Mr. President, dear Ilham!

After such a busy and successful visit, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the warm and excellent welcome I have enjoyed in Baku.

As I told you during your visit to Paris in December 2009, I wanted to pay a visit to Azerbaijan to witness a number of aspects of your country's economic successes and the changes carried out under your leadership in Baku. Despite the time constraints, my observations impressed me very much.

I would also like to thank you and your spouse for the crucial support in the establishment of the Baku French Lyceum. This project will be useful for both the French community living in Azerbaijan and striving to educate their children in the native language and culture, and for young Azerbaijanis who want to go to our universities before starting active life in the name of serving your country.

I would like to reiterate my suggestion to establish a strategic partnership between our countries that will strengthen our already extensive relationship.

Looking forward to entertain you in Paris during one of your future visits, I would like to express my appreciation to you again and ask you to accept the assurances of my highest consideration, esteem and friendly feelings.

Nicolas Sarkozy,
President of the Republic of France
Paris, 12 October 2011