Blinken Congratulates Azerbaijan on Independence Day

Washington, D.C., The Gulf Observer: U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has extended his congratulations to the people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of May 28 – Independence Day. In an official statement, Secretary Blinken emphasized the strong partnership between the United States and Azerbaijan, which has been built over the past 32 years on shared interests in security and energy cooperation.

“On behalf of the United States of America, I wish the people of Azerbaijan a happy Independence Day,” Secretary Blinken stated. “We value our relationship with Azerbaijan, having built a partnership over the last 32 years on mutual interests relating to security and energy cooperation. We appreciate the opportunity to deepen our engagement in these areas, and also on increasingly critical global issues, such as climate change and the green energy transition.”

Secretary Blinken highlighted the United States’ anticipation for Azerbaijan’s hosting of COP29 in Baku, expressing a commitment to collaborate closely with the Azerbaijani government to ensure the event’s success. “The United States welcomes Azerbaijan hosting COP29 in Baku, and we look forward to working closely together with the government of Azerbaijan to make the COP a success to deliver a more sustainable and resilient climate future for our children and grandchildren,” he added.

Additionally, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States’ dedication to supporting Azerbaijan’s democratic development and the respect for human rights. “Our cooperation will continue to go hand in hand with a commitment to Azerbaijan’s democratic development and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms consistent with Azerbaijan’s constitution,” he noted.

The statement also addressed the ongoing peace efforts between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Secretary Blinken commended the progress made towards a lasting peace and reiterated U.S. support for these efforts. “The United States welcomes the work that has been made toward a durable and dignified peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and we continue to stand ready to support these efforts, to turn the page on the longstanding conflict, and to build a better future,” he stated. “We are fully committed to this goal, which will enhance connectivity and deliver economic benefits to the entire region.”

In conclusion, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed U.S. support for Azerbaijan’s independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. “On this important holiday in honor of Azerbaijan’s independence, I reaffirm the United States’ support for Azerbaijan’s independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty,” he concluded.

The message underscores the strong and multifaceted relationship between the two nations and the ongoing collaboration on key global issues.