[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 87 (Friday, May 25, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E741]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNITION OF AZERBAIJAN'S CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ROBERT B. ADERHOLT

                               of alabama

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, May 25, 2018

  Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 100th anniversary 
of the founding of Azerbaijan, known as Republic Day.
  On May 28, 1918, the National Assembly of Azerbaijan adopted a 
Declaration of Independence, and formed the Azerbaijan Democratic 
Republic, the first secular parliamentary democracy in the Muslim 
world.
  For over 50 years (1920-1971), Azerbaijan suffered under the weight 
of the Soviet regime. As they rebuilt from the wreckage of the failed 
communist empire, Azerbaijan grew into a strong and reliable ally of 
the United States.
  Today, the Republic of Azerbaijan is not only a valuable partner of 
the United States, but also plays a critical role in the Caucasus and 
Central Asia. Azerbaijan was one of the first countries to render 
unconditional assistance to the United States after the terror attacks 
of September 11, 2001. It also has a strong friendship and partnership 
with Israel, one of the closest allies of the United States.
  Azerbaijan continues to play a key role in energy security and 
diversification for U.S. allies in Europe and Israel, including 
leadership on the Southern Gas Corridor.
  On this 100th anniversary of the founding of Azerbaijan, the United 
States remains grateful for the strategic relationship and abiding 
friendship between our two countries.

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