ISLAMABAD: Sahiba Gafarova, speaker of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pakistan and its people on the occasion of Pakistan Day, which is celebrated on March 23rd each year.

In a special letter addressed to Chairman Senate Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani, Speaker Gafarova expressed her sincere wishes to the Senate members and the people of Pakistan, marking the significance of this national day.

She praised the deep and historic ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan, rooted in shared religious, cultural, and brotherly bonds.

`Today`s high level of AzerbaijaniPakistani cooperation, built on friendship and brotherhood, is gratifying.The relations between our countries, interconnected by religious and cultural roots, have continuously developed and reached the level of strategic partnership, stated Speaker Gafarova in her letter. She emphasised the mutual trust and political will driving the continuous expansion of relations between the two nations.

Speaker Gafarova also underscored the strength of the cooperation between the legislative bodies of Azerbaijan and Pakistan, which has flourished both bilaterally and within international organizations.

She highlighted the importance of inter-parliamentary support in strengtheningbilateralties.

`We are grateful for the continued support and fair position demonstrated by the Pakistani Parliament regarding the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and inviolability of ourcountry`s internationally recognised borders,` Gafarova remarked.

She expressed confidence that further deepening inter-parliamentary cooperation would continue to reinforce the solid and friendly relationship between the two countries. In addition to the Pakistan Day wishes, Speaker Gafarova extended her best wishes to the people of Pakistan for the holy month of Ramadan.

She acknowledged the spiritual significance of this period, which calls for unity, kindness, and selfimprovement. `I am pleased to extend my best wishes to you, the Members of the Senate, and all your people,` said Gafarova.

`May this blessed month bring kindness, unity, and peace to all hearts.`She concludedbywishingthe Pakistani people continued health, happiness, success in their endeavours, and lasting peace and prosperity.