Congressional Record

United States - PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 100 ^th CONGRESS, FIRST SESSI0N

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Vol. 133, WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 1987 N° 185

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Senate

ALBANIAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

Mr. RIEGLE. Mr. President, today I join with Albanians all over the world to celebrate the 75th anniversary of te Albanian Independence Day. To commemorate this important event, I would like to pay tribute to all those individuals who have devoted their lives in fighting to establish democracy and freedom for ail peuple of te world.

On November 12, 1912, Ismail Qemal, with the support of his countrymen, was able to proclaim a democratic and independent Albania, thus gaining independence from the Ottoman Empire. Unfortunately, this independence was short-lived due to the upheaval created by the First World War.

Albania was then thrust into a period of instability under warring factions of varions tyrants. Again with the onslaught of the Second World War, Albania was forcibly occupied, this time by the Italian fascist forces.

The voice of democracy within te Albanian people was organized through the establishment of Balli Bombetar - the National Front. The main goal of this organization was to liberate the country and form a democratic government.

The Balli Kombetar fought courageously and dauntlessly against the occupying forces and the Communists, which were led by Enver Hoxha. In 1944, the German and Italian forces were driven out of Albania, and with the support and aid supplied by Tito's Yugoslavian Communists, Hoxha's Communist Party gained control of' te country. The Balli Kombetar was force to disperse its forces and continue its battle for a free and democratic Albania abroad.

Mr. President, by repeatedly demonstrating our support for people struggling for their rights to live as free individuals, we give renewed meaning to the democratic principles of our own Nation.

Today's remembrance of the ongoing struggle for a free and democratic Albania is an important part of the effort, and I am proud to be part ot it.