AZERBAIJAN, May 21 - His Excellency Mr Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Mr President,

It gives me great pleasure to extend to you my sincerest congratulations on the occasion of Azerbaijan`s national holiday - the Independence Day

On the eve of this holiday, I express my firm belief that the multi-level dialogue and cooperation between Romania and the Republic of Azerbaijan will develop and diversify on solid foundations through a bilateral strategic partnership.

The intensification and diversification of bilateral economic relations, particularly in strategic areas of regional importance such as energy and transport, represent an important direction of bilateral relations between the two countries in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I want to assure you that Romania will continue its support to the development of dialogue between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the European Union.

Taking this pleasant opportunity, I would like to once again convey to you our invitation to pay a visit to Romania in the context of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between our countries.

Mr. President, please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Sincerely,

Klaus Werner Iohannis

President of Romania