Daniel Inouye: “I wish to recognize the country of Tunisia, which is celebrating the 46th anniversary of its independence from France. I…”

“I wish to recognize the country of Tunisia, which is celebrating the 46th anniversary of its independence from France. I appreciate Tunisia's economic achievements. Tunisia's Gross Domestic Product has increased an average of 5.5 percent in the past 4 years, and inflation is slowing. The government has worked to increase privatization, and its prudent approach toward debt is commendable. The United States in 2000 exported approximately $350 million in goods to Tunisia, and I believe our diplomatic ties will strengthen as our trading activities increase. Stability in the Middle East is of paramount importance to both our countries, and I thank Tunisia for its past efforts to work toward peace. Tunisia's policies toward women's rights and non-Muslims' religious freedoms are exemplary in the Arab world, and I hope the nation's leaders will continue to work toward promoting greater political freedom and respect for human rights throughout the region. More than 200 years ago, the United States and Tunisia signed a Treaty of Peace and Friendship, and I look forward to many more years of cooperation between our nations.”