Bart Stupak: “I introduced H. Res. 253 to commend the Slovak Republic for its progress towards political and economic liberty and…”

“I introduced H. Res. 253 to commend the Slovak Republic for its progress towards political and economic liberty and efforts to meet the guidelines of prospective NATO membership. Slovakia, once an authoritative regime, embraced a pro-western government in 1998 and freed its citizens from international isolation. On September 21, 2002, the Slovak government successfully held the third free and fair elections since its independence. Over 70 percent of the eligible voters turned out to express their new-found democratic right. The Slovak Republic now stands ready to play an integral part in defense of the free world. As a member of NATO, Slovakia would contribute to protection of member states and significantly benefit the security and peace of Europe and the region as a whole. Slovakia's leaders value the prospect of serving in our military alliance, while its citizens align themselves with NATO's common values and democratic mission. The NATO summit to discuss enlargement is scheduled for November 23, 2002, in Prague. That is why this resolution is so timely.”