Diaz-Balart Applauds Signing of NICA Act

WASHINGTON ­­– Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) issued the following statement after participating in the bill signing of H.R. 1918, the Nicaraguan Investment and Conditionality Act (NICA). Diaz-Balart, an original co-sponsor of the legislation, has ardently supported sanctions against members of Daniel Ortega's regime.

“After swift passage in Congress of the NICA Act and its signing into law, the United States once again stands in strong solidarity with those seeking freedom from tyranny. This bill provides the President with additional authority to impose tough sanctions on operatives of the Ortega regime, and cuts off resources to the regime as well as providing sanctions against countries that assist it. Since April, the people of Nicaragua have taken to the streets to denounce the oppression and violence carried out by Ortega and his thugs. This important legislation supports the Nicaraguan people in their demands for rule of law, human rights, and free, fair elections by denying resources to their oppressors.

“I am proud to stand with Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen as the President signs the NICA Act into law. I commend her leadership on this crucial legislation, and so many other bills and issues that she has championed during her three decades in Congress. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of tireless advocacy, trailblazing leadership, and commitment to our Southern Florida community. She has a long record of standing up for freedom and democracy in the world's most oppressed countries. I am profoundly grateful to have worked with her on so many issues that are close to both of our hearts. She will be sorely missed in the halls of the United States Congress.”

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