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Diaz-Balart Joins House Republicans in Reaffirming Commitment to Democracy and Human Rights Around the World

June 9, 2016

WASHINGTON - Today, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-25) released the following statement after Speaker Paul Ryan and House Republicans unveiled their foreign policy agenda. This agenda furthers America’s longstanding commitments to democracy and human rights in Cuba, Iran, Venezuela,and other oppressed regions of the world.

"I wholeheartedly commend the Speaker and my House Republican colleagues for their dedication to promoting democracy, opposing tyranny, and strengthening relationships with our allies. House Republicans have firmly rejected President Obama's policy of appeasing dictators at the expense of the people they oppress, and we have presented a better way forward in protecting America's interests across the globe.

“I especially appreciate that Speaker Ryan vows to work toward ensuring that President Obama's policy of appeasement toward the Castro regime will not enrich the Cuban military -- the very oppressive institution responsible for brutal repression of the Cuban people and which perpetrates dangerous anti-American activities such as weapons smuggling, narco-trafficking, espionage, harboring fugitives, and the murder of innocent Americans. House Republicans also oppose the dangerous deal with Iran, which makes us and our allies less safe, while proposing ways to strengthen ties with those in the Middle East who share America's desire for peace.

“Through his plan, the House Republicans announce a profound commitment to those in Cuba, Iran, Venezuela, and elsewhere who are struggling to achieve fundamental liberties and human rights within the world's most oppressive environments. It also provides a way to enhance our national security by standing firm with our allies while refusing to appease or enrich our foes. With this U.S. foreign policy agenda, House Republicans demonstrate the strong, effective leadership that derives not from capitulations and weakness, but from purpose and principle. I stand ready to work with Speaker Ryan and the rest of our leadership team in realizing these foreign policy goals and protecting America's national security interests in the U.S. Congress.”

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