Senate Resolution No. 2764

BY: Senator AVELLA

COMMEMORATING the 25th Anniversary of the United
States' recognition of the independence of Croatia
and the establishment of strong diplomatic relations
between the two countries

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
those whose true purpose and worthy accomplishment foster a spirit of
community as they promote and recognize the goals and ideals of the rich
cultural heritage of the American-Croatian community; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the United States' recognition of
the independence of Croatia and the establishment of strong diplomatic
relations between the two countries to be celebrated at an Event on
Friday, June 16, 2017, at the Croatian Center, Cardinal Stepinac Place,
in New York, New York; and

WHEREAS, In addition, this Legislative Body would like to take this
opportunity to recognize the 25th Anniversary of Croatian Independence
Committee which includes the Consul General of the Republic of Croatia
in New York, Davor Kristic; Chairman, John Skibola; and the Croatian
Catholic Parish of Saints Cyril, Methodius and Raphael; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious event will serve to commend the Republic of
Croatia for advancing freedom and 25 years of diplomatic relations with
the United States of America, advancing the values of democracy and
independence and celebrating United States' support for Croatia's
entrance into the Euro-Atlantic community as an ally of the United
States, and the unyielding support of the Croatian-American community in
the State of New York in fostering strong economic, educational and
cultural ties between Croatia and the United States; and

WHEREAS, The United States recognized the independence of the
Republic of Croatia on April 7, 1992, acknowledging the decision of the
people of Croatia to live in an independent, democratic and sovereign
country; and

WHEREAS, In 1776, the independent Croatian city-state Dubrovnik, was
among the first republics in Europe to recognize the independence of
America, and sent its merchant marine vessels into the New York Harbor;
and

WHEREAS, The flag of Dubrovnik also symbolized freedom; the flag of
the republic was white, with a St. Blaze, the patron saint, and the word
libertas, surrounded by a garland of oak leaves; and

WHEREAS, The United States and the Republic of Croatia established
diplomatic relations on August 11, 1992; and

WHEREAS, The Croatian-American community in the State of New York
championed freedom, democracy and independence of Croatia; and

WHEREAS, The Croatian-American community in the State of New York
contributed to the humanitarian effort caused by the war of aggression
against Croatia through concerted efforts, helping with supplies, food
and medical equipment; and

WHEREAS, The Croatian-American community in the State of New York
also helped foster the peace process and worked towards the effort of
consolidating democracy in the Republic of Croatia; and

WHEREAS, The Croatian-American community in the State of New York
championed the early recognition of Croatia by the Government of the
United States; the community published an appeal by 104 Nobel Laureates
for Peace in Croatia in the New York Times on Tuesday, January 14, 1992;
and

WHEREAS, Since achieving their independence, the people of Croatia
have built a functioning democratic society, based on the rule of law,
respect for human rights, and a free market economy; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of its tireless efforts in creating a
democratic society, Croatia joined the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO) on April 1, 2009; this historic achievement confirms
the Republic's demonstrated commitment to mutual security and the shared
values of NATO members; and

WHEREAS, Many Croatians have made New York their home, and this
Legislative Body is justly proud to thank the Croatian people for their
contributions to this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the United States' recognition of
the independence of Croatia and the establishment of strong diplomatic
relations between the two countries; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the members of the 25th Anniversary of the Croatian
Independence Committee.