Page:United States Statutes at Large Volume 93.djvu/54

 93 STAT. 22

PUBLIC LAW 96-9-APR. 19, 1979 Public Law 96-9 96th Congress Joint Resolution

Apr. 19, 1979 [H.J. Res. 283]

North Atlantic Alliance. U.S. commitment, reaffirmation.

Copies to Chiefs of State of NATO member countries and Secretary General.

Reaffirming the United States commitment to the North Atlantic Alliance. Whereas April 4, 1979, marks the thirtieth anniversary of the signing in Washington of the North Atlantic Treaty; Whereas the alliance created by the treaty constitutes the manifestation of the ties which bind the democracies of Europe and North America and of their determination to preserve their common heritage of individual liberties, the rule of law, and the dignity of humankind; Whereas the peace and stability insured by the alliance for thirty years has fostered the well-being and freedom of nearly six hundred million human beings; Whereas the conditions for political stability and economic prosperity derive from the military security provided by the alliance; and Whereas the search for world peace, mutual respect among the nations of the world, and reduction in armaments are attainable only in a secure environment: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the North Atlantic Alliance be reaffirmed as a vital commitment and cornerstone of United States foreign policy, and that the bipartisan spirit that inspired its birth be rededicated to the purpose of strengthening it further in the cause of peace and security. SEC, 2. The Congress recognizes the contribution of the Canadian and European Allies to the common defense and to the preservation of the civilization and common heritage of the West. SEC. 3. On the occasion of this thirtieth anniversary, the Congress pledges its support for the Alliance as the indispensable basis for the achievement of our mutual security, the reduction of tensions, and the pursuit of improved relations among all nations. SEC. 4. The Congress requests that the President of the United States forward copies of this resolution to the Chiefs of State of all member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and to the Secretary General in recognition of his contribution to the strength and confidence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Approved April 19, 1979.

LEGISLATIVE HISTORY: CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 125 (1979): Apr. 4, considered and passed House; S.J. Res. 54 considered and passed Senate. Apr. 5, proceeding of S.J. Res. 54 vacated in Senate and H.J. Res. 283, amended, passed in lieu; House concurred in Senate amendment.

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