[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 128 (Wednesday, September 17, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1834]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         REMEMBERING ANNA LINDH

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 17, 2003

  Mr. EMANUEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join the people of Sweden 
in mourning the loss of Foreign Minister Anna Lindh, a dedicated public 
servant who died last Thursday.
  Her brutal murder has shaken the foundation of that proud and 
peaceful nation. To lose such a young and promising leader is an 
international tragedy that is difficult to comprehend.
  In only 46 years of life, Anna Lindh rapidly ascended the European 
political community to become one of its most capable, competent, and 
respected members. She was a singularly instrumental figure during the 
Swedish presidency of the European Union in 2001.
  From joining the Swedish Social Democratic League at age 12, Ms. 
Lindh was destined for a career in public service. She was elected to 
the Swedish parliament the year she graduated from law school. She 
later became the Deputy Mayor of Stockholm, Minister of the 
Environment, and eventually, Foreign Minister.
  The impact of her political skill and achievements touched people 
worldwide, most notably in the Balkans, where her remarkable talents 
helped prevent war in Macedonia.
  Building coalitions was her calling, and her success in this 
critically important area earned the respect of leaders from around the 
globe. When asked once what he appreciated most about Sweden, our own 
Secretary Colin Powell once replied ``Abba, Volvo, and Anna.''
  Anna Lindh truly epitomized a new generation of internationally-
minded politicians. Her murder was a tragedy that cannot be forgotten, 
but it must not overshadow her achievements and her lasting 
contributions to the international community.
  Mr. Speaker, I join today with the people of Sweden and more than 
12,000 of my constituents of Swedish descent in their grief as they 
remember and honor Anna Lindh's life. And I send my condolences to her 
husband and her two sons.

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