[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 22]
[House]
[Page 30351]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




              WELCOME TO FRENCH PRESIDENT NICOLAS SARKOZY

  (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, I rise today to welcome 
French President Nicolas Sarkozy and thank him for addressing the joint 
session of Congress this morning.
  As a person of French heritage, I know we are all grateful for his 
tribute to American veterans. France was our first ally in the American 
Revolution, as symbolized by the portrait of Marquis de Lafayette here 
in the Chamber. France remains an important partner in international 
affairs and a major investor in the American economy.
  I am grateful that the midlands of South Carolina is home to three 
Michelin tire manufacturing plants. The Associated Press has recognized 
President Sarkozy as a blunt and uncompromising pro-American 
conservative.
  With his leadership, I am confident our historic alliance will be 
strengthened as we pursue common goals of global economic development 
and face down a common enemy in the global war on terrorism.
  I look forward to working with my colleagues and our friends of 
France in promoting our vibrant partnership.
  In conclusion, God bless our troops, and we will never forget 
September 11th.

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