"In the Declaration of Independence, our country’s founders gave us a framework for achieving prosperity, peace, and stability. That declaration set us on a bold, uncharted course based on a set of values that enshrined individual rights and the principle that the government is accountable to its people. 

"Over the 239 years since then, the United States has changed in ways that our founders never imagined.

"Through 57 peaceful, democratic transitions of power, our system of government has allowed us to meet diverse challenges and to form partnerships around the globe to build a more peaceful, prosperous, stable world.

"In my view, America’s success is based on our belief that people should engage with government institutions to find ways to meet new demands.

"From the smallest towns to the largest cities, Americans participate in government through voting and public debate, questioning what our officials and leaders are doing. In effect, the American people have charted the course of our success. It is a process that continues today. 

"We welcome constructive engagement from our friends in Azerbaijan as part of that process.

"As we work to build a strong, positive relationship between our two countries, I am convinced honestly assessing developments and challenges, dialogue, and discussing how we can do things better will help us both to meet the issues we face today and whatever may lie ahead."