U.S. Opposes Schiff Amendment to FY 05 Foreign Operations Appropriations Bill

The Administration strongly opposes this amendment which seeks to restrict U.S. assistance to Turkey. It should not become law. The amendment is detrimental to the cause we all seek: reconciliation between Turkey and Armenia in pursuit of regional peace and economic cooperation. Turkey and Armenia have been pursuing these goals through direct meetings. Turkey, our key NATO ally, and Armenia, our close friend, are partners in the Global War on Terror and in advancing democracy, prosperity and stability in the Caucasus. Our goal is to bolster cooperation between these two countries rather than to separate them.

We welcome the statement by House Speaker Hastert, Majority Leader DeLay and Majority Whip Blunt citing their strong opposition to this amendment and their commitment to insisting that the amendment be dropped in conference. We welcome the Leadership's recognition of the important relationship with our reliable ally and friend Turkey and of the need for continued close economic and security relations between our countries.

2004/781