From Zhang Ming, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

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

Your Excellency,

We wholeheartedly congratulate you and the entire Azerbaijani people on your national holiday—Independence Day.

This day signifies the strengthening of Azerbaijan's statehood, the achievement of impressive results in socio-economic development, and the growth of the country's authority on the international stage.

I fondly remember my visit to Baku and my meeting with you, where I received many positive impressions and experienced the culture and hospitality of the Azerbaijani people firsthand.

The Republic of Azerbaijan is an integral part of the "Shanghai Cooperation Organization Family" and one of the most active dialogue partners. I am confident that through our continued joint efforts, we will further enrich the content of our relations.

Your Excellency, please accept my sincerest wishes for your good health and continued success in all your endeavors, and for the brotherly Azerbaijani people, peace and prosperity.

Zhang Ming

Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization