Mr. President. I support the adoption of amendment 2000 to the Trade Act to waive the Jackson amendment for an initial period of 18 months in return for specific performance by the Soviet Union on freedom of emigration. This amendment is supported by those groups supporting the Jackson amendment. The waiver is based on assurances given to Secretary of State Kissinger from the highest ranking Soviet leaders that restrictions on emigration and harassment of those wishing to emigrate will cease. As one of the initial 12 cosponsors of the Jackson amendment in the fall of 1972. I am very pleased that these assurances have been made and that. provided the Trade Act is adopted and Soviet performance is forthcoming. relief for Soviet Jewry and other minorities will be achieved. These assurances vindicate the belief of those of us who have contended that our economic leverage can and should be used for this humanitarian purpose. During the period that the waiver is in effect. Soviet emigration policy will be closely monitored and if. at the end of the initial 18month period. the President believes that the Soviets have lived up to their promises. he may request an extension. But in order for the extension to be granted. there must be an affirmative vote by the Congress. Under the Trade Act. the President may also suspend or terminate mostfavorednation tariff treatment at any time.
Keywords matched
emigrate emigration