Suggested language changes

Rachad, this email just returned to me with a server notice it had not been sent. I apologize and thought it went out as soon as we talked an hour or more ago. Sorry but this past hour appears to be a technical mistake. Ed

Rachad,

I am sorry I did not get this to you sooner. The modifications will be provided to the committee this evening. 

The language as reported earlier says:

The Committee is concerned about growing violence and instability in the Sahel region and growing AQIM strength across North Africa. The Committee is increasingly concerned about growing ties between AQIM and members of the Polisario run camps. It is now even more important to redouble our efforts to solve the dispute over the Western Sahara based on autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. The committee also urges the Secretary of State to work with UNHCR on the protracted refugee issue especially the pursuit of durable solutions.

We are suggesting that modifications be made as follows: 

1) Add a further description of durable solutions to read, including ensuring a census is completed and developing programs that promote voluntary repatriation or resettlement outside the camps for these refugees

2) Add a reporting requirement for the Sec. of State to report back to the committees on progress being made.

The combined language as we propose to committee staff now reads:

Committee is concerned about growing violence and instability in the Sahel region and growing AQIM strength across North Africa. The Committee is increasingly concerned about growing ties between AQIM and members of the Polisario run camps. It is now even more important to redouble our efforts to solve the dispute over the Western Sahara based on autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. The committee also urges the Secretary of State to work with UNHCR on the protracted refugee issue especially the pursuit of durable solutions, including ensuring a census is completed and developing programs that promote voluntary repatriation or resettlement outside the camps for these refugees. The Department of State will provide the Committees on Appropriations of both the House and Senate a report of steps being taken to fulfill this requirement. »

We understand that the census language is the most important modification to be made and will work to ensure that such language is included at a minimum. We will do all in our power to ensure that the final language of the committee will be that which is reflected herein. Thank you.