Dear Vladimir Vladimirovich, 
On behalf of the people of Azerbaijan and on myself I warmly congratulate you and all the people of Russia on the state holiday - Day of Russia.

It is pleasant that friendly Russia which has reached considerable successes in the cause of strengthening of statehood and the law and order, in conducting democratic changes, goes today by the way of reforming and perfection of all aspects of life of the society, strengthening positions of the country on international arena.

Azerbaijan and Russia are connected closely by historically developed relations of friendship and good neighborhood which nowadays has got qualitatively new character. I am convinced that our mutual relations, multiple interaction and strategic partnership will get stronger henceforth and intensively develop for the welfare of our peoples, in interests of peace, security and progress in region.

I wish you, dear Vladimir Vladimirovich, robust health, happiness and successes in your state activity, and the people of Russia - peace and prosperity.

Yours faithfully,

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Baku, May 31, 2012