[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.

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