From Valentina Matviyenko, Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation

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

Dear Ilham Heydar oglu,

On behalf of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation and on my own behalf, I congratulate you on your birthday.

You rightly enjoy great respect among your fellow countrymen and enormous international prestige as an outstanding politician who ensures peace and prosperity in the country.

We highly appreciate your personal contribution to the deepening of allied collaboration between Russia and Azerbaijan based on the principles of equality and mutual respect and to fruitful cooperation within the Commonwealth of Independent States.

We hope that Russia-Azerbaijan strategic partnership will continue to develop for the sake of well-being of peoples of our countries, security and stability in the Caucasus and the Caspian region.

I wish you, dear Ilham Heydar oglu, the best of health, well-being and success in your high office and the friendly people of Azerbaijan peace and prosperity.

Please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

Valentina Matviyenko

Chairperson of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation