Bill to aid Israel, Armenia passes U.S. House

r/press/2006/6-8-06.htm
June 8, 2006

WASHINGTON , D.C. – The U.S. House today debated and passed the
Foreign Operations Appropriations Act of 2007. The legislation includes
funding for international aid, programs, and projects to assist in the
development of U.S. priorities abroad. Congressman Joe Knollenberg
(R-MI-09), a senior member of the committee with jurisdiction over
the bill, commended its passage.

"This is an excellent bill that balances the many priorities of
the United States around the world. Our foreign assistance fosters
democratic and transparent governments, promotes human rights, and
helps millions of people in need. While less than one percent of our
entire annual budget, foreign assistance serves as a main pillar of
our foreign policy and is an integral part of our national security.

This bill provides important economic and security assistance to
Israel , including $40 million for refugee resettlement. It also
prohibits direct funding for the Hamas-infected Palestinian Authority,
but allows limited humanitarian assistance under strict guidelines
and checks to ensure absolutely no funding reaches Hamas.

I am also particularly pleased that the bill provides $62 million in
economic assistance to Armenia . This funding is especially important
since Turkey and Azerbaijan continue to obstruct transportation and
infrastructure routes into and out of Armenia with the intention of
forcing Armenia into economic isolation.

This is a responsible bill. It’s the result of significant oversight,
it’s fiscally sound, and it focuses funding on priorities that will
advance democracy and freedom around the globe."

###