[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 45 (Thursday, March 20, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E539]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       CELEBRATING TUNISIA'S 47TH ANNIVERSARY OF ITS INDEPENDENCE

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                        HON. MAURICE D. HINCHEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 20, 2003

  Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Republic of 
Tunisia and its people on the 47th Anniversary of their National Day of 
Independence. Over the last 47 years, Tunisia has been an outstanding 
model for developing countries. It has risen from a fledgling democracy 
to a nation that is at the forefront of instituting an aggressive North 
African free market economy.
  The United States and Tunisia have maintained a strong relationship 
throughout Tunisia's history. During the Cold War, Tunisia was a 
crucial partner in the Mediterranean region. In our struggle against 
terrorism, dating back to the early 1990s, Tunisia has been a steadfast 
ally. As early as 1993, Tunisia condemned forms of Islamic extremism 
and terrorism. In 1994, Tunisia warned the West of terrorism's evils 
and spoke of the need to fight terrorism on a global level.
  The relationship between our countries has only been strengthened 
over the past two years, as we both act to confront the scourge of 
terrorism. Tunisia's unwavering opposition to terrorism is no more 
evident than in its response to the tragic terrorist attacks of 
September 11, 2001. Immediately following the attacks, Tunisia's 
President, Zine El Abidine Bel Ali, offered his country's heartfelt 
condolences to the American people and strongly condemned the attacks 
and those behind them. President Ben Ali also offered his country's 
steadfast support for our efforts to bring those responsible to 
justice. Tunisia's steadfast cooperation and support continues today.
  As a friend of Tunisia, I again congratulate the Tunisian people on 
47 years of independence and would like to share with my colleagues the 
insightful words of President Ben Ali, describing the reasons for 
Tunisia's success in building a democratic society:
  ``Tolerance is at the heart of our social traditions as well as a 
characteristic of Tunisia's history. Pluralism, whether religious, 
cultural, or political, is ingrained in our society. Tunisian Moslems 
and Jews have lived together under the same sky and same state for many 
centuries. Each contributed to the building of [Tunisia], whose 
greatness is based on the tolerance of its people--a tolerance which 
has been among the highest values governing relations between the two 
parties, as there was no room for hatred.''

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