[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 151 (2005), Part 17]
[House]
[Pages 23610-23611]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      PASSAGE OF IRAQ CONSTITUTION

  (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, we continue to hear more 
good news about Iraq's steps to build a civil society opposing 
terrorism.
  Today the Independent Electoral Commission confirmed that the Iraqi 
people voted by 78.9 percent to adopt their landmark constitution. The 
turnout of 63 percent exceeded January's election turnout of 60 
percent, and the elections are being hailed as a shining success. 
Terrorists attempted to intimidate voters, but they were unable to stop 
9.8 million Iraqi voters from exercising their freedom.

[[Page 23611]]

  Additionally, Iraqi Security Forces deserve enormous praise for their 
ability to provide excellent security at polling centers and the 
barriers outside these centers. Every day these forces are playing a 
larger role in protecting and securing their country, inspired by our 
courageous troops.
  The passage of Iraq's constitution marks yet another milestone for 
the nation. Iraqi citizens continue to demonstrate they are serious 
about establishing a democracy and committed to the future of their 
nation. Their success in building a civil society is a critical step in 
the global war on terrorism and is helping to protect American 
families.
  In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11.

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