[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 9, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E180]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      CELEBRATING THE 81ST ANNIVERSARY OF LITHUANIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 9, 1999

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 81st 
anniversary of the declaration of Lithuanian independence.
  For nearly 55 years, Lithuania was occupied by Soviet military 
forces. But in the past six years, the people of Lithuania have been 
able to finally enjoy and celebrate the freedoms and privileges of an 
independent nation.
  The United States and Lithuania have now formed a significant 
partnership between our leaders, our governments, and our people. We 
have close trade relations with Lithuania. We are mutually committed to 
the security of the Baltic region.
  I believe we can say with great confidence that Lithuania has become 
a full partner in the effort to build democracy and promote freedom 
around the world. I am proud to say that Lithuania has ``graduated'' 
from the U.S. program to build democracy in Eastern Europe.
  I commend the Lithuanian-American community for their perseverance 
and hope through the many challenging decades. The 81st anniversary of 
Lithuanian independence was celebrated by the Lithuanian-American 
community in Southeast Michigan on Sunday, February 7th, at the 
Lithuanian Cultural Center in Southfield.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Lithuanian's 
independence.

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