Eni Faleomavaega

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1679, as amended, a bill to amend the Expedited Funds Availability Act to clarify the application of that act to American Samoa and to the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Mr. Speaker, this has been a bipartisan effort, and I want to thank Chairman Jeb Hensarling and Ranking Member Maxine Waters of the Committee on Financial Services for bringing this legislation on the floor today. I also want to thank my good friend, Congressman Kilili Sablan, for his support of this bill. And I would be remiss if I did not also express my appreciation to the subcommittee chairman of our Financial Services Committee, Congresswoman Shelley Capito, and Ranking Member Gregory Meeks for their efforts in supporting this bill. Mr. Speaker, this legislation is important because it will not only improve the current banking system in both territories, but it will also allow our constituents quicker access to their funds. I introduced this legislation last year because one of our only two banks in the territory was scheduled to close all of its branches for good. In working together with Governor Lolo and many stakeholders in delaying the bank's departure, we learned that there was a systematic delay in access to funds for bank customers in American Samoa. H.R. 1679 will fix this delay and will put American Samoa and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in line with the schedule of availability of funds that are already required of banks in all States and other territories under regulation CC. Under regulation CC, banks in the U.S. mainland and certain territories are required to make funds available for consumer use for in-State checks no later than the second business day after the check is deposited. Out-of-State checks can be held up to 5 business days before funds can be released. Banks in Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico may, at their discretion, hold out-of-State checks for an extra day. This is not the same for American Samoa. Checks can be held for an intermittent and undetermined amount of time, even up to 21 days, before funds are available for the consumer to have access. This is unfair for my constituents and has a direct and indirect impact on our local economy. For the record, I do not hold the banks at fault, but given the trend of electronic banking and quicker access to mailing services, I feel that they are able to provide quicker and better services for their customers. Again, I thank Chairman Hensarling, Ranking Member Waters, and their staff for their work on this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest appreciation to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for officially recognizing the Interim Representative Committee of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam, of which I am a member. I thank the Politburo, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, President Truong Tan Sang, the Fatherland Front, the National Assembly, Foreign Ministry, Public Security, and any and all government agencies, especially the Committee on Religious Affairs, for sparing no effort to bring this day about. I would be remiss if I did not mention the efforts and leadership of Chairman Pham Dung, Vice Chair Bui Thanh Ha, retired Vice Chair Nguyen Thanh Xuan, as well as Director Hoang Thi Thao, and the entire staff of the Committee on Religious Affairs. I am grateful to H.E. President Nguyen Sinh Hung, Vice President Madam Tong Thi Phong, Vice President Madam Nguyen Thi Doan of the National Assembly, as well as Vice Chairman Ha Huy Thong of the Foreign Committee and all other Members of the National Assembly. I thank Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh as well as any and all associated with the Foreign Ministry. I also express my deepest appreciation to Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong, Dr. Luan Thuy Duong, and Mr. An Nguyen at the Embassy of Vietnam in the United States for their tireless efforts. I also thank officers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including The First Presidency, the Quorum of the Twelve, the Asia Area Presidency, as well as local leaders in Vietnam. In particular, I thank members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam and abroad. I thank all those who have participated in this marvelous work and glory--those named in addition to all those who have added their efforts and prayers to ours, including those who have gone before us. May 30, 2014, the official day of recognition, is a special occasion, a sacred occasion. Vietnam is a multi-religious society with approximately 25,000 places of worship and about 24 million followers of various faiths. In my official capacity as former Chairman and current Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I have attended religious services in diverse houses of worship in Vietnam, and did so unannounced. Always, I found Vietnam to be a place favorable for religious activities and I thank Vietnam for encouraging and protecting the rights of individuals, families, and congregations to practice their religions and contribute as good parents and good citizens under the law. I am very proud of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the work it does to protect activities of religious groups, including those of my faith. I consider the followers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam my brothers and sisters. I feel the same about the leaders and officials of Vietnam. With mutual understanding, respect and trust, we have walked together to this day of recognition. We have walked together with faith in every footstep. And, as we journey forward, I am confident we will do so side by side. When President Brigham Young led the followers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints into the Salt Lake valley in 1847, he declared: ``This is the right place. Drive on.'' To members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to government and party officials in Vietnam, to friends and family, I echo Brigham Young's words. Drive on knowing that May 30, 2014 will forevermore be one of the best days of my life, and I am sure many others will always cherish this day, too.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest appreciation to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for officially recognizing the Interim Representative Committee of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Vietnam, of which I am a member. I thank the Politburo, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, President Truong Tan Sang, the Fatherland Front, the National Assembly, Foreign Ministry, Public Security, and any and all government agencies, especially the Committee on Religious Affairs, for sparing no effort to bring this day about. I would be remiss if I did not mention the efforts and leadership of Chairman Pham Dung, Vice Chair Bui Thanh Ha, retired Vice Chair Nguyen Thanh Xuan, as well as Director Hoang Thi Thao, and the entire staff of the Committee on Religious Affairs. I am grateful to H.E. President Nguyen Sinh Hung, Vice President Madam Tong Thi Phong, Vice President Madam Nguyen Thi Doan of the National Assembly, as well as Vice Chairman Ha Huy Thong of the Foreign Committee and all other Members of the National Assembly. I thank Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh as well as any and all associated with the Foreign Ministry. I also express my deepest appreciation to Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong, Dr. Luan Thuy Duong, and Mr. An Nguyen at the Embassy of Vietnam in the United States for their tireless efforts.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, as a Vietnam veteran, I rise today to offer my strong support for the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, General Eric Shinseki. Since taking over the VA, General Shinseki has made veterans a top priority, enrolling over 2 million new veterans from our wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and reducing veteran homelessness by about 24 percent. With new reports of coverups at VA facilities, the Secretary has also called for an independent review and nationwide audit, giving his word that he will do all he can to fix a system that was broken long before he took over. So let us stand together to do right by our veterans. General Shinseki is right for America's veterans. He is a tried and proven leader, the highest ranked Asian Pacific American in the history of the United States, who told our Nation the truth about Iraq when no one would listen. He will now tell us the truth about the VA. And once the independent review and audit is completed, he will hold accountable any and all who have done our veterans wrong. I say this to Secretary Shinseki: Do not resign. We are with you. Go for broke. And let's clean up this mess that had been there way before you took over.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, last year, nine Members of this House and I sent a letter to the National Football League Commissioner Roger Goodell, to the Washington, D.C., franchise owner, Dan Snyder, and to the owners of the other 31 National Football League franchises urging an end to the use of the term ``redskins'' as an NFL franchise name because it is derogatory, it is demeaning, and patently offensive to Native American Indians. While Mr. Snyder did not respond, Mr. Goodell did so in a dismissive manner, calling this racial slur ``a unifying force that stands for strength, courage, pride, and respect.'' Mr. Speaker, give me a break. Last week, 50 Senators joined our effort and also sent a letter to the NFL. Mr. Goodell did not respond, but Bruce Allen of the Washington franchise did respond in a dismissive manner, stating that ``redskins'' is not a derogatory word and claiming that it actually honors Native Americans. Mr. Speaker, shame on Mr. Allen, shame on Mr. Goodell, and shame on Mr. Snyder for suggesting that ``redskins'' is a name of honor when, according to Native Americans, it is ``the worst thing in the English language you can be called if you are a Native person.'' Mr. Snyder, Mr. Goodell, and Mr. Allen have escaped the public lashing that Don Sterling received just weeks ago for his racist remarks on African Americans who play basketball. I believe if the American public knew the history of this derogatory term, they would call on Dan Snyder to change the name or get out of the League. Mr. Speaker, I would like to share with my colleagues the painful and violent past associated with this despicable term. For many of our Native Americans, the word ``redskins'' is reminiscent of a time when the colonial government engaged in the practice of trading Indian scalps or skins and body parts for bounties. In 1749, the British bounty was ``10 guineas for every Indian taken or killed.'' In 1755, the lieutenant governor of the Massachusetts Bay Province issued a proclamation calling for the extermination of the Penobscot Indian Nation. The bounty for a male Indian above the age of 12 was 50 pounds, and his scalp was worth 40 pounds. The bounty for a female Indian of any age and for males under the age of 12 was 25 pounds, while their scalps were worth 20 pounds. In 1863, the reward in Minnesota was $200 ``for every redskin sent to purgatory.'' Mr. Speaker, I submit that today, Chief Kirk Francis of the Penobscot Indian Nation declared that the word ``redskins'' is ``not just a racial slur or a derogatory term,'' but a painful ``reminder of one of the most gruesome acts of ethnic cleansing ever committed against'' his people. The hunting and killing of Native American Indians, as stated by Chief Francis, was ``a most despicable and disgraceful act of genocide.'' This photo depicts what genocide looks like, Mr. Speaker, and I want to share this photo with my colleagues. So, while scalping is a matter of historical debate, Mr. Snyder's response to this disgraceful act is indicative of the racist history behind the Washington franchise's name. Its founder, George Preston Marshall, is identified by historians as the driving force behind the color barrier that existed for 12 years in the National Football League, a sad commentary or chapter from 1934 to 1945, when African Americans were banned from the National Football League by a so-called ``gentleman's agreement.'' For years, Mr. Marshall marketed the Washington, D.C., franchise to appeal to the segregated South. The band played ``Dixie,'' the Confederate flag flew, and after the NFL's color line was crossed in 1946, the Washington, D.C., franchise was the last team to field an African American player--and not until 1962. I might add, Mr. Speaker, that the Washington team did not welcome African American players with open arms. Oh, no. Then-Secretary of the Interior Stewart Udall and Attorney General Robert Kennedy presented the Washington franchise with an ultimatum: unless Marshall signed an African American player, the government would revoke his franchise's 30-year lease on the use of the D.C. stadium. Mr. Speaker, we cannot simply continue these hateful traditions that mock, belittle, disparage, and disgrace those of a different race because of the color of their skin. The National Basketball Association recently reacted swiftly to Mr. Don Sterling's racist remarks. Why is the National Football League so hesitant? Why is Mr. Snyder so slow to do the right thing when some 6 million of his own people's skins were used for lampshades by the Nazi Germans during World War II? Shame on Mr. Snyder for perpetuating this racism and bigotry. He should know better and do better.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate India's next Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his resounding and historic victory. The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) victory on May 16, 2014 is the first time after Independence that a non-Congress party has got absolute majority on its own, and Narendra Modi is the reason why. His victory is India's victory and, while history will remember India's 2014 elections as unprecedented, I will remember the 2014 elections as a triumph. The people of India have triumphed, and I join with them in this momentous celebration of new development for all. As a token of friendship and in commemoration of the fulfillment of his destiny to lift up the masses, assure social justice, and bring new hope for any and all who, like him, step forward and transform challenges into opportunities by sheer strength of character and courage, a flag was flown over the United States Capitol at my request in honor of him on April 7, 2014, to mark victory's dawn. I pay tribute to Shri Modi for his clarion call for change, to save a nation from ruin. I applaud his leadership and recognize his victory-- the people's victory--in the Congressional Record. A statement in the Congressional Record becomes part of U.S. history and I firmly believe Shri Narendra Modi should be included not only in the annals of India's history but U.S. history, too, because he was elected with a resounding victory despite the United States using every recourse it could to disrupt his destiny. The U.S.-India partnership should be, could be, one of the most defining of the 21st century. But, I am disappointed that the United States failed to develop a strong friendship and comprehensive partnership with Shri Narendra Modi when it mattered most. U.S.-India relations matter strategically, politically, and economically. And even if they didn't matter, the United States should be a fair and honest broker about human rights. Regrettably, in the case of India, the United States missed the mark by responding one way to the 2002 Gujarat riots, another way to the Godhra train burning which led up to the riots, and still another way to the largest ethnic cleansing since the partition of India in which between 300,000 to 500,000 Kashmiri Hindus since 1990 have migrated due to persecution. Nonetheless, despite the United States getting it wrong with India, Shri Narendra Modi is looking ahead. He is dedicated. He is determined. He is dynamic. He is different. He is the leader of the world's largest democracy. And he is the key player for improved relations between the U.S. and India. As Shri Narendra Modi assumes his mantle as India's next Prime Minister, I have every confidence he will cut across caste, creed and religion and bring alive the dreams of over a billion Indians, and a world that needs his leadership. As he promised, ``Good days are coming.'' And so, they are. I have personally met with Shri Modi as far back as 2010 and I know him to be a sincere man who stands against corruption and for inclusive growth and development. Shri Modi is a man of vision and he, together with each and every citizen of India, will create something special--an India that will assume its destined role. Without a doubt, Prime Minister Modi will usher in India's new era. He will make the 21st century India's century. This is his destiny. And so, once more, I congratulate Shri Narendra Modi on his path-breaking campaign, and I praise BJP Party President Rajnath Singh for working shoulder-to-shoulder with Shri Modi to ensure that the spirit of democracy has triumphed. I also commend Mr. Sanjay Puri, Founder and President of USINPAC, for championing the cause and work of Shri Narendra Modi early on in the U.S. Congress when India's next Prime Minister was Chief Minister of Gujarat. Above all, I praise Prime Minister Modi's parents who gave rise to him, especially his mother whose blessings he sought. From his beginnings as a son of a tea seller to a landslide and ground-breaking victor, I wish Shri Modi godspeed on his poetic journey forward as India's next Prime Minister.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate India's next Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his resounding and historic victory. The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) victory on May 16, 2014 is the first time after Independence that a non-Congress party has got absolute majority on its own, and Narendra Modi is the reason why. His victory is India's victory and, while history will remember India's 2014 elections as unprecedented, I will remember the 2014 elections as a triumph. The people of India have triumphed, and I join with them in this momentous celebration of new development for all. As a token of friendship and in commemoration of the fulfillment of his destiny to lift up the masses, assure social justice, and bring new hope for any and all who, like him, step forward and transform challenges into opportunities by sheer strength of character and courage, a flag was flown over the United States Capitol at my request in honor of him on April 7, 2014, to mark victory's dawn. I pay tribute to Shri Modi for his clarion call for change, to save a nation from ruin. I applaud his leadership and recognize his victory--the people's victory--in the Congressional Record. A statement in the Congressional Record becomes part of U.S. history and I firmly believe Shri Narendra Modi should be included not only in the annals of India's history but U.S. history, too, because he was elected with a resounding victory despite the United States using every recourse it could to disrupt his destiny. The U.S.-India partnership should be, could be, one of the most defining of the 21st century. But, I am disappointed that the United States failed to develop a strong friendship and comprehensive partnership with Shri Narendra Modi when it mattered most. U.S.-India relations matter strategically, politically, and economically. And even if they didn't matter, the United States should be a fair and honest broker about human rights. Regrettably, in the case of India, the United States missed the mark by responding one way to the 2002 Gujarat riots, another way to the Godhra train burning which led up to the riots, and still another way to the largest ethnic cleansing since the partition of India in which between 300,000 to 500,000 Kashmiri Hindus since 1990 have migrated due to persecution.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, which has broad jurisdiction for U.S. policy affecting the region, including Vietnam and China, I rise today to strongly condemn China for violating Vietnam's sovereignty in the South China Sea and to call upon the U.S. to issue a clear and decisive statement of response. On May 2, 2014, China anchored HD981 rig in Vietnamese waters and deployed dozens of naval vessels to support its provocative actions. On May 3 and May 5, China issued notices banning all vessels from entering the area and stating that HD981 rig will conduct exploratory drilling. HD981 is anchored totally within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf of Vietnam, about 120 nautical miles from Ly Son island of Vietnam. I thank U.S. Senator John McCain for his leadership in unequivocally stating that China's territorial claims to the waters have no basis in international law. Simply put, China's provocative actions are an escalation of its intent to threaten peace and maritime security in the East Sea. Since 2009, China has escalated its claims of the ``nine-dash line'', cut the ship cables of the ``Binh Minh II'' and ``Viking II (May and June 2011), established ``Sansha City'' (June 2012), implemented ``measures to enforce `Fishery Law of the People's Republic of China' (entering into force since January 2014), enhanced oil explorations in disputed areas, attacked Vietnamese fishing vessels, launched patrol boats, and conducted military exercises in the South China Sea to flex its power and deter other claimants. All the while the U.S. response has been negligible, although the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific has held hearings on the matter and several Members, including myself, have introduced Resolutions to promote a peaceful and collaborative resolution to any and all disputes in the South China Sea. I am especially disappointed by the State Department's weak response to China's recent aggression. U.S. Department of State spokeswoman Jen Psaki stated, ``Vietnam has declared a 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone based on its coast line in accordance with the law of the sea. Then we call on China because China has a different view on that. That's why we continue to call on both sides not to take provocative or unilateral actions given this is occurring in disputed waters near those islands and these events, of course, point to the need for claimants to clarify, their claims in accordance with international law and reach agreement of what types of activities should be permissible within disputed areas such as these waters.'' I call upon the State Department to issue a more clear, definitive, and concise statement than this. Once more, as Senator McCain stated, China's claims have no basis in international law, and the U.S. State Department should not shirk from saying so. I join with Senator McCain in calling upon China's leaders to take immediate steps to de-escalate tensions, and I call upon the U.S. to lead the way. For historical purposes, I have submitted this statement with supporting documentation so that there is no dispute about the facts or about where I stand. [As of May 5, 2014] Factsheet on Operations of China's HD-981 Oil Rig in Vietnam's Waters On May 2, 2014, Vietnamese authorities announce that at 5:22 am on May 1, 2014, the drilling rig HD-981 and 3 oil service vessels of China were spotted as going south from the northwest of Tri Ton island which belongs to Vietnam's Hoang Sa Archipelago (Paracels). At 4:00 pm May 2, 2014, the drilling rig RD-981 was set afloat at the location of 15 deg.29'58" North latitude and 111 deg.12'06" East longitude of Tri Ton island with 27 protecting ships. This location is about 130 nautical miles off Vietnam's coast and 119 nautical miles off Vietnam's Ly Son island. To date, the number of Chinese vessels has gone up to more than 50. The location of the rig lies well within the oil block No. 143 of Vietnam, undeniably within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. 2. In the last few days, Vietnam has continuously communicated with China expressing its serious concerns. Vietnam has reiterated and stressed that ``the location that the Chinese drilling rig HD-981 and protecting vessels operate is undeniably within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf; the operations of this drilling rig and protecting vessels have seriously violated Vietnam's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and national jurisdiction as stipulated by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (1982 UNCLOS), the 2002 Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), other related agreements between the two countries' leaders, and Vietnam- China basic principles on settlement of sea issues. Vietnam asks China to immediately withdraw the drilling rig and protecting vessels out of Vietnam's waters''. Viet Nam has sufficient historical evidence, legal basis, and de facto administration over Hoang Sa to assert its sovereign rights and national jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Vietnam requests that China respect Vietnam's exercise of sovereignty over Hoang Sa, sovereign rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone; and concurrently proposes to China to settle the disputes over Hoang Sa and other disputes related to Vietnam's sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction through negotiations and other peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Charter and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Vietnam totally rejects and resolutely protests China's arguments that the ``operation of drilling rig HD-981 is an ordinary activity south of Zhongjian island (Tri Ton) of Xisha (Hoang Sa) islands'', and has nothing to do with Vietnam's continental shelf and exclusive economic zone; this is ``an area of the territorial sea and contiguous zone of the Xisha islands (Vietnam's Hoang Sa) and that on-going operation is conducted on a usual basis at a location administered by China without any dispute''; and that China would not accept Vietnam's request of negotiation over Hoang Sa. 3. The fact that China disregards Vietnam's communication requesting the withdrawal of the drilling rig and oil service vessels out of Block No. 143 is obviously an act on purpose and an intentional and serious violation of Vietnam's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over Hoang Sa, exclusive economic zone and continental shelf; serious violation of the accords reached between two countries' leaders, the spirit and content of the DOC, related principles the international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. The Chinese activities have tremendously affected the political trust between the two countries, adversely impacted the bilateral negotiations over sea issues, and damaged the sentiments and feelings of the peoples of Vietnam and China. 4. The Government of Vietnam respectfully asks all Governments in the world to voice condemnation of those wrongful acts by China; demand China to recall its drilling rig HD-981 out of Vietnam's waters and respect the rights and interests and coastal nations in accordance with the 1982 UNCLOS, fully and seriously observe the spirit of the Declaration of the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), ensure the security and safety in the East Sea (Bien Dong); and call upon China to soon settle disputes with Vietnam through peaceful negotiations, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the region. [As of May 7, 2014] Fact Sheet No. 2 on China's Latest Illegal Activities in Vietnam's EEZ 1. China's provocative behavior: To date, the number of China's supporting ships moving toward the drilling platform has increased to more than 80, including 7 military ships, 33 marine patrol boats and surveillance ships, and many other vessels. 2. China's use of force: Videos and pictures show Chinese ships, backed by helicopters, aggressively obstructing Vietnamese ships. The Chinese ships also sprayed water cannons, damaging Vietnamese vessels and injuring their crew members. At around 8:10 a.m. on May 3, a Chinese ship struck the right side of a Vietnamese Marine Police vessel at high speed, smashing the windows of the Vietnamese vessel that was attempting to take evasive maneuvers. A total of eight Vietnamese ships were rammed, hit, or sprayed with high pressure hoses. At one point, five Chinese ships surrounded a single Vietnamese vessel. 3. China's impingement on freedom of navigation: The Maritime Safety Administration of China (MSAC) announced on its website on Saturday that all vessels should keep one mile (1.6 km) away from the rig, called the Haiyang Shiyou 981. Despite Vietnam's objections, MSAC on Monday expanded the prohibited area around the rig to a three-mile (4.8 km) radius. On the ground, China uses force to drive away Vietnamese ships. The location is right on vital international sea lanes. Consequently, China's acts are threatening maritime security and safety in the region.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Governor Lolo Moliga and the people of American Samoa, for next week we will be celebrating 114 years for the commemoration of the raising of the American flag on April 17, 1900. Madam Speaker, it was at this historic occasion when our Samoan traditional leaders had the foresight to sign the Treaty of Cession with the representatives of the United States. Our bond and relation as part of the ``American family'' today is stronger than ever. As we celebrate this year, we must reflect on the sacrifices that were made by our sons and daughters, past and present, who served honorably and valiantly in our Nation's military forces. Our Samoan sons and daughters have been an important part of our military forces, both here and throughout the world. (English translation of the statement made in Samoan is as follows.) May the relationship between the United States and the islands of Tutuila and Manu'a continue to prosper. Farewell. IIa sao ma uli le alo faiva le faigamalo a Tutuila ma Manua ma le Malo Tele o Amerika. Soifua. Treaty of Cession Chief of Tutuila to United States Government April 17, 1900 Translation in the English language: To all to whom these presents shall come: Greeting. Whereas the Governments of Germany, Great Britain, and of the United States of America have on divers occasions recognized the sovereignty of the government and people of Samoa and the Samoan group of islands as an independent State; and whereas owing to dissensions, internal disturbances and civil war, the said governments have deemed it necessary to assume the control of the legislation and administration of said state of Samoa; and whereas the said governments have on the sixteenth day of February, by mutual agreement, determined to partition said State; and whereas the islands hereinafter described being part of the said State have by said arrangements amongst the said governments, been severed from the parent State, and the Governments of Great Britain and of Germany have withdrawn all rights hitherto acquired, claimed or possessed by both or either of them by treaty or otherwise, to the said islands in favor of the government of the United States of America; And whereas for the promotion of the peace and welfare of the people of said islands, for the establishment of a good and sound government, and for the preservation of the rights and property of the inhabitants of said islands, the Chiefs, rulers and people thereof are desirous of granting unto the said government of the United States full powers and authority to enact proper legislation for and to control the said islands, and are further desirous or removing all disabilities that may be existing in connection therewith and to ratini and to confirm the grant of the rule of said islands heretofore granted on the 2nd day of April, 1990. Now know Ye.- 1. That we, the Chiefs whose names are hereunder subscribed by virtue of our office as the hereditaty representatives of the people of said islands, in consideration of the premises hereinbefore recited and for divers good considerations us hereunto moving, have ceded, transferred, and yielded up unto Commander B.F. Tilley of the US. ``Abarenda,'' the duly accredited representative of the Government of the United States of America, in the islands hereinafter mentioned or described for and on behalf of the said government. All these the islands of Tutuila and Aunu'u and all other islands, rocks, reefs, foreshores and waters lying between the 13th degree and the 15th degree of south latitude and between the 171st degree and 167th degree of west longitude from the meridian of Greenwich, together with all sovereign rights thereunto belonging and possessed by us, to hold the said ceded territory unto the Government of the United States of America; to erect the same into a separate District to be annexed to the said Government, to be known and designated as the District of ``Tutuila''. 2. The Government of the United States of America shall respect and protect the individual rights of all people dwelling in Tutuila to their lands and other property in said district; but if the said Government shall require any land or any other thing for Government uses, the government may take the same upon payment of a fair consideration for the land, or other thing, to those whom may be deprived of their property on account of the desire of the Government. 3. The Chiefs of the towns will be entitled to retain their individual control of the separate towns, if that control is in accordance with the laws of the United States of America concerning Tutuila, and if not obstructive to the peace of the people and the advancement of civilization of the people, subject also to the supervision and instruction of the said Government. But the enactment of legislation and the general control shall remain firm with the United States of America. 4. An investigation and settlement of all claims to title to lands in the different divisions or districts of Tutuila shall be made by the Government. 5. We, whose names are subscribed below, do hereby declare with truth for ourselves, our heirs and representatives by Samoan Custom, that we will obey and owe allegiance to the Government of the United States of America. In witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names and affixed our seals on this 17th day of April, 1900 A.D. Fofo and Aitulagi Tuitele of Leone, Faiivae of Leone, Letuli of Iiiiii, Fuimaono of Aoloau, Satele of Vailoa, Leoso of Leone, Olo of Leone, Namoa of Aitulagi, Malota of Aitulagi, Tuana'itau of Pava'ia'i, Lualemaga of Aasu, Amituana'i of Ituau. Sua and Vatfanua Pele, Mauga, Leiato, Faumuina, Masaniai, Tupuola, Soliai, Mauga. The foregoing instrument of Cession (pages 1, 2 and 3) was duly signed by Leoso in the presence of, and at the request of, the Chiefs and Representatives of the Division of Fofo and Aitulagi, and by Pele in the presence of, and at the request of, the Chiefs and Representatives of Sua and Vaifanua in Tutuila in conformity with Samoan customs as to signatures to documents, in my presence at Pago Pago on the 17th day of April, 1900 A.D. immediately prior to the Raising of the United States Flag at the United States Naval Station, Tutuila. /s/E.W. Gurr Barrister of the Supreme Court of Samoa. Acceptance of Cessions The Judge Advocate General of the Navy in 1921, referring to the above cessions, said: ``These cessions were accepted by the President of the United States, and full information with respect thereto was communicated to Congress and the action of the Chief Executive relative thereto adopted and approved in a number of separate statutory enactments.'' (File 3931-1429.36, Dec. 23, 1921, LRNA, Supp. 25.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Viet Nam for its national report on the promotion and protection of human rights under the 2nd cycle universal periodic review. The report is drafted in accordance with the guidelines of Resolution 60/251 dated 15 March 2006 of the United Nations General Assembly, Resolution 5/1 dated 18 June 2007 of the Human Rights Council, and Decision 17/119 dated 19 June 2011 of the Human Rights Council. The drafting of the report was carried out by an inter-agency working group composed of government agencies and National Assembly committees working in the field of human rights, including the Office of the Government, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Public Security, Government Committee for Religious Affairs (Ministry of Home Affairs), Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, Ministry of Information and Communications, Ministry of Planning and Investment, Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and Training, Ministry of Construction, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Committee of Ethnic Minorities, People's Supreme Court, People's Supreme Procuracy, National Assembly's Committee on Law, and the National Assembly's Committee on Foreign Affairs. In an effort to engage in international cooperation on human rights, Viet Nam holds annual human rights dialogues with a number of countries and partners including the United States, the European Union, Australia, Norway and Switzerland. These dialogues have produced positive outcomes. They not only enhance the understanding and relationship between Viet Nam and its partners, but also bring about discussions on best practices to address human rights matters of mutual concern. On rights to freedom of expression, press and information, Viet Nam has made significant progress. Presently, there are 812 print newspapers and 1,084 publications; nearly 17,000 registered journalists; one national news agency, 67 radio and television stations; 101 TV channels and 78 broadcasting channels, 74 electronic newspapers and magazines; 336 social networks and 1,174 registered e- portals (compared to 46 e-newspapers and 287 e-portals in 2011). The Voice of Viet Nam (VOV) Radio Station broadcasts throughout 99.5 percent of Viet Nam's territory and many other countries via satellite. Today, the VOV reaches more than 90 percent of all households in Viet Nam. Viet Nam law prohibits all actions harming the life, health, property, dignity and honor of detainees. Detainees have the right to meet their family, access to counsel or legal aid according to the law, access to information via newspapers, radio and television available in detention facilities and have the right to petition against violations of the law and detention regulations. Prisoners have a right to education during their sentence and prisons strictly run education programs on literacy, elementary education, vocational training, laws and politics. Preventive healthcare and treatment for inmates are provided and prison health clinics have been upgraded or improved with professionally trained staff. Freedoms of association and assembly are guaranteed by the Constitution (Article 69) and are legally protected in laws and by-law documents. There currently are 460 social, professional organizations whose geographic scope of activity are nationwide or interprovincial; 20 profession-based trade unions; 36,000 associations, federations, and social organizations which are local and, in general, these organizations have made great contributions to the development of the country, serving as a bridge between their members and the government. Viet Nam is a multi-religious society with many religions represented including Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Cao Dai, Hoa Hao Buddhism, Four Debts of Gratitude, and others. Ninety-five percent of all the people have some form of belief. There are about 25,000 places of worship and about 24 million followers of various faiths. The consistent policy and law of Viet Nam is to respect the right to freedom of religion. Yearly, there are about 8,500 religious festivals. The closing ceremony of the 2011 Holy Year of the Catholic Church was attended by more than 50 bishops, 1,000 priests, 2,000 dignitaries and nearly 500,000 believers. The 100th anniversary of Protestantism in Viet Nam was also celebrated in 2011 and the many activities associated with the celebration were widely attended by dignitaries and followers from Viet Nam and throughout the world. In 2013, Viet Nam and the Vatican conducted the fourth round of the joint working group meeting on the strengthening of bilateral relations and cooperation. In 2014, the Buddhist Church of Viet Nam will host the UN Vesak Day which is also expected to attract thousands of followers. When visiting Viet Nam in my official capacity as former Chairman and current Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I have attended different religious services in various houses of worship and did so unannounced. I have always found Viet Nam to be a place favorable for religious activities, and I appreciate that Viet Nam is working to protect activities of religious groups by law. Much more could be said about the positive developments in Viet Nam regarding religious freedom, healthcare, the economy, education, gender equality and other areas of importance. As a Viet Nam veteran, I am proud of the progress Viet Nam is making. This is why I have entered into the Congressional Record a more accurate accounting of all Viet Nam is doing to promote and protect human rights so that history may counter any erroneous information that differs from the facts.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the All India Shri Shivaji Memorial Society (AISSMS) established in 1917 by the late His Highness Shrimant Chattrapati Shahu Maharaj of Kolhapur and His Highness Alija Bahadur Madhavrao Scindia Maharaj of Gwalior, with the foundation stone laid by the Prince of Wales on November 19, 1921 in Pune, India. AISSMS was established for the purpose of ``throwing open to all alike the doors of knowledge through liberal education.'' It was established to memorialize the great Shivaji, a statesman and warrior, a bold reformer who not only founded an Empire, but created a Nation, based on a vision of ideals and dreams which AISSMS is realizing. From a renowned military school to Day schools to Junior Colleges to a foray into higher and technical education, AISSMS now runs world class institutions in various disciplines. AISSMS institutions have obtained accreditation from the National Board of Accreditation and have signed MOU's with Universities from the UK, the USA and Germany to run joint programs of global standards. I am proud of AISSMS and recognize the importance of its history and impact on past, present and future generations. I especially commend its Office Bearers--H.H. Shrimant Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj who serves as President; Vice President Shrimant Yuvraj Sambhajiraje Chhatrapati; Honorary Secretary Shri Malojiraje Chhatrapati; Treasurer Shri Ajay Uttamrao Patil; Chairman of the Governing Council Shri Vishwas Bajirao Patil; Honorary Joint Secretary Shri Ratnakar K. Jitkar Shri Ajay Uttamrao; Chairman of the Managing Committee Shri Sahebrao R. Jadhav, the Governing Council, the Managing Committee and other notables. I also pay tribute to Captain Shivaji Mahadkar, Managing Trustee of the Takshashila Education Trust, who visited my office in Washington, DC and personally extended an invite for me to speak to members of the esteemed All India Shri Shivaji Memorial Society and to a gathering of faculty, staff and students. In my absence, I have entered this Statement in the Congressional Record for historical purposes as a matter of appreciation for the invitation which was extended to me but moreover to recognize and commend AISSMS for the critical role it has played in shaping and defining India, and for bringing hope to all who are, have been, or will be associated with its noble cause. As the former Chairman and current Ranking Member of the U.S. House of Representatives' Foreign Affairs' Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, which has broad jurisdiction for U.S. policy affecting the region, including India, I am proud to be associated with AISSMS. The U.S. and India are on a path to expanding higher education partnerships with a focus to build more purposeful connections. In doing so, it is my sincere hope that AISSMS and my alma mater, Brigham Young University, and other institutions of learning, will connect in ways that bring new hope and new ideas to both countries. I thank Mr. Sanjay Puri, founder and Chairman of the Alliance for U.S.-India Business (AUSIB) for introducing me to AISSMS, and for the good work he continues to do for and on behalf of India and Indian Americans. In 2011 and 2013, AUSIB hosted two of the largest U.S.-India education conclaves and, on March 13, 2013, Mr. Puri testified as an expert witness before the House Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, calling for enhanced education collaboration as a means to strengthen U.S.-India relations. Now more than ever, the U.S. and India must be about academic collaboration and exchange, and I commend those with the foresight to march ahead, echoing the vision of the founders of AISSMS.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend China for calling upon Japan to ``face up to history'' for forcing women and girls, many from countries including China, the Republic of Korea, Southeast Asia, and Pacific Islands, to sexually serve Japanese soldiers during World War II. For too long Japan's government has tried to downplay and deny the crimes of its Imperial military. Such defiance goes against human conscience. How Japan chooses to face its past will determine how it goes into the future. Its history must not be forgotten and must not be denied and distorted. I stand with China in urging the Japanese government to acknowledge its history and apologize for it with concrete actions that will win the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community. I also commend the Chinese Foreign Ministry for denouncing Japan's enslavement of these women and young girls during World War II as ``a serious crime against humanity.'' I am appreciative of the work of Congressman Mike Honda and former Congressman Lane Evans for introducing bills calling upon Japan to apologize. As Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia, the Pacific and the Global Environment, the first hearing I ever held was about this issue. The hearing, held on February 15, 2007, was the first time a hearing on this issue had ever been held in the history of the U.S. Congress, and I will always be grateful for the three women who testified. Three survivors--Ms. Yong Soo Lee, Ms. Jan Ruff O'Herne and Ms. Koon Ja Kim--bravely testified before the Subcommittee and, consequently, their first-hand accounts of their suffering will stand forevermore on the official record of the Subcommittee as a witness against the abhorrent actions of the Japanese Imperial Armed Forces. After hearing the testimony of these three women, I have never been the same. I will never rest until justice is served. And so, I commend my close colleague, Congressman Mike Honda, a Japanese-American, who also personally testified at the hearing about H. Res. 121, a resolution he introduced calling upon Japan to acknowledge, apologize and accept historical responsibility for its Imperial Armed Forces' coercion of young women into sexual slavery. H. Res. 121, which I co-sponsored, subsequently passed the House on July 30, 2007. I believe it passed because of the three survivors who testified as witnesses. Regrettably, Japan is again about the business of trying to whitewash its crimes. But, it is my sincere hope that the international community will hold Japan accountable and insist on a formal apology. In this cause, all peaceful nations should hold together and this is why, once more, I publicly commend China for urging Japan to ``face up to its history.''

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, as a Vietnam veteran, I rise today to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Trade Relations between the United States and Vietnam. On February 3, 1994, President Bill Clinton lifted the U.S. trade embargo against Vietnam and ushered in a new era of U.S.-Vietnam relations, which led to the establishment of full diplomatic relations in 1995. These achievements were made possible by the support of Senator John McCain, then Senator John Kerry, and many other distinguished Americans. Today, U.S.-Vietnam relations are deeper and more diverse. In November 2000, President Clinton became the first U.S. President to visit Vietnam since President Nixon's 1969 trip to South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. On July 25, 2013, President Truong Tan Sang's visit to the United States became only the second by a Vietnamese head of state since the ``normalization'' in 1995. I was honored to host President Sang on July 24, 2013 in Room S-115 of the U.S. Capitol at an event held one day prior to his visit with President Barack Obama at the White House. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid provided the venue for this historic meeting which included a select, bipartisan group of five U.S. Senators and five Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. In an open and frank conversation with President Sang, we discussed trade, security, the East Sea, human rights, religious freedom, Agent Orange, Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations, and many other topics of interest and concern. President Sang and U.S. lawmakers expressed a deep commitment to strengthening our bilateral relations, and I was personally impressed by President Sang's extraordinary vision and leadership. President Sang serves Vietnam with distinction, and I thank him for all he has done to advance the U.S.-Vietnam relationship, a relationship which is based on mutual trust and understanding. During my visit to Hanoi in December 2012, I also had the privilege of meeting with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of trade relations between the U.S. and Vietnam, I wish to praise him for the remarkable service he renders. His leadership has led to improved relations between our two countries, and I acknowledge his significant contributions. I also acknowledge the contributions of Madam Tong Thi Phong, Vice- Chair of the National Assembly, who I met again in December 2012 while in Hanoi. Madam Phong is an exceptional leader and one of only two female members of Vietnam's Politburo. I commend Madam Phong for the significant contributions she has made to her country and ours. Her work is of great consequence. I also recognize Vietnam's Politburo which is comprised of 16 members who are actively engaged in promoting cooperation between the United States and Vietnam. The Politburo's past and present contributions to the bilateral relationship are the reason we are celebrating 20 years of trade relations between our two countries. Having served in Vietnam during the War and having since visited Vietnam on several occasions in my official capacity both as Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I have seen Vietnam in many ways. I stand as a witness to the beauty, progress, goodness and strength of the U.S.-Vietnam Comprehensive Partnership. I have worked side-by-side with many of Vietnam's Ambassadors to the United States and have acknowledged their work accordingly. But, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of trade relations between our two countries, I pay special tribute to His Excellency Ambassador Nguyen Quoc Cuong who I consider to be a colleague, a friend, and a brother. Ambassador Cuong represents the government and people of Vietnam with full integrity and unwavering commitment. In recognition of his tireless efforts in building a forward-looking relationship between our two countries and, in special consideration of our abiding friendship, I enter his name in the Congressional Record to stand as a testament of our work together. I am thankful for the twists and turns of life that have led me back and forth to Vietnam. I returned to Vietnam after 40 years and, at a dinner hosted by the National Assembly of Vietnam, I had long discussions with my counterparts who had also served in the Vietnam War. Although we were once enemies, we embraced each other as friends who share the same hopes and dreams for our families, friends and nations. We recognized that the broken times of Friday are behind us. Sunday has come. Peace is here. And so, I applaud former President Bill Clinton, President George W. Bush, President Barack Obama, former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Senator John McCain, former Senator and now U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, members of the House and Senate and, on Vietnam's part, President Sang, Prime Minister Dung, the Politburo, and the National Assembly for building a path of peace and prosperity. I especially honor those who have gone before us, because nothing we accomplish is possible without the perseverance of those who went first. I also acknowledge the contributions of those unnamed who have contributed in small and great ways to make this day possible. The U.S.-Vietnam partnership is stronger than it has ever been, and I would be remiss if I did not attribute much of the strength of our partnership to the veterans from both sides who have brought about change. While we should not rest until the United States fully addresses and rectifies the Agent Orange issue, I am pleased for now that both governments and our people are about the business of deepening U.S.-Vietnam ties. I am proud to be part of this historic undertaking. I am proud to be a friend of Vietnam and, without doubt, I believe the best is yet to come.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Assembly Member Jung Cheong Rae of the Republic of Korea for the outstanding work he is doing in cooperation with Mr. Kim Dong-suk, founder of Korean American Civic Empowerment, KACE, to spearhead efforts in Washington, DC, to oppose the online White House petition calling for removal of the ``Comfort Woman'' statue in Glendale, CA, which was submitted on the White House's open petitioning website, ``We the People.'' The petition includes the following text: ``Please remove the statue in a public park in Glendale, California. It is a statue of a Comfort Woman masquerading as a peace statue while in essence after reading the inscription it is promoting hate towards the people and nation of Japan.'' The petition was signed by 125,261 people and it is estimated that most of the signees are Japanese nationals who do not reside in the United States. This absurd petition shows why the House of Representatives had to unanimously pass the ``Comfort Woman'' Resolution of 2007 (H. Res. 121), which urges Japan to formally acknowledge and accept historical responsibility in a clear and unequivocal manner for its Imperial Armed Forces' coercion of as many as 200,000 young women into sexual slavery during World War II, to clearly and publicly refute any claims that the sexual enslavement and trafficking of the Comfort Woman never occurred, and to educate current and future generations about this horrible crime. I Once the U.S. House of Representatives had spoken on the issue, it was hoped that this issue could be put behind us so that we could work with our Pacific allies to face the challenges of a rising China and a nuclear North Korea. However, Japan totally disregarded what we have recommended and is trying to whitewash its war crimes. The movement to deny the painful realities of World War II history in the Pacific represent not only a lack of progress but are, in fact, moves toward regression away from that limited level of reconciliation that has already been achieved. Today, over 120,000 Japanese people are totally unaware, if not ignorant, of the atrocities that were perpetrated by Japan during World War II. This number will grow every day if Japan keeps disregarding H. Res. 121, the Comfort Woman Resolution. I strongly urge the Government of Japan to formally acknowledge and apologize in order to begin the reconciliation process and to create better relationships in the future. Japan cannot move forward by erasing the past and it is of the utmost importance that Japan follows through on H. Res. 121. A formal apology from Japan as called for in H. Res. 121 is the answer to the White House online petition. And so, once more, I commend Assembly Member Jung Cheong Rae, who is a personal friend of mine, for taking the time to be in Washington, DC, this week and for calling upon Members of Congress and others to also exercise their first amendment rights by speaking out against the White House online petition. It is my sincere hope that President Obama will respond soon, and make clear that he supports justice for the more than 200,000 women from Korea, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and other countries from the Pacific who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Imperial Army during WW II. On a personal note, I offer my deepest love and appreciation for these women, though many of them have already passed from this life. What was done to them is unconscionable, and I will stand in support of them forevermore. I bear no animosity or ill-will towards the people of Japan and I must emphasize that our economic, strategic, and military alliance with Japan is important. However, regarding this issue, there can be no reconciliation without proper acknowledgement. The recognition of this dark chapter of Japan's history of the atrocities and sexual slavery operations authorized and implemented by the Japanese Imperial Army before and during World War II cannot be denied, and the White House must not be complicit by remaining silent.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I learned today of the passing of former Congressman Vicente `Ben' Garrido Blaz. Elected to the U.S. Congress in 1984 to represent the Territory of Guam, Congressman Blaz was an exceptional leader for his people. He was also an example of statesmanship to the greater Pacific region, including American Samoa. He will truly be missed. As a genuine patriot, Blaz first served his country as a Marine and served three tours in Osaka, Okinawa, and Vietnam. He was the first general officer from Guam to serve in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces. In 1977, he became the first Chamorro ever to be promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. Congressman Blaz served Guam for eight years in the U.S. Congress from 1985-1993 (99th Congress--102nd Congress). As a freshman member and respected leader among his peers, he was also elected as President of his freshman class. I will remember him also as a dear friend who welcomed me as a fellow islander and brother after I was elected to serve American Samoa in 1988. Congressman Blaz will be remembered for his dedicated service and pioneering spirit. He will also be remembered as a family man: a loving husband to his late wife, Ann Evers Blaz, a devoted father and grandfather. I count myself as one of many who was blessed to share a friendship with this great man and I will hold close to my heart his example of leadership, passion for his Chamorro culture, and immense love for his people. The people of American Samoa join together to honor our Chamorro brother. We give our deepest condolences to his family, especially his sons, Mike and Tom, and their families, and to the people of Guam as they mourn his passing.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding service of my dear friend, Dr. Luan Thuy Duong, who has worked for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam since 1990 and for the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the United States since August 2010. Dr. Duong is currently the Minister Counselor for Congressional Affairs at the Embassy and is completing her term this week. Dr. Duong received her B.A. in International Relations from the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, her M.A. in International Studies from the University of Sydney, and her Doctorate degree from the Vietnam National University. Before being posted to the Vietnam Embassy in the United States, Dr. Duong was Deputy Director General at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam and conducted academic research on Southeast Asia, ASEAN and the Asia Pacific region. She made foreign policy recommendations to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Vietnamese Government. She also gave lectures on international relations and foreign policies at the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam. Dr. Duong is the author and co-author of several books and has published many articles in foreign newspapers and other publications. In my official capacity as the former Chairman and current Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I want to publicly acknowledge Dr. Duong's contributions to strengthening U.S.-Vietnam relations. Her contributions have been invaluable to our bilateral partnership, and she has served the Government of Vietnam with distinction and loyalty. Dr. Duong is the daughter of Luan Van Uc and Vo Thi Thiet. She is married to Nguyen Van Tri and they have two children, Nguyen Luan Quoc Anh and Nguyen Luan Thuy Anh. On a personal note, I will miss Minister Counselor Luan Thuy Duong. I extend to her and her family my highest regards and best wishes.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker. in his first State of the Union address on January 8, 1964, President Lyndon Baines Johnson declared an ``unconditional war on poverty in America.'' Today, as a member of Congress and as a member of the Democratic Whip Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity, I join my colleagues to mark the 50th anniversary of this declaration and stand in solidarity to continue the fight against economic injustice. The War on Poverty policy initiative introduced federal programs such as Head Start, Job Corps, Volunteers in Service to America, and legal services for the poor. It also strengthened America's safety net for poor through food stamps and expanding social security and healthcare programs, which American families, including those in my district of American Samoa, continue to benefit from today. Our nation has made significant progress over the past half century. We have seen, for example, the percent of the population in poverty drop from 26% in 1967 to 16% in 2012. But the war has yet to be won. Today, poverty continues to plague our communities and Americans continue to suffer the effects of economic recession and long term unemployment. As President Johnson declared 50 years ago today, ``Our task is to help replace their despair with opportunity.'' Government can still play a crucial role in reducing hardship for Americans and increasing opportunities for families who struggle just to make ends meet. As we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the War on Poverty, let us be resolved to continue the fight so that all Americans can have the opportunity to attain the American dream.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Viraj Puri, a 13-year-old student at Kilmer Middle School in Vienna, Virginia. Viraj is interested in technology, music, advocacy, and writes a blog about mobile devices. He is also a certified DJ (DJ Droid) and built his own powerful computer which he uses for his DJ performances. Viraj performs in front of kids, adults and seniors. As an Indian American teenager, Viraj saw the effects of bullying on his older brother and decided to blend advocacy and technology. He built a website which can be accessed at www.bullyvention.com. Viraj's website calls for teenagers to Write on Washington, to make their voices roar by contacting their lawmakers and urging them to join the campaign to stop bullying now. Viraj believes that kids who are bullied need to know they are powerful enough to reach out to those in position to make a difference. Bullyvention is the first site to team up with the U.S. House of Representatives' Congressional Anti-Bullying Caucus (CABC). Viraj's website trends from Capitol Hill where he interviews Members of Congress who have a story to share or advice to give victims of bullying. In support of his vision that the ``pen is mightier than the sword,'' Viraj has been successful in getting Members of Congress involved in a campaign he calls Raise Your Pen. Former Speaker and now Democratic Leader of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi has raised her pen to stop bullying now. President Barack Obama also sent a message of praise and a note of encouragement in response to a hand-written letter Viraj sent to him. I am pleased that Viraj is also interviewing and posting photos of State Attorneys General, School Superintendents, and others who want to join the campaign. He is creating an online interactive map that highlights areas of concern by searching though keywords in social media like Facebook, Instagram, etc., and by school district, state, and county. It is the only interactive map on this subject. I commend Viraj for taking a public stand against bullying and for putting his technology skills to use in a way that draws all of us together. His work, especially with Members of Congress, on behalf of teens across America is the first of its kind. And so, for historical purposes, I submit this statement for the Congressional Record to recognize Viraj for his advocacy efforts. Viraj is a remarkable young man with a very bright future. I am proud to know him, and I extend to him and his family my kindest regards and best wishes.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific--which has broad jurisdiction for U.S. foreign policy affecting the region, including India--I rise today to express my concerns about H. Res. 417 which purports to praise India's rich religious diversity and commitment to tolerance and equality while reaffirming the need to protect the rights and freedoms of religious minorities. While I have the utmost respect for my colleagues who have introduced and co-sponsored this Resolution, I have a difference of opinion regarding the Resolution and its unintended consequences. The Resolution does little to praise India or strengthen U.S.-India relations but rather focuses on the 2002 Gujarat riots some 11 years after the fact. Thanks, in part, to the efforts of Mr. Sanjay Puri, Chairman of USINPAC, who has mobilized the Indian-American community in opposition to the Resolution, I highly doubt H. Res. 417 will ever see Floor action. However, the timing of the Resolution is unfortunate as it unintentionally invokes the name of the U.S. House of Representatives for purposes of influencing India's upcoming elections. For this reason, I feel the need to include my statement in the Congressional Record for historical purposes to clear up the misinformation put forward by H. Res. 417. As I said shortly after the riots and ever since, like every other Member of Congress committed to human rights I see eye to eye with the national and international community that what happened in Gujarat calls for justice and accountability. But India, like the United States, has an independent and transparent Judiciary and, after an investigation that has been ongoing for more than a decade, India's Supreme Court and its Special Investigation Team have not found any evidence against Chief Minister Narendra Modi. And so, just as the U.S. would expect India to accept the findings of the U.S. Supreme Court, I believe it is time for the U.S. to accept the findings of India's Supreme Court. Some 8 years after the fact, H. Res. 417 also commends the U.S. government for exercising its authority in 2005 under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 to deny a U.S. visa to Chief Minister Narendra Modi on the grounds of religious freedom violations. However, technically speaking, no travel ban is in place. Chief Minister Modi was denied one visa in 2005. In September 2013, in response to a letter I sent to U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, I was informed by the State Department that visa eligibility is determined by standards in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) based on information provided by the applicant or otherwise available at the time of application, and that ``any future visa application put forward by Chief Minister Modi will be carefully considered and adjudicated in accordance with U.S. law.'' While I believe such a response by the State Department is grossly inadequate and an affront to U.S.-India relations because of its failure to unequivocally put this matter to rest, the underlying message is clear. No travel ban is in place. Shri Narendra Modi may very well be India's next Prime Minister, and Resolutions like H. Res. 417 do little to help strengthen U.S.-India relations or protect and promote U.S. interests abroad, especially in the Asia Pacific region. For the record, Chief Minister Modi is a democratically elected leader. He has been elected three times by the majority of some 60 million constituents. In India's upcoming 2014 elections, every voter should have the continued right to choose the candidate which emerges as the man of destiny, without undue influence from the United States or any other government. This is why I commend USINPAC for working with key leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives to set the record straight about Slui Narendra Modi, and for encouraging Members of Congress to open immediate dialogue with the Chief Minister. I thank Chairman Ed Royce of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for also voicing his objections to H. Res. 417. India is a multi- cultural and multi-religious Democracy, where the Leader of the Ruling party is of Italian heritage, the Prime Minister is a Sikh, and the Vice President is a Muslim in an 80 percent Hindu nation. As the world's largest and oldest democracies, our inherent values and substance bind India and the United States together. Therefore, it is my sincere hope that the U.S. House of Representatives will oppose any effort that seeks to tear us apart.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, as the Chair of the Congressional Central Asia Caucus, I rise today to commend Uzbekistan on its ongoing efforts to strengthen relations with the United States. In August 2012, Uzbekistan's legislature approved a foreign policy concept submitted by President Islam Karimov which is intended to strengthen the country's independence and sovereignty, ensure Uzbekistan's role in international affairs, create security and stability in Central Asia, and sets Uzbekistan on a path of joining the ranks of democratic countries. The United States and Uzbekistan belong to a number of the same organizations, including the United Nations, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank. Uzbekistan is a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Partnership for Peace and an observer to the World Trade Organization. Home to more than half of the population of Central Asia and located at the center of regional trade and transport networks, Uzbekistan is a potential Central Asian regional power. For more than a decade, I have worked closely with the country and I am pleased by the developments that have occurred in such a short time since Uzbekistan gained independence at the end of 1991 with the breakup of the Soviet Union. Uzbekistan has supported North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) troops in Afghanistan through provision of electricity, development of rail infrastructures and the Northern Distribution Network. Uzbekistan was also one of the United States' main regional partners in the war on terrorism. Under the leadership of President Karimov, our relationship with Uzbekistan has now developed beyond Afghanistan. The United States and Uzbekistan are cooperating on security, economic relations, political and civil society issues, agricultural development, transnational crime, and the threat of infectious disease. Although we have a ways to go, we are in the process of strengthening our bilateral relations. This is why I am pleased to welcome President Karimov's delegation to the United States which is visiting Washington, D.C. from December 8- 12, 2013. Uzbekistan's delegation is led by my good friend, Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov, who served previously as Uzbekistan's Ambassador to the United States. The delegation also includes my good friend, Senator Sodiq Safoyev, who served previously as Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister and also as Ambassador to the United States and State Advisor to the President. Other members of Uzbekistan's delegation include the First Deputy Minister of Defense, First Deputy Minister of Justice, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Economic Relations, the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Committee on Science and Technology, the Chairman of the Committee on Democratic Institutions, the Head of America's Department, and a member of the National Security Council under the President of Uzbekistan. H.E. Bakhtiyar Gulyamov, Uzbekistan's Ambassador to the United States, will accompany the delegation. While in Washington, the delegation will be hosted by Members of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives. Having traveled to Samarkand in late August of this year, to Tashkent more than once, and in tribute to my long-standing friendship with Foreign Minister Kamilov and Senator Safoyev which spans nearly a decade, it was my sincere hope to personally host a Members Only meeting for them. But, in my absence, I thank my esteemed colleagues for doing so. The people of Uzbekistan are, as President Kamilov said, ``a creative people who deeply realize their identity, take pride of the fact that they live on the sacred land and are the descendants of great ancestors, capable to subdue any peaks.'' I agree. And so, once more, it is my privilege to welcome Uzbekstan's distinguished delegation to Washington and extend my kindest regards and best wishes for a successful dialogue.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the wedding ceremony of Ms. Ahn Mira and Mr. Sean Ryan Halpin held earlier this fall, on September 14, 2013, in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The couple met during Sean Halpin's current service as a first lieutenant with the Special Operations Command--Korea (SOCKOR), United States Forces Korea. Ms. Ahn is from the distinguished Ahn family of Haeju City, South Hwanghae-do Province, currently in North Korea. The Ahn clan of Hwanghae-do is remembered historically for their several family members who took leading roles in the independence movement during Korea's colonial occupation. Ms. Ahn's paternal grandfather came to the port of Pusan, in South Korea as a refugee during the Korean War. Her family currently resides in the port city of Incheon where her father, Ahn Jaeman, is the principal of the top-rated East Incheon Middle School and her mother, Kim Kyunghee, is the devoted mother of two daughters. Sean Halpin is from a family that has served the United States for more than a century. His paternal great-great-grandfather, Captain Patrick Foley, an immigrant from County Kerry, Ireland, served in the 23rd Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry (``the Irish Brigade''), fought under General Philip Sheridan in the last major Civil War battle, the siege of Petersburg, and was present at Appomattox Court House for the final surrender. His paternal great-grandfather, Dr. Thomas P. Foley, of Chicago, Illinois, served as a medical officer with the United States Army during the First World War. His grandfather, Thomas J. Halpin, was a captain serving with the 88th Infantry during the liberation of Rome in the Second World War. His father, Dennis P. Halpin, served with the United States Peace Corps in Korea, the U.S. Department of State, and the U.S. House of Representatives as a professional staff member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Sean's loving mother, Mina Chuok (nee Pak) Halpin, is originally from Pusan, Korea. For historical purposes, I submit this statement to be part of the Congressional Record in recognition of the union of Ahn Mira and Sean Ryan Halpin, and of the distinguished service provided by their families to their respective countries.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of former South African President and anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela who passed away on December 5, 2013 at his home in Johannesburg, South Africa. Today I count myself as one of millions who was inspired by Nelson Mandela's courage and compassion. Mandela was the prisoner who became President. But he was also the statesman who sacrificed his own freedom for the freedom of others and never ceased to be a servant. Nelson Mandela, affectionately known by his Xhosa clan name ``Madiba,'' was also known as ``Tata,'' the father of a nation. Indeed he was also a father to the world who taught us the fortitude of spirit that comes from forgiveness; a revolutionary who embodied the ministry of reconciliation among his people. In being a faithful brother to the broken and defeated, he became a beacon of light in the midst of darkness. Nelson Mandela also displayed rare leadership by changing the world through the hearts of men. He fought for human rights through his conviction and faith in the capacity of the human heart to do the right thing. The faith he had--that human beings, communities, and countries can change for the better--leads us forward today as we press towards unity in our families, equality in our communities, and peace among nations. My heart is also with the people of South Africa at this time and I especially send my deepest sympathy to Mandela's family and his wife, Graca Machel. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. In a time when there is so much distrust in government throughout the world, we can honor a politician and a peacemaker who taught us the virtue of patience and perseverance. Though we have lost him in this world, we gain the responsibility of carrying on the virtues he displayed. I believe ``Madiba'' is looking upon us now and reminding us as he once said, ``We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.'' May God Bless the memory of Nelson Mandela, who will always be a hero to me.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I submit to my colleagues and some 181 million sports fans all over America who love the game of football just as much as I do, having played football for 4 years in high school, again and again, Mr. Speaker, this issue will not go away; and with all due respect, Mr. Speaker, I call upon the 32 football club owners of the National Football League and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to get rid of this derogatory word or racial slur, ``redskin,'' which currently describes the Washington football franchise. Mr. Speaker, the National Football League cannot just casually pass the responsibility to Mr. Dan Snyder, owner of the Washington team. The Washington football franchise is about a $1.3 billion business, rated third in the NFL, but the NFL is also a beneficiary and, I'm sure, gets a fair percentage of the proceeds from television broadcasts and concessions for selling clothing and sports souvenirs by these 32 club owners. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank President Barack Obama for weighing in on this issue just 2 weeks ago, and I hope NFL Commissioner Goodell will seriously pursue this matter. If Commissioner Goodell feels that if we are offending one person that we should listen, then listen to the leaders of the National Congress of American Indians, the oldest and the largest Native American organization, which represents the vast majority of some 5.2 million Native American Indians today. And when I say ``majority,'' Mr. Speaker, I'm talking about 2.6 million Native Americans who do have an issue to pull with the NFL using this racial and derogatory slur's name. I also want to thank Mr. Ray Halbritter, leader of the Oneida Indian Nation, for taking the initiative to get this to the American people so that they will better understand and appreciate why this word is so offensive to the Native American community. Again, Mr. Speaker, it is time for the NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, and the NFL to do the right thing. Change the name ``Redskins.'' It is a racial slur and a derogatory term for the American Indians.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I submit to my colleagues and some 181 million sports fans all over America who love the game of football just as much as I do having played football for four years in high school, that the time has come to end the use of the derogatory name ``redskin'' as the name of Washington's NFL franchise. Again and again, Mr. Speaker this issue has arisen and it will not go away. With all due respect Mr. Speaker, I call upon the 32 football club owners of the National Football League and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, to end the use of the derogatory word ``redskin'' as the name of Washington's football franchise. Mr. Speaker, the National Football League and Commissioner Goodell cannot just casually pass the responsibility to Mr. Dan Snyder, the owner of the Washington franchise. The Washington Football franchise is worth about $1.6 billion dollars, the third most valuable franchise in the NFL. The NFL has a responsibility to take steps to address the derogatory name because the NFL is also a beneficiary and receives a fair percentage of the proceeds from television broadcasts and merchandise sales from all 32 NFL franchises. I want to thank President Barack Obama for weighing in on this issue just last week and I hope NFL Commissioner Goodell will seriously pursue this matter. If Commissioner Goodell feels that if the name were offending one person, we should listen, listen to the leaders of the National Congress of American Indians the oldest and largest organization which Native American Indians that represents the vast majority of some 5.2 million Native American Indians today. I also want to thank Mr. Ray Halbritter, leader of the Oneida Indian Nation, Ms. Suzan Harjo a member of the Cheyenne and Hodugee Muscogee tribes, Ms. Amanda Blackhorse from the Navajo Nation, former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell and members of our Native American Congressional Caucus for raising this issue of not using this derogatory racial slur the word ``redskin''. Again, it is time for NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the NFL to do the right thing and take steps to end the use of a derogatory name for the NFL franchise in our nation's capital.

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA

Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, not only is the word ``redskin'' inappropriate, but just plain offensive. It is a derogatory term towards the American Indians. I want to share with my colleagues and the 181 million football fans all over America how the word ``redskin'' came about. In 1749, it was a standard procedure among the colonial settlers who lived in what is now Maine and Nova Scotia to kill and scalp as many of the Indians who were members of the Micmac Tribe. The same policy was also implemented in 1755 by settlers who lived in what is now known as the State of Massachusetts. Their objective was to kill and scalp members of the Penobscot Indian Nation. Mr. Speaker, the colonial policy was that you get paid for killing and scalping Native American Indians. If you kill an Indian boy, you get paid 50 pounds. If you get a scalp, that is an additional 40 pounds. Not only is it for the men, but also for the women and children that are scalped and killed. And you get paid for it. Mr. Speaker, I submit that these scalps were called ``redskins.'' Native Americans are human beings, Mr. Speaker. They are not animals.