[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 73 (Friday, May 21, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            H. CON. RES. 352

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2004

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Con. Res. 
352 and to recognize the great contributions of people of Indian origin 
to the United States and to strengthen our bilateral relationship with 
the people of India.
  For decades, people of Indian origin have immigrated to the United 
States. They have made extraordinary contributions to our Nation, from 
advancements in science and technology to business development, 
philanthropy, literature and the arts. Their contributions have helped 
make the United States a more diverse and prosperous country.
  In Minnesota, people of Indian origin have made their presence felt 
throughout our communities and neighborhoods. Small and large Indian 
businesses have flourished in Minnesota. Groups like the India 
Association of Minnesota, the Asian Pacific Policy Roundtable and CAIR 
Minnesota have worked very hard to promote a strong, bilateral 
relationship between India and the United States, raising greater 
awareness toward human rights and regional reform. Other organizations, 
like the Indo-American Association of Minnesota, have taken the lead in 
promoting arts, cultural, spiritual and classical music as well as 
entertainment. Our colleges and universities have also expanded 
educational exchanges and opportunities between Minnesota and India, 
fostering new relationships and promoting greater cooperation between 
our two countries.
  Minnesota has also seen a rise in new and exciting Indian-American 
leaders, including State Senator Satveer Chaudhry, elected in 2000 and 
representing Senate District 50 in my Congressional District. Senator 
Chaudhry is the highest-ranking Indian-American elected official in the 
country. As a friend and a former colleague, Senator Chaudhry's 
leadership has ensured that Indian-American families in Minnesota, as 
well as all the families in his district, are well represented.
  Again, I support H. Con. Res. 352 and I urge passage of this 
important legislation. Minnesota has benefited greatly from its Indian-
American community and I look forward to strengthening our relationship 
with our Indian friends and neighbors in the future.

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