OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS

His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Excellency,

On behalf of the GUAM Secretariat and me personally, allow me to extend to You, and in your person, to the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan my most sincere congratulations on the occasion of the national holiday — the Republic Day, 103rd anniversary of the founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

As a successor state, modern independent Azerbaijan successfully realizes the cherished dream of the Azerbaijani people to be free, be masters of their destiny, and be a whole and proud member of the international community.

Today, Azerbaijan is widely recognized as one of the most dynamic economies and influential players in the region of ever-growing geostrotegic significance. Its proactive, peaceful, balanced, multifaceted, and constructive foreign policy based on national interests, norms, and principles of international law and traditions and values of good neighborly relations have earned it broad international authority and recognition. Internationally acknowledged role of Azerbaijan in political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian spheres, manifested in the nation’s leading positions in global and regional organizations.

Important strategic projects initiated and realized by Azerbaijan and its partners have profoundly altered the geopolitical landscape of the region, transforming it into an essential integral part of the emerging global energy and transportation connectivity architecture, thus contributing to international peace and security, stability and prosperity.

The restoration of the territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as a result of the triumphant victory of the glorious armed forces under your leadership, celebrated in November 2020, opens a new era for the region. The unique situation unlocks promising opportunities for inclusive cooperation and sustainable development of the geographic area of enormous potential, embracing countries of the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea basins.

We highly appreciate the role of the Republic of Azerbaijan as a founding member of the Organization for Democracy and Economic Development — GUAM, which celebrated its 15th Anniversary just a few days earlier, in strengthening cooperation among our friendly nations and strategic partners. We want to assure you that as a full-fledged regional setup, we are ready to take an active part in implementing the regional projects and initiatives aimed at promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable development in this vast geographic area.

Your Excellency,

On this particular occasion, allow me to wish you successful accomplishments in the rehabilitation of the liberated lands, new victories and achievements in the name of your country and your people, peace, progress, and prosperity to the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Altai Efendiev

GUAM Secretary General