On September 25, 2006, the House of Representatives adopted Resolution 430 recognizing the accomplishments of the American Council of Young Political Leaders for providing 40 years of international exchange programs, increasing international dialogue, and enhancing global understanding, and commemorating its 40th anniversary.

Rep. Tom Lantos made the following remarks concerning the resolution:

   “I first would like to commend my friend, fellow Californian, chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Bill Thomas, for introducing this measure. […]

   The resolution before the House recognizes the achievements of the American Council of Young Political Leaders, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Bill Thomas has served on the board of directors of this fine organization, and we commend his leadership on behalf of ACYPL.

For 40 years, this organization has selected young political leaders in the United States, carefully balanced between Republicans and Democrats, to travel to many other nations to meet their foreign counterparts. […]  Many of these young foreign leaders ultimately became major political figures in their home countries. The Foreign Minister of Australia is an alumnus, as are dozens of members of parliaments in many nations around the world.

   I am pleased that the distinguished Ambassador of Hungary to the United States today, Ambassador Andras Simonyi, is another alumnus.

   This organization is a cost-effective public diplomacy program that is sorely needed in this troubled international environment. I strongly support this resolution.”