From Isaac Herzog, President of the State of Israel

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

Dear friend,

On behalf of the people and the State of Israel, please accept my sincerest congratulations on the occasion of Azerbaijan’s Independence Day. On this day of celebration and pride, I wish you and the people of Azerbaijan a year of peace, prosperity and good health.

I was very pleased that we were able to hold such a warm and productive conversation last week. These communications are an additional indication that our relationship is strong and growing. I would like to take this opportunity to officially invite you to visit Israel, in order to continue our discussions. It would be a true honor to host you in the Holy Land, and I hope such a visit could serve as an occasion to inagurate your Embassy here in Israel.

Our countries enjoy a historic bond, one anchored by the close ties between our peoples. Azerbaijan is an island of stability, and has provided a warm, welcoming, and protected home for the Jewish people for centuries. Here in Israel, citizens of Azerbaijani ancesty continue to make great contributions to our society and are a vital part of our national mosaic. These two communities serve as a living bridge between our nations, further securing our bilateral ties.

Once again, please accept my congratulations on your Independence Day. I look forward to many future opportunities for our two nations to celebrate.

Yours sincerely,

Isaac Herzog

President of the State of Israel