[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 152 (Friday, November 22, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2125]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       LEBANESE INDEPENDENCE DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 22, 2002

  Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate, but not 
celebrate Lebanon's Independence Day. Fifty-nine years ago, Lebanon 
gained its independence from France. Yet, today, Lebanon is no longer a 
sovereign and independent country. With 25,000 Syrian troops occupying 
Lebanon, it remains firmly in the grip of Damascus, without the ability 
to conduct its own affairs without first seeking the approval of the 
Assad regime.
  More than 2 years ago, Israel completely withdrew its armed forces 
from southern Lebanon. This withdrawal was certified by the United 
Nations. The time is long past due for Syria to leave, as well, and for 
the Lebanese to run Lebanon.
  As the author of the Syria Accountability Act, I thank the 172 
members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the 45 members of the 
Senate who joined as cosponsors of our legislation. We have together 
shined a bright light on the injustice of the continuing Syrian 
occupation of Lebanon and have only added to the growing campaign to 
liberate Lebanon.
  So, on this 59th anniversary of Lebanese independence, I stand with 
the Lebanese people who seek freedom and democracy for their beautiful 
country and peace for the entire region. It is my hope that some time 
soon, Lebanese Independence Day will not only be a commemoration, but 
will once again be a celebration.

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