RECOGNIZING KAZAKHSTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

On 2024-12-17, Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING KAZAKHSTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY" in the House. The speech addressed taxes and also covered trade policy, labor policy.

RECOGNIZING KAZAKHSTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY

Congressional Record, Volume 170 Issue 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024) [Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1287] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING KAZAKHSTAN INDEPENDENCE DAY ______ HON. JIMMY PANETTA of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, December 17, 2024 Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 33rd Independence Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan's Independence Day, celebrated on December 16, represents the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream: a sovereign nation charting its own course in the modern world. It is a day to honor the heroes who played instrumental roles in achieving independence and shaping a vision of freedom and self-determination for Kazakhstan for future generations. On December 16, 1991, Kazakhstan declared its independence, officially breaking away from the Soviet Union. The United States, recognizing the significance of this achievement, was among the first nations to acknowledge Kazakhstan's sovereignty on December 25, 1991. Furthermore, the United States demonstrated its commitment by opening its embassy in January 1992 and has consistently emphasized its support for Kazakhstan's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Since gaining independence, Kazakhstan has emerged as a respected member of the international community. The nation has fostered diplomatic relations, contributed to global peace and security, and driven economic development. The relationship between Kazakhstan and the United States has grown robust and wide-ranging, further strengthened by the Enhanced Strategic Partnership. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's dedication to political and societal reforms is particularly commendable. Despite external challenges, Kazakhstan has remained a peaceful and stabilizing force in Central Asia, demonstrating its commitment to democracy and civilizational orientation toward the West. Kazakhstan remains one of the United States' most reliable and trusted partners, both regionally and globally, particularly as an active member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This long-standing partnership underscores the importance of advancing efforts to establish Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR), serving as a pragmatic acknowledgment of the progress Kazakhstan has made and a necessary step to reinforce America's strategic relationship with Central Asia. Looking ahead, the United States and Kazakhstan are ready to strengthen their partnership through ongoing dialogue, trade, and cooperation on mutual objectives. Together, we remain dedicated to promoting peace, security, and prosperity, both in Central Asia and across the globe. ____________________