Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as co-chair of the U.K. Caucus of the U.S. Congress, I am grateful to recognize Queen Elizabeth II for her dedication and decades-long era of service to the people of the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and the Realms. On September 8, 2022, after 70 years of service to the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth realms, the beloved Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, the home she cherished. Queen Elizabeth reigned with dignity and elegance, leading unparalleled human progress, and winning over the hearts of many around the world. During her reign, she endured as a symbol of stability and strength as the monarchy faced constant political, cultural, and social change. The spirit of her steadfast leadership and devotion to the cause of freedom will remain with us all. During Queen Elizabeth's seven decades of service, she worked with 15 prime ministers, from Churchill to Truss, and 14 American presidents, from Truman to Biden. She welcomed her responsibility to not just represent her country with grace and poise, but to also play a constitutional role in government decisions, meeting with prime ministers weekly in private audiences. She also valued maintaining a connection with her people. This included making radio broadcasts, establishing a social media presence, introducing the Commonwealth games, sponsoring 3,000 charities across the globe, and hosting her much adored Jubilees. The civilized have benefitted incredibly with British cultural and government influences. I have experienced firsthand from an appreciation in America, to Ghana, to Hong Kong, to the Caribbean islands of St. Vincent, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, to Bermuda, freedom and democracy have been enhanced. I especially appreciate that I grew up in the most British city of North America--Charleston, South Carolina. Founded in 1670, surviving the American Revolution and Civil War, until unintended mothballing by poverty for a century to be revived in the 1960's with restoration of the elegant homes of the 1700's. Shortly after the Queen's passing, a double rainbow appeared over Buckingham Palace as thousands of members of the public gathered around to pay their respects. Not long after, a rainbow also appeared above Windsor Castle and Balmoral. This was a wonderous occurrence, as thousands of people, looking up at the sky, reflected on the Queen who served them so wonderfully for most of their lives. As Winston Churchill once stated, ``All the film people in the world, if they had scoured the globe, could not have found anyone so suited to the part.'' I offer my sincerest condolences to friends in the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and across the world, on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, under President Donald Trump, in 2020, America exported more petroleum than it imported for the first time since 1949. Donald Trump achieved energy independence. However, since Biden came to office, the national average for a gallon of gasoline is over $1.30 higher per gallon; electricity costs are 15 percent more; and at this point, Biden has leased fewer acres of offshore and Federal land for domestic oil and gas production than any President in 70 years. Also, on day one of his Presidency, Biden killed the Keystone XL pipeline, which could be supplying 800,000 barrels of oil a day from Canada to America. Higher gas prices increase delivery costs, increasing Bidenflation, which destroys jobs. Irresponsible decisions by Biden and the Democrats are responsible for the energy crisis. God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the global war on terrorism moves from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America. We will always cherish the service of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski. And God bless Ukraine victory.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the absurd declaration of Biden last month of ``zero inflation'' is an insult to intelligence. Inflation is at 8.5 percent, the highest in 40 years. American families know gasoline is up 44 percent; electricity, up 15.2 percent; food, up 13.1 percent; and transportation, up 9.2 percent, destroying jobs. Americans are fortunate to have vibrant radio talk shows, modern Paul Reveres, such as Columbia's Morning News (560 AM) with Gary David and Christopher Thompson. Yesterday, they highlighted the Heritage Foundation analysis that the average American worker has lost $3,400 in annual income since Biden took office due to Bidenflation. Gary revealed the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2021 that Americans spent more on taxes than they did on food, clothing, and healthcare combined. The Federal Reserve reported that household net worth fell $6.1 trillion from March to June. In conclusion, God bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years as the global war on terrorism moves from the safe haven in Afghanistan to America. God bless Ukraine victory. Queen Elizabeth II will always be cherished in America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I join with my colleagues, Congressmen Gerry Connolly, Dwight Evans, and Steve Chabot as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Bangladesh Caucus. We look forward to strengthening the United States-Bangladesh Relationship on the basis of our shared democratic values to address major issues, including climate change, human rights, and humanitarian challenges. The People of Bangladesh are well represented by the Bangladeshi Ambassador M Shahidul Islam. The Caucus was established, in part, to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Bangladesh, which began in 1972, soon after Bangladesh secured its independence from Pakistan. The United States has been a longstanding partner in Bangladesh's journey to economic development and democratic institution building since that time. During the last 50 years, Bangladesh has made significant socio- economic progress, including increased food production, disaster management capacity building, poverty alleviation, improved health and education, and women's empowerment. For more than a decade, Bangladesh has remained one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and its economic growth is not only benefiting its own people, but is also contributing to the peace, progress, and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific Region. Significantly, no other country in the world commits more forces to United Nations Peacekeeping. Bangladesh has a population of over 170 million, with a per capita income higher than its neighbors in South Asia. The United States is one of Bangladesh's most important trading partners, with approximately 19-20 percent of its exports destined for the United States. Also, bilateral trade between the United States and Bangladesh was over $10 billion (U.S.) in 2021. According to the United States Census Bureau, there are over 200,000 people of Bangladeshi Origin living in America. Promoting educational exchanges between Bangladesh and the United States benefits both nations, and with approximately 10,000 students from Bangladesh studying in the United States, the country places eighth in the World in this category. The Congressional Bangladesh Caucus will promote continued good relations between the United States and Bangladesh. Caucus Members will receive periodic updates on our bilateral relationship, joint efforts to combat terrorism and promote human rights, as well as opportunities for high-level visits between the two countries, including with Ambassador M Shahidul Islam as we work to strengthen our relationship.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, somehow in August the travesties of deceit by the Biden Administration are especially shocking, dangerous, and insulting to common sense. The abandonment of Afghanistan last year was the most horrific national security and foreign policy debacle in American history. Thirteen American servicemembers were murdered and numerous others were left behind, as a familiar safe haven for terrorists was re-established as the one we gruesomely experienced on September 11, 2001. Dangerous criminals on the Terrorist Watch List are now invading the open Southern border, as cartels are enriched with human trafficking and fentanyl smuggling at the cost of American lives. The raid on the Trump Home on Monday is an inconceivable political assault on democracy, repeating the hoax of Russian Collusion. FBI agents are abused as pawns by deranged, political zealots. And on Wednesday, the absurd declaration by Biden of ``zero inflation'' is a disconnect from reality. Inflation is 8.5 percent, the highest in forty years. American families know gasoline is up 44 percent, electricity up 15.2 percent, food up 13.1 percent, and transportation up 9.2 percent. Despite the universal definition of a recession in two quarters of GDP decline, Biden denies the truth and persists with his failing agenda of raising taxes, borrowing, and foolish massive spending, sparking inflation and destroying jobs. Sadly, the failures of Biden have created inconceivable threats at home and abroad and he should change policies immediately to protect American families.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, during his August 26th remarks regarding the 2021 terrorist attack at the Kabul, Afghanistan airport, where 13 American servicemembers were murdered, Biden was asked about the Afghanistan withdrawal and the addition of forces to protect Americans during the evacuation. Biden responded that military leaders have contacted him, ``. . . usually by letter, saying they subscribe to the mission as designed . . .''. That evening, I sent the first of now five written requests to the White House asking for copies of these letters by a deadline of September 11. Nearly one year later, I am still waiting for a reply. During an August 2021 House Armed Services Committee hearing, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley and General Frank McKenzie, then the commander of the U.S. Central Command, both testified that they had recommended to Biden that he should leave a residual troop presence. Additionally, in a closed Senate hearing, Operation Resolute Support Commander General Scott Miller testified that he opposed the Biden administration's decision to withdraw all U.S. forces, citing the threat posed by the Taliban. The decision to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan and abandon Americans regardless of the conditions on the ground, has been correctly identified by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell as ``one of the worst foreign policy decisions in American history.'' While President Donald Trump went a step further saying, ``This is the greatest embarrassment . . . in the history of our country.'' President Trump has made clear his withdrawal would have been orderly and Bagram Air Base would have been maintained to defeat a terrorist safe haven. Sadly, no response from the White House reveals admission of no `letters.' It is also important to ask where the American media is on this critical issue of the claimed Afghanistan letters? Ultimately, this ill-advised decision not only resulted in the death of U.S. servicemembers, but put the reputation and credibility of the U.S. in question, all while leaving the remaining American citizens in Afghanistan vulnerable. The world is less safe with the Taliban regime emboldened. In conclusion, God Bless our troops, who successfully protected America for 20 years, as the Global War on Terrorism continues moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, last week Congress experienced a personal loss with the death of Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, one of our greatest Members. Many of us lost a dear friend. Jackie has been memorialized with extraordinary, deserved tributes. Congresswoman Ann Wagner praised, ``Jackie was a no nonsense, get it done woman.'' Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Banks correctly cited, ``[Jackie] embodied what it means to be a public servant.'' Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy praised her passion, ``empowering children and families, running a foundation in Romania . . . fighting for justice from fentanyl victims.'' Republican Whip Steve Scalise praised Jackie for ``her kindness, tenacity, and commitment to helping others'' as a valued member of the Whip team. Ways and Means Republican Leader Kevin Brady thoughtfully stated, ``God took a special angel home today. Congresswoman Jackie Walorski was a happy Hoosier who would light up the room with her joy, passion, brilliance, and love of life.'' I will always cherish leading a delegation with Jackie to Poland where her Polish heritage was beloved. She and her husband Dean were a great team in helping liberate Eastern Europe for America. God Bless our Troops. We will never forget September 11th as the Global War on Terrorism continues moving from a safe haven in Afghanistan to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, August 15th is a significant date in world history as it marks the 75th Anniversary of the independence of the Republic of India. The landmark occasion is being celebrated as an historic democratic victory in a festival called Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. America especially rejoices for the people of India as the world's oldest democracy celebrates the world's largest democracy. 2022 is especially significant as democracies (rule of law) are threatened by authoritarians (rule of gun), exemplified by war criminal Putin murderously invading Ukraine, the Chinese Communist Party threatening Taiwan, and Iranian theocrats chanting Death to Israel, Death to America. World chaos is also a threat to the people of India. As the son of a U.S. Army Air Corps member in the Flying Tigers who served in India and China, I grew up with an appreciation of the work ethic my father recognized in India. As a real estate attorney in South Carolina, I welcomed new investors who bought hotels and motels creating jobs across the state. In Congress I chaired the largest country Caucus, the Caucus of India and Indian Americans. I will be forever grateful to have been with Governor Nikki Haley (America's second Indian American Governor) to welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Center Ring of Madison Square Garden in New York City. I was also on the escort committee for the Prime Minister's address to Congress. I was present with President Donald Trump for the historic 'Howdy Modi' celebration in Houston, Texas, with over 50,000 Indian-Americans in attendance. Additionally, I attended the Prime Minister's 2019 Independence Day address at the Red Fort in New Delhi, India. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to serve with the Consul General of India in Atlanta, Dr. Swati V. Kulkarni, who is passionate for the people of India. The 75th Anniversary is an opportunity for the shared values of India and America to be fulfilled. President Donald Trump correctly identified the Indo-Pacific Command as a way to promote Indian-U.S. military cooperation for Peace Through Strength. India's proven industrial capabilities provide an opportunity to reduce dependence on foreign military sales. The future is bright for the people of India and with our shared values of democracy, the future is bright for a strong alliance of India and America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, last week, Congressman Bill Keating offered an historic resolution expressing support for Finland and Sweden to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). I was particularly grateful to support the resolution having just returned from a Congressional Delegation of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to Helsinki, Finland, and Stockholm, Sweden. Led by Helsinki Commission Ranking Member Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi and Co-Chairman Representative Steve Cohen of Tennessee, the U.S. delegation was grateful to meet with President Sauli Niinisto of Finland, OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Vice President and Special Representative Pia Kauma of Finland, Foreign Minister Ann Linde of Sweden, OSCE Parliamentarv Assembly President Margareta Cederfelt, and Speaker of the Swedish Parliament Andreas Norlen, NATO is more important than ever with war criminal Putin's mass murder in Ukraine, sacrificing young Russians for his personal gain of oil, money, and power. Tragically, many of us never imagined the insanity of a 21st Century land war in Europe. Both Finland and Sweden enhance the peacekeeping ability of NATO with their professional militaries and extraordinary defense manufacturing capabilities to promote Peace Through Strength. The addition of Finland would increase the border of NATO with the Russian Federation by 830-miles, which could inspire Russian patriots to reestablish democracy as a valued partner in Western Civilization. I will be clear that democracy (rule of law) will prevail to authoritarianism (rule of gun).

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, in response to war criminal Putin's war in Ukraine, another viable alternative has been reported by Reuters to eliminate dependency in Europe for Putin's gas. Algeria, Niger, Nigeria revive talks on Saharan gas pipeline. Algeria, Niger, and Nigeria held talks this week on the revival of a decades-old project to pipe gas across the Sahara, a potential opportunity for Europe to diversify its gas sources. The Trans-Saharan gas pipeline is an estimated $13 billion project that could send up to 30 billion cubic metres a year of supplies to Europe. The revival comes at a strategic time, as the European Union seeks to wean itself off Russian gas following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, and is seeking alternative sources. ``(The pipeline) should allow Europe to diversify its sources of natural gas supply but also allow several African states to access this high value energy source,'' said a joint statement. With a length of 4,128 kilometres (2,565 miles), the pipeline would start in Warri, Nigeria, and end in Hassi R'Mel, Algeria, where it would connect to existing pipelines that run to Europe. Nigeria also took steps this month to move forward on another long-awaited pipeline, which would go through West Africa and Morocco to Europe. Along with increased American production reversing Biden's failed energy policies, the world can come together in the conflict of authoritarians (rule of gun) against democracy (rule of law).

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, American families are at greater risk of mass murder terrorist attacks than ever before due to the failing border policies of President Biden. Intentionally opening the southern border, nearly 3 million illegal aliens from over 160 countries have intruded since Biden took office. American jobs are destroyed. Deadly drugs are smuggled by cartels, leading to over 100,000 deaths last year, devastating American families. Most gruesome is the imminent danger of known terrorists from the Terrorist Screening Database crossing into America. Last year, in Del Rio, Texas, officials would not reveal to me the number of terrorists crossing. Now, we see the threat is real, with 50 terrorists just this year. These terrorists are skilled, well-financed, fully equipped, and maniacally motivated mass murderers. Open borders for terrorists must be addressed. Biden should now take every action to protect American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism, as it continues, moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I was unavoidably detained on June 14, 2022. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 259.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yet again, the world is uniting against war criminal Putin and his murderous invasion of Ukraine. The European Union is set to sign an agreement with Israel and Egypt which will free itself from Putin energy reliance. EU leaders say they will reduce Russian oil and gas imports, cutting financial resources to the Putin war machine where young Russians are sacrificed by Putin for personal gain of oil, money and power, while conducting mass murder in Ukraine. In the plan, Israel will export natural gas in a pipeline to Egypt where it will be turned into liquified natural gas, then delivered to EU member states. I appreciate the service of Egyptian Ambassador to the U.S. Motaz Zahran. During a trip to Israel this week, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said, The Kremlin's behavior only strengthens our resolve to break free of Russian fossil fuels. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues to move from the safe haven of Afghanistan to America. As the co-chair of the EU Caucus and the Israel Caucus, I especially appreciate the cooperation we see today.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I was grateful to have attended the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation's annual Celebration of Service to America Awards on Tuesday, June 7th. It was heartfelt to hear the acceptance speech by Jose Andres. His support for the people of Ukraine was so moving. The Service to America Leadership Award recognizes individuals and organizations responsible for improving the lives of others through extraordinary public service. It is the Foundation's highest individual honor. This year, esteemed chef, bestselling author, educator, and humanitarian Jose Andres received the Service to America Leadership Award from the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation. Andres is highly acclaimed globally for his avant-garde cuisine served through his restaurant collective, ThinkFoodGroup. Twice honored in Time Magazine's ``100 Most Influential People'' and a New York Times bestselling author, Andres was awarded the National Humanities medal, which honors individuals or groups whose work has deepened the nation's understanding of the humanities, by President Barack Obama in 2015. In 2021, Andres launched Jose Andres Media, which will produce unscripted and scripted television series, books, podcasts, and digital content with a focus on stories about the power of food. Through his nonprofit World Central Kitchen (WCK), Andres leads humanitarian efforts to feed communities in need and reduce food insecurity during times of crisis. Andres and his team have served fresh meals to those affected by man-made and natural disasters across six continents, including serving over 3.6 million meals to those affected by Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico in 2017. Most recently, WCK partnered with local leaders, farmers, and restaurants to help those experiencing food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and laying the foundation for smarter national food policy. Andres and WCK have been on the ground in Ukraine cooking nonstop since late February, where they have served nearly 30 million meals. The NAB Leadership Foundation is proud to present Jose Andres with the 2022 Service to America Leadership Award.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, sadly, inflation has increased to over 8 percent, the highest rate in over 40 years. Now family budgets are draining at the pump. The over $5 per gallon for gas is the highest ever, caused by failing Biden policies. The American Energy Alliance with Stephen Moore on the Unleash Prosperity Hotline has identified over 100 initiatives enacted by Biden to restrict American oil and gas development. When Biden took office, gas was $2.39 a gallon. Now it has doubled. These extremist policies intentionally discourage gas usage without alternatives available to families. Declaring war on American energy subsidizes war criminal Putin's mass murder in Ukraine and allows Iran to proceed with nuclear weapons to fulfill ``Death to Israel. Death to America.'' America needs price relief through an all-of-the-above energy policy achieved by President Donald Trump. In conclusion, God bless our troops who have successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America. Happy birthday, Donald Trump.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, June is Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise the level of attention to debilitating dementias. I appreciate the dedication of Taylor Wilson, the Director of Government Affairs for the Alzheimer's Association of South Carolina. Alzheimer's is a brain disorder which slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. It is not a normal part of aging but a result of complex changes in the brain that start years before symptoms appear. I am grateful for the Lexington Medical Center Carroll Campbell Place, in loving memory of former and late Governor Carroll Campbell. According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are nearly 6 million people in the U.S. that have Alzheimer's and related dementias. We honor those families in America facing a dementia diagnosis, while supporting the hope of all that through research, we can find a prevention or treatment for this fatal disease. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, last week marked 100 tragic days since war criminal Putin's war of mass murder against the sovereign country of Ukraine. Putin's merciless killing continues to horrify the world, while the heroic fight by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the brave Ukrainians continue to draw inspiration. Ukrainians are front line in the global conflict of democracy's rule of law, opposed by authoritarian's rule of gun. I was grateful to be in Lithuania last week meeting with members of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. Led by its president, Gerry Connolly, the bipartisan delegation welcomed Finland and Sweden into NATO, which Putin has unintentionally unified for victory in Ukraine. Putin is sacrificing Russian troops for his personal gain of oil, money, and power. Ever resolute, President Zelenskyy has said, ``We have defended Ukraine for 100 days already. Victory will be ours.'' America and the world support Ukraine in its efforts to protect its citizens and defeat evil. In conclusion, God bless our troops who have successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, costs for everyday products and services continue to rise, and American families are suffering. Gas costs have doubled under Biden, reaching the highest level ever for the price of gas today. In the last year we have all experienced price increases for everyday items, including: eggs up 22 percent, chicken up 16 percent, bacon up 17 percent, milk up 14 percent, roasted coffee up 14 percent, and breakfast cereal up 12 percent. It is not uncommon for a can of soup on the shelf to be marked at 65 cents, but at checkout, it registers $1. A Dollar Store had all merchandise for $1 until Valentine's Day, but now all merchandise is $1.25. Due to policies pushed by Biden and Democrats, everyday families are left to suffer the effects. America should resume the Trump policies of all-of-the-above energy. In conclusion, God bless our troops who successfully protected America for 20 years in the global war on terrorism as it continues moving from the Afghanistan safe haven to America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, the strong and vibrant relationship between India, the world's largest democracy, and the United States, the world's oldest democracy, has demonstrated our shared values for Rule of Law. I grew up with an appreciation of the people of India, because my father, First Lieutenant Hugh Wilson, served there in the U.S. Army Air Corps Flying Tigers in 1944, where he recognized the industriousness of the citizens of India. I am particularly grateful for the prosperous Indian-American community in South Carolina and look forward to its continued growth and achievements. In 2014 in New York at Madison Square Garden, I helped welcome Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in 2016 in Washington, I was on the Escort Committee for the Prime Minister's address to Congress, in 2019 in New Delhi at the Red Fort, I attended Indian Independence Day, and in 2019 at the Howdy Modi program in Houston at the Astrodome, I joined President Donald Trump to recognize the Prime Minister. South Carolina's first female governor in 340 years was appropriately Nikki Randhawa Haley, who served with distinction. The Indian American community, of all immigrant groups in the United States, has achieved the highest per capita income level. I appreciate the visits with India's Consul General Dr. Swati V. Kulkarni of Atlanta and Mr. KV Kumar, President and CEO of the Indian American International Chamber of Commerce to discuss the bilateral relationship between India and the United States. Bilateral trade in goods between the two countries crossed the $100 billion mark in 2021, making it the largest volume of goods trade in a calendar year in India-U.S. economic history. This also represents an almost 45 percent jump from 2020, which is the single biggest jump of all the U.S. trade partners. Working together, Indian industry can build dynamic military manufacturing to be independent of foreign suppliers. The talks with Consul General also covered conversation on mass murder by war criminal Putin in Ukraine, its implications, and current regional developments. To take U.S. and India ties forward and to realize the full spirit of our strategic partnership, USA and the Republic of India need to cooperate more closely in the Indo-Pacific. Certainly, there are issues of mutual concern with regard to China's malign goals in the region, and the partnership to counter these authoritarian aspirations should be robust. Throughout her service as India's Consul General, Dr. Kulkarni has been an exemplary representative of the Republic of India. She was proactive across the southeast promoting the shared values of India and America. She will be greatly missed upon her departure from her post, as she continues her productive service for the people of India. In the current contest of democracy with Rule of Law opposed by authoritarians with Rule of Gun, it is more important for cooperation to establish peace through strength.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to commemorate the 50-year relationship between the United States and Qatar. In addition to serving as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on Qatar, I serve on both the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Armed Services Committee. I am grateful for the opportunity to work closely with Qatar both diplomatically and strategically. The United States established diplomatic relations with Qatar following its independence from the United Kingdom in 1971. Officially, the beginning of diplomatic relations took place on March 19, 1972, when American diplomat William Stoltzfus met with Qatari government officials and submitted his credentials. Bilateral relations between the two countries expanded when the U.S. opened its embassy in Doha in March 1973; and when the first resident U.S. Ambassador, Robert Peter Paganelli, arrived in July 1974. The United States and Qatar cooperate militarily and strategically on security in the region. One of the earliest and most notable military cooperation's between the U.S. and Qatar was in 1991, when joint military operations were conducted against Saddam Hussein's Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. In the aftermath, both nations agreed upon the need for a Defense Cooperation Agreement. This pact, which has subsequently been expanded, has served as the basis for our military collaboration. In 1996, Qatar built Al Udeid Air Base to further security ties between our countries. In 1999, then Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad, told U.S. officials that he ``would like to see as many as 10,000 U.S. servicemen permanently stationed at Al Udeid.'' The U.S. first used the then-secret base in late September 2001, when the Air Force needed to get aircraft in position for its operations in Afghanistan. In April 2003, the U.S. Combat Air Operations Center for the Middle East moved from Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia to Qatar, underscoring the importance of Qatar to the American presence and objectives in the region. Al Udeid is now home to the largest U.S. military base in the Middle East and more notably Qatar is not only allowing expansion of Al Udeid, but also funding it and managing the construction. In fact, the Qatari government has provided over $8 billion in funding for Al Udeid Air Base since 2003. After renovations and expansions, Al Udeid will be able to accommodate up to 120 aircraft and 10,000 troops, just like then Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad had wished for. Personally, I am grateful that the U.S. Air Forces Central Command is headquartered at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina and has a forward headquarters in Qatar. As the air component of CENTCOM, AFCENT is responsible for air operations, either unilaterally or in concert with coalition partners, and for developing contingency plans in support of national objectives for CENTCOM's 20-nation area of responsibility. Qatar has been an invaluable partner on several diplomatic fronts. Qatar quietly assisted in ending the Israel-Hamas war in May 2021 and continues to be helpful in seeking to improve Israeli relations with Palestinians. Qatar played a significant role in the evacuation of more than 100,000 people from Afghanistan after the disastrous withdrawal by the Biden Administration. Qatar facilitated vetting of individuals seeking to leave the country and organized aspects of their departure. Many of the flights that enabled people to evacuate were by way of Qatari airlines. In addition, a large percentage of the new refugees were brought to Qatar, which arranged housing and other shelter for them as well as food, medicine and other provisions. At one point, the Qatari military was providing over 50,000 meals per day to the newly arrived refugees. There are still thousands of Afghan refugees in Qatar, where they continue to receive much needed care and assistance. In addition to security and diplomatic relations, the United States and Qatar have extensive economic ties. As Qatar's largest foreign direct investor and its single largest source of imports, the United States has developed a robust trade relationship with Qatar, with over 120 U.S companies operating in country. U.S. exports to Qatar increased by 47.7 percent from 2018 to 2019, totaling $6.5 billion in 2019. The United States is a leading equipment supplier and partner for Qatar's oil and gas industry, and U.S. companies have played a significant role in the development of the oil and gas sector. In addition to energy, U.S. companies also export to Qatar's defense, aviation, ICT, healthcare, food, and engineering/construction sectors. U.S. imports from Qatar include liquefied natural gas, aluminum, fertilizers, and sulfur. The United States and Qatar signed a trade and investment framework agreement and participate in annual bilateral Strategic Dialogues. I appreciate Qatar's efforts to invest $45 billion in the United States, including large investments in South Carolina. Qatari firm Barzan is helping fund a facility in Charleston, South Carolina, adding an estimated 50,000 American jobs. Major educational ties have been developed over the course of the fifty-year relationship. Annually, there are hundreds of Qatari students studying in the United States and six U.S. universities have branch campuses in Qatar's Education City complex. These Universities are Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Texas A&M University at Qatar, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar, and Northwestern University. In conclusion, over the course of the fifty-year relationship, the United States and Qatar have developed military and strategic ties, cooperated on major diplomatic initiatives, enlarged financial and economic relations, and supported educational advancement for students in both countries. With that being said, the most important factor to consider is that two nations located in different regions of the world, with different histories and cultures have been able to forge an enduring and prosperous friendship based on many shared values. This will set the stage for the next fifty years and beyond.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I am grateful to recognize The Washington Times on their 40-year anniversary. Since its founding on May 17, 1982, The Washington Times has been a valuable resource by providing clear and informative articles on current events and national politics. I appreciate their continued service and look forward to reading their publication for many years to come. The following article, ``Washington Times' Only Agenda is the Agenda of its Readers,'' published May 16, 2022, by Christopher Dolan, President and Executive Editor, and Charles Hurt, Opinion Editor, encapsulates their years of journalistic accomplishments: Dear readers: For 40 years, The Washington Times has stood sentinel along the banks of the Potomac River, shining a bright light into all corners of the federal government. During Republican administrations and Democratic administrations alike, the paper has been unflinching in keeping its responsibility to inform readers and expose government shenanigans. Long before ``fair and balanced'' became a battle cry and the proliferation of websites spanning the political spectrum, there was The Washington Times, beholden to no one and no party. When Ronald Reagan stormed into Washington on a promise to ``make America great again,'' The Washington Times was there and chronicled the historic collapse of the Soviet Union. When George H.W. Bush won the Gulf War, only to later stumble on his pledge of ``no new taxes,'' The Washington Times was there. When a young, smooth-talking governor from Arkansas stunned the political world, The Washington Times was there. And for eight years, the paper produced award-winning political coverage that culminated in President Clinton's impeachment and investigations that to this day leave many questions unanswered. During the epic 2000 presidential election recount in Florida, The Times was there, counting chads and recording every legal argument all the way to the Supreme Court. On Sept. 11, 2001, The Washington Times was there. And never forgot. The Times stood watch from the triumphant march into Baghdad to the bitter end of George W. Bush's presidency. The Times was there for the hopeful dawn of President Obama's inauguration to the rejection of his presidency with the election of Donald Trump. Of course, politics is the bread and butter of any newspaper based in Washington. But The Times also has invested unparalleled energies into covering the First Amendment, religious freedom, American culture, gun rights and social issues that many other newspaper shy from. The only agenda of The Washington Times is the agenda of its readers. If it is important to you, it is important to us. It has always been that way. Over the past four decades, tumultuous changes have wracked the newspaper industry. Today, there is greater competition among news outlets-- both in print and online--than ever before in human history. The most vaunted and venerated publications must now compete with any other outlet with a web address and a keyboard. But to this day, The Washington Times has never surrendered its independence, its dedication to accuracy and its devotion to the interests of its readers. Thank you for reading. We hope you will keep reading for the next 40 years.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record the following obituary for Thomas ``Tommy'' Cecil Harman. Tommy was the loving husband of Bobbie Sue Harman with whom he celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 1, 2022. He was the father of Andrea Harman Duncan (Mark) and Jason Thomas Harman (Christina). His six grandchildren, whom he loved and cherished, are Abbie and Austin Duncan and McElson, Madison, Jase, and Jacob Harman. He is also survived by loving brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, loving nieces and nephews, a special aunt and uncle, and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Layman and Ganelle Harman and brother, Archie L. Harman. Tommy was born on December 6, 1950. He attended Lexington 1 schools and then Clemson University where he graduated in 1973 with a degree in Financial Management. He was employed by the Lexington State Bank from 1973-1995 where he was vice- president, loan officer, and in human resources. He was then President and CEO of the Lexington Chamber of Commerce from 1995-1999 and later head of public relations for Pond Branch Telephone Company (PBT Telecom), which later became Comporium, until his retirement in 2015. Tommy tirelessly served his family, community, and church. He has been a member of Lexington Baptist Church for 50 years where he served terms as a deacon, served on the kindergarten and stewardship committees, was a former church treasurer, former children's Sunday school teacher, and a faithful servant in many other ways. Tommy was the charter president of the Lexington Sertoma Club, where he remained a member and leader for 45 continuous years. He led many fundraising projects including his idea of celebrating ``Big Thursday'' with Carolina and Clemson fans each October. The club has been able to provide funding for speech and hearing projects and help the community of Lexington through this event. Tommy headed up the Lexington Community Committee ``Power Up Lunch'' for businesses from 2003 to 2013. He served several terms on the Board of Directors for the Batesburg- Leesville and Lexington Chambers of Commerce. He was a former member of the Batesburg-Leesville Rotary Club and the Gilbert Ruritan Club. He was also a 1997 Leadership Lexington graduate. Because of his community work, Tommy received numerous awards. Among these are the 2015 State of South Carolina Order of the Silver Crescent, the A. L. Harman award by the Lexington Chamber of Commerce, and the Lexington Sertoma Club Achievement Award. Tommy loved helping coach his son Jason's baseball and basketball teams. He greatly enjoyed Clemson sporting events with family and friends. He loved traveling and especially enjoyed planning trips. He was proud of the fact that he had visited 54 National Parks and every state in the United States. He loved to take his family and friends to show them the beautiful parks and God's handiwork. He truly loved life and he loved living it. More than anything else, he loved Jesus Christ and wanted everyone to know about the power of God's saving grace. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 2, 2022 at Lexington Baptist Church with interment to follow at Lexington Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 1, at Caughman- Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, this week on May 10th a Marker Dedication Ceremony was held in Charleston, South Carolina, for Michael Kovats de Fabricy, the Founding Father of the United States Calvary. Michael Kovats de Fabricy was a Hungarian nobleman and accomplished officer in the Prussian Calvary. He was a retired Hussar major in the Austro-Hungarian army. Upon learning of the American Revolution, he wrote on January 17, 1777, to American Ambassador to France, Benjamin Franklin, to volunteer his services and pledged himself ``faithful unto death.'' Kovats was appointed colonel commandant of Pulaski's Legion in the Continental Army in 1778. He recruited, trained, and led what became the first U.S. Calvary unit. He was the highest-ranking Hungarian military officer in the American Revolutionary War. Kovats was killed on May 11, 1779, while leading an assault on British troops in Charleston, South Carolina. He remained true to his word and was loyal and faithful to American freedom to his death. The Dedication Ceremony was appropriately at The Old Exchange Building coordinated by Director Tony Youmans. In the American Revolution British tea was seized and stored at the Exchange Building basement then sold to finance the Revolution and not thrown into the harbor. The Color Guard of the venerated Washington Light Infantry was provided by Major General Henry Siegling, Commander, and Colonel Myron C. Herrington, Historian and Secretary. The Washington Light Infantry is a military and social organization founded in 1807 as one of the oldest in America. The Dedication and Unveiling was conducted by National Society Daughters of American Revolution President General Denise Doring VanBuren. It was extraordinary Deputy Chief of Mission of the Embassy of Hungary, Magor Ernyei delivered remarks at the event and highlighting that there is a statue of Michael Kovats in Washington outside the Embassy of Hungary. Clearly there is great affection in South Carolina for the people of Hungary. We will always cherish the courage of Hungarians to oppose the Soviet Tank Invasion of 1956 just as we support the people of Ukraine to oppose the Putin Tank Invasion of 2022. Program participants in the service and assisted in this event from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution: Bonnibel Moffat, South Carolina State Regent; Nancy Herritage, State Historian; Laura Kessler, Historian General; Pamela Bork, Chaplain General; Cynthia Sweeney, Librarian General; Janet Whittington, Curator General; Elizabeth Billham, Vice President General; and Pat Kinard, Regent of the Rebecca Motte Chapter.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, as the civilized world has been unintentionally unified in opposition to Putin conducting mass murder in Ukraine, Putin has unwittingly unified Republicans and Democrats in America. A clear example is Republican support of an op-ed from the Democrat Washington Post by Josh Rogin ``West can't afford to neglect Moldova, because Putin won't'' being the lead Opinion April 24th in The State paper of Columbia, South Carolina: West Can't Afford As the United States and Europe continue to scramble to help Ukraine defend its territory, preserve its democracy and save its economy, they should keep in mind that Ukraine is not the only country in the region suffering due to Russian President Vladimir Putin's aggression. Next door, the small country of Moldova is appealing to the West for urgent help and long-term partnership. If we turn away from Moldova, again, we will push it into Putin's arms. ``The Russian military aggression in Ukraine is making every single person in Europe feel less secure and is having a negative impact on every single person in Europe,'' Moldova's foreign minister, Nicu Popescu, told me in an interview last week in Washington. ``And of course, this impact is more negative on Moldova, because Moldova is right there.'' Popescu' s official title is Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, which should tell us something. The new government in Moldova, one of the region's poorest countries, is trying to break a longrunning pattern of political dysfunction, systemic corruption and malign influence coming from Moscow. The December 2020 landslide election of Moldova's first outright pro- Western president, the Harvard-educated former World Bank economist Maia Sandu, presents the best chance yet to move Moldova firmly into the Western camp. The Moldovan government has always tried to balance its relationships, for understandable reasons. Russia has 1,500 troops occupying the Moldovan breakaway territory of Transnistria and controls Moldova's energy supply. There is still a large pro-Russian constituency in Moldovan politics, business and society. But the invasion of Ukraine has changed everything in geopolitics, especially for Ukraine's neighbors who now see that ``neutrality'' does not protect a small country from being viciously attacked on Putin's whim. The Moldovan government has condemned the Russian invasion, even though Putin's retaliation could prove disastrous. ``Moldova is a neutral state, but neutrality only refers to us not participating in military action,'' Popescu told me. ``We're not neutral when it comes to condemning the aggression. We're not neutral when it comes to defending the principles of international law, which must be respected.'' The United States and European countries have been paying more attention to Moldova recently. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the capital, Chisinau, last month. The United States has given Moldova $130 million since the Ukraine war started to help with the hundreds of thousands of new refugees spilling over the border. But that's just a Band-Aid for Moldova's problems. ``We need to ensure socioeconomic stability. We are severely impacted by the war. We are Ukraine's most fragile neighbor,'' Popescu said. ``We've been coping reasonably well with the humanitarian crisis, the refugee situation and the energy crisis. We've been pursuing reforms. But, it's a difficult region.'' The question is whether the West's recent increased attention to Moldova will persist beyond the current crisis. Popescu's visit was framed as a new ``strategic dialogue'' with the United States, but a similar effort during the Obama administration withered away. There are several specific things the United States could do to cement its commitment to Moldova's long-term stability and success. The Justice Department could do more to go after Moldova's sanctioned oligarchs and their wealth, especially the ones living in the United States. U.S. organizations should double down on helping Moldova continue its reforms and root out corruption. And the United States can help Moldova diversify its energy supply, diluting Putin's leverage. And while Moldova isn't seeking military assistance, it has a huge and growing need for help fortifying and managing its borders, including the 863 miles it shares with Ukraine. That's perhaps the most urgent effort, because if Ukraine falls, Moldova could easily be Russia's next target. Would Putin actually invade Moldova and try to topple the prowestern government, as he is attempting to do next door? ``We don't know,'' Popescu told me. ``Our task is to be ready for everything.'' In conclusion, I am grateful for the committed service of Mr. Eugen Caras, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the United States of America and United Mexican States. We stand together to deter war criminal Putin with the courageous people of Ukraine led by President Zelenskyy who has adopted the spirit of the American Revolution ``Don't tread on me'', ``Live Free or Die.'' The unity of freedom-loving countries was reinforced by President Salome Zourabichvili of Georgia who I am grateful to meet with today. He has courageously cited that the people of Georgia are 100 percent united in ``solidarity with Ukraine.''

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.