[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 13 (Monday, April 3, 2006)]
[Page 561]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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.

Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of 
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appropriate issue.