"On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I congratulate the people of Azerbaijan as you observe Republic Day on May 28.

"Ninety-seven years ago, the people of Azerbaijan established the first secular democratic republic in the Muslim world. And since you declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, our two countries have worked together to promote Azerbaijan’s sovereignty, democratic development, and prosperity.

"The United States strongly supports your role in European energy diversification through the Southern Gas Corridor. We work side by side to combat terrorism and improve regional and global security through NATO’s mission in Afghanistan. The United States is committed to continuing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, combat transnational threats, and advance the rule of law.

"On this day of celebration, I send best wishes to all Azerbaijanis."