[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 18 (Friday, February 9, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E192]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING FEBRUARY 4, NATIONAL DAY FOR SRI LANKA

                                 ______


                           HON. PATSY T. MINK

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, February 9, 1996

  Mrs. MINK of Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I am very honored and pleased to 
have this opportunity to offer my heartfelt congratulations and best 
wishes to all of the citizens and friends of Sri Lanka as the country 
celebrated its National Day on February 4.
  Sri Lanka has enjoyed independence from British colonial rule these 
past 48 years and exemplifies a political system and history steeped in 
democratic tradition. During the past four decades Sri Lanka has held 
regular national elections and has enjoyed traditionally friendly 
relations with the United States, based in large part on our shared 
commitment to democratic principles. Sri Lanka has experienced some 
ethnic strife related to Tamil separatists and we encourage newly 
elected President Chandrika Kumaratunga to find a peaceful and lasting 
solution to this conflict.
  During the past half century, Sri Lanka has served as a glowing 
example of a young democratic country that has overcome numerous 
hardships to make tremendous strides in the political, international, 
economic, and cultural arena. Sri Lanka has much to be proud of. Of 
note is the high 90-percent literacy rate for both men and women which 
can be attributed to a Government policy of free public education from 
primary through the university. These policies will create and foster a 
vigorous economy and strengthen even further our trade relationship.
  Happy Fourth of February to Sri Lanka on its National Day.

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