On the recordMarch 25, 2014
Mr. Speaker, I rise today, March 25, to celebrate the 193rd anniversary of Greek independence. In Greek, we say ``Long Live Greece, Long Live Freedom''--Zito Ellada, Zito Eleftheria--in recalling the day that the Greek people threw off the yoke of the Ottoman Empire and established modern Greece as a free and independent nation. America's Founding Fathers drew upon the example of the ancient Greeks in forming our constitutional Republic, and modern Greece has been a staunch and dependable ally of the United States. Our relationship is based on shared democratic values and respect for individual freedom. The spirit that guided the Greek people in securing their freedom nearly 200 years ago resides within them still. It is the reason I am confident that Greece will overcome the economic and humanitarian crisis that it faces today. The United States must and will stand as a strong partner in Greece's efforts to regain its footing, to take full advantage of new opportunities that are emerging in the eastern Mediterranean, and to move forward as a vital economic and cultural resource for a critical region of the world. Knowing that America and Greece will stand together allows us to proclaim that both democracies will continue to live in freedom. Long Live Greece, Long Live America, Long Live Freedom--Zito Ellada, Zito Ameriki, Zito Eleftheria. ____________________
