[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 14 (Thursday, February 10, 2005)]
[House]
[Page H526]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         THE BULGARIAN MIRACLE

  (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in 
appreciation of the strong partnership between the United States and 
Bulgaria.
  For over 100 years the United States has enjoyed diplomatic relations 
with Bulgaria. With its new era of democracy, our two countries now 
stand together in the war on terrorism and our friendship is stronger 
than ever.
  Bulgaria is a new democracy which recognizes the importance of 
furthering freedom throughout the world. By sending over 400 troops to 
rebuild Iraq and train security forces, the country is playing an 
important role in helping the Iraqi people. Also, with a contingent in 
Afghanistan, Bulgaria is protecting the modern world by containing 
terrorists at the source.
  Bulgaria is also a country of great accomplishment. Last year I was 
honored to meet Prime Minister Simeon Saxe-Coburg Gotha and to attend 
the White House ceremony honoring Bulgaria's admission into NATO. Under 
his leadership, the Bulgarian economy is being transformed and EU 
admission is planned in 2 years.
  During my visits to Bulgaria, I have seen firsthand the Bulgarian 
miracle, the establishment of a dynamic democracy and the restoration 
of economic freedom.
  As the co-chair of the Congressional Bulgaria Caucus with the 
gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Tauscher), it is also my privilege to 
work with Ambassador Elena Poptodorova.
  In conclusion, may God bless our troops and we will never forget 
September 11.

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