Hon. Victor Oh: Honourable senators, I rise today to mark the thirtieth anniversary of the independence of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

In these last three decades, Kazakhstan has made tremendous progress toward reforming the fabric of its society. Although this journey has been a bumpy path at times, Kazakhstan has persisted and advanced significant economic, social and democratic reforms that have benefited the Kazakh people. This progress has been hard fought by many brave Kazakhs, and their efforts will continue to light the way for other Central Asian countries.

Since 1992, our countries have enjoyed a rich history of collaboration. Today, Kazakhstan has become Canada’s largest trading partner in Central Asia, with foreign direct investment from Canada to Kazakhstan now exceeding $5 billion. Canada continues to work with Kazakhstan to foster fair and reciprocal trade, helping to grow our respective economies and create jobs in both Kazakhstan and Canada.

Canada has been and will continue to be a friend to the people of Kazakhstan. Our respective countries share common values on a variety of key international issues ranging from climate change, gender equality, international security, multiculturalism and nuclear non-proliferation. These commonalities will continue to guide the bilateral work ahead of us, along with our cooperation in a variety of multilateral forums and through the Kazakhstan-Canada Business Council.

As a member of the Canada-Kazakhstan Parliamentary Friendship Group, I look forward to the work ahead that will further strengthen our countries’ relations and our shared goals in the social, political, economic and scientific fields.

Colleagues, I ask that you join me today in congratulating and recognizing Kazakhstan on the thirtieth anniversary of their independence.

Thank you.