From Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic

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

Mr President,

On behalf of the people of Italy and on my own behalf, I extend my sincere wishes for peace and prosperity of the friendly people of Azerbaijan as you celebrate the national holiday of your country, the Republic Day and the 100th anniversary of the declaration of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

Our countries maintain long-term fruitful cooperation at the official level and between civil societies based on firm and indestructible bonds of friendship between our peoples. I hope that this cooperation will continue strengthening in the years to come.

I am confident that respecting the principles of peaceful coexistence, official Baku and Rome will interact with other countries in the region in order to ensure peace and stability.

With these wishes and looking forward to meet with you soon in Baku, once again I extend to you and the people of Azerbaijan my best wishes for prosperity.

Sincerely,

Sergio Mattarella

President of the Italian Republic