[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 44 (Tuesday, April 15, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E655]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            FORTY-FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. NICK J. RAHALL II

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 15, 1997

  Mr. RAHALL. Mr. Speaker, in acknowledgment of the 41st anniversary of 
the independence of the Republic of Tunisia, I wish to help commemorate 
March 20, 1997 as an historic day of celebration for the people of 
Tunisia. This year is particularly important, as Tunisia will be 
commemorating the bicentennial of the Treaty of Amity, Commerce and 
Navigation that was signed on August 28, 1797.
  Tunisia has taken bold steps toward a more democratic system of 
government by broadening political debate, advancing social programs, 
developing economic programs encouraging privatization of the banking 
and financial sectors, and improving the quality of life for the people 
of Tunisia, in spire of instability emanating from neighboring 
countries. Further, Tunisia has acted as leader and catalyst for 
peacekeeping missions in suffering countries, contributing military 
contingents to operations in Cambodia, Somalia, the Western Sahara and 
Rwanda. Tunisia has been a voice of moderation in the Arab-Israeli 
peace process had has called for greater international efforts to fight 
terrorism.
  Tunisia has, and continues to be a success story in a very volatile 
region of the world. I am pleased and proud to witness stronger 
relations between the U.S. and Tunisia. I have had the fortunate 
opportunity to spend time with Tunisia's Ambassador, His Excellency 
Azouz Ennifar, and have the strong impression that Tunisia is emerging 
as a healthy, independent and politically secure country. I encourage 
and support continued commitment and cooperation between our two 
countries and urge my colleagues to take this occasion to salute the 
Tunisian Government and its people.

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