[Peace] Durbin non-response response on Saudi arms deal

[John W.]

It's an absolutely typical response from Dick Durbin.  Very diplomatic,
actually says precisely nothing of substance.

He's still far better than a Republican.



On Wed, Aug 24, 2016 at 5:25 PM, Robert Naiman via Peace <
peace at lists.chambana.net> wrote:

*From: *"Senator Richard J. Durbin" <correspondence_reply at durbin.senate.gov>
>
> *Date: *Monday, August 22, 2016 at 3:47 PM
> *Subject: *Message from Senator Richard J. Durbin
>
>
>
> August 22, 2016
>
> Dear X:
>
>           Thank you for contacting me with your concerns about U.S. arms
> sales to Saudi Arabia.  I appreciate hearing from you.
>
>           The U.S. export control system is enforced by several federal
> agencies.  Items with both civilian and military applications, called
> "dual-use" goods, are licensed by the Department of Commerce while
> munitions are licensed by the Department of State.  Restrictions on exports
> are administered by the U.S. Treasury.
>
>           Saudi Arabia is an important American ally with which we share
> many common concerns, including countering the Islamic State and the
> ongoing conflict in Syria.  However, I also remain concerned about human
> rights in Saudi Arabia, as well as the country's intolerant teachings and
> involvement in Yemen.
>
>           While in Congress, I have advocated for greater accountability
> in our relationship with Saudi Arabia as well as improvements in human
> rights.  I have sent letters to the Saudi Government and met with the Saudi
> Ambassador to the United States to call for the release of many political
> prisoners.  I have also called on the Saudis to implement reforms to better
> uphold the rights of women, religious minorities, foreign workers, and
> others.
>
>           Ensuring that military-grade international arms are sold only to
> legitimate governments or organizations is a paramount national security
> concern for the United States.  I will continue to monitor events in Saudi
> Arabia and will keep your thoughts in mind as the United States considers
> policies toward that nation.
>
>           Thank you again for contacting me.  Please feel free to keep in
> touch.
>
>
>
>
>
>       Sincerely,
>
>       Richard J. Durbin
>       United States Senator
>
>
> RJD/jg
>
>
>
>
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>
>
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