On January 29th a ceremony for awarding the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, with the order Commander of Great Cross of Honorable Legion and the President of France, Jacque Chirac, with order of Heydar Aliyev took place in Yelisey Palace, Trend reports. The President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, presented a carpet woven with Jacque Chirac's portrait to the French President. Subsequently, the President of France, Jacque Chirac, presented a memorable gift to the President of Azerbaijan.
Awarding the high order of France to Ilham Aliyev, Jacque Chirac said: in 2004, I sent the order of Honourable Legion to your father, for whom I had profound respect and great feelings of friendship. I felt great emotion at sending this award to you. But now, you have arrived in our country on the first state visit. Therefore, I want with great satisfaction to award the higher order of France to you - Commander of Great Cross of Honorable Legion. As you know, this order was founded by Napoleon and all French people adhere to the signs and medal of their country.
Awarding Heydar Aliyev order to the French President, Ilham Aliyev said: Dear Mr. President today is very important to me. It is a great honor to receive the high order of France. You noted that three years ago when I was on an official visit to France, I succeeded in receiving the order which had been awarded to the President, Heydar Aliyev. Your personal friendship played a special role in the development of French-Azerbaijani relations. Due to your joint activities, French-Azerbaijani relations developed and reached the highest level. We very successfully co-operate in all areas, including political, economical and cultural spheres.