[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 51 (Thursday, April 30, 1998)]
[Senate]
[Page S3915]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


   TRIBUTE TO THE SOLLEFTEA, SWEDEN/MADISON, MISSISSIPPI SISTER-CITY 
                              RELATIONSHIP

  Mr. LOTT. Mr. President, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize the sister-city relationship between the City of Solleftea, 
Sweden and the City of Madison, Mississippi. This international 
partnership has provided opportunities for cultural and business 
exchanges, as well as providing Swedish and American citizens unique 
experiences to broaden cultural perspectives.
  The Sister-City Program was inaugurated by United States President 
Dwight David Eisenhower in 1956. This business and cultural exchange 
was chartered to foster greater friendship and understanding between 
the people of the United States and other countries through the medium 
of direct personal contact. Since its inception, over 1,200 American 
state and local governments have joined with 2,100 foreign partners to 
create a network of international friendship.
  The citizens of Solleftea and Madison have expressed their 
willingness and desire, through their respective councils, to become 
sister-cities and to adhere to the ideals set forth by President 
Eisenhower. These two cities also wish to encourage cultural exchanges 
that will lead to a lasting friendship between the communities.
  The sister-cities agreement was signed by Solleftea and Madison on 
June 27, 1997 in Sweden. Since this time, three Swedish companies have 
opened or plan to open businesses in the City of Madison. Hagloff, 
Inc., Minitube and Logosol are three Swedish companies that should be 
commended for their efforts to further the spirit of the June 1997 
compact.
  The Solleftea and Madison friendship has served as a model for future 
sister-city partnerships. I commend the efforts of these two great 
cities and wish them continued success in the future.

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