When the earthquake devastated Soviet Armenia in December 1988. the world responded swiftly with appropriate emergency assistance. Armenia is still reeling from the effects of the earthquake which left more than 25.000 dead. 100.000 inJured. and more than a half a million homeless. Ethnic violence in AzerbaiJan has contributed to the suffering of the Armenian people. and has exacerbated the refugee problem. This amendment would provide desperately needed refugee assistance. and would demonstrate our continued support of the Armenian people. Mr. President. it would be a tragic mistake to drop our commitment to helping the Armenian people at this time.