[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 119 (Thursday, September 21, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1802]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




TRIBUTE TO GOVERNMENT AND PEOPLE OF ARMENIA ON THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY OF 
                THEIR INDEPENDENCE FROM THE SOVIET UNION

                                 ______
                                 

                     HON. HOWARD P. ``BUCK'' McKEON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 21, 2006

  Mr. McKEON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Republic of 
Armenia on the occasion of the 15th anniversary of their independence 
from the Soviet Union.
  Since September 21, 1991, Armenia has faced the daunting challenge of 
building a modem free market economy on the crumbling foundations of 
Communism. In spite of the situation as they inherited it, Armenia's 
story has been one of increasing success against long odds. As a member 
of the World Trade Organization, and a country committed to privatizing 
their economy, Armenia has seen positive economic growth rates since 
1995. While there remains much work to be done, I am confident that the 
people of Armenia, with their long history of triumph over adversity, 
will succeed again in making their country a beacon of hope in its 
troubled part of the world.
  Throughout their history, the Armenian people have proven both their 
desire and determination to be free. I am proud to join my colleagues 
in acknowledging the anniversary of independence for the free 
government of the Armenian people who have been ruled by the Roman, 
Byzantine, Arab, Persian, Ottoman empires as well as the Soviet Union.
  On this important occasion, I extend my congratulations to the people 
and government of Armenia.

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