BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 1. Azerbaijan attaches
great importance to developing relations with the United States and
believes that bilateral cooperation is entering a new stage, Deputy
Prime Minister Samir Sharifov said at an event in Baku marking US
Independence Day, Trend's correspondent reports from the event.


He congratulated the American people, the staff of the US
Embassy in Azerbaijan, and US citizens residing in the country on
the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.


“Americans have every reason to be proud of the two and a half
centuries of history that have passed since the adoption of the
Declaration of Independence. Despite serious challenges and
difficult periods, they have managed to build a strong, prosperous
and thriving state that guarantees equal rights for every citizen
regardless of religion, race, or gender, supports free enterprise
and a market economy, and has become a global leader in scientific
and technological progress,” Sharifov said.


He noted that Azerbaijan, which established diplomatic relations
with the United States 34 years ago, has always been interested in
developing trade and economic cooperation, as well as cooperation
in other areas of mutual interest.


Sharifov said examples of such cooperation include Azerbaijan’s
participation in the global coalition against international
terrorism established by the United States, as well as the two
countries’ joint contribution to global energy security.


“Today, Azerbaijani-American relations are developing with
strong momentum,” he said.


According to Sharifov, initiatives by Azerbaijan and the United
States, based on a shared strategic vision and aimed at ensuring
peace and long-term prosperity in the region, have created a solid
foundation for mutually beneficial and sustainable partnership.


In conclusion, he said it was an honor for him to celebrate the
250th anniversary of US independence together with the participants
of the event, noting that over two and a half centuries of
statehood, the United States has played an exceptional role in
shaping and advancing global politics, the economy, and the
international relations system.


“Once again, I congratulate everyone on this great holiday and
wish the friendly American people continued progress, well-being,
and prosperity. Happy 250th Independence Day!” Sharifov said.