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AZERBAIJAN’S INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATED IN LOS ANGELES

Los Angeles, CA – October 19, 2006 – the Consulate General of Azerbaijan
hosted a reception to mark fifteen years of Azerbaijan’s independence at
the Regency Club in Los Angeles. This is the first time the National
Independence Day of Azerbaijan is officially celebrated on the West
Coast bringing together the community and friends of Azerbaijan, among
them members of the Los Angeles Consular Corps and representatives of
the federal, state and local governments. The event also featured
cultural performance by masters of Azerbaijani music and dance.

Speaking at the reception, Consul General Elin Suleymanov highlighted
Azerbaijan’s remarkable achievements since declaring its independence on
October 18, 1991.  “With annual GDP growth exceeding 30% and increasing
profile in the international community, Azerbaijan is America’s reliable
partner in the strategically important Caspian region,” said Mr. Suleymanov.

Official greetings from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as
well as from the County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors, from the
County of Orange Board of Supervisors and the Office of Protocol and
Mayor of the City of Los Angeles Antonio R. Villaraigosa were formally
presented at the event. The Consulate General also received greetings
from Governors Brian Schweitzer of the State of Montana, Bill Richardson
of the State of New Mexico and Christine O. Grigoire of the State of
Washington.

“I am privileged to join with the Azerbaijani-American community on this
day of celebration,” wrote Governor Schwarzenegger.  This sentiment was
seconded by Governor Gregoire, who described the National Independence
Day as “a wonderful opportunity to rejoice in the freedom and
sovereignty of Azerbaijan, as well reflect on the journey and sacrifice
leading up to Azerbaijan’s declaration of independence.” In turn,
Governor Richardson stressed that “like New Mexico, Azerbaijan numbers
diverse and beautiful landscapes among its great treasures” and Governor
Schweitzer recognized that Azerbaijan “has contributed greatly to the
region and world.”

11766 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1410 Tel: (310) 444 9101
Los Angeles, CA 90025 Fax: (310) 477 4860
Email:office@azconsulatela.org