“Mr. Speaker, I am honored to join in strong support of House Concurrent Resolution 34, congratulating the people and the Prime Minister-elect of Israel on the success of the February 6, 2001 election.  

“I also want to commend the authors of this resolution, the distinguished Chairman of the International Relations Committee, Mr. Hyde, the distinguished ranking Democrat on the International Relations Committee and Co-Chairman of the Congressional Human Rights Caucus, Mr. Lantos, as well as the gentleman from New York Mr. Ackerman and the gentleman from Virginia Mr. Cantor.  These individuals should be commended for their leadership and I appreciate their working to bring this important measure to the floor.

“On behalf of myself and my constituents in the 9th Congressional District of Illinois, I Congratulate the people of Israel and the Prime Minister-elect of Israel, Ariel Sharon, for the successful February 6 election which further demonstrates Israel’s commitment to democracy. 

“This resolution also reaffirms the policy of the United States that there must be an end to the violence in the Middle East, and that we in this nation value our close friendship with Israel and are committed to Israel’s security.  Furthermore, It calls on Israel’s neighbors and the international community to respect the outcome of this election, and urges the entire international community to help foster peace in the Middle East.  
 
“The ongoing violence that threatens the people of Israel is troubling to me and it is important that the United States be clearly on record in support of Israel and in support of peace.

“I remain committed to doing whatever I can to guarantee a bright future for Israel and continuing U.S. support for efforts to bring peace and stability to Israel and the Middle East region.”