speaking out about the confusion surrounding ASCC's Upward Bound Program and is also making all letters pertaining to this matter available to the public. ``On June 22, 2003, Hipa Neria, the Director of ASCC's Upward Bound Program, called my office and requested my assistance in finding out whether or not ASCC's grant application would be funded,'' Congressman Faleomavaega said. ``In response to Mr. Neria's request, my office immediately called the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE), learned that ASCC's grant would not be funded, and informed Mr. Neria of the USDOE's decision.'' ``Upon learning of the USDOE's decision, Mr. Neria provided my office with additional information and requested my assistance in defending and obtaining funding for ASCC's proposal. In a letter dated June 24, 2003, Mr. Neria stated that he had been informed by his colleagues in Washington not to write, call, email or make any requests. Given the seriousness of the situation and my desire to help American Samoa's students, I wrote a letter dated July 10, 2003 to Larry Oxendine, USDOE Director of the Federal TRIO programs which includes Upward Bound. I also faxed Dr. Adele Satele- Galeai, President of ASCC, and Mr. Neria a copy of my letter.'' ``In my letter, I informed the USDOE that American Samoa has a dire need for the services the Upward Bound Program provides. I agreed with Mr. Neria's position that American Samoa's socio-economic status, educational disparity, and unique geographical location warranted a second review of ASCC's application. I also stated that I believed American Samoa would be credited additional points upon further review of the Needs Section and I expressed my appreciation for Mr. Oxendine's reconsideration of ASCC's application,'' Congressman Faleomavaega said. ``As a follow-up to my letter to Mr. Oxendine, my office continued its discussions with the USDOE. During these discussions, the USDOE informed my office that more than 1,218 Upward Bound applications were submitted and only 792 were funded. USDOE also informed me that only proposals with a score of 99.00 or greater were funded and ASCC's proposal had received a score of 98.33. ASCC's proposal had also been read and scored by three non-federal readers, as required by federal law.'' ``Although I was informed in July that the review process could not be reopened, additional funds became available about three weeks ago at which time the USDOE reviewed the remaining proposals that had not been funded. Of the applications remaining, 17 had higher scores than ASCC's application and all 17 received funding. An additional 17 applications had scores equal to ASCC's application but the USDOE only had money to fund one of the 17. Mr. Oxendine chose to fund ASCC's application based on the fact that we are an underserved area.'' ``In a letter dated October 8, 2003, Mr. Oxendine stated that my letter and the information received from my staff and President Satele-Galea'i was very helpful in making the decision to fund ASCC out of the group of 17 applications with the next highest score. He also said that he was pleased to inform me that ASCC's program would be funded at $220,000 for the 2003-2004 project period and, subject to future appropriations, USDOE would be making funding available at this level for three additional years.'' ``Mr. Oxendine also apologized for the delay in informing my office of his decision. In fact, he said he announced his decision at a national TRIO conference in San Diego on Monday September 29, 2003 and he was unaware that my office had not yet been informed.'' ``Again, I apologize for the confusion,'' Mr. Oxendine said in his letter, `` `but I am sure you will agree that the final outcome of our mutual efforts was highly successful.' Like Mr. Oxendine, I do agree that our efforts were highly successful and I want to especially thank Mr. Neria and Dr. Satele-Galea'i for working closely with my office to favorably resolve this issue. ``I also want to thank Chairman Boehner of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce for releasing a statement saying that `Congressman Faleomavaega worked hard to restore ASCC's Upward Bound funding, and I cannot take credit for his actions.' I appreciate the Chairman's willingness to step forward and set the record straight about this matter,'' Congressman Faleomavaega said. ``Chairman Boehner is a friend of mine and he should be commended for letting the people of American Samoa know that he did not restore ASCC's Upward Bound funding. In fact, the Chairman knew nothing about our Upward Bound funding until he read a fabricated story published in the Samoa News on October 1, 2003 which made claims that he worked with Mrs. Amata Radewagen to resolve this issue.'' ``Again, I thank Chairman Boehner for letting our people know the truth. Neither Congresswoman Deborah Pryce nor the House Republican Conference brought this matter to Chairman Boehner's attention. Furthermore, the USDOE informed my office that it received no letters from Congresswoman Deborah Pryce or the House Republican Conference regarding ASCC's Upward Bound Program funding. Other than the calls my office made, the USDOE received only one phone call in late July from a caller identifying herself as working for the House Republican Conference. Mr. Oxendine spoke to this caller only once and never heard from the caller again until after September 29, 2003. After September 29, 2003, USDOE received one more call from this same caller saying she had heard through the grapevine that an announcement had been made in San Diego and she wanted to verify the accuracy of this report.'' ``While I would be more than happy to credit anyone who helped to restore ASCC's funding, I am pleased that the USDOE and Chairman Boehner have cleared up the confusion surrounding ASCC's Upward Bound Program. At this time, I want to thank the USDOE and Mr. Oxendine for supporting and funding the Upward Bound grant proposal submitted by ASCC. After working with Dr. Satele-Galea'i and Mr. Neria for the past several months, I also want to thank them for their hard work.'' ``Most of all, I want to wish our students the very best. Upward Bound is an important college preparatory program and I am hopeful that our students will take advantage of the opportunities this program provides. As always, I am also hopeful that our young people will pursue their four year college degrees and return to American Samoa to live and serve,'' the Congressman concluded.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, the following information about my request for official clarification regarding American Samoa's status before the United Nations Decolonization Committee. Faleomavaega Visits United Nations and Requests Official Clarification of US Policy Regarding American Samoa's Status Before the Decolonization Committee [Press Release--Mar. 30, 2006] Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that on Monday March 27, 2006 he visited the United Nations (UN) as part of an official Congressional Delegation (CODEL) led by Chairman Henry Hyde and Ranking Member Tom Lantos of the House Committee on International Relations. The CODEL, which included other senior Members of the International Relations Committee, met with Ambassador John Bolton, the US Permanent Representative to the UN, to discuss the current nuclear crisis with Iran and whether Congress should withhold funding for the UN when problems of corruption and lack of accountability continue to exist. During the visit, Faleomavaega also had the opportunity to be briefed by Commander Jeffrey J. Jones who has been appointed by the US Mission to serve as the liaison for the United States to the UN Special Committee of Twenty-four (C- 24), also known as the UN Decolonization Committee. As a follow-up to his briefing, Faleomavaega wrote to Ambassador Bolton to determine American Samoas status relative to US policies relating to the Decolonization Committee and the United Nations. The full text of Faleomavaega's letter to Ambassador Bolton dated March 30, 2006 follows: Dear Mr. Ambassador: I am writing to thank you for meeting with Members of the House International Relations Committee during our recent visit to the United Nations (UN) and the United States Mission. I commend Chairman Henry Hyde and Ranking Member Tom Lantos for leading our Congressional Delegation and I was pleased to be a part of our important discussions with you regarding the current nuclear crisis with Iran and whether Congress should withhold funding for the UN when problems of corruption and lack of accountability continue to exist. During our visit to the United Nations, I also had the opportunity to be briefed by Commander Jeffrey J. Jones who has been appointed by the US Mission to serve as the liaison for the US to the UN Special Committee of Twenty- four (C-24), also known as the UN Decolonization Committee. As you know, in 1945, the United Nations established the International Trusteeship Council for the purpose of reviewing and then making recommendations before the UN General Assembly to declare certain territories as non-self- governing, or dependent on colonial powers. Since the creation of the UN, more than 80 colonies have gained their independence and 16 non-self-governing territories, as defined by the UN remain today. Although the Trusteeship Council no longer exists, the Decolonization Committee stands in its place. Each year, the UN Decolonization Committee reviews the status of the 16 non- self-governing territories which include American Samoa as well as other US possessions. It is my understanding that the US does not pay much attention anymore to the activities of the Decolonization Committee in part because the US has had frustration over the years in dealing with member countries like Cuba that continue to view the United States as a colonial power. A few years ago, I attended a meeting of the Decolonization Committee held in Havana, Cuba and I can confirm the fact that the remarks of the Speaker of the Cuban Parliament were very negative towards the United States. This aside, it is my understanding that there are no negotiations on American Samoa underway between the United Nations and the US Government. Notwithstanding these circumstances, Commander Jones informed me that the US State Department does file annual reports about American Samoa with the Decolonization Committee after consulting with officials of the US Department of the Interior. These reports contain information about the economic, social and political development of American Samoa and, for this reason, I am requesting your assistance in determining the official position of the US regarding American Samoas status before the UN Decolonization Committee. Again, the Decolonization Committee defines and categorizes American Samoa as a non- self governing territory. In recent years, our late Governor Tauese Sunia initiated a movement to request that American Samoa be de-listed as a non-self governing territory by the United Nations. However, neither our US Secretary of State nor our Secretary of the Interior ever brought this matter before the people and leaders of American Samoa for consideration. While I suspect that at some point in time a plebiscite may be needed to determine whether or not the listing should be continued, I respectfully request that the Governor, our territorial legislature, and my office be informed on what procedures need to be taken before action, if any, is taken by the UN Decolonization Committee or the US Mission to the UN. As you can appreciate, it is imperative that the elected and traditional leaders and the people of American Samoa are fully briefed and informed about the territorys political status as a non-self governing territory as defined and categorized by the United Nations before any action is taken. Faleomavaega concluded his letter by saying, With this understanding, I would appreciate receiving a response from you as to American Samoas status relative to US policies relating to the Decolonization Committee and the United Nations.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, the legislative history of village road improvements in American Samoa. [Press Release, Mar. 25, 2004] House Transportation Committee Agrees To Increase Highway Funding for Territories and Include $14 Million for Village Road and Other Improvements in American Samoa Congressman Faleomavaega announced that the House Committee on Transportation agreed yesterday to increase federal highway funding for the Territories and include $14 million for village road and other improvements in American Samoa. Although this bill still must pass the House and Senate, I am pleased that my good friends Chairman Don Young and Ranking Member Jim Oberstar of the House Transportation Committee have agreed to increase transportation funding for the Territories, Congressman Faleomavaega said. Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo (Guam), Congresswoman Donna Christensen (VI) and I have worked on this issue for the past year and Congressman Nick Rahall, Ranking Member of the House Resources Committee, has supported our efforts. As a result of our work, the Territorial Highway Program (which includes American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and CNMI) will be increased from $33 million to $40 million for FY04, FY05 and FY06. For FY07, FY08 and FY09, funding will increase to $50 million. Despite the Transportation Act (now known as TEA-LU) being $100 billion less than what was originally proposed, the Territorial set aside will increase by 23.6%. Moreover, American Samoa will receive $14 million for high priority projects including village road improvements, drainage mitigation, shoreline protection and upgrades and repairs of the Tau ferry terminal facility. On January 23, 2004, I called Governor Togiola to let him know that the Committee had informed me of its intentions and asked that we keep this information confidential until the Committee held its mark-up. The Committee originally intended to hold its mark-up in February but postponed it until March 24, 2004. On February 4, 2004, I also wrote to Governor Togiola in response to his January 15, 2004 letter to me. In my letter, I explained that from 1992 to 2003 American Samoa received over $77 million in federal highway funds including $12 million I obtained to improve village roads in American Samoa. Roads that are not part of the federal highway system are ineligible for funding. This rule applies to every state and territory and includes our village roads. Be that as it may, I fought hard to convince my colleagues that an exception should be made for American Samoa and in 1998 they agreed to support my request for $12 million for village road improvements. The 1998 Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century is now expiring and Congress is reauthorizing funds for the next six years. Again, the House Transportation Committee has agreed to my request for additional funds for American Samoa. On March 5, 2003, the House Committee on Transportation notified members of Congress that it would accept written and oral testimony regarding requests for funding. On March 5, 2003, I wrote Governor Sunia and requested his input. Although I did not hear back from Governor Sunia, I testified and appeared before the Committee. Initially, I requested money for a ferry boat and terminal construction as well as funding for our village roads. However, since September 2003, Governor Togiola and I have worked together to obtain funding for the purchase of a vessel for Manua and on January 22, 2004, the House Committee on Transportation informed me that it would be able to grant $14 million of my requests for highway projects in American Samoa. This funding is in addition to our annual federal highway funds. In consultation with the Governor, we have set aside $9.4 million for village road improvements in the Eastern, Western, Central and Manua districts of American Samoa. In further consultation with Senator Tuaolo Fruean and High Paramount Chief Mauga and members of the Pago Pago council of chiefs, we have also set aside $1 million for drainage mitigation for Pago Pago village roads. In consultation with Senator Tago Suilefaiga, Representative Fagasoaia Lealaitafea and Representative Mary Taufetee and members of the Nu'uuli council of chiefs, we have set aside $1 million for shoreline protection and drainage mitigation for Nu'uuli village roads. In consultation with Senator Faamausili Pola and members of the Tau village council of chiefs, we have set aside $1.6 million to upgrade and repair the Tau harbor facility. Finally, in consultation with Senator Faiivae Galeai, Senator Lualemaga Faoa and members of the Leone and Malaeloa councils of chiefs, we have set aside $1 million for drainage mitigation for Malaeloa-Leone village roads. Governor Togiola and I thank our local leaders for their support of this historic and important initiative and we are hopeful that the House and Senate will pass this legislation before the 108th Congress adjourns, the Congressman concluded.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about my opposition to the construction of a McDonald's at Utulei Beach. [Press Release, May 25, 2005] Faleomavaega Calls Upon McDonalds Corporate Officers to Intervene and Halt Construction at Utulei Beach Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has written to Mr. Charles Tautolo, President and CEO of McDonalds American Samoa Franchise, and has expressed his opposition to construction of a McDonalds at Utulei Beach. A copy of the Congressmans letter dated May 25, 2005 and copied to the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, the President of the Senate and Senators, the Speaker and Representatives, the Vice Chairman and CEO of the McDonalds Corporation, and the Managing Director/ CEO of McDonalds Australia, is included below: Dear Mr. Tautolo: I am writing to express my opposition to your decision to build a McDonalds restaurant at the Utulei Beach Park in American Samoa. I am also requesting a copy of your feasibility study pertaining to this proposed location. It is my understanding that as a responsible corporation it has been the practice of McDonalds to conduct a feasibility study and/or an environmental impact assessment of a proposed site before construction of a new facility may proceed. I am hopeful that this is also the case in American Samoa and, for this reason, I would appreciate a copy of your study. I also believe McDonalds feasibility study for the Utulei Beach Park should be shared with the people of American Samoa because they deserve to know what impact your proposed restaurant will have on the welfare of our community. While I applaud the many valuable contributions McDonalds has made in American Samoa, I do not believe your current plans are sensitive to the social and environmental concerns of our Territory. Since the day McDonalds announced plans to build on the Utulei Beach, which is the only public beach in American Samoa, my office has been inundated with calls from constituents voicing their objections to your proposal. I have read of further complaints in our local papers and the Senate has passed a resolution recommending that the Governor not finalize the McDonalds lease. I have also received a petition signed by water sport organizations incorporated in the U.S. Territory of American Samoa which includes Executive Committee Members of the American Samoa National Olympic Committee. Organizations opposed to the construction of a McDonalds at the Utulei Beach include the American Samoa Kayak Canoe Association Inc., the American Samoa Swimming Association Inc., the American Samoa Canoe Racing Association Inc., the Aiga Tautai O Samoa Inc., the American Samoa Yacht Racing Association Inc., the American Samoa Surfing Association Inc., the Pago Pago Game Fishing Association Inc. and Common Cause. Aquatic sports such as sailing, canoeing, and yachting are flourishing at Utulei Beach. International sailing and especially outrigger events which celebrate our proud heritage have been hosted at Utulei Beach and, in time, Utulei Beach may become a major tourist attraction. It is also my understanding that Utulei Beach offers the only stretch of shoreline where outrigger canoes and fautausi, or longboats, can enter deep water via the natural channel through the reef. More importantly, Utulei Beach has been enjoyed by the people of American Samoa for generations and, in keeping with traditional Samoan culture, families travel for miles to swim or picnic at this public location so as to respect the more restrictive customs set forth by each village council. For many reasons, including the historical and social significance it holds for our families and the economic implications it has for our future, Utulei Beach must be preserved. This is why federal funds have been appropriated to finance the Utulei Beach Project which was included as a priority project for the Community Development Block Grant Program. These are facts which I believe must be shared with the McDonalds Corporation and given the importance of this issue I am copying this letter to Mr. Jim Skinner, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, as well as Mr. Peter Bush, Managing Director/CEO, McDonalds Australia. I am also informing both that there are other sites available for construction of another McDonalds in American Samoa. Also, with the popularity McDonalds enjoys in American Samoa, I am confident that the people of American Samoa will appreciate, support and welcome another McDonalds in any location other than Utulei Beach. In turn, McDonalds must be sensitive to the wishes of our people. The McDonalds Corporation has built its reputation on being a responsible corporate partner and invests millions of dollars to promote family values. Therefore, I am hopeful that this issue will be immediately resolved at the corporate level. However, if I must go to the House Floor on a daily basis to express my outrage about McDonalds unwillingness to respect the publics concerns regarding your proposed lease agreement with the local government, I will have no choice but to do so. Sincerely, Eni F.H. Faleomavaega Member of Congress. cc: Gov. Togiola Tulafono; Lt. Gov. Ipulasi Aitofele Sunia; President of the Senate and Senator; Speaker of the House and Representatives; Mr. Jim Skinner, Vice Chairman & CEO, McDonalds Corporation; Mr. Peter Bush, Managing Director/CEO, McDonalds Australia I am hopeful that this matter will be resolved locally but, if not, I have called upon the McDonalds Corporation to immediately intervene and put an end to construction at Utulei Beach. Constructing a McDonalds at the only public beach in American Samoa goes against the core values of the McDonalds Corporation which promotes an agenda of community involvement, environmental protection, and a promise to earn the trust of its customers and everyone else affected by its business. It is time for McDonalds to live up to its promise and I trust that all involved will do right by the people of American Samoa, the Congressman concluded.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about American Samoa's Commemorative Quarter. [Press Release, Mar. 25, 2004] House Passes Bill To Provide American Samoa With a Commemorative Quarter Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that by a vote of 411 to 14 the House overwhelmingly passed H.R. 2993, a bill to provide for a circulating quarter dollar coin program to commemorate American Samoa, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. In general, this legislation would amend the popular 50 States Commemorative Coin Program Act to include 6 new designs emblematic of the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. Designs on the reverse side of each quarter dollar issued during 2009 will be selected by the Secretary of Treasury in consultation with the chief executive officers of these areas, Congressman Faleomavaega said. All five delegates are and were original co-sponsors of this bi-partisan measure. This measure was first introduced in the 106th Congress and passed overwhelmingly in the House by a vote of 377-6. Unfortunately, the 106th Congress ended before the Senate was able to consider our bill. During the 107th Congress, identical legislation (H.R. 4005) passed the House and was received in the Senate in October of 2002. Once again, the Senate was unable to consider this matter before the 107th Congress adjourned. Now, we have introduced H.R. 2993 and we are hopeful that the House and Senate will pass this legislation before the 108th Congress adjourns. At this time, I want to thank Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton for her leadership and I also want to thank the other Delegates who have also worked tirelessly to ensure that this legislation is considered, Congressman Faleomavaega said. It is only fitting for Congress to acknowledge the Territories relationship with the United States. Speaking on behalf of American Samoa, we have a long and proud history of supporting the United States. The traditional leaders of the islands of Tutuila and Aunuu ceded our islands to the United States in 1900. Four years later, the King of Manua and his chiefs ceded the Manua Islands. In the early part of the century, the port village of Pago Pago was used as a coaling station for U.S. naval ships. During WWII, it was used as a support base for U.S. soldiers. To this day, American Samoa serves as a refueling point for U.S. naval ships and military aircraft. American Samoa also has a per capita enlistment rate in the U.S. military which is as high as any State or U.S. Territory. Our sons and daughters have served in record numbers in every U.S. military engagement from WWII to present operations in Iraq. We have stood by the United States in good times and bad and I believe this relationship should be acknowledged with the issuance of a commemorative coin. H.R. 2993 affords us an opportunity to recognize the special contributions that American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Marianas and the District of Columbia have made to the history of our Nation. I thank my colleagues for voting in favor of this legislation and I urge the Senate to also support our cause, the Congressman concluded.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about a provision for non-Samoan veterans married to Samoans to qualify for VA home loans. [Press Release, Nov. 10, 2005] House Passes VA Housing Assistance Bill and Includes Faleomavaega's Provision for American Samoas Veterans and Their Spouses Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that by a voice vote the House passed H.R. 3665, the Veterans Housing and Employment Improvement Act of 2005 and included Faleomavaega's provision for American Samoas veterans. I especially want to thank Chairman Steve Buyer and Ranking Member Lane Evans of the Committee on Veterans Affairs and also Chairman John Boozman and Ranking Member Stephanie Herseth of the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity for their leadership in making it possible for Native Americans to participate in the veterans housing loan program, Congressman Faleomavaega said. I am especially thankful that American Samoas veterans have also been able to participate in this very successful program and I thank my colleagues for working with me to address the concerns of American Samoans without adversely affecting the rights of other tribes. Many Samoans have served in the military and they are allowed to obtain home loans under current law. Other Samoans are married to non-Samoan veterans Non-native military spouses married to native Samoans have not been able to qualify for the VA home loan program. In part, this is because the Native American Home Loan program excludes the spouses of non-native Americans from qualifying for a VA home loan. This has been problematic in American Samoa because most land in American Samoa is communal and the VA has only made it possible for Samoans of Tutuila, Manus, Aunuu, or Swain Islands to qualify for home loans offered by traditional lending institutions because only they can make claim to native land. As a result, non-native spouses of veterans or persons serving in the US Armed Forces who are married to a Samoan have not been able to qualify for a VA home loan. However, the VA has been helpful in assisting the Veterans Affair Committee and my office in drafting language to rectify this problem and I am pleased that this language has now been included in HR 3665. As we have agreed, it is our understanding that this language now makes it possible for a non-Samoan military member or veteran to qualify for a VA loan if the non-Samoan military member has a meaningful interest in the housing a Samoan spouse has been granted permission to build on communal land. It is also our understanding that meaningful interest means that the veteran has the right to reside in the home under tribal laws. This is good news for our veterans and their spouses. For this reason, I again thank my colleagues for including my provision in this important legislation. I also thank the VA for its assistance and my good friend Ranking Member Lane Evans of the VA Committee for his tireless efforts and support, the Congressman concluded.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about the establishment of the VA clinic in American Samoa. [Press Release, Nov. 11, 2000] First Step in Establishing a VA Medical Clinic in American Samoa Is Underway Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that a technical team will be in American Samoa from November 13th-17th to set up and test telecom connections for the veterans enrollment plan scheduled for early December. This is an important moment for our veterans, Congressman Faleomavaega said. And it is an important moment for American Samoa. Establishing an accurate method for enrolling our veterans is the first step in establishing a VA medical clinic in American Samoa. The purpose of the technical teams visit is to ensure that all systems are go when the VA team arrives to enroll our veterans in early December. Congressman Faleomavaega also explained that the teams visit is part of a collective effort between his office, ASG, and the VA offices in Honolulu and American Samoa. I want to thank Governor Tauese for his commitment to our veterans. I also want to thank the Governors Special Assistants on Veterans Affairs, High Chief Tuiteleleapaga Fue Ioane, President of the Veterans Advisory Council, and High Talking Chief Paogofie Fiaigoa, Veterans Affairs Officer, Congressman Faleomavaega said. We are working together to ensure that our veterans receive top-notch health care and benefits. We are working together to ensure that every veteran in American Samoa counts and that no one is left behind. We will not be satisfied with the process until every veteran in Samoa is accounted for and enrolled in the system. I have also been working with Senator Akaka, a senior member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, and Congressman Lane Evans, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, Congressman Faleomavaega said. Both gentlemen are fully supportive of our efforts to establish a VA medical clinic with a full-time physician in the Territory. The technical teams planned visit for the week of November 13th is the first step in our collective effort to establish the process that may lead to the construction of our own facility. Congressman Faleomavaega also noted that Federal law requires an accurate accounting and enrollment of veterans before any consideration can be made to establish a VA medical clinic. It is incumbent upon every veteran living on island to take part in the enrollment process. If we want a clinic with a full-time physician, every veteran must participate, Congressman Faleomavaega said. I strongly urge all veterans on island to participate and enroll when the time comes. For now, the technical team, headed by Dr. Norman Okamura, will visit Fagatua, Tafuna, Leone and Samoana High Schools to confirm facility arrangements for enrollment activity. According to Congressman Faleomavaega, the team will also confirm the VAs clinical patient record system server configuration and network requirements. The technical team plans to meet with LBJ and Health Department officials to consider the registration process and to discuss the IHS data system. During this time the team will also be working closely with Johnny Mapu, PTSD Coordinator for the office of Veterans Affairs. Provided all systems are go, the VA enrollment team will arrive in American Samoa during the week of December 4th to begin the enrollment process.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to include, for historical purposes, information about my opposition to the construction of a McDonald's at Utulei Beach. [Press Release, Apr. 26, 2006] Faleomavaega Makes Final Appeal to McDonald's Corporation Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has made a final appeal to Mr. Jim Skinner, Vice-Chairman and CEO of the McDonalds Corporation, in a letter dated April 26, 2006. The letter was copied to Jonathan B. Jarvis, Regional Director of the National Park Service, Governor Togiola, Lieutenant Governor Ipulasi, President Lolo Moliga and Senators, Speaker Matagi R. McMoore and Representatives, Lydia Faleafine of the DOI in American Samoa, Peter Bush, Managing Director/CEO, McDonalds Australia, Charles Tautolo, CEO of McDonalds American Samoa, and Lelei Peau, Chairman, PNRS Board, ASG. The full text of the Congressmans letter is included below. Dear Mr. Skinner: As a follow-up to my letter of May 25, 2005, I am once again requesting your immediate intervention regarding a decision made by McDonalds to build a new facility at the Utulei Beach Park in American Samoa. Utulei Beach is the only public beach in America Samoa and building at this site goes against the core values of McDonalds which promotes an agenda of community involvement, environmental protection, and a promise to earn the trust of your customers and everyone else affected by your business. Most importantly, based upon relevant information including documents, maps, and other material, there is a signed agreement (attached) between the American Samoa Government (ASG) and the US National Park Service (NPS) that places Utulei Beach Park within the Land and Water Conservation Fund Program (LWCF) as park land dedicated to public outdoor recreational use in perpetuity. Also included with the agreement is a map (attached) clearly showing that the entirety of the Utulei Beach Park is included in the agreement which places the proposed McDonalds within a protected park area and violates ASGs agreement with the NPS. Because ASG has accepted over $4 million from the federal government since signing this agreement, I can assure you that the NPS is prepared to take whatever legal action is necessary against ASG and the McDonalds Corporation if this matter is not expeditiously resolved. Please note that both NPS and ASG are under the jurisdiction of the US Department of the Interior and any action taken will directly involve the US Secretary of the Interior and this will not be good for ASG or for McDonalds. As you know, last year I copied you on a letter I wrote to Mr. Charles Tautolo, CEO of McDonalds American Samoa, in which I requested a copy of the feasibility study of the proposed plan to construct a McDonalds at Utulei Beach Park. To date, I have not received a copy of the feasibility study and I am very concerned about how the McDonalds Corporation can support construction of a new facility at any location when no environmental study has been conducted. I also question how the McDonalds Corporation can support a lease agreement which is itself under review by the court. In brief, the Governor initially signed what he thought was a 9- year lease agreement with an option of renewal for an additional 20 years plus. However, the legal counsel for the local Senate noted that the proposed lease was actually for ten years and, as such, local law requires the lease to be approved by the local legislature. Consequently, the counsel for the Senate filed suit in court challenging the validity of the proposed lease. While the case was pending in court, the Governors counsel re-drafted the lease agreement to make sure the terms of the lease was for less than ten years so that it did not require legislative approval. ASGs attorneys petitioned the court to dismiss the Senates lawsuit but the court denied the request so this matter is also pending. While it was my hope that the McDonalds Corporation would have interceded and resolved this situation more than a year ago for no other reason than it was the right thing to do, I would strongly urge you to take action now before this situation brings unwanted embarrassment to the McDonalds Corporation. I would also suggest that you direct your Managing Director for McDonalds Australia to be more responsive to the concerns of the people of American Samoa. I am extremely disappointed that he did not even offer a courtesy response to my letter of almost a year ago and I consider his lack of interest in this issue to be unprofessional and unbecoming of a corporate official of the McDonalds Corporation. Considering that this issue now involves the federal government and based on documentation provided by NPS which I am convinced is correct, I am trying my best to prevent a confrontation between the McDonalds Corporation, ASG, and the US Department of the Interior. For this reason, I am making a final appeal to you and I am hopeful that at your earliest convenience you will work to favorably resolve this matter and support efforts to put an end to construction of a new McDonalds at Utulei Beach Park. The Congressman concluded his letter by saying, As I have previously stated, the people of American Samoa will support the construction of a new McDonalds in American Samoa at any other location. We also applaud the many valuable contributions McDonalds has made in American Samoa and wish you continued success.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Mr. Dong Suk Kim and the Korean American Civic Empowerment for Community (KACE) based in New York and New Jersey for their dedication in promoting civil rights and in organizing the Korean-American community. Mr. Kim was born in South Korea and immigrated to the U.S. in 1985. He resides in Tenafly, New Jersey, with his wife, Hyunjoo Hwang, and their son, Sol. Mr. Dong Suk Kim is a Founder and Executive Committee Chair of KACE. Mr. Kim was President of the Korean American Voters' Council (KAVC) from 1996 through 2010. Mr. Kim has devoted his life to empowering the Korean-American community after the Los Angeles riots in 1992, which were a result of the Rodney King case and which seriously impacted the Korean-American community in the United States. As the President of KACE, Mr. Kim led the organization to significant achievements. KACE increased Korean-American voter turnout in the Greater New York area from less than 5% in 1996 to over 58% in 2012, assisted more than 27,000 Korean-Americans to register to vote, and organized a community-based campaign for the 2000 and 2010 Census. To advance Korean-Americans' voting rights, KACE publishes voter guides in Korean, operates a voter hotline every year, and mails more than 500 voter registration and vote-by-mail forms to Korean-American voters every year. I would also like to commend Mr. Kim and KACE for their active roles in organizing a nationwide campaign in support of the ``Comfort Women Resolution'' (H. Res. 121 in the 110th Congress) in 2007 which addresses matters related to the sexual slavery imposed by Japanese armed forces during World War II. Mr. Kim traveled to all major Korean towns in the U.S., including Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, and Chicago to organize the campaign. As a result of this grassroots campaign, the Comfort Women Resolution was adopted unanimously by the House of Representatives on July 30, 2007. In 2011, Mr. Kim led a grassroots campaign in support of the U.S.- Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) to advance bilateral commercial cooperation as well as the interests of the Korean-American community. The agreement was signed by both governments in 2007 but was not ratified by Congress until October 2011. The Korean-American community expressed its strong support for the agreement and it was passed by both governments in 2011. Every year, Mr. Kim and KACE organize many programs to educate, organize and mobilize the Korean-American community and to promote its civic participation. It is fitting and proper to honor both Mr. Kim's and KACE's outstanding contributions and commitment to the Korean- American community and to the United States of America, and I am pleased to offer this statement for historical purposes.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Myanmar for its positive developments in political transition and economic affairs. After decades of isolation, Myanmar started a series of drastic political and economic reforms under President U Thein Sein in 2011 that present a promising opportunity for sustainable development toward democratization, freedom, rule of law and peace--crucial factors for a life of dignity. President U Thein Sein was welcomed to the White House in May 2013, the first Myanmar leader to visit the United States in 47 years. He updated President Obama on key developments since Obama's visit to Yangon half a year earlier and both leaders praised Myanmar's political and economic progress. A year after U Thein Sein's visit to the U.S. 49 companies were registered in Myanmar, among them GE, Chevron, Coca-Cola and Colgate-Palmolive. In November 2014, President Obama joined regional leaders for the 25th ASEAN summit in Myanmar and met both President U Thein Sein and opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The Myanmar government is represented in the U.S. by His Excellency U Kyaw Myo Htut, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Union of the Republic of Myanmar to the United States. Ambassador U Kyaw Myo Htut has been the Myanmar Ambassador to the United States since September 2013. Prior to that he served as Ambassador of Myanmar to the United Kingdom (2011 to 2013) and in this role played a crucial part in the lifting of the European Union's sanctions on Myanmar. Ambassador U Kyaw Myo Htut aims to promote trade and strengthen bilateral ties with the United States. An essential part of his job is to push for more U.S. investment in Myanmar while addressing human rights issues. In that regard, he works towards re-allowing the Generalized System of Preference (GSP) for trade with Myanmar, which Congress stopped extending in July 2013. In his role as Ambassador, U Kyaw Myo Htut also serves as an economic facilitator and regularly advises U.S. investors and companies wishing to enter the Myanmar market. U Kyaw Myo Htut takes a strong stand toward the improvement of human rights in Myanmar and shows continuous efforts to encourage the United States to acknowledge ongoing reforms. Since 2011, the Myanmar government has strongly welcomed private and foreign investment. The Myanmar government revised several outdated laws, granted licenses for airport construction and telecommunication projects and began to rebuild its infrastructure in a bid to attract foreign capital. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) estimates that the current growth rate of 6.5% could triple per capita income by 2030 on the grounds that Myanmar will overcome the challenges ahead. These figures are supported by the McKinsey Global Institute, which estimates that Myanmar's economy will quadruple by 2030 to over USD 200 billion. Being a resource-rich country with a single market of 60 million people and a developed private sector and middle class, Myanmar's economy suffers from an outdated financial system and banking sector. In 1990 the Central Bank Law reestablished the country's own Central Bank. Although new commercial banks were established, Myanmar was affected by Western sanctions. Due to these sanctions, the banking system could not be connected to the rest of the world at that time. In 2013, President U Thein Sein signed a new Central Bank Act giving the Central Bank more independence while local banks expanded their branches and services rapidly. The opening up of the financial sector was further strengthened by the country's decision in September to grant a provisional banking license to nine institutions, providing them with the authorization to deal with foreign companies, local banks and--in cooperation with a local institution--with Burmese companies. Among the nine banks that have been selected from a total of 25 applications are the three major Japanese houses: Bank of Tokyo- Mitsubishi, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking and Mizuho Bank. Singapore is also well represented with the OCBC and UOB. Further banks taken into account are Australia and New Zealand Banking (ANZ), Malaysia's Maybank, the Bangkok Bank and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC). American banks did not participate in the application process. The Myanmar government hopes that the admission of international financial institutions will provide an important impetus to the expansion of direct investment, as the nine selected institutions represent the major investor countries. This is important considering the many challenges faced by the banking sector. The country is still struggling to recover from the 2003 banking crisis, which had a lasting impact on the now mainly cash-based economy. It will require a strong regulatory framework, updated information technology infrastructure and skilled personnel to be ready for the challenges ahead. Much more could be said about the work of Nobel Peace winner Aung San Suu Kyi, about President U Thein Sein's policy of openness, and about the country's positive developments in regard to religious freedom, healthcare and education. However, the policy of openness is not irreversible and the international community must do all it can to ensure that Myanmar's course is set right for sustainable development. It is essential that stability is achieved through economic and social prospects for all people, and I commend all who are working towards this goal.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Honorable President Tsakhiagiin Elbegdorj, His Excellency Ambassador Altangerel Bulgaa, the State Great Hural, and the people of Mongolia for their commitment to the development of a stable and prospering democracy. Since establishing diplomatic relations with the United States in 1987, Mongolia has successfully conducted six presidential and six legislative elections. Additionally, Mongolia has supported international peace efforts by deploying troops to Iraq from 2003 through October 2008, and now has approximately 350 troops in Afghanistan supporting Coalition operations. Mongolia has also achieved remarkable success over the past two decades as one of Asia's fastest growing economies. Since 2003, Mongolia's GDP has more than doubled. With one of the world's largest copper and gold mines, such as the Oyu Tolgoi, which boasts one of the biggest metallurgical and thermal coal deposits as well, Mongolia is on track to become a thriving mining center in the Asian region. Additionally, Mongolia's trade with the United States has surged in the last few years, making the United States Mongolia's third largest trading partner. Today the relationship between our two countries continues to grow and strengthen. I look forward to the continuing cooperation and comprehensive partnership between Mongolia and the United States based on our shared values and common strategic interests, and I have every confidence that Mongolia will continue to flourish as a relevant and established presence in the region.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, on August 10, 1955, the Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR) and the United States established diplomatic relations. Since this time, both countries have worked together on key issues, including carrying out humanitarian work for and on behalf of those missing in action (MIA). In 2008, the Lao PDR and USA established military-to-military cooperation. Laos would like to work more closely on UXO clearance, counter-narcotics, and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). Laos is considered the world's most heavily bombed nation. From 1964 through 1973, during the war in Indochina, the United States flew 580,000 bombing runs over Laos and dropped more than 2 million tons of ordnance on the countryside, exceeding the amount of bombs dropped on Germany and Japan in World War II. Cluster bombs still continue to kill innocent people and also affect rural economic development. Estimates of the number of unexploded submunitions from cluster bombs range from 8 million to 80 million, with less than one half of one percent destroyed, and less than 1% of contaminated lands cleared. In response to a hearing I held in April 2010 drawing attention to the situation during my service as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific and after U.S. Secretary of State Clinton made her historic visit to Laos in 2012, the U.S. government increased assistance to Laos from $5 million to $9 million in 2012; and up to $12 million in 2014. While the Lao government appreciates the assistance, this is a pittance. In order to be bomb-free, Laos needs the United States to assume responsibility for UXO clearance and contribute significantly-- in a way that would make a difference. Regarding counter-narcotics, the United States has facilitated the work of the National Committee for Drug Control and Supervision since 1989. Due to Lao government action and international cooperation between 1998 and 2007, opium poppy cultivation has decreased by 96 percent. However, cultivation has since risen from 1,500 hectares (ha) in 2007 to 6,800 ha in 2012, as estimated by the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Laos sits at the heart of regional drug trade in mainland southeast Asia and shares remote and poorly-controlled borders with Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and China. The Lao government recognizes the threat posed by illegal narcotics production and trafficking and has articulated policies to address it. However, the Lao government possesses little ability to act independently since a high percentage of the government budget comes from international donors. The United States decreased its funding from $650,000 per year to about $330,000. This has made it difficult for Laos to implement the 2013 work plan on counter-narcotics. The Lao government is hopeful that the U.S. will consider increased support for funding and also for further assistance to build rehabilitation drug treatment centers in some provinces. Regarding GSP, Laos became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2013 and is looking forward to promoting bilateral trade with countries in the world including the United States. Laos is hopeful that the United States will consider GSP approval to Laos. The Lao government is represented in the U.S. by His Excellency Seng Soukhathivong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao People's Democratic Republic to the United States. Ambassador Seng Soukhathivong began his diplomatic duties in June 26, 2010. He served as First Secretary and Counselor from 1993 to 1997; and in 2001 as Minister Counselor and Deputy Chief of Mission at the Lao Embassy in Washington D.C. Ambassador Soukhathivong has more than 30 years of experience in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Seng Soukhathivong has worked to strengthen bilateral relations and to promote trade and investment in Laos. He has also been a strong advocate in calling for the removal of cluster bombs in Laos and in urging the U.S. government to provide greater assistance. He is my dear friend and brother, and I commend him for his outstanding service. I extend my kindest and highest regards to His Excellency Seng Soukhathivong and his lovely and talented wife, Madam Somdy Soukhathivong, and their two children, Prakaiseng and Sengfa. It has been my distinct honor to know them, and I wish them the very best.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend, His Excellency Nguyen Quoc Cuong, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United States. Ambassador Cuong is more than a friend. He is my brother and, for historical purposes, I wish to pay tribute to him as he completes his term in the United States and returns to Vietnam. Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong was appointed by President Nguyen Minh Triet as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the United States of America in early 2011. He has been accredited to the title of Senior Ambassador--the highest rank for a Vietnamese career diplomat. He presented his Credentials to President Barack Obama in July 2011. From 2008 to 2011, Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong was Deputy Foreign Minister in charge of relations of Vietnam with European countries. He was also the chief negotiator in charge of relations between Vietnam and the Vatican. From 2007 to 2008, Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong was Director-General, Executive Assistant to the Deputy Prime Minister cum Minister of Foreign Affairs, and was later appointed as the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs. From 2005 to 2007, Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong served as Deputy Director-General, Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation, Head of Political and Security Section of the APEC Vietnam Secretariat when Vietnam was host of APEC in 2006. From 1981 to 2005, Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong was an officer at the China Department and researcher at the Institute of International Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During this time, he also served in the Vietnam People's Army from 1983 to 1985. During his 30 year career, Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong was posted twice to Vietnam's missions abroad, as Minister Counselor, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Vietnam in Ottawa, Canada from 2002 to 2005 and as Second Secretary at the Embassy of Vietnam in Beijing, the People's Republic of China from 1990 to 1993. Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong graduated from the University of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam (1976-1981) and earned an MA in International Relations at Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, USA (1996-1997). Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong also conducted studies on public administration at the Maxwell School of Public Administration, Syracuse University in 1998. He also participated in the Vietnam Executive Leadership Program at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University in 2009. On November 7, 2014, the U.S. Department of State honored Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong by hosting a farewell reception for him at Blair House, the President's Guest House which serves as a site for American diplomacy in action. Blair House is the official state guest house for the President of the United States and is maintained by the Department of State. An invitation to be hosted at Blair House is an honor of the highest significance. Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong is the first Ambassador from Vietnam to be honored with a farewell reception at the Blair House and this speaks to the significance of his work for and on behalf of strengthening U.S.-Vietnam relations. As Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, it has been my distinct privilege to work side by side with Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong. Together, we created the first Friends of Vietnam Caucus in the U.S. Congress, and I have every hope that it will grow in importance. We have also worked to improve economic and trade relations and I am pleased that during Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong's service in the United States, the U.S. and Vietnam celebrated 20 years of trade relations. I commend Vietnam's leadership on the matter of maritime territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) disputes in the South and East China Seas. Vietnam has demonstrated restraint and strength in dealing with China by adopting a strategy that promotes peace and stability in the region and, going forward, I have every reason to believe that Vietnam's influence in the region will be pivotal in resolving further disputes. On a personal note, I want to publicly thank Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong for all he did on behalf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints, of which I am a member. For as long as I live, I will never be able to thank Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong for giving his all to bring about recognition of the interim representative committee of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam. For their love, support and prayers, I especially express my deepest gratitude to Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong and his very talented and beautiful wife, Madam Hoang Minh Ha. When I was ill, they prayed over me and when I returned to work they stood beside me. They are more than friends. They are family to me, and I hope I am family to them. We have walked together with faith in every footstep and it is only fitting that I conclude my service in Washington, D.C. at the same time Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong and Madam Ha conclude their service. I wish for the Ambassador and his wife life's sweetest blessings. I wish the same for the Ambassador's daughter and son--Nguyen Huong Chi and Nguyen Quoc Anh--and Madam Ha's niece Mai Hoang Anh. I pray God will be with them, until we meet again.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, in an ignorant display of defiance, NFL owner Dan Snyder vowed to continue his racist use of the offensive term ``redskins'' for his Washington team when he stated, ``We'll never change the name. NEVER--you can use caps.'' For historical purposes and in response to Mr. Snyder's unceasing, racist rants which disrespect Native Americans across this land who oppose the use of this derogatory term, I rise today to share with my colleagues and submit an editorial I recently co-authored with Suzan Harjo, a noted Native American rights advocate, entitled ``Change Will Prevail''. [From The Hill, Sept. 9, 2014] Change Will Prevail (By Eni F.H. Faleomavaega and Suzan Shown Harjo) In 1933 George Preston Marshall renamed his team the Washington Redskins, previously known as the Washington Braves, to avoid confusion with the Boston Braves. He did not seek federal trademark protection for the name until 1967, when students were trying to rid Oklahoma, Dartmouth, Stanford and other schools of their race-based stereotypes and were using the example of the Washington team name as the worst in the country. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) wrongly granted him and later owners six trademark licenses for this racial slur. Some suggest this action was in violation of the Trademark Act of 1946, or the Lanham Act, which directs the USPTO to refuse to register trademarks that ``may disparage . . . persons, living or dead, institutions, beliefs, or national symbols, or bring them into contempt, or disrepute.'' In 1999 and again this year, the USPTO's trademark judges canceled the existing federal trademarks, pending appeal, and its examining attorneys have denied a dozen requests for new trademarks. While pundits on both sides of the argument dispute its origins, the term ``redskins'' is reminiscent of colonial times when, by governmental decree, Native Americans were hunted, killed, and scalped for bounty. The struggle to rid the sports world of this disgusting term is about that heinous history of commodifying native skins. In June of this year, the USPTO responded favorably to a petition filed by five young Native Americans, holding that the offending trademarks, owned by Pro-Football, Inc, (the entity that owns and operates the Washington franchise) were ``disparaging to Native Americans at the respective times they were registered.'' We applaud the USPTO's cancellation of the six federal trademark registrations that use this disparaging term. Foreseeing that current owner Dan Snyder would appeal the USPTO decision just like he did in 1999, historic legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives that would permanently clarify the Lanham Act to ensure that the derogatory term will never receive federal trademark protection again. H.R. 1278, the Non-Disparagement of Native American Persons or Peoples in Trademark Registration Act of 2013, now has more than 20 co-sponsors. As early as May 13, 2013, 10 members of the House also sent a joint letter to Snyder and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell expressing the necessity for H.R. 1278 and urging a name change for the Washington franchise. Members of the Senate later solidified support by sending a similar letter to the NFL on May 24, 2014. The clarion call by Native American tribal leaders and organizations to end the shameful legacy of this despicable term can no longer be ignored. Members of the House and Senate have spoken. President Obama thinks the name should be changed. So does U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder. U.S. District Judge Peter J. Messitte held: ``the Court will refrain from using the team name unless reference is made to a direct quote where the name appears.'' Bob Costas, Christine Brennan and other notable journalists, athletes and political figures have joined the effort to rid the NFL of this denigrating word. The Washington Post will no longer use the offensive word in its editorials. The New York Daily News refuses to acknowledge the word in its publications. Even an entire network--CBS--has decided not to dictate the use of this term on the air, allowing its announcers to stop using the term during NFL broadcasts this season. You can use caps. Change will prevail. Until it does, we call upon the NFL to stop perpetuating racism against Native Americans.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 83 to require the Secretary of the Interior to assemble a team of technical, policy, and financial experts to address the energy needs of the insular areas of the United States and the Freely Associated States through the development of action plans aimed at reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and increasing use of indigenous clean energy resources, and for other purposes. This bill was introduced by my good friend, Congresswoman Donna Christensen, and I thank her for her leadership. I also commend my fellow Territorial Delegates for their support. I am proud to be an original cosponsor, and I commend Chairman Fred Upton and Ranking Member Henry Waxman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce for bringing this legislation to the floor today. H.R. 83 is critical in order to provide a comprehensive approach in addressing the high cost of energy in our island Territories and in the Freely Associated States. Given our remote locations, we rely solely on imported fuel has an adverse effect on our local economies. As discussed at 3rd International Conference of Small Island Developing States that was held in Apia, Samoa a few weeks ago, we should also be concerned about the effects of climate change on our communities. It is crucial that we develop action plans aimed at reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels. H.R. 83 is an important first step in addressing our challenges and I urge my colleagues to support and pass H.R. 83.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 7th anniversary of the passage of H. Res. 121, an historic resolution which expresses the sense of the U.S. House of Representatives that the Government of Japan should formally acknowledge, apologize, and accept historical responsibility in a clear and unequivocal manner for its Imperial Armed Force's coercion of young women into sexual slavery, known to the world as `comfort women', during its colonial and wartime occupation of Asia and the Pacific Islands from the 1930s through the duration of World War II. H. Res. 121 was passed on July 30, 2007, and I commend my good friend, Congressman Michael Honda of California, for introducing it. I admire his courage and devotion for causes that matter. As a Japanese- American, he gave voice to this cause in a way no other could and, because of him, this Resolution stands as a testament of his advocacy for and on behalf of those who suffer. I also commend Dong Suk Kim of Korean American Civic Empowerment (KACE) for his grassroots efforts in bolstering support for H. Res. 121 which led to its successful passage. His contributions made a significant difference. I also commend the Honorable Nancy Pelosi. In my opinion, her decision to bring H. Res. 121 to the Floor for House consideration was the key factor that made passage possible. As the first woman in American history to serve as Speaker of the House, her clarion call for equality and empowerment for women is of consequence globally and historically. Her personal commitment to the women who still bear the scars from the Imperial Armed Force's coercion will never be forgotten. In 2007, it was my honor to hold the first hearing ever held on this sensitive issue. Although this legislation had been introduced in the U.S. Congress for more than a decade, including by my good friend, former Congressman Lane Evans, no Committee had ever held a hearing on the matter. But, in 2007, I determined that my first action as Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific would be to hold a hearing calling upon Japan to apologize for the war crimes its Imperial Armed Forces perpetuated against innocent young girls and women. Congressman Honda testified before the Subcommittee as did three survivors, including Ms. Yong Soo Lee, Ms. Jan Ruff O'Herne, and Ms. Koon Ja Kim. I will never, ever forget the testimony of these three women. They remain my heroes. Because of their courage, an official record now stands forevermore on file with the U.S. House of Representatives that speaks the truth about what Japan's Imperial Armed Forces did to them. Their childhoods were stolen. Their destinies were disrupted. But their spirits were not broken because they know, like I know, that God will one day set everything right and justice will come--no matter what. And so, I pay tribute to Ms. Lee, Ms. O'Herne, Ms. Kim and all those they represented. It has been my honor to know them and also to know all my grandmothers at the House of Sharing. I wish God's sweetest blessings upon them. I also thank President Park Geun-hye, then a member of South Korea's National Assembly, for attending our Subcommittee hearing as an observer. The Subcommittee was extraordinarily honored to welcome her. Her presence at the hearing honored every young girl and woman ever victimized by Japan's Imperial Armed Forces. While I strongly urge the Government of Japan to formally acknowledge and apologize in order to begin the reconciliation process, I bear no animosity or ill-will towards the people of Japan. If given the choice, I believe the people of Japan would also call for its government to apologize for the atrocities its Imperial Armed Forces committed against innocent young girls and women. But, regrettably, the Government of Japan chooses to whitewash its history. However, sooner or later, truth will prevail. Until it does, I will continue to do everything I can to bring increasing awareness to this issue.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Prime Minister Najib Razak of Malaysia for his leadership in negotiating the release of the remains of the victims killed in the downing of flight MH17 in eastern Ukraine. Prime Minister Najib held a series of secret talks with the separatists to broker an agreement for the return of the bodies and the promise of safe passage for recovery teams going to the crash site. He also secured the return of the black boxes of flight MH17 so that a full investigation may ensue. Prime Minister Najib's personal involvement in the negotiations sets the standard for diplomacy around the world. I commend Prime Minister Najib for not leaving negotiations to aides. Some matters in life are sacred, and I am pleased that Prime Minister Najib recognized this situation as such. I thank him for setting aside politics for a higher purpose--to return the bodies of fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters to the families who lost and loved them. I praise him for doing what others would not or could not. My thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected by this tragedy. After a full and fair investigation, I am hopeful that those responsible will be held accountable.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Shikshana Prasaraka Mandali, or S.P. Mandali, for their vision and contribution to the Indian state of Maharashtra. S.P. Mandali, a historic education society in India, was established 125 years ago on May 2, 1888. S.P. Mandali has made significant contributions in developing and improving the quality of education in Maharashtra by founding and managing more than 40 institutions in Pune, Mumbai, Bangalore, Solapur, Chiplun, Nagothana, and other municipalities that provide education from kindergarten to graduate level courses. I am grateful for the leadership of the S.P. Mandali: President--Shri Bal J. Pandit, Vice President--Shri. Sushilkumar Ruia, Chairman (Managing Council)--Shri. A.S. Dadhe, Vice Chairman (Managing Council)--Shri. A.N. Mate, and Secretary--Shrimati Nanda Mane, for their hard work and commitment to education. I want to take this opportunity to specifically recognize the Naralkar Institute of Career Development and Research (NICDR) that was started by S.P. Mandali in 1986. The NICDR was established and named in honor of the late Principal Nanasaheb Naralkar who was a great educator in Pune. The NICDR is affiliated with the University of Pune and is recognized as a research center for the Ph.D. program in Management Science. NICDR in the last twenty years has created many partnerships with different businesses and industries in the Pune region. NICDR offers many computer and vocational courses that use state of the art equipment for hands-on-training that include software and computer programming. NICDR's high standard of curriculum and meticulous trainings sets them apart from the many other institutions in Pune. I would like to acknowledge the hard work of the Director of NICDR, Dr. G.K. Shirude, his staff, and faculty for their tremendous contributions in improving the quality of education and empowering students in becoming competent managers in many fields. I would be remiss if I did not also recognize members of the Managing Committee of NICDR: Chairman--Shri. A.S. Dadhe, Members--Adv. Jayant Shaligram, Shri. A.N. Mate, Shri. Ajay Datar, Shri. V.V. Joshi, Prof. Seema Bapat, and Mrs. Jyoti S. Joshi. Dr. Shirude and the Managing Committee of NICDR have embarked on a pathway to possibly establish community colleges in Maharashtra. In the U.S., we have had community colleges for more than 100 years and have been a critical component in our education system. However, in India, this concept is brand new. The establishment of community colleges in India will provide greater access to education for the large population of Indians who live in rural and remote locations. It will also allow for many individuals to receive specialized training in fields that are necessary or required by local industries and businesses. This pathway will be possible with the assistance of many stakeholders, including Captain Shivaji Mahadkar and Mr. Sanjay Puri. Captain Shivaji, a retired commando of the Indian army, a former General Secretary for the Sinik Cell of the Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee, and an active trustee for many educational trusts in Maharashtra, has worked closely with Indian universities in building partnerships with other institutions in Germany, United Kingdom, and the U.S. I thank him for his service and dedication to improving the quality of education in India. His collaboration with Mr. Sanjay Puri, founder and Chairman of the Alliance for U.S.-India Business, will be instrumental in advancing education in India. I know that this venture in education between U.S. and India will be beneficial for both sides.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my dear sister and her loving husband on their 44th wedding anniversary. Mr. and Mrs. Taofi and Masinaatoa Magalei were married on June 27, 1970, and were later sealed in the Laie Hawaii Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for time and all eternity. Taofi and Masinaatoa Magalei are the proud parents of four children-- Michele, Taofi Jr., Kristal, and Nainoa. They are also blessed with six beautiful grandchildren--Sanaa Filiaga, Tyler Magalei, Ariana Magalei, Michele Magalei, Eternity Filiaga, and Tre Magalei--and they expect more grandchildren to come. Mr. Taofi Magalei, Sr. is now retired after working for more than 40 years with combined service at Continental Airlines, BYU-Hawaii, and the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie. Mrs. Masinaatoa Magalei is also now retired after working 23 years as a school teacher, counselor, and Vice Principal. As they celebrate their 44th wedding anniversary, I wish my sister and her husband endless years of wedded bliss. I thank them for their love and support for all these years, and I convey my love to them and their family on this very special occasion. I pray that the Lord continues to bless them and their family forevermore.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend my good friend, the Honorable Tony A. deBrum, who has served the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) with distinction and honor as Senator, Minister in Assistance to the President (Vice-President), Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Health and Environment, and in other notable capacities. Senator Tony deBrum was born in 1945 and grew up on Likiep atoll at the height of the U.S. nuclear testing program in the RMI. From 1946- 1958, the U.S. exploded 67 nuclear bombs in the Marshall Islands and, in 1954, detonated the Bravo shot on Bikini atoll. Acknowledged as the greatest nuclear explosion ever detonated, the Bravo shot vaporized 6 islands and created a mushroom cloud 25 miles in diameter. In his own words, the Honorable Tony deBrum, states: I am a nuclear witness and my memories from Likiep atoll in the northern Marshalls are strong. I lived there as a young boy for the entire 12 years of the nuclear testing program, and when I was 9 years old, I remember vividly the white flash of the Bravo detonation on Bikini atoll, 6 decades ago in 1954, and one thousand times more powerful than Hiroshima--an event that truly shocked the international community into action. It was in the morning, and my grandfather and I were out fishing. He was throwing net and I was carrying a basket behind him when Bravo went off. Unlike previous ones, Bravo went off with a very bright flash, almost a blinding flash; bear in mind we are almost 200 miles away from ground zero. No sound, just a flash and then a force, the shock wave. I like to describe it as if you are under a glass bowl and someone poured blood over it. Everything turned red: sky, the ocean, the fish, and my grandfather's net. People in Rongelap nowadays claim they saw the sun rising from the West. I saw the sun rising from the middle of the sky, I mean I don't even know what direction it came from but it just covered it, it was really scary. We lived in thatch houses at that time, my grandfather and I had our own thatch house and every gecko and animal that lived in the thatch fell dead not more than a couple of days after. The military came in, sent boats ashore to run us through Geiger counters and other stuff; everybody in the village was required to go through that. Shaped by what he witnessed, Tony deBrum determined to become an activist. I think that's the point that my brain was taught that. I did not consciously say at the time, I am going to now be a crusader. Just a few weeks after that, my grandfather and I went to Kwajalein, where they had evacuated the people of Rongelap, where they were staying in big large green tents being treated for their nuclear burns and exposure. All the while, incidentally, the United States government was announcing that everything was OK, that there was nothing to be worried about. Unconvinced, Tony deBrum not only became one of the first Marshall Islanders to graduate from college but he worked for 17 years to negotiate his country's independence from the United States. As an eyewitness to nuclear explosions, he also became one of the world's leading advocates for nuclear disarmament calling upon the parties to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) to stop the spread of nuclear weapons and pursue the peace and security of a world without them. In 2012, Tony deBrum was awarded the Nuclear Age Peace Foundation's Distinguished Peace Leadership Award. Previous recipients include Archbishop Desmond Tutu, His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama, King Hussein of Jordan, and Jacques Cousteau. In April 2014, the Republic of the Marshall Islands filed the Nuclear Zero Lawsuits--unprecedented lawsuits against all nine countries that possess nuclear weapons for their failure to negotiate in good faith for nuclear disarmament as required by the NPT. The landmark cases signed by RMI Foreign Minister Tony deBrum are now pending before the International Court of Justice in The Hague and the U.S. Federal District Court in San Francisco. As a Pacific Islander and as the Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I applaud the RMI and especially Tony deBrum for taking a stand against the nuclear weapon giants. ``No nation should ever suffer as we have,'' Foreign Minister Tony deBrum has stated, and I agree. I also agree that we should spur greater commitments in international climate change negotiations, and I commend Foreign Minister Tony deBrum for galvanizing more urgent and concrete action on climate change. As an architect of the Majuro Declaration for Climate Leadership, Foreign Minister Tony deBrum has been unrelenting in vocalizing his concerns. In 2013, he addressed the United Nations Security Council on the threat posed by climate change to the long-term viability and survival of the Marshall Islands. During climate talks at the United Nations, he stated that ``we are not just trying to save our islands, we are trying to save the entire world.'' I declare my sincere and heartfelt commitment to a nuclear-free world and a world committed to putting climate at the top of its diplomatic agenda. In so doing, I honor Tony deBrum as a leader, activist, friend and brother by placing his name and work in the Congressional Record for historical purposes.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, on April 26, 2014, President Barack Obama arrived in Malaysia--the first American President to visit since 1966. President Obama's visit to Malaysia is indicative of Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership in building a nation which has become a pivotal player globally and regionally. Malaysia's growing contributions to security and prosperity cannot be underestimated, and I am pleased that the United States and Malaysia have formalized a comprehensive partnership to include trade, defense and maritime cooperation. With Malaysia set to chair ASEAN in 2015, the nation is set to propel itself further in the region. Malaysia has a good human rights record and a stable government and, given that ASEAN member countries are looking forward to Malaysia assuming the chair, Malaysia will be in a strong position to bring multilateral parties together to address very serious issues, including South China Sea disputes. As a major U.S. trading partner, Malaysia is one of 12 nations negotiating the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), a potential trade agreement that is a high priority for the U.S. and Asia. Malaysia is a strong partner for U.S. security and economic initiatives. Malaysia works closely with the United States on counter-terrorism, participated in stabilization efforts in Afghanistan, and also supports United Nations' peacekeeping missions, many of which are led by America. Malaysia is also a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society, a member of the Organization of the Islamic Cooperation, and an advocate of moderation. I am pleased to associate myself with Malaysia, and I am proud to welcome Malaysia's new Ambassador to the United States. Prime Minister Najib personally appointed Ambassador Awang Adek Hussin ahead of President Obama's visit to Malaysia to bolster the U.S.-Malaysia partnership. Progress stalled between the two nations in the absence of a Malaysian ambassador to the United States since August 2013, and particularly when former Ambassador Jamaluddin Jarjis completed his term. With the presence of Ambassador Awang to fill the void left by Ambassador Jamaluddin Jarjis, I have every confidence relations will improve significantly. Ambassador Awang Adek Hussin holds a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business. He has served as Deputy Finance Minister, Senator, Assistant Governor, and in other notable positions. His first son was born in the United States. He is married to Madam Latifah Mohd Yusof and they have five children--Abd Aziz, Norjasara, Ahmad Azran, Nur Ain and Nur Nadira--and one grandchild, Lora. Lora accompanied her grandparents for the Ambassador Credentialing Ceremony on May 21, 2014 in the Oval Office where President Obama received the credentials from His Excellency Awang Adek bin Hussin. Three-year old Lora won the hearts of those in attendance with an impromptu dance and a playful back-and-forth exchange with President Obama in which she exclaimed ``you rock'' while the President kept saying ``no, you rock.'' Without a doubt, Ambassador Awang will carry forward the work of Prime Minister Najib and President Obama in pushing for greater economic and business ties with the United States, and I look forward to working closely with him as he does so. Once more, I welcome Ambassador Awang to the United States, and I commend Prime Minister Najib for his leadership in bringing about growth, development, investment--and a visit from the President of the United States.