    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book I)]
    [March 24, 2006]
    [Page 570]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on Freedom Efforts in Belarus
    March 24, 2006

        I send greetings to those working to return freedom to Belarus and
    observing the 88th anniversary of the first effort to establish an
    independent Belarus.
        Freedom is the birthright of every human soul and the permanent hope
    of all mankind. The desire for justice, freedom, human rights, and
    accountable, representative government is universal. Nations grow by
    allowing the talents and liberties of their people to flourish, not by
    suppressing freedom. By upholding the rule of law, limiting the power of
    the state, holding free and fair elections, and respecting the rights of
    all people, governments can foster more hopeful societies and empower
    their citizens.
        I appreciate those who labor in the shadows to return freedom to
    Belarus, and our Nation's thoughts are with those who have been
    harassed, detained, imprisoned, or beaten for their efforts. The United
    States condemns the actions by Belarusian security services on the
    morning of March 24, and we urge all members of the international
    community to join us in condemning any and all abuses and demanding that
    Belarusian authorities respect the rights of their own citizens to
    express themselves peacefully. The United States will continue to stand
    with the people of Belarus and all those who are working to help Belarus
    take its rightful place in the community of democracies.

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