BAKU—In a heartfelt congratulatory letter on the occasion of Independence Day, President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan expressed his appreciation for the enduring relationship between Azerbaijan and Tajikistan, rooted in shared history and mutual cooperation.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev lauded the "centuries-old strong bonds of friendship" that unite the two nations, emphasizing the role of these ties in fostering a robust political dialogue and mutual understanding. He commended the significant progress Tajikistan has achieved under the leadership of President Emomali Rahmon, particularly in areas of socio-economic development and international recognition.

Highlighting the recent state visit by President Rahmon to Azerbaijan in May, President Aliyev remarked that this visit marked the beginning of a new chapter in Azerbaijani-Tajik relations, elevating them to a strategic partnership level. He expressed confidence that the agreements forged during this and other mutual visits would further enrich the bilateral relations, strengthen solidarity between the two peoples, and promote the sustainable development and prosperity of both nations and the region.