[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 91 (Tuesday, May 25, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E578-E579]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               CONGRATULATING THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PAUL A. GOSAR

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 25, 2021

  Mr. GOSAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Republic 
of Azerbaijan on its 103rd anniversary of their annual Republic Day as 
well as its 30th anniversary of independence from the Soviet Union.
  I do not want my good wishes to be seen as ignoring the issues 
currently going on between Azerbaijan and Armenia. I am putting my 
faith and confidence that the hostilities are resolved, and the 
appropriate borders will be restored. Independence for Azerbaijan is a 
time to reflect on the territorial sovereignty and right to 
independence for other nations as well, as liberty benefits everyone.
  Azerbaijan is an important partner in the region. I find this year's 
occasion special because it marks 30 years since Soviet occupation. The 
Soviet Union and its ideas of communism subjected millions of people to 
authoritarian rule, stripping them of their natural, human rights. 
However, the people of Azerbaijan have successfully emerged from this 
dark period in history and continue to be a shining example of 
democracy and independence.
  It's important that the people of the United States recognize the 
nations that emerge from authoritarian rule to contribute to the ever-
growing push for liberty and self-governance. Azerbaijan, after being 
subject to centuries of

[[Page E579]]

oppressive rule under the Russian Empire and USSR, were rewarded with 
the gift of independence. That is why this week we can proudly stand 
with our friends in Azerbaijan to celebrate their 103rd Republic Day 
and share in our collective belief in freedom.
  Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in celebrating 
Azerbaijan's Republic Day and in recognizing our shared commitment to 
freedom, democracy, and the principle of self-governance. I would like 
to share my most heartfelt congratulations on this momentous occasion.

                          ____________________