[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 47 (Tuesday, April 3, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E511]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            FORTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. KEN BENTSEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 3, 2001

  Mr. BENTSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the anniversary 
of the 45th year of independence for the Republic of Tunisia. It was 45 
years ago that the Republic of Tunisia was formally established as an 
independent country. Over the years, Tunisia has forged a strong and 
solid relationship with the United States that spans beyond bilateral 
ties to cover issues related to world peace and economic partnership.
  The U.S. relationship with Tunisia has survived civil, regional and 
global conflict. During World War II, Tunisia supported the United 
States and allied forces as they landed in Northern Africa. During the 
cold war years, Tunisia established itself as a steadfast ally in the 
strategically important Mediterranean Sea. As we moved into the post-
cold-war years, the Republic of Tunisia has remained a friend and ally 
of the U.S. and taken steps to develop closer military and economic 
ties with European allies and NATO.
  Today, the Republic of Tunisia continues to make important progress 
toward democracy by broadening political debate, advancing social 
programs, developing economic programs encouraging privatization of the 
banking and financial sectors, and improving the quality of life for 
its people. Tunisian citizens enjoy universal suffrage, and the nation 
is considered to be a leader among Muslim nations in safeguarding the 
rights of women and children. Further, Tunisia has acted as leader and 
catalyst for peacekeeping missions in suffering countries, contributing 
military contingents to operations in Cambodia, Somalia, the Western 
Sahara and Rwanda. Tunisia has also been a voice of moderation in the 
Arab-Israeli peace process and has called for greater international 
efforts to fight terrorism.
  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.
  In commemoration of 45 years of independence for Tunisia, I urge my 
colleagues to reflect on our strong commitment to Tunisian people, our 
friends and partners in North Africa.

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