Dear friends, esteemed ladies and gentlemen!
Several hours ago a landmark and historical event took place in the life of our country. In elections to the UN Security Council Azerbaijan has been elected this authoritative organization`s member. I cordially congratulate the people of Azerbaijan on this great victory. This is, indeed, a great victory. The United Nations Security Council is the most authoritative structure of world and Azerbaijan as an independent state is a member of this organization.
As you know, in the two-day elections Azerbaijan prevailed in all rounds and stages. In the first round, among thee candidates Azerbaijan took the 1st place. And in the latest stages of voting, our country was always supported by majority. As a result, 15 countries voted for Azerbaijan and elected us a non-permanent member to this authoritative organization. Taking the opportunity, I would express gratitude to all those countries that believed in us, relied on us, those who honored us. That is, I want to stress that Azerbaijan in this organization will serve the ideals, peace, security, democracy and justice it adheres.
We have enough achievements. Current year we mark the 20th anniversary of our independence. We celebrate this jubilee solemnly and with great accomplishments. On the threshold of jubilee, the held actions and made statements reflect the country`s dynamic and successful development. That is, our country successfully develops in all fields. The internal processes go in positive directions. The country`s development has no analogue in the world. This progress is watched in all fields. Azerbaijan successfully goes forward both in solution of the social questions, in economic development and realization of infrastructure projects. Along with all these achievements, the ongoing reforms, our foreign policy is also flexible and successful. The core of our foreign policy is that Azerbaijan pursues independent policy. This policy ensures interests of the Azerbaijani people. This policy aims at strengthening and increasing of cooperation.
The number of our friends is increasing over the world. I have many times stated it to the public of Azerbaijan. And today I reiterate that we have enough friends in the world. Though earlier this was not confirmed by concrete results, this voting is vivid evidence for all statements made earlier. Over the world, 155 countries believe in Azerbaijan, honors Azerbaijan, sympathize and support Azerbaijan.
In the period of independence, that is, during 20 years, gaining such victory is indeed a historical achievement. During these 20 years we could approve ourselves as a state. We could approve that Azerbaijan is a reliable partner, Azerbaijan is a friendly country, and increase of the number of friends is the triumph of our policy. This voting coincides with the 20th anniversary of our independence. This is a very symbolic event. It shows that during 20 years Azerbaijan has demonstrated itself as an independent state, as a glorious country in the world.
This victory is the victory of the Azerbaijani people. This victory is the victory of the Azerbaijani state, the triumph of our policy. I share my joy with the citizens of Azerbaijan on this victory. Once again I would assure the people of Azerbaijan that our country will further develop successfully, and further gain victories. Dear friends, I once again warmly congratulate you on this historical event, and wish health and luck to the whole Azerbaijani people. Thank you. {nl}