The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“THE UNITED STATES SHOULD NOT PARTICIPATE IN ARAFAT CONFERENCE” mentioning the U.S. Dept of State was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E493 on March 18, 1997.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
THE UNITED STATES SHOULD NOT PARTICIPATE IN ARAFAT CONFERENCE
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HON. BILL McCOLLUM
of florida
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, March 18, 1997
Mr. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I am deeply concerned that the State Department has agreed to participate in an international conference convened by the Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. This is part of a strategy of confrontation with Israel and would be a serious mistake. It is my hope the State Department reconsiders this decision.
It appears that the Palestinian Government is attempting to drive a wedge between the United States and Israel. Distancing the United States from Israel encourages the tendency for Palestinians to negotiate with the United States instead of negotiating directly with Israel. Disregarding the existing negotiation process is counterproductive to the peace process.
Without question, the administration's record of support for the United States-Israel relationship has been commendable. Participation in this conference, However, would only tarnish that record. The United States simply does not belong in any type or organization--formal or informal--that is established to isolate and pressure Israel.
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