Bulgarian Miracle Continues

BULGARIAN MIRACLE CONTINUES -- (House of Representatives - September 27, 2006)

(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today is a joyous day for the people of Bulgaria. This week, the European Commission recommended Bulgaria be admitted into the European Union in January 2007. In less than 16 years, Bulgaria has successfully transitioned from a Communist totalitarian regime into a free market democracy.

Just 3 years ago, I was honored to be at the White House with former Prime Minister Simeon Saxe-Coburg Gotha as Bulgaria was admitted into NATO. Bulgaria has proven to be a true ally in the global war on terrorism, and Bulgarian troops have bravely served in Iraq and Afghanistan. There are currently plans for three U.S. bases to be located within Bulgaria.

Bulgaria has one of the fastest growing economies, and membership in the EU will accelerate its pace. Economically and militarily, Bulgaria is secure.

Congratulations to Prime Minister Georgi Parvanov, Prime Minister Sergey Stanishev, Ambassador to Washington Elena Poptodorova, and my longtime friend Ambassador to Athens Stefan Stoyanov.

I am grateful to serve with Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher as cochair of the Bulgarian Caucus, promoting the growing partnership between Bulgaria and America.

In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11th.

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