Mr. President. I rise as an original cosponsor of this legislation to extend $10 billion in loan guarantees to Israel for Soviet refugee absorption. Over the last two decades. the United States has led the world in appealing for the freedom of Soviet Jewry. A number of former refusniks have stated it was U.S. actions which kept alive their hope of religious freedom and respect for human rights. Not only did the United States support Soviet Jewish emigration. but by limiting refugee entry into the United States. our policy actually encouraged them to emigrate to Israel. One million Soviet Jews are expected to emigrate to Israel over the next 5 years. which will result in an increase of approximately 20 percent of Israels population. As their dreams come to fruition. the United States Is presented with a historic opportunity to help with their absorption and make good on our commitment to them. I strongly support the proposed refugee guarantees as a costeffective. humanitarian. and urgent means of assisting with Soviet resettlement. Developments In the Soviet Union. as encouraging as they are. portend a period of political and economic instability and cast a troublesome shadow on the future and safety of Jews In the region. Ethnic nationalism is on the rise in each of the Republics. and the onset of winter and potential famine could fuel ethnic tensions. Historically. the combination of these factors spell uncertainly for Jews in the former Soviet Union. Soviet Jews have been arriving In Israel at the rate of about 20.000 a month. These refugees. seeking a new life outside of the Soviet Union. need Jobs. housing. and the chance for an independent life. The loan guarantees will help provide those opportunities. Mr.
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emigrate emigration refugee refugees