WASHINGTON-Congressman Spencer Bachus joined several other congressmen in signing a letter addressed to French Ambassador Jean-David Levitte. The letter asks the French government to reconsider their positions regarding Iraq in both NATO and the United Nations. France has threatened to use its veto power to block the U.N. from enforcing Resolution 1441, and voted against NATO’s defense of Turkey in the event of an Iraqi attack.

Today Representative Bachus released the following statement:

            “Along with several other members of Congress, I have signed a letter to the French Ambassador. The letter expresses our disappointment and concern over France’s attempts to block NATO from preparing to defend Turkey if it is attacked by Saddam Hussein. By this reckless action France risks becoming irrelevant within NATO and the United Nations.

            “NATO protected France for half a century and it is inexcusable that they now oppose giving this same protection to others who face an eminent threat from the rogue regime of Saddam Hussein. France is more than simply criticizing and failing to join our effort. By this action, and an intentional veto in the United Nations, France is obstructing our efforts to protect our ally.”