Honor US-Croatia Relations

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.