DebbieM
12-09-2006, 12:57 PM
I supppose because I have written to Mel Martinez this is the reason I am on his monthly mailing list. This article caught my attention - mainly for the last paragraph - premiere ally- yeah right!!!!!
Sorry in advance if this is in the wrong section - wasn't sure where to post.
Debs
MARTINEZ: BLAIR INSIGHTFUL AND REALISTIC REGARDING MIDDLE EAST
December 8, 2006 -
Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today issued the following statement after his meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair. Senator Martinez and other members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee met to discuss Iraq, Iran, Syria, and contemporary issues in the Middle East.
Martinez said:
“Prime Minister Tony Blair is a thoughtful leader. He was insightful and realistic in his assessment of the Middle East conflict. I agree with him that a global solution, through the inclusion of neighboring Middle Eastern nations, is entirely necessary to bring peace to the region.
“The current situation will not be resolved through forced talks with Iran. Iran has disrupted progress in the Middle East, they support terrorists and their acts are a negative catalyst in the region. It would be difficult to overlook the fact that they have been a very counterproductive force at a time when our nations are working to bring stability, democracy, and freedom to Iraq. Talks with Iran should take place at a time when the U.S. believes it could yield some benefit and not just for the sake of talking. Iran’s attitude and reluctance to be helpful simply must improve before such talks should be considered.
“The Prime Minister was very clear that there must be success in Iraq and there is no alternative to success. Therefore, as difficult and complicated as the situation is, the U.S. must continue to adjust to strive for success.
“I agree with Prime Minister Tony Blair and appreciate the vital role the U.K. plays as our premier ally in Iraq and in the global war on terror. I thank him for his visit to the Capitol and sharing his thoughts with the Committee.”
Sorry in advance if this is in the wrong section - wasn't sure where to post.
Debs
MARTINEZ: BLAIR INSIGHTFUL AND REALISTIC REGARDING MIDDLE EAST
December 8, 2006 -
Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Mel Martinez (R-FL) today issued the following statement after his meeting with United Kingdom Prime Minister Tony Blair. Senator Martinez and other members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee met to discuss Iraq, Iran, Syria, and contemporary issues in the Middle East.
Martinez said:
“Prime Minister Tony Blair is a thoughtful leader. He was insightful and realistic in his assessment of the Middle East conflict. I agree with him that a global solution, through the inclusion of neighboring Middle Eastern nations, is entirely necessary to bring peace to the region.
“The current situation will not be resolved through forced talks with Iran. Iran has disrupted progress in the Middle East, they support terrorists and their acts are a negative catalyst in the region. It would be difficult to overlook the fact that they have been a very counterproductive force at a time when our nations are working to bring stability, democracy, and freedom to Iraq. Talks with Iran should take place at a time when the U.S. believes it could yield some benefit and not just for the sake of talking. Iran’s attitude and reluctance to be helpful simply must improve before such talks should be considered.
“The Prime Minister was very clear that there must be success in Iraq and there is no alternative to success. Therefore, as difficult and complicated as the situation is, the U.S. must continue to adjust to strive for success.
“I agree with Prime Minister Tony Blair and appreciate the vital role the U.K. plays as our premier ally in Iraq and in the global war on terror. I thank him for his visit to the Capitol and sharing his thoughts with the Committee.”