[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 95 (Friday, June 8, 2018)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E807-E808] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] IN RECOGNITION OF THE CENTENARY OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN ______ HON. GENE GREEN of texas in the house of representatives Friday, June 8, 2018 Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Republic Day of Azerbaijan, and to convey my congratulations to the Republic of Azerbaijan and to all Azerbaijanis. On May 28, 1918, the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan was founded, becoming the first Muslim democratic state and gaining their independence from the Russian Empire for the first time. While that independence was initially short-lived, taken away when Russia invaded in 1920, Azerbaijan again became an independent nation on October 18, 1991, and has since been an increasingly important ally for the U.S. in the South Caucasus. Like the city I represent, Houston, Azerbaijan's impressive economic growth has been driven by the oil and gas industry and shaped by adapting to the evolution of that industry. A number of American and international energy companies thrive in Azerbaijan and the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijan's rapid development of its energy infrastructure and expertise has helped it play a crucial role in protecting European energy security and U.S. geopolitical interests by ensuring a stable and sufficient flow of energy to Europe. As a secular Muslim country, Azerbaijan was a pioneer in extending equal political rights to women, becoming the first Muslim country to give women the right to vote in [[Page E808]] 1918. After 9/11, Azerbaijan was and continues to be an important counterterrorism partner for the United States, participating in coalitions combating international terrorism and sending its own troops to support U.S.-led military efforts in Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Iraq. Azerbaijan is an important actor for the advancement of global security and diplomatic engagement on the world stage. It holds observer status in the World Trade Organization, was a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council from 2012 to 2013, and is a member of the NATO Partnership for Peace Program and the OSCE. I congratulate the people of Azerbaijan on their centennial celebration, and wish them many centuries more of prosperity and success. ____________________