Indonesia is a Strategic Friend

INDONESIA IS A STRATEGIC FRIEND -- (House of Representatives - April 04, 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. Madam Speaker, as supporters of freedom confront terrorism worldwide, it is appropriate to recognize the Republic of Indonesia's extraordinary efforts to advance democracy. Newly appointed Ambassador Sudjadnan Parnohadiningrat recently made a convincing presentation in the Washington Diplomat regarding the significance of his country, which is the world's third largest democracy of over 220 million and the world's largest Muslim population which spreads across 17,000 islands.

Despite al Qaeda terrorist attacks and economic collapse, and the catastrophic tsunami, Indonesia has rebounded with fair and free elections and an economic growth rate from 5.5 to 6 percent annually. America is fortunate to be a friend and partner of Indonesia, a dynamic nation which joins us in working for regional peace and winning the war on terrorism.

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

http://thomas.loc.gov