WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye announced today that the Senate Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, State and the Judiciary approved $22 million for the East-West Center for Fiscal Year 1998.

"I am pleased that the Subcommittee recognized the urgent need to continue to support the East-West Center. This will enable the Center to maintain its core infrastructure and overhead and still serve the United States' long term interests by promoting understanding and relationships between and among the peoples of the United States, Asia and the Pacific Rim," stated Senator Inouye.

"For the past 35 years, the East-West Center has played a pivotal engagement role in this most important region of the world. Over 53,000 Americans, Asians and Pacific Islanders from 60 nations and territories have participated in the East-West Center's education, research, and conference programs. Presidents, prime ministers, ambassadors and distinguished scholars and statesmen from all parts of the region have used the Center as a forum to advance international cooperation.

The Center has become one of the most highly respected institutions in the region, and has developed a vast network of influential government officials, educators, journalists and business people," continued Senator Inouye.

The East-West Center was established by the Congress in 1960 to improve mutual understanding and cooperation among the governments and peoples of the Asia-Pacific region and the United States. The Center is a vehicle for the United States to engage in constructive involvement in Asia and the Pacific through education, dialogue, research and outreach.

The Congress and governmental agencies, such as the State Department of Energy and the Agency for International Development, turn to the Center for advice and information. The Center was one of the early institutions involved in the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) process. Presently it serves as the secretariat for the U.S.-Japan APEC Clean Coal Technology Group. With the closing of the Agency for International Development in the region, the East-West Center is a vitally important and cost effective means to remain engaged in this dynamic region of the world.

Upon approval by the Senate Committee on Appropriations, the measure will then be considered by the full Senate. It will then face a joint House-Senate Conference and final Senate vote before its transmittal to the White House.