[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 75 (Friday, May 27, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E990]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        CONGRATULATIONS TO AZERBAIJAN ON THEIR 93RD REPUBLIC DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 27, 2011

  Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Republic of 
Azerbaijan on the 93rd anniversary of Republic Day on May 28. 
Additionally, the Republic of Azerbaijan will be celebrating the 20th 
anniversary of its independence from the Soviet Union.
  Azerbaijan has become a critical ally of the United States due both 
to its location in the Caucasus Region and its access to rich energy 
sources in the Caspian Sea. Additionally, Azerbaijan has been an 
example of religious and ethnic tolerance. As a predominantly Muslim 
country, Azerbaijan has maintained strong and active Jewish and 
Christian communities.
  Azerbaijan was one of the first nations to offer the United States 
support in the aftermath of 9/11. They have participated in many joint 
military efforts since their independence and recently doubled their 
military presence in Afghanistan. They have also offered logistical 
support for our efforts in Afghanistan, offering refueling stations and 
over-flight permission.
  Once again, I am happy to honor and congratulate Azerbaijan on their 
93rd Anniversary of Republic Day. Azerbaijan has been a great ally to 
the United States, and I think it is important that we highlight all 
the efforts they have made to support efforts to bring peace and 
freedom to parts of the world that have known nothing but tyranny.

                          ____________________