Mr. Speaker, today the world mourns the death of King Hussein of Jordan.
The King, ruler of his country for 46 years, was a beacon of hope in a land entrenched in conflict. The shifting sands of Middle East politics have claimed many leaders and it is a true measure of the man that he was able to lead his people for so long.
I had the privilege of meeting the King a few years ago. What was most striking about him was his humility, grace and kindness. Known to dress as one of his subjects, to take the pulse of his citizenry, he was a true people's king. However, it is in his last act that the King demonstrated his true colours.
It is said that the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands in times of challenge. So it is in his last gesture of flying while critically ill to ensure that the Wye Peace Accord was signed that the King may be judged.
Members of the Reform Party wish to extend our deepest sympathies to the royal family, the Jordanian people and we commit to support King Abdullah in his pursuit of peace and security.