Unlocking Prosperity: Ending Outdated Restrictions for Kazakhstan-U.S. Trade Relations
The Union of Councils for Jews in the Former Soviet Union (UCSJ) is a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC, founded in the 1970s. From 1970 to 1991, UCSJ spearheaded the grassroots movement to enable Soviet Jews to emigrate, boldly speaking out against anti-Semitism and human rights violations in the USSR. Consequently, UCSJ played a pivotal role in advocating for the passage of the Jackson-Vanik Amendment in Congress.
Following the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the subsequent transformations in the post-Soviet states, UCSJ has accumulated over 50 years of invaluable experience in supporting both Jews and non-Jews in the former Soviet Union (FSU). Our organization has been actively involved in aiding human rights activists and groups, establishing networks, and implementing long-term programs across post-Soviet countries. Given our extensive background and commitment to the region, we strongly urge for the restoration of permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) and the removal of lingering restrictions imposed on governments affected by the Jackson-Vanik Amendment.
This year holds particular significance as it marks the 32nd anniversary of the Republic of Kazakhstan's independence and the 32nd anniversary of the U.S.-Kazakh bilateral relationship. The United States was the first nation to recognize Kazakhstan's independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In light of these milestones, UCSJ passionately advocates for PNTR for the Republic of Kazakhstan, seeking to enhance the economic ties between our countries and foster greater cooperation.
Understanding the Significance of the "Jackson-Vanik Amendment"
• The Jackson-Vanik Amendment (JVA), a provision within the 1974 Trade Act, was designed to deny permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status (previously referred to as "most favored nation" status) to non-market economies that restricted emigration rights.
• Originally, the JVA was a direct response by Congress to actions taken by the Soviet Union, which imposed taxes on educated emigrants leaving the country.
• However, it is important to note that the Republic of Kazakhstan (RoK) has a rich historical connection with the Jewish community, both within its borders and globally, with the first synagogue in RoK dating back to 1884.
• Given the historical context, it is evident that this 1970s amendment has minimal relevance to present-day Kazakhstan or bilateral relations between the United States and the Republic of Kazakhstan.
• Additionally, Kazakhstan has cultivated a strong bilateral relationship with Israel since 1992.
Current Implications of the JVA
• Despite the dissolution of the Soviet Union and RoK gaining independence in 1991, the JVA remains in effect today.
• RoK became a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2015. WTO membership provides numerous benefits, including normal trade relations among member countries. However, due to the JVA, PNTR between the United States and Kazakhstan remains elusive.
• As a result of the JVA, the United States must annually pass waivers for RoK, which has been done consistently and without controversy every year.
• However, it is worth noting that other countries such as Albania, Armenia, Bulgaria, China, Czechoslovakia, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, and Vietnam have all graduated from the JVA and established PNTR with the United States.
Urgent Demand for PNTR for Kazakhstan
• The continued imposition of legislation from nearly 50 years ago on Kazakhstan is both unjust and unwarranted. This legislation was directed at a government that no longer exists and sought to address a problem that has long been resolved.
• Furthermore, it is crucial to highlight that Kazakhstan, demonstrating exceptional leadership, chaired the 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) of the WTO in Geneva in 2021. It is alarming and unacceptable that the United States stands alone among participating member delegations in denying permanent normal trade relations to the Republic of Kazakhstan.
• The Kazakhstan Embassy, in collaboration with the U.S.-Kazakhstan Caucus, has taken a significant step forward by introducing the Bill (H.R. 3611) to enable Kazakhstan's graduation from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment and establish PNTR. This crucial legislation was introduced on May 23, 2023.
• The situation demands immediate and resolute action. The U.S. Congress and the U.S. Government must prioritize and swiftly take decisive steps to support and pass the PNTR Bill for Kazakhstan without delay.
Kazakhstan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations and promoting international cooperation. It is time for the United States to align its actions with these principles by rectifying the outdated and unjust restrictions imposed on the Republic of Kazakhstan. The passage of the PNTR Bill is not merely a request but an urgent imperative to ensure fairness, enhance economic growth, and strengthen the bonds between our nations. The United States Congress and the U.S. Government must display unwavering leadership and take immediate and decisive action to support and pass the PNTR Bill for Kazakhstan.
Lawrence Lerner
UCSJ President