" Any time the United States government turns over an American citizen, including military personnel, to the government of another country, it is in our nature to want to make sure that they receive the best treatment, the fairest treatment, and the most humane treatment. "
- Howard Baker

When an American citizen, including members of the military, is handed over to another country's government by the United States, it is essential that they are treated with fairness and humanity. This statement underscores a fundamental commitment to ensuring that individuals who find themselves in such situations receive the best possible care and treatment.

The deep meaning behind this quote reflects broader values of human rights and justice, emphasizing the need for compassion and ethical standards when dealing with foreign relations. It highlights the importance of upholding moral principles even in challenging international scenarios where diplomatic pressures might otherwise compromise these values. By prioritizing humane treatment, it suggests that maintaining a nation's integrity requires not just legal compliance but also consideration of human dignity and rights.

Howard Baker, the author of this quote, was a prominent American politician who served as Vice President under Gerald Ford and later became a respected senator. His words often carried weight due to his extensive experience in government and his reputation for fairness and bipartisanship.