[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 51 (Monday, March 31, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S4556]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIAN INDEPENDENCE

  Mr. LUGAR. Mr. President, I rise to recognize the 47th anniversary of 
Tunisian independence. On March 20, 1956, Tunisia took its place among 
the free nations of the modern era.
  Shortly after Tunisia's independence, in 1957, the United States 
stood by Tunisia in a challenging post-independence environment. 
Through the pledge of economic and technical assistance, the United 
States helped Tunisia to achieve its national goal of a self-confident 
and self-sustaining modern nation.
  Through the vicissitudes of history Tunisia has sustained the 
hardiness of its Berber forebears as Roman, Vandal, Moor and Ottoman 
Empires have come and gone. Each has left its cultural mark, but today 
Tunisia stands independent, and proud of its history. Today, Tunisia 
has shown its commitment to democratic ideals as a leader in the Arab 
world in promoting the legal and social status of women.
  In this its 47th anniversary of independence, Tunisia and the United 
States can look back on a much longer and more important relationship. 
In 1797 Tunisia was among the first countries to recognize the nascent 
United States of America. This recognition enabled America to make its 
way in the international community. In the 21st century, Tunisia has 
also shown support for the United States in the war against terrorism, 
and our two nations should seek ways to enhance cooperation.
  Congratulations on your 47 years of independence, and may you find 
that each subsequent year brings further peace and prosperity to 
Tunisia.

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