David Durenberger: “I rise today to commemorate an event that will take place in San Salvador, El Salvador on June 1, 1994. That event is…”

“I rise today to commemorate an event that will take place in San Salvador, El Salvador on June 1, 1994. That event is the second peaceful transfer of power from a freely elected civilian to another as President of El Salvador. The first time that this occurred was 5 years ago, on June 1, 1989. The President of El Salvador inaugurated on that date was Alfredo Cristiani. The political, economic, and social progress that has taken place in El Salvador during the last 5 years, while Mr. Cristiani has been President, is a triumph of the human spirit over extreme adversity. It is in many respects the direct result of the foresight and courage of one man--Alfredo Cristiani. To fashion the present peace required the patience, trust and fortitude of all factions, especially the FMLN, ARENA, and the Christian Democrats. However, without the leadership and guidance provided by President Cristiani, this nation might still be embroiled in destructive guerrilla warfare.”