To the First Forum of leaders of Diaspora organizations of the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States

Dear forum participants!

I cordially welcome you to Azerbaijan and wish your forum success!

Turkic-speaking peoples, who are settled on a diverse geographical area and have covered a difficult road of development, have always played an important role in the centuries-long evolutionary process of humanity. Thanks to their rich cultural traditions, they have preserved leading places on the historical scene. Turkic-speaking peoples and their states are still making a significant contribution to peace and security in the world, deepening of the dialogue between civilizations, and expansion of international economic, political and cultural ties.

The present-day realities dictated by the globalizing world encourage the peoples and governments of Turkic-speaking countries to maintain close cooperation, further strengthen mutual relations, coordinate their foreign policies and define joint tactics. The initiatives to establish and develop partnerships between Diaspora organizations of our peoples deserve commendation. The role of Diaspora organizations operating in different countries of the world in the development of relations between Turkic-speaking countries and robust protection of our common interests is of particular importance. Azerbaijan has always supported these initiatives and intends to continue this policy in the future.

The fact that First Forum of leaders of Diaspora organizations of the Cooperation Council of Turkic Speaking States is being held in Baku is clear evidence of the formation of the Diaspora, which, regardless of its country of residence, demonstrates respect for its roots, history, national and spiritual values, and attachment to the interests of the country. In the conditions of political multi-polarization, global development of economic, cultural and information processes I believe that we can draw on this potential to make a joint contribution to the protection of the interests of our peoples and to the strengthening of peace, security and stability in the region.

I once again express my confidence that the discussions to be held and the decisions to be made during the forum will give an impetus to the development of friendly and brotherly relations between our countries. I wish each one of you success along this way.

Ilham Aliyev
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 20 June 2013