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July 12 proclaimed FSM law day

Palikir, POHNPEI (FSM Information Services): June 15, 2004 - President Joseph J. Urusemal has issued a proclamation declaring July 12 2004, as Micronesian Law Day.

The Proclamation in its entirety is as follows:

"Whereas, the Congress of Micronesia convened for the first time on July 12, 1965;

Whereas, the first Micronesian Constitution Convention opened on July 12, 1975;

Whereas, our citizens approved the Constitution of the Federated States of Micronesia by Plebiscite on July 12, 1978;

Whereas, the Supreme Court of the Federated States of Micronesia began operating on July 12, 1981;

Whereas, continuing respect for the rule of law and democratic institutions established under our Constitution is essential for the preservation of democracy and respect for human right in our nation now and in future;

Whereas, the establishment of legal and democratic institutions of the Federated States of Micronesia that so greatly benefit our citizens and residents should be suitably commemorated;

Now therefore, in recognition of the significance of July 12^th in the history of the Federated States of Micronesia, and in recognition of the importance of our legal institutions to our government and society, I, Joseph J. Urusemal, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, do hereby proclaim July 12, 2004 as Micronesian Law Day. I call upon all citizens, residents and government and private agencies of the FSM to celebrate this day in ways that promote respect for the law."

The President signed the Proclamation on June 9, 2004.