US Secretary of State John Kerry has issued a statement on Azerbaijan's Republic Day. The following is the text of the statement as posted on the website of the Department of State:

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

"The Republic of Azerbaijan and the United States share a commitment to diversifying energy supplies and promoting regional security. We are especially grateful for Azerbaijan’s partnership on the NATO mission in Afghanistan.

"The United States remains committed to working with Azerbaijan to strengthen its democratic institutions, promote the development of its open market economy, and find a peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

"As you celebrate this special day, the United States remains committed to this relationship and to a brighter future for all Azerbaijanis."

Bakudaily.az