To the Emperor of Japan, His Majesty Akihito

Your Majesty,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I would like to convey to you and through you to all the people of Japan my most sincere congratulations on the occasion of the national holiday of friendly Japan – the Emperor's Birthday.

Today, Azerbaijan and Japan have strong relations of friendship and comprehensive cooperation. Particularly gratifying is the steady expansion of our political contacts and active cooperation in the economic and cultural spheres.

I am confident that the steps we have taken towards keeping and strengthening our bilateral relations at the high level and successful continuation of the mutually beneficial business relations will continue to contribute to the prosperity for our peoples.

On this auspicious day I wish you good health, long life and every success in your activities, and peace and prosperity to the friendly people of Japan.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 11 December 2012.