The world, afghanistan, a sovereign nation that is a participating member in our global community, affiliated by the world bank and ims. A country in transition thanks to the efforts of the ambassador, president guhany and others, working together in harmony towards a common goal. The transition of a country that has known too much violence, conflict, and separation. To be embraced by the World Community as a peaceful, emerging leader for its region in the world, diplomatic, and global community. Afghanistan got independence from britain in 1919. Timing is everything, ambassador. First diplomatic ties to the United States in 1921 and that relationship has been maintained to the present day. The population now is almost 32 million, 50 under the age of 18, 27 of its population live in urban areas. Two official languages. Afghanistan is a land linked nation. It is almost as big as the state of texas. I dont know if that is a backhanded compliment or not but it is a compliment. Education i
And everything in it. Teach us to trust you in turbulent times, striving always to live for your glory. Bless our senators. May your completeness surround their incompleteness, your strength support their weakness and your wisdom guide their minds. Give them the insight, guide them down paths they cannot see. Give them the insight, the courage and the faith to escape the repetition of old errors as they strive to embrace your truth. Lord, help us all to offer to you the sacrifice of repentant hearts. We pray in your merciful name. Amen. The president pro tempore please join me in reciting the pledge of allegiance to our flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Mr. Mcconnell madam president . The presiding officer the majority leader. Mr. Mcconnell last week, the Republicanled Senate passed two more Appropriations Bills by a large bipartisan majorit