"Thirty years have passed since the restoration of Azerbaijan's independence. Azerbaijan has come a long way since October 18, 1991," said French Ambassador to Azerbaijan Zacharie Gross.
He stressed that Azerbaijan had preserved its sovereignty, security, as well as the safety of its citizens, developed infrastructure and economy, established international cooperation, raised university standards, and began to rebuild a welfare state to meet the social needs of its population: "At the end of the Second Karabakh War, a ceasefire agreement was reached, allowing us to prepare for the future.
"Today, on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the restoration of independence, I convey a message of friendship from France to Azerbaijan."
The diplomat noted that Azerbaijan and Armenia want lasting peace and prosperity in the South Caucasus.