George Bush Sr.: "President Heydar Aliyev will always be remembered for playing an important role in helping Azerbaijan establish its footing in the early years of its independence"

"I remember clearly the waning days and eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. Azerbaijan, along with the other former Soviet Republics, was key to this movement towards freedom. As President at that time, I was cognizant of the important role the U.S. had in helping this process unfold and I was honored that my administration moved to recognize the independence of Azerbaijan and the other republics", says George Bush.

He also underlines that "president Aliyev will always be remembered for playing an important role in helping Azerbaijan establish its footing in the early years of its independence".

"Furthermore, I firmly believe that through his efforts we were able to establish a strong economic and diplomatic relationship between our two countries. In addition to his political role, President Aliyev also took major steps towards establishing the economic foundation of Azerbaijan, particularly in the energy sector. Under his tutelage, Azerbaijan took steps to becoming a major supplier of oil and gas to the regional and international markets", adds Mr. Bush

Bush also tells about president Aliyev's visit to Kennebunkport, Maine, in September of 2000.

"I hosted a dinner in honor of President Aliyev who was in the United States to attend the U.N. General Assembly Session in New York. The visit was a great opportunity to exchange views in an informal setting and to get to know each other. I enjoyed entertaining him at my home which I love so much and that means so much to me and Barbara. He really appreciated the fact that we flew the Azerbaijan flag in honor of his visit to our home. I remember that when he arrived we chatted a little outdoors before we went inside. President Aliyev showed great interest in the ocean surroundings and in two of my favorite activities - fishing and boating. I think he really enjoyed the fact that we were meeting in my home and not in some office. It served to underscore for him, I believe, the importance of the U.S.-Azerbaijan relationship".

"I know that we also exchanged some correspondence after my son George was elected President of the United States", says the US ex-president.

Bush also adds that he "greatly appreciated President Aliyev's graciousness and thoughtfulness in extending his congratulations on George's victory."

"His graciousness included an invitation to me to visit Azerbaijan", Bush concluded.

/Day.Az/