Baku: Chief Minister of Pakistan's Punjab Province Maryam Nawaz Sharif has sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Aliyev, APA reports. The letter marks the celebration of Azerbaijan's national holiday, Independence Day, on May 28. In her message, Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed her heartfelt felicitations to the Azerbaijani President, government, and people, commemorating the founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the letter highlights the significance of this national occasion as a proud affirmation of Azerbaijan's enduring commitment to sovereignty, national dignity, and enlightenment. The Chief Minister also paid respects at the final resting places of Heydar Aliyev, the national leader of Azerbaijan, and the martyrs at the Alley of the Martyrs in Baku, acknowledging their courage and sacrifice. The letter further praises the remarkable progress and stability of Azerbaijan under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif also extended her gratitude for the exceptional warmth and generosity shown by President Aliyev and the Azerbaijani people during her visit to Baku. She emphasized the strong bond between Pakistan, its province of Punjab, and Azerbaijan, governed by shared convictions, mutual trust, and unwavering support. The Chief Minister expressed her belief that this relationship will continue to grow stronger through enhanced cooperation and partnership in the future.

The letter concluded with Maryam Nawaz Sharif's best wishes for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of the Republic of Azerbaijan.