Smith Comments on Visit to Darfur, Algeria, and Ethiopia

Press Release

Smith Comments on Visit to Darfur, Algeria, and Ethiopia

Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) today commented on his recent travels with a Congressional delegation to meet with leaders in Algeria, Ethiopia and the Darfur region of Sudan. Smith was joined by Reps. Sheila Jackson-Lee (D-TX) and Steve Chabot (R-OH).

Darfur has been marked by conflict between government forces and various rebel groups. The region's violence has garnered international outcries, as hundreds of thousands have been killed in the strife, and millions have been displaced. The delegation visited a refugee site as part of their travels.

Ethiopia, one of the oldest countries in the world, is also one of the poorest. Its economy is based on agriculture, and almost 80 percent of its population relies either directly or indirectly on agriculture.

"Obviously, visiting Darfur was a sobering experience for all of us. Seeing first-hand the refugee camps in these violence torn regions and having the chance to discuss issues such as agriculture and human rights with the leaders of this area was invaluable for me, both as a Member of Congress and as a human being.

"Many may not realize the U.S. is responsible for 74 percent of the humanitarian aid sent to Darfur, and I'm cautiously optimistic that our help is making a positive difference.

"But, more than anything else, there needs to be an effective, multi-national approach to bringing peace and security to Darfur - more so than what has been done up to this point," Smith said.

Source