World leaders send Independence Day messages to Azerbaijan UPDATED

A series of world leaders have extended congratulations to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of the country’s Independence Day, praising bilateral relations and expressing readiness to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, Caliber.Az reports, citing state media.

In his message, the President of the Czech Republic Petr Pavel highlighted growing ties between the two countries, noting: “The Czech Republic highly values its relations with the Republic of Azerbaijan and reaffirms its interest in further strengthening them.” He also stressed expanding cooperation in energy, trade, and education, and added that Azerbaijan “as a partner contributing to the stability and connectivity of the wider region.”

The King of Morocco Mohammed VI described the relationship as fraternal, stating: “It gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest congratulations to Your Excellency.” He further emphasized shared ambitions, noting the importance of deepening the relationship and building a special partnership.

From Europe, the King of Sweden Carl XVI Gustaf offered a concise message of goodwill, saying: “I wish to convey to Your Excellency my sincere congratulations and my best wishes for your health and happiness and for the prosperity of the people of Azerbaijan.”

The President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung underscored expanding cooperation, stating: “It is my great pleasure to extend my heartfelt congratulations… on the occasion of the Independence Day.” He added that Seoul looks forward to “further strengthening the bonds of friendship… and to expanding the horizons of our cooperation through close exchanges across various fields.”

The President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed friendly relations, saying: “the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa join me in conveying to Your Excellency, the Government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan, our warmest greetings and sincere congratulations,” and expressed the wish to “further enhance and consolidate the excellent bond of friendship that exists between our countries.”

The President of Lebanon Joseph Aoun emphasized solidarity and partnership, stating that the occasion “represents an opportunity to renew the bonds of brotherhood and strengthen our joint efforts,” while wishing Azerbaijan continued progress and prosperity.

Myriam Spiteri Debono conveyed greetings on behalf of the Maltese people, noting that since the establishment of diplomatic relations, “Malta and Azerbaijan continue to enjoy cordial and friendly ties through mutual respect and understanding.” She expressed confidence that bilateral and multilateral cooperation will be further strengthened in the coming years.

Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani addressed Aliyev as a “dear brother,” extending warm congratulations and wishing Azerbaijan continued progress and prosperity. He reaffirmed Mauritania’s commitment to expanding cooperation and strengthening existing relations between the two countries.

Maha Vajiralongkorn also sent a message marking Azerbaijan’s Independence Day and National Day, highlighting more than three decades of friendship between Thailand and Azerbaijan. The Thai monarch expressed confidence that cooperation would continue to deepen, particularly in trade, investment, and tourism.

From the Pacific region, Christine Carla Kangaloo extended greetings on behalf of her government and people, wishing Azerbaijan continued progress, prosperity, and well-being.

Samantha Mostyn conveyed warm wishes from Australia, highlighting practical cooperation between the two countries, including Azerbaijan’s assistance in supporting the evacuation of Australian citizens from Iran in 2025. She expressed confidence in the continued development of friendly relations.

Meanwhile, Sadyr Zhaparov congratulated President Aliyev personally, praising Azerbaijan’s “dynamic development” under his leadership. He stressed that strategic partnership relations between Kyrgyzstan and Azerbaijan would continue to grow for the benefit of both peoples.

By Vugar Khalilov