[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 36 (Monday, March 19, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S2470]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               45TH ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIA'S INDEPENDENCE

  Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate the people 
of Tunisia on the 45th anniversary of their nation's independence. 
Throughout our long friendship, the United States and Tunisia have 
shared a mutual commitment to freedom, democracy, and the peaceful 
resolution of conflict. Indeed, Tunisia was one of the first countries 
to sign a Treaty of Peace and Friendship with the new United States of 
America in 1797, and in turn, the U.S. was among the first to recognize 
Tunisia's independence from France in 1956. Our nations have worked 
together on many issues of importance over the years, including the 
ongoing efforts for a lasting peace in the Middle East.
  Tunisia and its citizens have many successful endeavors to celebrate, 
particularly impressive strides in economic development and reform. 
Tunisia's high standards of living and education, and advancement of 
opportunities for girls and women, stand as testament to its 
achievements. I hope that the growth of political freedoms for all 
Tunisia's people will soon equal its economic success.
  As we observe this important milestone in Tunisia's history, we look 
forward to continued cooperation and friendship between our Nations and 
our people for many years to come.
  Mr. INOUYE. Mr. President, I extend my warmest congratulations to the 
people of Tunisia as they commemorate their country's 45th anniversary 
of independence. Tunisians have much to celebrate and be proud of, and 
their firm resolve to fulfill their responsibilities as a republic and 
to govern themselves with integrity is most admirable. Tunisia has 
managed, in a relatively short period of time, to make significant 
gains on the political, economic, and social fronts.
  I salute President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali for his leadership in 
initiating and supporting several reforms that paved the way for open 
government. I commend leaders from the public and private sectors for 
balancing the demands of economic development and social concerns. 
Finally, I wish to praise all the people of Tunisia for their peaceful 
participation in Tunisia's remarkable journey from colony to republic.
  It is my hope that as Tunisians commemorate their country's 45 years 
of independence, they will also celebrate their ancient past and their 
unique cultural identity, which is an amalgam of Arab, Berber, African, 
and European influences. The country's long and rich history has made 
Tunisians a resilient and resourceful people, and I am confident that 
the future of the country will be bright and promising. I look forward 
to many more years of friendship and cooperation between Tunisia and 
the United States.

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