[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 32 (Tuesday, March 21, 2000)]
[Senate]
[Page S1507]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

                                 ______
                                 

       RECOGNIZING THE 44TH ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIAN INDENPENDENCE

 Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. President, I rise today in celebration of the 
44th anniversary of Tunisian independence. On March 20, Tunisia--one of 
America's oldest allies--will mark its 44th year of independence, but 
our two nations have been sharing the ideals of freedom and democracy 
for a much longer time.
  In 1797, our two nations signed a treaty calling for ``perpetual and 
constant peace.'' Indeed, for the past 200 years, our two nations have 
enjoyed such a friendship. Whether protecting Mediterranean shipping 
lanes against Barbary pirates, opposing the Nazi war machine in North 
Africa, or supporting Western interests during the cold war, the United 
States could count on Tunisia. More recently, Tunisia displayed great 
courage in urging other Arab nations to seek an accord with Israel. 
Tunisia has built on that pioneering stand by playing an important role 
as an honest and fair broker at delicate points in the Middle East 
peace process.
  By adopting progressive social policies that feature tolerance for 
minorities, equal rights for women, universal education, a modern 
health system, and avoiding the pitfall of religious extremism that has 
tormented so many other developing countries. Tunisia has built a 
stable, middle-class society. In stark contrast to its two neighbors, 
Tunisia has been a quiet and wonderful success. In fact, Tunisia became 
the first nation south of the Mediterranean to formally associate 
itself with the European Union.
  Tunisia has been a model for developing countries. It has sustained 
remarkable economic growth, and undertaken reforms toward political 
pluralism. It has been a steadfast ally of the United States and has 
consistently fought for democratic goals and ideals. Tunisia has 
responded to President Dwight D. Eisenhower's request to consider the 
United States as ``friends and partner'' in the most effective way--by 
its actions.
  In commemoration of 44 years of independence for Tunisia, I urge my 
colleagues to reflect on our strong commitment to Tunisian people, who 
are still our friends and partners in North Africa.

                          ____________________