[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 25 (Thursday, March 2, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E274-E275]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     RECOGNIZING 87TH ANNIVERSARY OF LIBERATION OF KOREAN PENINSULA

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT GARRETT

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 2, 2006

  Mr. GARRETT of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
87th anniversary of the March 1st Movement for the liberation of the 
Korean peninsula from Japanese oppression. This was the day that Korea 
regained its independence and since then it has continued to become a 
major economic and cultural force on the world stage.
  There is a flourishing and growing relationship between the United 
States and Korea. Korea is a major economic partner and our 7th largest 
trading partner. Whether in education, science, business, or the arts, 
Korea

[[Page E275]]

has played and continues to play a vital role in shaping communities 
throughout New Jersey and the entire United States.
  Several years ago, I had the distinct pleasure of traveling to Korea. 
While there I was able to meet with Korean government leaders, high-
level U.S. military officials, and top Korean business executives. In 
addition, I shared a meal and conversed with troops from New Jersey's 
5th Congressional District.
  I was honored to take part in this informative diplomatic trip. The 
opportunity contributed to my understanding of what issues affect the 
economic, political, and military policies of Korea, and in turn, their 
impact on United States interests.
  During the visit, I met with opposition party leader Chairman Choe, 
Korean cabinet members and members of the Korean Chamber of Commerce. 
We discussed enhancing the visibility of the important United States-
Korea relationship and addressed the tensions in the region surrounding 
the North Korean nuclear issue. In addition, I was taken by the U.S. 
Army, led by General Leon Porte, Chief in Command of the United States 
Forces in Korea, to the Joint Security Area on the Korean Demilitarized 
Zone (DMZ).
  Now more than ever there is a need to increase mutual understanding 
between the United States and Korea. The 2 countries have become 
increasingly important regional and global partners, as Korea has 
become a stronger advocate for democracy and a free-market economy. It 
is critical that the working relationship between the 2 countries 
flourish for years to come.

                          ____________________