[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 119, 109th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7882--APR. 5, 2005
Proclamation 7882 of April 5, 2005
Pan American Day and Pan American Week, 2005
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Leaders across the Americas understand that the hope for peace in our
world depends on the unity of free nations. Each year, the people of the
United States observe Pan American Day and Pan American Week to honor
our shared commitment to freedom, prosperity, and security. We are
working with our partners in the Western Hemisphere to advance our
common interests and values so that we can build a brighter future for
our citizens.
The idea of regional solidarity and inter-American cooperation, first
envisioned in 1826 by Simon Bolivar, became a reality in 1890 when the
First International Conference of American States concluded its meetings
in Washington, D.C. There, President Benjamin Harrison praised the
efforts of the countries in attendance for their desire to work together
as American States. Through the years, these efforts, shared values, and
mutual respect have strengthened this partnership.
Across our hemisphere, social, economic, military, and political
cooperation are widespread. Last year, trade officials of five Central
American nations and the Dominican Republic signed the Central American-
Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement with the United States. I urge
the Congress to ratify this agreement, which will eliminate tariffs and
trade barriers and expand regional opportunities.
My Administration remains committed to the Inter-American Democratic
Charter to advance democracy and defend freedom across our region. Our
Nation's continued support of democratic institutions, constitutional
processes, and basic liberties gives hope and strength to those
struggling in our hemisphere and around the world to preserve the rule
of law and their God-given rights.
The democratic nations of the Western Hemisphere believe in the rights
and dignity of every person, and we believe that liberty is worth
defending. In the spirit of Pan American cooperation, we will continue

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to work to strengthen ties among our nations and further democracy,
peace, and prosperity.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim April 14, 2005, as Pan
American Day and April 10 through April 16, 2005, as Pan American Week.
I urge the Governors of the 50 States, the Governor of the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico, and the officials of other areas under the flag of the
United States of America to honor these observances with appropriate
ceremonies and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fifth day of April,
in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the Independence of
the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-ninth.
GEORGE W. BUSH