Madam Speaker, I rise today to welcome President Lech Kaczynski of Poland to our nation’s capital. After taking office in December of 2005, President Kaczynski has strengthened Poland’s already close ties with the United States.

Under the leadership of President Kaczynski, Poland has been one of the United States closest allies in strengthening democracy in Europe. Poland is a partner in the war against terrorism and provides support and stability to American efforts throughout the world.

President Kaczynski is scheduled to meet with President Bush today, and both presidents plan to discuss the possible inclusion of Poland in the Visa Waiver Program.  As I have said before, Poland is a first class friend of the United States, and should not be treated like a second-class citizen. 
I look forward to working with President Kaczynski and President Bush in modernizing the Visa Waiver Program to provide our closest international partners the opportunity to travel to the United States while simultaneously strengthening our security.

President Kaczynski’s leadership has been vital to continuing the dialogue between Poland and the United States on important issues ranging from the war on terror to economic issues, and I look forward to continuing to work with his government.

On behalf of the more than 110,000 residents of the Fifth Congressional District of Polish decent, I welcome President Kaczynski to Washington and thank him for his fine work and commitment to democracy.