OFFICIAL NEWS
U.S. PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH SENDS MESSAGE OF CONGRATULATIONS TO PRESIDENT OF AZERBAIJAN ILHAM ALIYEV
“Dear Mr. President,
Congratulations to you and the people of Azerbaijan as you celebrate State Sovereignty Day on October 18. This year, we reflect together on the first oil through Azerbaijan’s portion of the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, which highlighted Azerbaijan’s emerging role as a strategic energy hub that is helping to bolster global energy security.
The United States is grateful for Azerbaijan’s contributions to the global war on terrorism, including in Afghanistan and Iraq. I also join with all Americans in thanking you and the people of Azerbaijan for your generous gift of $500, 000 to the victims of Hurricane Katrina.
Looking ahead, Azerbaijan’s parliamentary elections next month provide an opportunity to elevate our countries’ relations to a new strategic level. I welcome your commitment to a free and fair election, which is essential to sustaining a strong partnership between our two countries. I look forward to working with you after these elections.
On behalf of the American people, I extend best wishes to you and the people of Azerbaijan on this anniversary of your independence.
Sincerely
George W. Bush”