[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 31 (Thursday, March 11, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E363-E364]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          COMMENDING INDIA ON ITS CELEBRATION OF REPUBLIC DAY

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                               speech of

                    HON. JUANITA MILLENDER-McDONALD

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 10, 2004

  Ms. MILLENDER-McDONALD. Madam Speaker, I am very pleased to join 
India in celebrating India Republic Day. The United States and India 
share a common colonial history, and today we are both strong 
democracies that serve as a model for other nations. I am pleased that 
President Bush and Prime

[[Page E364]]

Minister Vajpayee have agreed to work in partnership on civilian 
nuclear activities, civilian space programs, and high-technology trade. 
As we work together towards building trade, peaceful uses of space 
technology, and combating terrorism, our cooperative efforts will have 
global benefits, spread prosperity and enhance international security.
  With a population of over one billion people speaking over 114 
different languages, cultural differences and significant poverty among 
her people, India faces enormous challenges. However, India has shown 
her strength, resiliency and vision for over fifty years since adopting 
a constitution in 1950. She has taken affirmative steps to promote 
equal and social justice for all, and to improve the plight of the 
poor. These are values that we share as democratic nations and partners 
working together to ensure that people have hope and freedom.
  Finally, I commend India for the steps she has taken to open 
relations with Pakistan and work towards a resolution over Kashmir. My 
best wishes for success in this endeavor that is important not only to 
the people of India and Pakistan, but also to the rest of the world.

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