; Whereas the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic came into existence on January 1, 1993, after a peaceful dissolution of Czechoslovakia; Whereas the Czech Republic and Slovak Republic joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization on March 12, 1999, and March 29, 2004, respectively, becoming responsible and reliable allies to the United States and other NATO members; Whereas committed to the idea of peaceful and prosperous Europe the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic became members of the European Union on May 1, 2004; Whereas the people of the United States, the Czech Republic, and the Slovak Republic have maintained a special relationship based on shared democratic values, common interests, and the strong bonds of friendship, mutual respect, and close cooperation; and Whereas the people of the United States have an affinity with the people of the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic and regard them as trusted and important partners and allies: Now, therefore, be it