UN chief urges global cooperation in Independence Day greeting to Azerbaijan

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has extended Independence Day greetings to President Ilham Aliyev and the people of Azerbaijan, highlighting global challenges and underscoring the importance of international cooperation.

In his letter addressed to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, António Guterres opened with a diplomatic salutation: “Excellency, I extend my warmest greetings on the occasion of Independence Day.”

He underlined the significance of national days as moments of reflection, stating that such occasions “serve as important moments for reflection on a country's journey, its contributions to the international community and the aspirations that guide its future.” He further added that they also “remind us of the value of dialogue and solidarity in addressing global challenges.”

Turning to global developments, Guterres highlighted a series of pressing international issues, including conflict prevention, climate change, inequality reduction, and responsible governance of emerging technologies. He stressed that “the world today faces urgent tests: ending wars and preventing new ones; confronting the climate emergency; narrowing inequalities; and guiding powerful technologies responsibly.”

He emphasised that addressing these challenges requires stronger international engagement and collective action. According to him, progress depends on “a commitment to multilateral cooperation to deliver peace and security, advance the Sustainable Development Goals and uphold human rights.”

Concluding his message, Guterres once again extended his best wishes to the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan on this special occasion.

By Jeyhun Aghazada