Representative Pallone urges Senate to block Hoagland nomination

ArmRadio.am
27.07.2006 12:08

In a July 25th speech on the House floor, Congressional Armenian Caucus
Co-Chairman Frank Pallone (D-NJ) called on the US Senate to block the
nomination of Richard Hoagland to serve as the next US Ambassador to
Armenia, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

In his remarks, the New Jersey legislator outlined the reasons for
his opposition, notably Ambassador-designate Hoagland’s denial of the
Armenian Genocide and his evasiveness and lack of responsiveness to
Senate inquiries. He also highlighted the failure of the Administration
to respond honestly to communications it held with the Turkish
government concerning the firing of current US Ambassador to Armenia
John Evans over his February 2005 remarks affirming the Armenian
Genocide.

Congressman Pallone closed his speech by noting his "fear that
sending an ambassador to Yerevan who denies the Armenian genocide
would represent a tragic escalation in the Bush administration’s
ignorance and support in Turkey’s campaign of genocide denial. The
State Department has reported to Senate offices that they expect
Ambassador Designate Hoagland to be confirmed during a business meeting
early next week. I would urge the Senate to block his nomination
until this administration recognizes the Armenian genocide."