[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 177 (Friday, October 24, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E998-E999]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE REPUBLIC DAY OF KAZAKHSTAN
______
HON. ROBERT B. ADERHOLT
of alabama
in the house of representatives
Friday, October 24, 2025
Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, this month, Kazakhstan celebrates Republic
Day, commemorating its declaration of sovereignty on October 25, 1990.
This pivotal moment paved the way for Kazakhstan's 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 this important 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,
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Kazakhstan has remained a peaceful and stabilizing force in Central
Asia.
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 out of
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania--the largest locomotive order in years.
This transformative deal 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 so-
called `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 be the trusted source
necessary to 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.
Kazakhstan's efforts align with President Trump's focus on law and
order, emphasizing that governance grounded in common sense and the
rule of law is essential to maintain public order and protect citizens'
rights.
Our nations also share a strong commitment to interfaith harmony and
global dialogue. Kazakhstan is home to people of many backgrounds and
of many faiths. She 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 take the next logical
step--granting Kazakhstan Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) by
repealing the outdated Jackson-Vanik Amendment. Doing so would cost
America nothing but gain us much. It would 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 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.
____________________