Armenian President Armen Sarkissian sent the following congratulatory letter to Ian Gillian, the world-famous rock musician and lead singer of the Deep Purple rock band, on the latter’s 75th birthday.

“I congratulate you on your 75th birthday. You have been creating art for more than 50 years and you are the one of those unique artists who is admired by several generations. I am aware that Deep Purple’s new album released at the beginning of August is at the top of the charts in different countries.

“This is yet another proof of your and your friends’ immeasurable talent and creative vigor.

“I thank you for being our country’s friend since 1990. You are loved much in Armenia. Thus, I congratulate you also on behalf of the citizens of Armenia.

I recall warmly our meeting in June 2019 in Yerevan and will be happy to see you in Armenia again.”

Photo from Armenian presidential archive