Expressing Sympathy to Families of South Korean Seamen Killed by North Korea

Floor Speech

* Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1382, a resolution expressing sympathy to the families of those killed by North Korea in the sinking of the South Korean ship Cheonan, and solidarity with South Korea in the aftermath of this tragic incident.

* On March 26, the South Korean ship Cheonan sank in the Yellow Sea following an explosion, killing 46 sailors. I offer my condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of those killed in this tragic incident.

* In the two months following the sinking of the Cheonan, the South Korean government has undertaken extensive forensic work with a team of impartial international investigators to determine the cause of the explosion. Their work leaves no doubt that the sinking of the Cheonan and the death of 46 sailors was the direct result of a torpedo fired by North Korea.

* The United States stands with President Lee Myung-bak and fully supports the measures he has taken to respond to the sinking of the Cheonan. President Lee's decision to close sea lanes and cut off trade with North Korea sends a strong message that South Korea will not tolerate unprovoked aggression.

* South Korea is a strong ally of the United States, and as the President has made clear, our commitment to supporting their defense is unequivocal.

* I urge the international community to join with South Korea and the United States to condemn North Korea's unacceptable, belligerent behavior.

* And I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. 1382 and send a strong message that the United States Congress stands with South Korea during this difficult time.

Source