July 23, 2026
Mr. Daines (for himself, Mr. Peters, and Mr. Curtis) submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations
Honoring 35 years of independence for the countries of Central Asia and recognizing the importance of the United States growing relationship with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Whereas the Kyrgyz Republic formally declared its national independence on August 31, 1991;
Whereas the Republic of Uzbekistan officially declared its national independence on September 1, 1991;
Whereas the Republic of Tajikistan officially proclaimed its national independence on September 9, 1991;
Whereas Turkmenistan formally marked its transition to an independent state on September 27, 1991;
Whereas the Republic of Kazakhstan officially declared its national independence on December 16, 1991;
Whereas, in 1991, the oppressive and murderous reign of the Soviet Union ended and with it the shackles of tyranny over Central Asia;
Whereas the United States relations with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan have been steadily growing on a bilateral basis and through forums such as the C5+1;
Whereas those countries have been critical partners in countering transnational threats, including terrorism, illicit trafficking, and regional instability;
Whereas Central Asia and the Caucasus serve as a vital geopolitical bridge connecting East and West, facilitating critical global trade, energy security, and digital connectivity via corridors such as the Middle Corridor;
Whereas the ongoing governance reforms, anti-corruption initiatives, and economic modernizations within those countries strengthen their long-term resilience and institutional independence;
Whereas the United States seeks to foster resilient, independent economic ecosystems in Central Asia to enhance market access, private investment, and supply chain security; and
Whereas deepening educational, cultural, and professional exchanges between the United States and the peoples of Central Asia promotes mutual understanding and shared prosperity: Now, therefore, be it
That the Senate—
(1)
congratulates the countries of Central Asia on 35 years of independence;
(2)
affirms the strategic importance of the United States relationship with Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan;
(3)
fully supports the inherent right of all countries to determine their own foreign policy, security arrangements, and economic alliances without external coercion; and
(4)
affirms that the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of the countries of Central Asia are foundational to the peace, security, and balance of power across Eurasia.