On behalf of the Ministry of Transport of the Azerbaijan Republic I send greetings to the participants in the International Regional Rail Business Forum “1520 Strategic Partnership: Caucasus Region”.

I am convinced that this event will help to increase the effectiveness of business cooperation and to develop trade and economic relations between the countries of the region.

Azerbaijan has a favourable geographical location, and its transport structures, which are a major hub in the Black Sea – Caspian region and on whose reliable working the success of a great deal of transcontinental traffic in the direction of Europe, the Caucasus, Asia and North – South depends, are today developing successfully, making a notable contribution to the development of international trade and the acceleration of integration processes.

The state programmes to develop the transport sector of the Azerbaijan Republic envisage a qualitative improvement of the whole industry to the level of international standards. This includes the railways, which have followed a long and historic path since their foundation. The consistent implementation of these programmes will ensure the steady development of the country’s road transport system and will bring tangible benefits to the economy not only of Azerbaijan but also of all countries in the region.

I am sure that the International Regional Rail Business Forum “1520 Strategic Partnership: Caucasus Region”, which is being held in the context of celebrations of the 130th anniversary of Azerbaijan railways, is a most important event in terms of expanding international cooperation and will help to further strengthen trust and the existing friendly relationships.

I wish all the participants and guests of the event prosperity and great success.

Yours faithfully,