05/28/14 - Rep. Cook submitted a statement for the Congressional Record on Azerbaijan Republic Day - 'Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of Azerbaijan and all Azerbaijani-Americans on the 96th anniversary of Azerbaijan's Republic Day. On this day, May 28, in 1918, Azerbaijan received its independence and formally created the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

Over the past 23 years, Azerbaijan has grown to become a close and trusted ally of the United States in a geopolitically challenging region of the world. Situated along the Caspian Sea, with Iran on its southern border and Russia on its northern border, Azerbaijan was the first country in the region to open Caspian Sea energy resources to U.S. and European countries, playing a vital role in European energy security. This role is even more important today with tensions rising with Russia. A steadfast friend and supporter of Israel, Azerbaijan plays a vital role in Israeli energy security, providing almost 40 percent of all crude oil supplies to our closest ally in the Middle East.

Azerbaijan is a secular country, with a predominantly Muslim population, that guarantees religious freedom for all. Azerbaijan has been home for centuries to vibrant Jewish and Christian communities, acting as a role model for religious coexistence and freedom.

Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Azerbaijan has been a partner in the United States' efforts towards freedom around the globe. Azerbaijan was the first Muslim country to send troops to Iraq and has played an active role in NATO's efforts in Afghanistan, committing troops, resources and allowing use of their airspace and airports.

Although the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was first established in 1918, this initial independence was short-lived as the Soviet Union led a bitter and bloody takeover of the country in 1920. In 1991, as the Soviet Union was crumbling, Azerbaijan reestablished its independence and looked Westward to the United States for friendship and guidance.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the people of Azerbaijan on this day. I look forward to working with Azerbaijan as our nations continue to work together and build a lasting and fruitful bond.'