Frank-Walter Steinmeier, president of the Federal Republic of Germany, sent a congratulatory letter to President Ilham Əliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

According to the EPA, the letter says:

"Dear Mr. President!

I sincerely congratulate you and the Azerbaijani people on Independence Day.

Your trips to Germany in February and March this year reinforced the close friendship between our countries. Germany also supports cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Union.

I can assure you that Germany will continue to be a reliable partner in your country's modernization efforts and strengthening democracy and the rule of law. A prosperous, modern society needs a peaceful and stable environment. Therefore, I firmly believe that Azerbaijan, as well as the entire region, will benefit from resolving regional conflicts. We want to make an active contribution to that as a member of the EUROPEAN Union.

I express my best wishes to you and the Azerbaijani people, and I wish you peace, well-being, and prosperity."