The Lebanese American Council for Democracy supports the candidacy of Ileana Ros-Lehtinen for chair on the international relations committee
WASHINGTON, D.C., March 15, 2005 – The Lebanese-American Council for Democracy throws its strong support behind the candidacy of Ilena-Ros Lehtinen for chair of the International Relations Committee of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen has worked closely with the Lebanese American Council for Democracy over the past several years. Thus, Lebanese Americans know from experience that the congresswoman is a champion for democratic causes in Lebanon and the Middle East in general, and a relentless opponent of terrorism. She has always listened to us intently, shown a genuine interest in our cause.
Years before the Syrian occupation of Lebanon became a central foreign policy issue, Ros-Lehtinen was an original sponsor of landmark legislation on the issue, i.e., the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act. With her leadership the passage of this legislation resulted in a total reversal of American policy toward the Syrian occupation of Lebanon. She has also taken the leading role in multiple congressional resolutions regarding human rights in Lebanon. Most recently, Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen was again an original sponsor of groundbreaking pro-democracy legislation, the Lebanon and Syria Liberation Act.
We believe that Ileana Ros-Lehtinen has shown great vision, unmatched leadership, and compassion, and is the perfect choice to be the next Chair of the International Relations Committee.