Dreier Votes to Support NATO Expansion

November 7, 2001

WASHINGTON - Emphasizing the importance of “alliances that promote and protect freedom,” Congressman David Dreier (R-San Dimas), Chairman of the House Rules Committee, voted today to approve legislation supporting expansion of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) membership to seven additional countries. The Gerald B. H. Solomon Freedom Consolidation Act of 2001 or H.R. 3167, named in honor of former Rules Committee Chairman Solomon, passed the House by a vote of 372 to 46.

“America has always encouraged nations to join us in an embrace of democratic values,” said Dreier. “The expansion of NATO is more than a military commitment, it’s a pledge of friendship and mutual agreement. It’s an agreement between nations that freedom must be protected, and that security is best assured by a coalition of like-minded democracies. Expanding NATO membership furthers the reach of freedom and strengthens the ties that bind us to our European allies.”

Established in 1949, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization began with an alliance of 12 nations committed to each other’s defense. The organization now includes 19 member countries and works to establish an environment which will promote peace and stability throughout Europe. Both President Bush and former President Clinton have supported efforts to expand NATO. H.R. 3167 does not call for admission of any particular country, but is supportive of the seven leading contenders for expansion: Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks on America, NATO has promised its “unwavering commitment” to the fight against terrorism.

Dreier praised the decision to dedicate H.R. 3167 to Chairman Solomon, who passed away last month. “The legislation is a fitting tribute to Jerry Solomon,” said Dreier. “He was a patriot who was always ready to advance the cause of freedom and that is exactly what this bill will do.”