Rashid Alimov sent a message of greetings to Armen Sarkissian on his inauguration as President of Armenia.
The message reads, in part:
"Mr Sarkissian,
"Please accept my most heartfelt congratulations on assuming the office of the President of the Republic of Armenia.
"I express confidence that under your wise and farsighted leadership, the Republic of Armenia will continue to confidently follow the path of further progress and prosperity for the benefit of the Armenian people.
"We note with particular satisfaction the active interest of Armenia in enhancing cooperation with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as its Dialogue Partner.
"I sincerely wish you, Mr Sarkissian, good health and new successes in your multifaceted state activity, and I wish peace and prosperity to the people of Armenia."