From Ramazan Abdulatipov, Head of the Republic of Dagestan of the Russian Federation

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

Dear Ilham Heydarovich,

I congratulate you and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of the national holiday – Republic Day.

Azerbaijan has achieved remarkable success in economic and social fields across the last years and strengthened its image on the international arena through gaining leading positions in many areas of economic, socio-political and cultural development.

Azerbaijani and Dagestani people are bound together by strong ties of friendship and good neighbourliness, and we have a lot in common in our cultures and religions.

The Republic of Azerbaijan is traditionally the biggest foreign trade partner of Dagestan. We highly appreciate sincere efforts made by the leadership of Azerbaijan to strengthen the mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly implement promising projects in various fields.

Given the high level of Russia-Azerbaijan relationship, I am confident that we will speed up our efforts to maintain our friendship and mutually fruitful relations.

Dear Ilham Heydarovich, I wish you and the whole people of Azerbaijan success in your work, peace and prosperity.

Yours sincerely,

Ramazan Abdulatipov

Head of the Republic of Dagestan of the Russian Federation