SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — Republic of Kazakhstan

Honourable senators, I rise today to mark a very important milestone for the Republic of Kazakhstan. This past year marked the thirtieth anniversary of Kazakhstan independence and diplomatic relations with Canada. This anniversary commemorates the development, peace and prosperity it has achieved since then.

Kazakhstan is the largest country in Central Asia and the ninth largest in the world. In an historically short period of time, Kazakhstan has made great progress in the improvement of living standards, the development of a modern legal system and strengthened sovereignty, security and stability. Over the past 30 years, Kazakhstan has established diplomatic relations with 186 countries and transformed into one of the dynamically developing countries of Eurasia and a reputable diplomatic voice on the world stage.

Colleagues, like Canada, Kazakhstan has a bicameral parliament composed of the Majilis, which is the lower house, and a senate.

Kazakhstan’s notable accomplishments include their significant contribution to the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and nuclear disarmament and their contributions to UN Peacekeeping. Kazakhstan has also contributed to the establishment of a Central Asian Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone.

Colleagues, Kazakhstan’s culture is ancient but their democracy is young. Please help me in celebrating this very important milestone for the Republic of Kazakhstan and the important bilateral relations between our two countries.

Thank you.