I welcome the statement that Eurovision can transform Azerbaijan (Comment, 17 May) – but then again transformation is not something new for us. For example, in the past 20 years we have transformed our economy from a post-Soviet basket case into one of the fastest growing economies in the world. Or take Graham Norton wondering aloud whether he would find "nice hotels" in Baku: rest assured (and comfortable) Graham, this year sees the opening not only of the new Kempinski, Hilton and Marriotts in Baku, but also the Four Seasons. Transformation indeed!
Some things we don't want to change: for example our multicultural and multi-faith tolerance, which sees a Muslim majority happily and peacefully co-existing with strongly established Christian and Jewish communities, synagogues and churches.
What is more surprising are the specific "transformations" which Aslan Amani, the writer of this article, has focused on. Mr Amani (one of many Azerbaijanis benefiting from the UK's outstanding academic institutions) has in the past stoutly defended the wisdom of President Ilham Aliyev's "diligent balance" in his leadership of our country – notably in a contribution to our National Diplomatic Academy's school of international affairs publication.
It is indeed a "diligent balance" we attempt to pursue in all matters, from our membership of the European family to our steady and wholehearted commitment to the full democratic transformation of our country. Azerbaijan has no internet restrictions, a remarkably lively media, and a strong affirmation of the freedom of assembly (in fact, our law on this topic has been adopted by the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe).
Tourists and visiting Eurovision fans will find it easy to get visas from our embassies, and in Baku they'll find a safe, clean and beautiful city built of mellow limestone on the shores of the Caspian. And, from the World Wrestling Championships to Baku International Jazz festival, we're no strangers to hosting major crowd-pulling events.
The transformation we seek is in people's knowledge about a small, little known country on the fringes of Europe. Eurovision will help make Azerbaijan a familiar and friendly place for households throughout the extended European family – whether you're joining us as our honoured guests next May in person in Baku, or whether you're one of over a hundred million TV viewers.
Fakhraddin Gurbanov
Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the United Kingdom