From Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic

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

Mr President,

It is with great pleasure that I wish you and the people of Azerbaijan happiness and prosperity and extend my sincere wishes on the occasion of Azerbaijan`s National Day. As Azerbaijan is celebrating the centenary of its independence, which was proclaimed in 1918 and restored in 1991, I know how difficult it is to build such a stable, modern and prosperous state.

Please rest assured that I remain committed to strengthening relations between our countries in all areas. Azerbaijan can always rely on France`s support in addressing future challenges and continuing to get closer to the European Union.

Let me also reiterate that as a Minsk Group co-chair France will spare no efforts to finally find a fair and lasting solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict through talks.

Mr President, I am looking forward to meeting with you late July.

Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Emmanuel Macron

President of the French Republic