[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 148 (2002), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 3875]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




       CELEBRATING THE 46TH ANNIVERSARY OF TUNISIAN INDEPENDENCE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. DAVID E. PRICE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 20, 2002

  Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, March 20, 2002, the 
Republic of Tunisia celebrates the 46th anniversary of its 
independence.
  Since adoption of its first Constitution in June 1, 1959, Tunisia has 
made great progress in embracing procedural and substantive democratic 
reforms by holding contested presidential and legislative elections 
that provide for the opposition party to hold seats in parliament; 
expanding freedom of expression among its people; providing a free 
public education for all children; and promoting the equality of women, 
including the election of women to parliament.
  As a result, the Republic of Tunisia has reaped the benefits of 
becoming a world trading partner through bilateral free trade 
agreements, trade agreements with European Union, and nearly two 
decades of sustained economic growth.
  The relationship between the United States and Tunisia dates back to 
the 18th century when our two countries signed a treaty of friendship. 
Strong ties of cooperation continued after Tunisia gained its 
independence in 1956 and continue today as Tunisia joins us in the 
fight against terrorism. Today, we commemorate the independence of the 
Republic of Tunisia and celebrate our special relationship with the 
Tunisian people.

                          ____________________