2013 went down in history with a number of stories important for development of our state. Launch of “ASAN xidmət” center No.1 of the State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the beginning of the year was a big success Azerbaijan gained in the sphere of public service. Seeing the achievements obtained in this field, other states started using Azerbaijan’s experience. “ASAN xidmət” centers opened later contributed to the formation of a new approach to assuring a citizen’s satisfaction in the work of public servants, transferred relations between a civil servant and citizen to a new phase of quality.

On February 8 one of the most important events took place in the life of independent Azerbaijan – “Azerspace-1”, the first telecommunication satellite of the Republic of Azerbaijan, was successfully launched into orbit. Starting the space industry in Azerbaijan, this story was an inspiration for formation of a strong space industry in the republic. The President’s declaring 2013 the Year of ICT in the country shows a state care to the development of this sphere.  

One of the landmark stories of the year was marking the 90th birthday of national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, genius, the founder of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan, great Azerbaijani. Events held on this occasion in Azerbaijan and other countries proved once more that the steps great leader Heydar Aliyev took for Azerbaijan and his nation will never be forgotten.

2013 is characterized as a year of election as well. With the trust of the Azerbaijani people President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev was elected a president for the third term in the presidential elections on October 9. It once more showed because of the actions taken during previous terms President Ilham Aliyev encouraged the development of the state of Azerbaijan and won the national support.  

Another eminent event was the 3rd Baku International Humanitarian Forum held on October 31-November 1. Having hosted a number of international humanitarian events, international conferences, Azerbaijan once again demonstrated its ancient culture, civilization, and a tolerant environment for different nations and religions.   

Besides, 2013 is evaluated with significant achievements in Azerbaijan’s foreign policy. Started by national leader Heydar Aliyev, this political strategy was successfully continued this year too.

Finally, one of the most important successes of the year was the final investment decision for Shah Deniz-2 signed in Baku on December 17. By joining this project, one of the hugest in the world, Azerbaijan became an influential figure in energy sphere. December 17, 2013 went down in history as a contract of the 21st century.

Thus, we wish our state to continue all these successes also in 2014.