I commend the members of the committee and all of my colleagues who played a role in bringing this bill to the floor today. This measure takes important steps toward recognizing the changing realities and priorities that our Nation and the world face In the postcoldwar era. The bill. for example. seeks to help stabilize the situation In the former Soviet Union. and it provides refugee and disaster relief for the tragedy that continues to unfold in Bosnia and Somalia. At the same time. this measure also maintains our strong national commitment to Israel and peace in the Middle East. In its region of vital strategic importance and violent instability. todays bill recognizes that it is in Americas best interests to continue to play a prominent role in the Middle East.