From the President of the Republic of Italy, Sergio Mattarella

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

His Excellency.

I am pleased to convey my best wishes to our friends on the day when Azerbaijani people celebrate their national holiday.

I am very pleased with the effective cooperation between Baku and Rome. These relations are developing at the bilateral level and are of particular importance in the current complex international situation characterized by the Russia-Ukraine war and the escalation of tensions in the Middle East.

I am sure that with these solid foundations, our countries will continue to work together to strengthen the strategic partnership, to launch new initiatives enriching it in many areas of interest.

I confirm once again that Italy will continue to strongly support the further strengthening of relations between Azerbaijan and the European Union, including the intensification of the dialogue on regional stability, relations and international security issues.

Mr. President, I hope to meet you again in September at the Quirinale.

On behalf of the Italian people and on my own behalf, I convey my most sincere congratulations to you and all your compatriots.

Sincerely,

Sercio Mattarella

President of the Italian Republic