Dear Mr. President,

It is on the occasion of the National Holiday of the United States of America – the Independence Day that on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you, and through you, the friendly people of the United States.

As we approach the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the United States of America, our partnership relations, strategic by nature in different areas, the growth dynamic of our bilateral ties are gratifying.

Large-scale energy projects, reinforcement of international peace and security, combating terrorism and close cooperation within the NATO’s Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan are the essential areas that characterize Azerbaijan-U.S. relations. We highly appreciate the support of the United States for the diversification of energy supply routes and the successful completion of the Southern Gas Corridor in particular.

As you know, as an outcome of the last year’s 44-day Patriotic War, an end had been put to the occupation of Azerbaijan’s internationally recognized territories by Armenia, our country’s territorial integrity was restored, and the relevant UN Security Council resolutions were enforced.

The end of the conflict has ushered a new geopolitical reality in the region, and the favorable ground has emerged for lasting peace, economic revival and regional cooperation. In view of this reality, I think the United States may contribute significantly to forging lasting peace and atmosphere of trust between Azerbaijan and Armenia, based on mutual respect to the territorial integrity, sovereignty and inviolability of borders.

Restoration and development works are presently underway across the liberated territories. We would like to see also American companies as our partners in that process.

I believe through our joint efforts, the friendly and cooperative relations between Azerbaijan and the United States will continue to develop and strengthen in line with the interests of our peoples.

On this memorable day, I again offer my most cordial congratulations to you and wish everlasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of the United States of America.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 1 July 2021