[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 39 (Thursday, March 25, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3175-S3176]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         GREEK INDEPENDENCE DAY

  Mr. SARBANES. Mr. President, March 25 has very special meaning in 
Greek history. On this date 183 years ago, a small but resolute band of 
Greek patriots began the struggle to end the foreign domination that 
for nearly four centuries had oppressed and impoverished Greek lands. 
For 8 difficult years, resolute and courageous Greek patriots fought 
against tremendous odds to secure the liberty of their homeland. On 
this same date 30 years ago the military junta, which had seized power 
in 1967 and for 7 long years suppressed democratic institutions and 
civil rights, was brought down, and democracy was restored to the land 
of its invention. These two events, distant in time and nature as they 
are from one another, both mark milestones on the road to the vigorous 
and prosperous democracy that is Greece today.
  Nearly 200 years ago, the United States and Greece were two young 
republics for whom the future was still uncertain. Inspired by 
democratic ideas in a world that was largely uncomprehending and 
hostile, both took on the formidable challenge of building viable 
democratic institutions. That shared commitment has endured. The United 
States and Greece have stood together in every major struggle for 
freedom and democracy: through two devastating World Wars, and through 
the long decades of the Cold War.
  The Hellenic Republic was established in 1974. Since that time, 
Greece has built itself into a strong democracy, a vibrant economy, a 
regional leader and an ever more solid partner of the United States. 
Greece has reclaimed its leading role in the region, joining the 
European Community in 1981. In April 2003, the European Union, under 
the Greek presidency, signed the Accession Treaty to accept 10 new 
members in the ancient agora marketplace of Athens, that city serving 
once again as a cradle for democratic expansion.
  Greece's democracy has flourished and prospered over the past 30 
years. Recent elections have again demonstrated the stability and 
openness of the nation's political institutions. With the transfer of 
power from one party to another, a new generation of Greek leaders is 
emerging, a generation that promises to build on the strength of the 
existing relationship with the United States to develop new avenues of 
cooperation.
  Today Greece is preparing for the 2004 Olympics. It is a matter of 
profound satisfaction for those of us of Greek ancestry that the Games 
this year are returning to their birthplace, and that Greece will play 
host to more than two million athletes and visitors from every corner 
of the world. In connection with the Olympic Games, Greece has 
undertaken structural improvements that are transforming Athens into a 
thoroughly cosmopolitan and modern city, and building facilities and 
infrastructure throughout the country. The investment Greece has made 
in connection with the Olympics holds out the prospect of a new era, 
for the people of Greece and visitors to Greece alike. The Games offer 
a splendid opportunity to present Greek achievements to the 
international community not only in sports but also in cultural, 
economic and political terms.
  The founders of the American republic were ardent students of the 
classics, and they looked to the wisdom and experience of ancient 
Greece as they shaped our nascent political order. In turn, Greek 
patriots struggling to win independence in 1821 turned to the 
principles of the new American democracy as they sought to build their 
own new order. In today's turbulent world, the strong and enduring ties 
between the two countries are momentous achievements. They give us 
cause for reflection and celebration on this independence day.
  Mr. REED. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize the 183rd 
anniversary of Greek Independence and pay tribute to the contributions 
of Greece and our Greek-American community. It was on this day in 1821, 
that Greek patriots rose up against the Ottoman empire and began an 8-
year struggle that culminated in a new Greek Republic.
  It is fitting that we take this day to reflect on the enormous 
contributions

[[Page S3176]]

the Greek people have made to the modern world. Our own democratic 
principles have their very foundation in the practices of the ancient 
Greek republic. Indeed, the ancient Greeks developed the concept of 
democracy, in which the supreme power to govern was vested in the 
people. Our own Founding Fathers modeled the American government on the 
principles of Greek democracy. Thomas Jefferson studied the Greek 
classics in his youth and was inspired by their philosophy throughout 
his life, most dramatically when he crafted the Declaration of 
Independence. When formulating his vision for this country, Jefferson 
specifically referred to the integrated assertions, theories, and aims 
of the classic Greek world.
  Today, our admiration for Greece continues. Greece and the United 
States, partners in NATO, are at the forefront of the effort for 
freedom, democracy, peace, stability, and human rights, forging a close 
bond between the two nations. We look forward to working closely with 
Greece in the coming years as we examine ways to bring full peace, 
stability, and prosperity to all the nations of Europe and the world.
  As we celebrate Greek independence, we must also remember the history 
of those who sacrificed their lives to preserve American freedom and 
democracy. Greek Americans have served proudly and honorably in every 
U.S. engagement and war. It is through their efforts and others that we 
maintain a Nation committed to fighting and winning this war or 
terrorism.
  Today, we join the world in anticipating the momentous 2004 Summer 
Olympic Games, which will be held in Athens, the birthplace of the 
Olympic tradition. This event not only highlights the achievements of 
thousands of world athletes, but signifies the importance of working 
together to provide greater opportunity and freedom for the citizens of 
the world.
  I am proud to join many of my colleagues as a cosponsor of S. Res. 
308 designating March 25, 2004 as Greek Independence Day: A National 
Day of Celebration of Greek and American Democracy. We value our 
friendship and continuing partnership with the government and people of 
Greece. I would especially like to offer all Greek Americans my best 
wishes as they celebrate this day of independence. Finally, I ask all 
citizens to reflect on the many important contributions to freedom, 
democracy, peace, and stability Greece and Greek Americans have made to 
this country and our world.

                          ____________________