Mr. President, your first official visit to the United States in 1997 was a very exciting one, and everyone in America was eager to meet you. This visit was also very important because it gave a strong impetus to further increasing America’s attention and interest towards your region.

As a result of your leadership, the achievements made in your country in a short period of time have really brought Azerbaijan into the center of attention. Just a few years ago, this could not be said about Azerbaijan. But thanks to your leadership, unity, peace, stability and ever-increasing progress have been achieved in your country. These are really big positive changes.