[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 103 (Wednesday, June 20, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E870]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





     IN HONOR OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ESTABLISHMENT OF THE 
                     AZERBAIJAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 20, 2018

  Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Republican of 
Azerbaijan for the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the 
Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, which was celebrated on May 28, 2018.
  In the Republic of Azerbaijan, May 28th is known as the ``Republic 
Day''. This past Republic Day celebrated the 100th anniversary of the 
establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the first secular 
parliamentary republic in the Muslim VVorld.
  In 1991, the United States recognized Azerbaijan as an independent 
state following the collapse of the Soviet Union, and established 
diplomatic relations the following year. I would like to highlight 
that, over the last 26 years, Azerbaijan has established itself as a 
reliable friend of the United States. Since the attacks of September 
11, 2001, Azerbaijan has been a critical ally of the United States in 
combating international terrorism through several joint U.S.-
Azerbaijani operations in Afghanistan, the Balkans, and Iraq.
  On a more international level, Azerbaijan has strong economic, 
military, and strategic ties to Israel, representing one of Israel's 
greatest allies in the region. Azerbaijan's energy sector is also key 
to combating Russian influences across the region. Altogether, the 
country plays a critical role in the diversification of energy routes, 
and helps support allies of the United States' allies by doing so.
  I would like to formally congratulate the Republican of Azerbaijan 
for the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijan 
Democratic Republic, and I look forward to continued strong relations 
between the United States and Azerbaijan for many years to come.

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