Unfortunately. the Soviet Union continues to make it virtually impossible for millions of relatives in our two countries to exchange visits. Soviet authorities also erect substantial obstacles to other forms of communication. such as mail. telephone. and telegraph. Further. only a fraction of Soviet citizens were permitted to visit relatives in the United States. and a small portion of Americans visiting the Soviet Union in 1986 were allowed a private visa to stay with relatives in their homes. House Concurrent Resolution 68 sends an important signal to Soviet authorities. By maintaining that unrestricted family contacts is an essential policy toward the Soviet Union. and by calling on the administration to raise this issue at all appropriate opportunities.