Speech #980260525

But much more is needed. Recent history has shown us that the Soviets have been willing to improve human rights within their borders but only in a climate of improved relations between Moscow and Washington. Soviet Jewish emigration rapidly increased in the mid- and late1970s. an era of detente between our two countries. However. as a result of the escalation of tensions following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979. emigration has slowed to a mere trickle. Accordingly. we must encourage the initiation of serious negotiations between the United States and Soviet Union in hopes that these talks could result in greater respect for the rights of Soviet Jews.o