[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 179 (Tuesday, October 28, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1015]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
HONORING THE REPUBLIC DAY OF KAZAKHSTAN
_____
HON. CAROL D. MILLER
of west virginia
in the house of representatives
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Mrs. MILLER of West Virginia. 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.
Kazakhstan has pursued a forward-looking vision rooted in
partnership, openness, and modernization. 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 has become 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. Kazakhstan has remained a peaceful and stabilizing force
in Central Asia--a reliable partner and a model of pragmatic, balanced
diplomacy. Furthermore, Kazakhstan's active membership in the World
Trade Organization reflects its ongoing commitment to international
norms and open markets.
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 Artificial Intelligence, 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.
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 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.
At home, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is undertaking an ambitious
program of national renewal aimed at building a ``Just and Fair
State.'' Over the past three years, the country has implemented far-
reaching political and economic reforms.
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--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.
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 will deliver tangible results--demonstrating that the
United States values long-term partnership and strengthening our ties
with all Central Asian nations.
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.
____________________