[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 2 (Thursday, January 6, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E41-E42]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        THANKING THE GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF EQUATORIAL GUINEA

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DAN BURTON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 6, 2005

  Mr. BURTON of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, We have all seen the horrific 
images, and read the news reports about the tsunami that devastated 
South and Southeast Asia; and they

[[Page E42]]

speak volumes about the great burden this natural disaster has placed 
on the people of at least eleven nations. During this difficult period, 
I know that all Americans stand in support of the nations and people 
affected by this unfortunate series of events, and stand united in our 
determination to assist these people in rebuilding their shattered 
lives. President Bush has pledged the support of the United States 
government, and our federal agencies and military personnel are doing 
everything possible to be of the utmost assistance, and fulfill that 
pledge. Likewise the American people are responding with overwhelming 
charity and generosity.
  Indeed, this horrible catastrophe has created a virtual global army 
of compassion, and I rise today to recognize and applaud the leadership 
and generosity of a small portion of that army, namely the country of 
Equatorial Guinea, for their generous donation of $200,000 toward the 
Tsunami Relief Efforts.
  The government of Equatorial Guinea has faced many challenges in 
restoring order to a country that has been ravaged and neglected for 
decades. While the country still faces many struggles, such as 
rebuilding the country's schools, hospitals and infrastructure, 
Equatorial Guinea is the first African country to make a financial 
donation to the Tsunami relief effort.
  I am pleased to see President Teodoro Obiang Nguema's humanitarian 
spirit which has served the people of Equatorial Guinea so well, has 
spilled over to aid the many thousands in need in Southeastern Asia. I 
fervently hope that Equatorial Guinea's neighboring countries will soon 
follow the example set by President Nguema and offer any assistance 
possible to those who have been affected so greatly by this tragedy.

                          ____________________