FOR THE RECORD: Sen. Carl Levin commemorates Ukraine's Independence Day (10/22/00)

FOR THE RECORD

Sen. Carl Levin commemorates Ukraine's Independence Day

Following is the text of a statement on by Sen. Carl Levin of Michigan as published in the Congressional Record of September 18. The statement was read at the Ukrainian Independence Day reception held on September 20 on Capitol Hill.

As Ukraine approaches its first decade of independence, since the collapse of the Soviet Union there are many accomplishments of which the people of Ukraine can be proud.

For over a millennium the Ukrainian people have successfully preserved and maintained their unique culture, language, religion and identity. Such an achievement stands as an inspiration for free people everywhere, and is a testimony to the depth, character and vibrancy of the Ukrainian culture.

The November 14, 1999, re-election of Leonid Kuchma as Ukraine's president is a cause for great optimism. High turnout in this election, and a refusal by the voters to return to a Communist past, speaks to the vibrancy of Ukrainian democracy.

With this election the Ukrainian people chose to move forward with a program of economic reform. While the transition from a centralized economy to a free-market system has not been easy, Ukraine has been blessed with vast natural resources, a sizable industrial infrastructure, and a hard-working and resourceful people that promise to ensure Ukraine's economic transformation. The decision this year by the Supreme Rada to privatize large parts of the Ukrainian economy will further enable this industrious nation to continue with its economic progress.

Ukraine's unique geographic location has given it a vital role in ensuring the peace and stability of not only the region, but of all Europe. Ukraine has shown its commitment to a secure Europe by providing troops to the peacekeeping effort in Kosovo, and by asking to enhance its partnership with NATO. By entering into the Status of Forces Agreement with NATO and hosting NATO military exercises in Odesa, Ukraine has reiterated its commitment to the world's most powerful military alliance.

At this time when we honor Ukraine's independence, it is only fitting that we laud the many advances made by the Ukrainian people in the past decade. The advances Ukraine has made today are built upon the sacrifices and dedication of countless patriots who have struggled to preserve the independence and freedom of the Ukrainian people. I am sure that my Senate colleagues would join me in saluting the Ukrainian people for their tremendous courage in promoting free and fair markets, and participatory democracy during a difficult transition period.

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