A proclamation by U.S. President George W. Bush concerning the celebration of Greece's March 25 national anniversary was issued by the White House on Monday, as has been customary in past years in the framework of the recognition by the United States of the contribution made by Greek Americans and Greece.

"On Greek Independence Day, we are celebrating the proud heritage of the Greek Americans, we are recognizing the longstanding friendship existing between Greece and the United States and we are reconfirming our common desire to spread freedom all over the world," the proclamation said.

"Greece is the birthplace of democratic principles and the history of modern Greek independence proves the strength of freedom. On March 25, 1821, the Greek rebels proclaimed their independence from the Ottoman Empire after centuries of imperial governance. This courageous act began an 11-year war to secure the freedom of the Greeks and their recognition as a sovereign state," it added.

The proclamation further noted that "strong cooperation and friendship has developed between Greece and America and our nation has benefited from the contribution of Greek immigrants. The hard work of Greek Americans has made our country stronger and has affected our literature, arts, businesses, politics, education and entertainment."

Source: Athens News Agency

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