DeLauro Visits Troops Stationed in Afghanistan, Meets with Heads of State in Israel and Jordan
WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) today released the following statement after taking part in a Congressional Delegation to Afghanistan, Israel, and Jordan with Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (CA-12) and Members of the House of Representatives. During the visit, DeLauro met with members of the United States armed forces in Afghanistan and held meetings with top Israeli and Jordanian officials to discuss regional security and our ongoing partnership.
"Our men and women in the military—including the service members I met from Connecticut—continue to make extraordinary sacrifices for our nation. It was an honor to spend time with them during my trip to the region. We cannot thank our troops enough for their selfless service."
"During our visit in Afghanistan, General John Nicholson, Jr., and Brigadier General David Hamilton briefed us on the readiness of our armed forces, security issues in the region, and the ongoing mission of training and advising Afghan security forces. We also met with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah to discuss continuing issues regarding free and fair elections, reducing corruption, and empowering women in government and civil society."
"Earlier in the week, our delegation met with Israel's President Reuven Rivlin and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of their country's 70th Independence Day. We also met with King Abdullah II of Jordan to discuss regional security and economic challenges. Our stay in Jordan included a visit to Dahiet Al Ameer School in Amman, Jordan, which educates children who are refugees from the ongoing conflict in Syria."
"While these three nations continue to face multi-faceted issues, I am heartened by the progress our delegation was able to witness first-hand, as well as the resilience and dedication of those who are working to help others and make their lives better every day. Moreover, I am humbled by the opportunity to once again strengthen the bonds of friendship between our nations."
Other members taking part in the Congressional Delegation include: Rep. Jim Himes (CT-04), Rep. Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Rep. Adam Schiff (CA-28), Rep. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Rep. Katherine Clark (MA-05), Rep. Donald McEachin (VA-04), Rep. Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), and Rep. Jamie Raskin (MD-08).