A resolution congratulating the people and Government of the Republic of Slovenia on the twentieth anniversary of the country's independence.

Mr. President, I have come to the floor today to speak on S. Res. 212, congratulating the people and Government of Slovenia on the 20th anniversary of their nation's independence. I am pleased that the Senate passed this resolution yesterday by unanimous consent and I am grateful to my colleagues Senators Shaheen, Klobuchar, Barrasso, Brown of Ohio and Portman for joining with me in submitting this resolution.

As many of my colleagues know, the Republic of Slovenia holds a very special place in my heart. Ninety years ago, my mother came to America from the village of Suha in what is now Slovenia.

The modern Republic of Slovenia is only 20 years old. But more than 1,000 years ago, in what is now the Slovenian state of Carinthia, there was a duke who later served as one of Thomas Jefferson's inspirations for American democracy. What inspired President Jefferson? It was the tradition that the dukes of Carinthia could take office only after being questioned by a simple peasant to test their worthiness. If the peasant was satisfied with the answers, then he gently slapped the duke as a symbol of accountability to the people. Imagine that: people slapping around politicians in a democracy!

I have been tremendously impressed by the great strides Slovenia has made since breaking away from Yugoslavia two decades ago. In this short period of time, Slovenia has become one of the world's most successful democracies, which I witnessed firsthand during a visit 5 years ago.

Slovenia is what you might call an ``overachiever'' among new nations. In a short period of time, it has gained entry into NATO and the European Union. Indeed, it has already held the rotating Presidency of the EU. Slovenia has built the most successful economy in Central and Eastern Europe and has been a force for stability and democratic reform in the Balkans.

On a personal note, I am especially grateful for the Republic of Slovenia's outstanding leadership in the campaign to rid the world of landmines and to assist the victims, especially children. This is a humanitarian mission of profound importance--a mission that I have worked on, with many of my colleagues, including Senator Klobuchar and former Senator Voinovich, to secure support from the U.S. Congress.

The world looks at Slovenia's success, and wonders: How could a nation of just 2 million people accomplish so much in such a short period of time? As an American, I know the answer.

Bear in mind that, when Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence, America was also a nation of just 2 million people. Like Americans in 1776, Slovenians in 1991 dared to break away from a much larger and more powerful mother country. Like Americans, Slovenians paid in blood for their freedom. Like Americans, Slovenians demanded a democratic course for their new country.

Nine decades ago, my mother left Slovenia--a Slovenia that was impoverished, ruled by autocrats, and dominated by foreign powers; a nation that sent forth immigrants desperate to find a better life. Today, a free, prosperous, and democratic Slovenia sends forth global leaders and humanitarians who are helping to build a better world.

This is a magnificent achievement--a testament to the vision, courage, and talents of the Slovenian people. On this proud anniversary, I join with all of my colleagues here in the Senate in saluting our friend and ally, the Republic of Slovenia.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of S. Res. 212, which was submitted earlier today.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be agreed to, the motions to reconsider be laid upon the table, with no intervening action or debate, and any statements related to the measure be printed in the Record.