02 January 2002

Congressman Todd Tiahrt Meets Philippine President

Representative Todd Tiahrt (Republican of Kansas), who represents the congressional district of kidnapped American missionaries Gracia and Martin Burnham, met with Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Jan. 1, according to a news release from the lawmaker's office.

The missionaries and a Filipino nurse are captives of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf group in the southern Philippines.

Tiahrt, wrapping up a visit to America's long-time Pacific ally, also discussed cooperation between the United States and the Philippine military in combating terrorism.

Tiahrt, the deputy majority whip in the House, is a member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense. The Kansas lawmaker is scheduled to return to the United States January 4.

Following is the text of a January 2 news release from the office of Representative Todd Tiahrt:

Philippine Government Agrees to Higher Level of Cooperation Against Terrorists

Philippine President assures Tiahrt she wants the Burnhams returned safely

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - U.S. Representative Todd Tiahrt (R-Goddard) met with Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Tuesday to discuss a higher level of cooperation between the Philippine and U.S. militaries in fighting terrorism and securing the safe release of Martin and Gracia Burnham.

"President Macapagal-Arroyo and I had a very cordial meeting, and she expressed her country's desire to have a close relationship with the United States," said Tiahrt. "She assured me she would be pleased to have a higher level of cooperation between the Philippine and U.S. militaries and as expeditiously as possible. The President appears to be committed to the war on terrorism and getting Martin and Gracia home safely."

Tiahrt could not elaborate on his discussions regarding enhanced cooperation between the Philippines and the United States with Macapagal-Arroyo and Philippine military officials, but indicated he would be meeting with U.S. defense officials upon his return to Washington.

Tiahrt has one more day of meetings in Manila before returning to the United States Thursday.