From James Appathurai, NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy

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

Dear President Ilham Aliyev,

On behalf of the Secretary General, I would like to congratulate you on your re-election as President of Azerbaijan earlier this month.

NATO and Azerbaijan first established relations a little over 25 years ago, and our partnership has grown steadily in significance during that time. We highly appreciate Azerbaijan’s long-standing troop contributions, and in particular, your decision to increase the number of troops deployed at the RSM at the end of last year. I also welcome your engagement to promote a vibrant political dialogue and practical cooperation through the NATO-Azerbaijan Individual Partnership Action Plan.

As NATO’s Special Representative to the Caucasus, I look forward to further develop our cooperation and dialogue in the coming period.

Yours sincerely,

James Appathurai

NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy