[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 99 (Wednesday, May 27, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E492]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    AZERBAIJAN'S 102ND REPUBLIC DAY

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                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 27, 2020

  Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, May 28, 2020 marks Azerbaijan's 102nd 
Republic Day, the day on which the country became the first Muslim-
majority secular democratic state. Since regaining its independence 
following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Azerbaijan has proven 
itself a partner of the United States particularly in its commitment to 
regional stability and security cooperation.
  As someone who has traveled to Israel nineteen times and championed 
the cause of the U.S.-Israeli friendship since first coming to the 
House, I applaud Azerbaijan's commitment to ensuring that the Azeri and 
Israeli people remain good friends. Indeed, home to a thriving Jewish 
community of around 30,000, Azerbaijan is one of the few countries with 
a predominately Muslim population that is a staunch supporter of 
Israel.
  Azerbaijan is also committed to regional security and stability. With 
its dedication to countering terrorism and nuclear proliferation, its 
support for U.S. troops in Afghanistan, and its contributions to UN and 
NATO peacekeeping missions, Azerbaijan continues to contribute to the 
stabilization of the region.
  Madam Speaker, although friends will have difficult conversations at 
times, those discussions are based in honesty and respect. Today, I 
urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating the people of 
Azerbaijan on their Republic Day.

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