Rep. Boozman Appointed Vice-Chair of British American Parliamentary Group

Rep. Boozman Appointed Vice-Chair of British American Parliamentary Group
Speaker says Boozman has "strong understanding of international issues"

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) today announced that House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-IL) has appointed him vice-chair of a bipartisan interparliamentary group that focuses on the common interests and concerns of the people of America and Great Britain.

The British American Parliamentary Group (BAPG) brings together selected American and British lawmakers at conference meetings to discuss mutual concerns and to strengthen the alliance between the two nations. Boozman has attended meetings of BAPG as a member in the past - including one in February of this year - where discussions have included such topics as the War on Terror; Iraq and Afghanistan; the relationship between the U.S. and the European Union; and environmental, trade and economic issues.

Boozman is already an active member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Parliamentary Assembly (NATO PA) which is an inter-parliamentary organization of legislators from the nineteen member countries of NATO and twenty associate countries. As a member of the NATO PA U.S. House of Representatives delegation, he has traveled to meet with his counterparts from other NATO countries to discuss the War on Terror, anti-drug efforts, trade and other issues of concern to our allies.

"John has developed a strong understanding of international issues through his seat on the International Relations Committee," said Speaker Hastert. "His seat in NATO's Parliamentary Assembly has allowed him to develop solid relationships with our allies abroad. John's hard work and ability to get things done will make him successful in this new role."

U.S. Representative Tom Petri (R-WI), who currently serves as chairman of BAPG, added "John has been a valuable and effective member of the BAPG delegation as we work to strengthen our relations with our colleagues in the British Parliament. He's a great choice for Vice Chairman and will do a great job."

Boozman expressed gratitude and excitement about the appointment saying, "I am very grateful to Speaker Hastert for this honor. As a member of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, I have worked with my counterparts in European parliaments to strengthen our bond and resolve our mutual concerns. I look forward to working with Chairman Petri and my colleagues to build on that work and help us foster an even better relationship with Great Britain, who remains one of our staunchest allies."

The British American Parliamentary Group (BAPG) was formed in 1941. Members of the U.S. delegation consist of twelve members of the House appointed by Speaker Hastert and twelve members of the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tempore of the Senate. The British and House delegations alternate as hosts for the annual meetings.

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