12 February 2002

Senate Passes Resolution Welcoming Pakistan's Musharraf to U.S.

The Senate passed by unanimous consent February 12 a resolution welcoming Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf to the United States, and commending his efforts in the war against terrorism.

Senators Sam Brownback (Republican of Kansas) and Paul Wellstone (Democrat of Minnesota) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 96 (S. Con. Res. 96) to the Senate on February 12, and Senator Harry Reid (Democrat of Nevada) brought the resolution to the Senate floor for action that same day.

A similar resolution, House Concurrent Resolution 324, passed the House by voice vote on February 12.

Following is the text of the Senate resolution:

Senate Concurrent Resolution 96 Commending President Pervez Musharraf Of Pakistan For His Leadership And Friendship And Welcoming Him To The United States

Senate February 12, 2002

Mr. Brownback (for himself and Mr. Wellstone) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was considered and agreed to.

S. Con. Res. 96

Whereas President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan has shown courageous leadership in cooperating with the United States in the campaign in Afghanistan;

Whereas President Musharraf has shown great fortitude in confronting domestic extremists;

Whereas the efforts of President Musharraf in promoting moderation are both in the national interest of Pakistan and of great importance to Pakistani-American relations;

Whereas the war against terrorism underscores the importance of strengthening the historic bilateral relationship between the United States and Pakistan;

Whereas President Musharraf has worked to improve the political representation of minorities in Pakistan; and

Whereas the Pakistani-American community in the United States makes important contributions to the United States and plays a vital role in developing a closer relationship between the peoples of the United States and Pakistan: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That Congress commends President Pervez Musharraf of Pakistan for his leadership nd friendship and welcomes him to the United States.