Baku: Filippo Lombardi, Former President of the Council of States (Senate) of the Swiss Confederation, has congratulated the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, on being awarded the Zayed Human Fraternity Award, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Lombardi expressed his respect and pleasure in a letter to President Aliyev, acknowledging the recognition as a testament to Aliyev's leadership and commitment to peace. Lombardi highlighted the significance of choosing dialogue over confrontation in times marked by divisions, noting the moral and political impact of such decisions.

Lombardi also reminisced about a memorable meeting with President Aliyev in Baku in 2013 during his official visit as President of the Swiss Council of States. He emphasized the importance of their discussion on dialogue, which continues to influence Aliyev's regional and international engagements.

The letter further acknowledged the progress toward a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia, attributing it to Aliyev's dedication to diplomacy and reconciliation. Lombardi concluded with best wishes for Azerbaijan's continued prosperity.