From Rabbi Marc Schneier, President of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding
His Excellency Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Your Excellency,
I am honored and delighted to extend warmest congratulations to you and the beloved people of Azerbaijan as you celebrate your Independence Day on 28 May.
On this important holiday in honor of Azerbaijan's independence, I salute your visionary leadership, wisdom, and strong principles that have made Azerbaijan a regional leader and a nation with an increasingly important global role.
Azerbaijan's successful model of peaceful co-existence can succeed in the world. What Azerbaijan has achieved at the national level in terms of interfaith and cultural harmony over centuries is an inspirational lesson for the current global context.
As you celebrate this special day and reflect on all that Azerbaijan has accomplished, know that I stand with you as a friend who welcomes the prospect of many more years of partnership between us to strengthen Muslim-Jewish relations.
I have such fond memories of the beauty and most gracious hospitality and generosity of the Azerbaijani people from my many visits over the years. On this celebratory occasion, I wish you a truly joyous Independence Day, and I do hope you and all Azerbaijani people around the world enjoy the blessings of peace, happiness, and prosperity in the coming year.
Mr. President, with the assurances of my highest consideration and esteem, l remain very truly yours,
Rabbi Marc Schneier
President of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding