[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 32 (Tuesday, March 21, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E361]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             THE 44TH ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIA'S INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. FLOYD SPENCE

                           of south carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 21, 2000

  Mr. SPENCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the citizens of 
the Republic of Tunisia on the occasion of their 44th anniversary of 
independence. Despite its diminutive size, Tunisia has exerted a 
sizeable presence in North Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and North 
America for many centuries.
  Indeed, the United States and Tunisia have enjoyed a remarkable 
relationship for over 200 years. In fact, we continue to honor a 1797 
treaty with the Republic of Tunisia that calls for perpetual and 
constant peace.
  Our relationship with Tunisia has survived civil, regional, and 
global conflict--growing stronger with every challenge. During World 
War II, Tunisia supported United States and allied forces as they 
landed in North Africa. In the ensuing cold war, Tunisia established 
itself as a steadfast ally in the strategically critical Mediterranean 
Sea. In the post-cold war years, the Republic of Tunisia has remained 
our friend and taken steps to develop closer military and economic ties 
with European allies and NATO.
  Today, the Republic of Tunisia continues to make progress toward 
democracy. Tunisian citizens enjoy universal suffrage, and the nation 
is considered by many to be a leader among Muslim nations in 
safeguarding the rights of women and children. Indeed, Tunisia has come 
so far, so fast, that it is sometimes easy to forget that Tunisia was a 
French protectorate as recently as 1954, and only gained full 
independence on March 20, 1956.
  The United States was the first great power to recognize Tunisia's 
independence in 1956, and in keeping with this tradition I would like 
to be the first to congratulate the Republic of Tunisia on its 44th 
anniversary of independence this March 20th. I urge my colleagues to 
join me in honoring Tunisia on this momentous occasion.

                          ____________________