PRESIDENT BUSH SIGNS EXPORT-IMPORT BILL INTO LAW
ArmRadio.am
25.12.2006 17:08
The legislation prohibiting funding for a railroad linking Turkey,
Azerbaijan and Georgia while bypassing Armenia was signed into law
as part of a comprehensive measure known as the Export-Import Bank
Reauthorization Act of 2006, the Armenian Assembly of America informs.
The legislation included an amendment by Senators Robert Menendez
(D-NJ) and Rick Santorum (R-PA) ensuring that no Export-Import funding
is used for a rail line, which seeks to isolate Armenia from economic,
and regional transportation corridors. The provision mirrors the South
Caucasus Integration and Open Railroads Act, which was introduced in
both Houses with the support of the Armenian Assembly.
In a statement to the Assembly, the Co-Chairs of the Congressional
Caucus on Armenian Issues welcomed the adoption of the Export-Import
bill.
"We are pleased that this important amendment was included in the final
overall legislation," said Reps. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Joe
Knollenberg (R-MI). "US policy in the South Caucasus seeks to foster
regional cooperation and normalization of relations, not isolation. We
urge Turkey to review its policy of alienating Armenia, end its 13
year blockade and take steps to cooperate with its neighbors."
Enactment of this provision is part of the Armenian Assembly’s
anti-isolation campaign and resulted in a successful outcome with
final passage in the waning days of the 109th Congress.
"This Assembly initiative to combat Turkey’s and Azerbaijan’s attempts
to isolate Armenia is just one of the many ways in which we are working
to ensure a secure and prosperous homeland," said Executive Director
Bryan Ardouny. "We very much appreciate the leadership of House and
Senate Members for bringing this important initiative to fruition."
"I also want to thank those organizations and individuals who joined
us in this community-wide effort," he added.