[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 34, Number 11 (Monday, March 16, 1998)]
[Page 422]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7074--Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration 
of Greek and American Democracy, 1998

March 12, 1998

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    This year, as we mark the 177th anniversary of the advent of 
Greece's struggle for independence, we celebrate with the Hellenic 
Republic and recognize the close ties that have long existed between 
Greece and the United States. Through two centuries, our nations have 
enjoyed a strong and enduring friendship. For more than half a century, 
we have stood together in NATO, modern history's most successful 
alliance.
    Our bonds are deeper still, however, for we are joined by blood, 
culture, and a profound commitment to shared values. Greek ideals of 
democracy and freedom inspired our Nation's founders and breathed life 
into America's experiment with democratic self-government. Generations 
of Greek Americans have enriched every aspect of our national life--in 
the arts, sciences, business, politics, and sports. Through hard work, 
love of family and community, steadfast commitment to principle, and a 
deep love of liberty, they have contributed greatly to the prosperity 
and peace we enjoy today.
    The bonds between America and Greece, in fact, have never been 
stronger than they are today. We are partners in the effort to find a 
lasting, peaceful solution in the Balkans and to build an enlarged NATO 
that will enhance our common security. As our two nations prepare for 
the challenges and possibilities of the new millennium, we look forward 
to building on the partnership so that the seeds of democracy we have 
nurtured together for so long will bear fruit in a bright future not 
only for ourselves, but for our global community.
    Now, Therefore, I, William J. Clinton, 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 March 25, 
1998, as Greek Independence Day: A National Day of Celebration of Greek 
and American Democracy. I call upon all Americans to observe this day 
with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twelfth day of 
March, in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and ninety-eight, and of 
the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
twenty-second.
                                            William J. Clinton

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 11:18 a.m., March 13, 
1998]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on March 
16.