From Rustam Minnikhanov, President of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation

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

Dear Ilham Heydar oglu,

On behalf of all the Tatars and on my own behalf, I congratulate you and all the citizens of Azerbaijan on the occasion of your Republic Day.

Azerbaijan, which boasts unique natural resources, powerful industry, economic and intellectual potential, year after year demonstrates indicators of strong socio-economic progress and improvement of the people`s wellbeing. This is an astonishing result of combined and active efforts of the people and the leadership of the republic.

I wish you and all the citizens of your beautiful country new achievements in your endeavours, robust health, peace and happiness. I am hopeful that fruitful cooperation between the Republic of Tatarstan and the Republic of Azerbaijan will continue for the prosperity of our brotherly nations and the strengthening of Russian-Azerbaijani strategic partnership.

With deep respect and wishes for pleasant holidays,

Rustam Minnikhanov

President of the Republic of Tatarstan of the Russian Federation