[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 113 (Friday, July 24, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1931]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             CONGRATULATING LITHUANIA ON 1000TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 22, 2009

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 285, 
congratulating the people of the Republic of Lithuania on the one-
thousandth anniversary of Lithuania and celebrating the rich history of 
Lithuania. I congratulate Lithuania on this important anniversary and 
extend many happy returns to the Lithuanian people. I thank my esteemed 
colleague, Congressman Shimkus, for introducing this important 
legislation.
  As co-chair of the House Baltic Caucus I have worked to advance the 
strong ties that exist between the United States and Lithuania. I look 
forward to strengthening diplomatic ties through the promotion of 
democratic values that support both social and economic justice. The 
Baltic people have a proud history that shows their dedication to these 
values as well as the values of liberty and democracy. I am proud that 
our two nations share such a strong commitment to democracy and 
diplomacy.
  Lithuania's history is long and laudable. In recent years Lithuania 
has advanced its status as an international citizen. Lithuania declared 
independence from the former Soviet Union on March 11, 1990. Along with 
the other Baltic States, Latvia and Estonia, Lithuania became a member 
of NATO in March of 2004. Just two months later in May 2004 Lithuania 
joined the European Union with her Baltic counterparts.
  On July 12, 2009, Lithuania made history once again by swearing in 
their first female president, Dalia Grybauskaite. President 
Grybauskaite has reaffirmed Lithuania's commitment to our many shared 
values. Under her leadership, Lithuania continues to show a clear 
commitment to uphold equality, freedom of speech and human rights.
  She has stated her intention to amend a controversial censorship law 
scheduled to enter force on March 1, 2010. The law has been criticized 
by gay rights activists and others for discriminating against 
homosexuals by prohibiting references to homosexuality in media 
available to children.
  I commend President Grybauskaite for her commitment to uphold 
equality and human rights for all people. I congratulate Lithuania on 
its one-thousandth anniversary and will continue to celebrate 
Lithuania's rich history. I strongly support this legislation and urge 
my colleagues to do so as well.

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