Chairman Risch Gives Remarks at Tenth Anniversary of C5 +1 Partnership

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, yesterday gave the following remarks at a reception in honor of the tenth anniversary of the C5 +1, hosted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Chairman Risch gave the following remarks:

"Thank you to Secretary Rubio for having me here today, this is truly a unique occasion.

"On behalf of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, it is an honor to join you here for this historic visit.

"The world leaders gathered here today come from a difficult neighborhood. We understand you are great nations caught between powerful countries. Today is an opportunity to deepen our cooperation and ensure these countries can decide their own destinies.

"As a volatile Russia and an increasingly aggressive China pursue their own national interests around the globe at the cost of their neighbors, the United States offers Central Asian nations the real opportunity to work with a willing partner, while lifting up each other's economies.

"In support of this effort, I have joined Senator Daines and my colleagues in introducing a bill this week that paves the way to lifting outdated barriers to increased economic engagement with our C5 partners and that is the repeal of the Jackson-Vanik restrictions.

"It is fitting that on the 10^th anniversary of the C5+1 diplomatic platform, we are launching a new and exciting era of cooperation between our nations.

"I am proud to work with President Trump, Senator Daines, my colleagues on the Foreign Relations Committee, and our friends in Central Asia to shape a U.S. foreign policy that pursues a secure and prosperous future for America and our partners.

"Thank you."

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