[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 177 (Friday, October 24, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E994]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                COMMEMORATING KAZAKHSTAN'S REPUBLIC DAY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. THOMAS R. SUOZZI

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 24, 2025

  Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to commemorate the Republic Day 
of Kazakhstan and recognize its declaration of sovereignty on October 
25, 1990. This pivotal moment paved the way for Kazakhstan's eventual 
independence from the Soviet Union and symbolizes the nation's enduring 
commitment to self-determination, prosperity, and peace.
  From its earliest days, Kazakhstan pursued a forward-looking vision 
rooted in partnership, openness, and modernization. Its early alignment 
with the West, especially in developing a free-market economy, has 
shaped its remarkable transformation. Over the past three decades, 
Kazakhstan has emerged as a thriving nation with a dynamic economy, an 
active international presence, and a strong and growing partnership 
with the United States.
  The U.S.-Kazakhstan relationship is grounded in shared values and 
mutual respect. As we mark Kazakhstan's national holiday, we reaffirm 
our commitment to deepening cooperation between our two nations to meet 
global challenges and advance peace, security, and prosperity.
  Kazakhstan's commitment to transparency, the rule of law, and an open 
investment climate has made it a magnet for American business. U.S. 
companies remain the largest source of foreign direct investment, 
helping drive Kazakhstan's diversification and sustainable development. 
This alignment supports the country's broader goal of becoming a 
resilient, innovative economy and a hub for regional growth.
  Kazakhstan continues to stand as a pillar of stability in Central 
Asia and a leader on the world stage in nuclear nonproliferation and 
disarmament. Despite external challenges, Kazakhstan has remained a 
peaceful and stabilizing force in Central Asia--a reliable partner and 
a model of pragmatic, balanced diplomacy.
  Kazakhstan is the economic footprint of the United States in Central 
Asia--a partnership that is long-term, resilient, and mutually 
beneficial.
  Recently, Kazakhstan took another decisive step in its economic 
modernization. The national railway company, Kazakhstan Temir Zholy, 
signed a landmark $4.2 billion agreement with Wabtec Corporation--the 
largest locomotive order in recent history.
  This transformative deal is more than an investment in Kazakhstan's 
infrastructure; it is a powerful endorsement of American innovation and 
manufacturing leadership. It will support thousands of good-paying U.S. 
jobs and strengthen America's manufacturing base, underscoring the 
mutual benefits of our growing economic partnership.
  Kazakhstan is taking bold steps to position itself as a key Eurasian 
transit hub. The Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (the 
Middle Corridor), which begins in Kazakhstan and runs through 
Azerbaijan to global markets, is strengthening supply chain resilience 
for the U.S. and its partners.
  Another vital area of expanding cooperation is rare earth minerals. 
The United States and Kazakhstan are working together to build a 
reliable and diversified supply chain for rare earth elements and other 
critical materials essential to major U.S. industries, including 
aerospace, defense, clean energy, and semiconductors.
  Rare-earth minerals from Kazakhstan can help power the next 
generation of U.S. innovation, driving the transformation of the 
American economy built around AI, advanced manufacturing, and nuclear 
energy.
  Energy collaboration also remains a cornerstone of our partnership. 
Earlier this year, Chevron's $48 billion Future Growth Project at 
Kazakhstan's Tengiz field began production, underscoring the scale and 
depth of U.S. investment in the country's energy future. The 
Tengizchevroil venture--operated by Chevron represents Central Asia's 
largest oil development, ensuring reliable supply and creating 
thousands of high-skilled jobs. These projects embody the long-term, 
mutually beneficial nature of U.S. Kazakhstan energy cooperation.
  Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is undertaking an ambitious 
program of national renewal. Over the past three years, the country has 
implemented far-reaching political and economic reforms unprecedented 
in the region. Among the key changes is the introduction of a single 
seven-year presidential term, a step designed to enhance democratic 
accountability and political stability.
  Our nations also share a strong commitment to interfaith dialogue. 
Kazakhstan--ethnically rich and religiously diverse--has long 
championed peace and tolerance. Earlier this year, Astana hosted the 
8th Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, welcoming 
over 100 delegations from 60 countries under the theme ``Dialogue of 
Religions: Synergy for the Future.''
  This same spirit of openness and engagement also guides Kazakhstan's 
approach to the global economy. Kazakhstan's active membership in the 
World Trade Organization reflects its ongoing commitment to 
international norms and open markets. As such, it is time for the 
United States to grant Kazakhstan Permanent Normal Trade Relations 
(PNTR) by repealing the outdated Jackson-Vanik Amendment. Doing so 
would cost nothing, yet send a powerful signal of strategic 
seriousness, eliminate lingering legal ambiguity for U.S. investors, 
and unlock the full potential of our bilateral trade and industrial 
cooperation.
  As we look ahead, the upcoming C5+1 Summit on November 6, 2025, 
represents a critical opportunity to reaffirm U.S. leadership and 
engagement in Central Asia. Marking the 10th anniversary of this 
important diplomatic forum, the summit should deliver tangible 
results--demonstrating that the United States values long-term 
partnership.
  We urge the Administration to seize this moment, build on the 
foundation of trust and shared interests, and work with Congress to 
achieve outcomes that advance stability, prosperity, and lasting 
friendship across our nations.
  Mr. Speaker, as Kazakhstan celebrates Republic Day, we honor the 
enduring friendship between our two countries and look forward to the 
continued growth of a partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared 
progress, and a common vision for a peaceful and prosperous world.

                          ____________________