[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 26 (Thursday, March 9, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          TUNISIA INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. EARL F. HILLIARD

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 8, 2000

  Mr. HILLIARD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 
Government and the people of Tunisia on the occasion of their 44th 
Anniversary of Independence. While Tunisia gained its independence from 
France just 43 years ago, the country has a rich and treasured history, 
dating back to ancient Carthage.
  Last year I had an opportunity to visit Tunisia, where I met with top 
government officials. My visit was personally enriching, and allowed me 
to engage in meaningful discussions on how to increase cooperation and 
exchange between the United States and Tunisia.
  The relationship between the United States and Tunisia is much older 
than the 44th National Day celebration may suggest. In fact, America 
first signed a treaty of peace and friendship with Tunisia in 1797. 
While our country was struggling with the Civil War, Tunisia supported 
the anti-slavery movement here and consistently spoke out on the 
significance of human dignity. During World War II, Tunisia's 
nationalist leaders suspended their struggle against France in order to 
support the Allied cause. In 1956, the United States was the first 
world power to recognize Tunisia's independence.
  Tunisia has been one of the primary countries of interest in Northern 
Africa for a trade partnership, as our country recognizes the 
significance of greater trade with Africa. In addition to promoting 
economic growth and stability in the region, Tunisia has also been a 
valuable participant in efforts to broker lasting peace in the Middle 
East, the Mediterranean, and throughout the continent of Africa.
  Mr. Speaker, I hope all my colleagues will join with me in 
congratulating Tunisia on its 44th Independence Anniversary, and honor 
a great friend and partner.

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