This closed rule providing for consideration of H.R. 1594 should be defeated. Last July President Bush visited Hungary. This was the first Presidential visit to that country since World War II. and the President was certainly encouraged by the progress he saw in democratic reforms. economic liberalization. and respect for basic human rights including the rights of all citizens to emigrate. In fact. because the Hungarian Parliament will soon consider legislation to confirm their already liberal emigration practice. the President has indicated he will support a finding that Hungary meets the criteria for a waiver of the JacksonVanik amendment. Mr. Speaker. Members should keep in mind we have already been doing this for 12 years. Under the JacksonVanik amendment to the Trade Act of 1974 Hungary. as with all other Communist countries. it is awarded the mostfavorednation status on a yeartoyear basis pending an annual review of its policies and practices toward those citizens who seek to emigrate. The Presidents ability to annually review MFN status of Communist countries is a very integral part of United States foreign policy. It is through this process that Communist countries are rewarded or even punished for their human rights policies.
Keywords matched
emigrate emigration