HONORABLE ENI F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA

       As a member of the Asia-Pacific Congressional Caucus, it is most appropriate that we deliberate and pass this legislation in honor of our Korean American community throughout the United States. I especially want to commend the authors of this legislation, both the gentleman from California (Mr. BECERRA) and the gentleman from California (Mr. ROYCE), who were instrumental in this measure's introduction. The gentleman from California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gentleman from California (Mr. BECERRA) are respectively the chairman and vice chairman of the U.S. Republic of Korea Interparliamentary Exchange and they have done, in my personal opinion, an excellent job in furthering relations between our two nations. 

       I would also like to commend the chairman and ranking Democrat of the Committee on International Relations, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. HYDE) and the gentleman from California (Mr. LANTOS), for their leadership and support in moving this measure on the floor.

       Mr. Speaker, as many of you know, our relations with North Korea are crucial as the Korean Peninsula has long been one of the most dangerous flash points in the world. The United States currently has over 37,000 military personnel stationed in South Korea, with many of them patrolling the demilitarized zone. 

       As one who served in the military in Vietnam, Mr. Speaker, I can never forget the presence of thousands of South Korean soldiers who fought side by side with us. I might submit that, in time of crisis, we know who our real friends are. I want to say to the leaders and the people of South Korea, for supporting us during the Vietnam War, I say, Kham-Samieda. 

       Mr. Speaker, since the Korean War, millions of Koreans have had their families separated and torn asunder with the division of North Korea and South Korea. After almost some 50 years, the tragedy of family separation continues, impacting more than 500,000 Korean Americans who have been denied contact with their loved ones in North Korea. 

       At a time when the administration has reviewed its policy to urge North Korea to improve implementation of the agreed framework on nuclear activities, verify constraints on North Korea's missile program and exports, and to adopt a less-threatening conventional military posture, we should also follow up South Korea President Kim's sunshine policy. 

       Last year's historic summit meeting and joint declarations between the leaders of South Korea and North Korea, in my opinion, has already borne fruit, resulting in limited reunions between long-separated Korean family members. 

       Mr. Speaker, we need to build on this progress, and we can only do so by adoption of this measure. Establishing ties and reuniting Americans of Korean ancestry with their relatives in North Korea addresses a humanitarian goal and, more importantly, could play a meaningful role in helping to open up North Korea while reducing tensions in the Korean peninsula. 

       Again, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.