[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 25 (Wednesday, March 11, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E350]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                 HONORING LITHUANIA'S INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOE KNOLLENBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 11, 1998

  Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the people of 
Lithuania as they celebrate their independence day.
  Lithuania has known a long history both brave and tragic. Despite a 
proud past, the people of Lithuania endured the forcible incorporation 
of the homeland into the former Soviet Union. After fifty one years of 
Soviet domination, Lithuania successfully overcame these oppressive 
efforts, and declared its independence on March 11, 1990.
  Independence did not come easily. Ten months after this restoration 
of independence, the newly free Lithuania withstood a bloody and lethal 
assault from a stronger Soviet Union, an end to its supply of Soviet 
oil and gas, and 15 protesters killed in Vilnius by Soviet troops. 
These acts, however, were not enough to subdue the spirit of the 
Lithuanian people. The fire of freedom was fueled by the will of the 
people, and by the brave leaders of the region.
  Since Lithuania regained its independence on March 11, 1990, the 
United States has played a critical role in helping it implement 
democratic and free market reforms and solidify its position as a 
European democracy. Together, the United States and Lithuania have 
worked to maintain strength and security throughout Europe.
  Earlier this year, the United States and Lithuania signed the Baltic 
Charter. The Charter recalls this region's tragic history, and 
underscores that the U.S. has a ``real, profound, and enduring'' 
interest in the security and independence of all three Baltic 
countries. In hope it is sign of the deepening of mutual cooperation 
and shared interests between our two countries for years to come.
  Mr. Speaker, the people of Lithuania committed themselves to take a 
stand against repression and communism. And today, they celebrate the 
fruits of that commitment on their independence day. I comment the 
people of Lithuania for their courage and perseverance in using 
peaceful means to regain their independence, and I hope you will join 
me in wishing them the best on this historic day.

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