Speaking at the event, the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassador of Azerbaijan to Kyrgyzstan, Latif Gandilov, shared his memories and reflections on the events that took place in Khojaly, as well as the importance of preserving the memory of them.
- This day is one of the most tragic in the history of our people. The pain we feel does not fade with the years. Many of us, embassy staff, were witnesses to those terrible events and remember them as if they happened only yesterday.
We grew up in a culture where internationalism and friendship of peoples were valued above all. We were taught to respect other cultures and traditions, and we believed that this would ensure peaceful coexistence. But, as history has shown, nationalism does not disappear without a trace.
The tragic events that began in 1988 dealt a real blow to our people. Azerbaijanis found themselves drawn into a conflict for which they were unprepared. At that time, the international community often remained on the sidelines, fearing to exacerbate interethnic relations. However, such silence only worsened the situation, ultimately leading to the Khojaly tragedy, which claimed the lives of more than 2,000 Azerbaijanis.
Over the years, the international community has adopted numerous resolutions, including four UN resolutions, but Armenia refused to comply with them. Azerbaijan was forced to rely on its own strength and, uniting around President Ilham Aliyev, liberated the occupied territories, restoring its sovereignty.
During the 33 years of occupation, our people endured many sufferings: loss of lives, destruction of homes, forced displacements, and shattered destinies of refugees. We did not see justice at the international level, but the people managed to unite, preserve statehood, and strengthen sovereignty, maintaining the spirit of freedom.
It is important to remember history. If a people forgets its lessons, it risks facing them again. We have gathered here to pass the truth on to future generations and to prevent the repetition of such tragedies.
The ambassador also mentioned other tragic events in history, such as the events of 1905-1907, the March events of 1918, and the deportation of Azerbaijanis in 1947-1953, emphasizing that the events of the late 20th century were the result of long-term and well-planned processes.
Moreover, Gandilov noted that Azerbaijan has long sought a peaceful resolution to the conflict and hoped for diplomatic solutions.
- We waited a long time for a peaceful resolution, believing that common sense and international law would help restore justice. But reality has shown that security and sovereignty require decisive action. Despite all the suffering, Azerbaijan today advocates for peace, restoration, and the return of people to normal life.
According to him, after the end of hostilities, the country is implementing a large-scale program for the reconstruction of the liberated territories.
- People are returning, houses, roads, schools, and social facilities are being built. New enterprises are opening, and jobs are being created. One of the most challenging tasks is demining the territory, as the land is heavily contaminated with mines, which requires time and significant effort.
He also noted that the restoration is taking place under difficult conditions and requires significant financial expenditures. Azerbaijan relies mainly on its own resources, financing 95% of the restoration, while only 4.5% comes from the support of the international community. Unfortunately, after the end of hostilities, more than 400 people, including civilians and children, became victims of mines.
The ambassador expressed gratitude to those states and peoples that supported Azerbaijan, especially the countries of Central Asia – Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.
- We are grateful to all who supported us in difficult times. The assistance of fraternal countries has not only material but also moral significance for us, symbolizing solidarity and human brotherhood.
In conclusion, Latif Gandilov emphasized the importance of preserving historical memory, mutual respect, intercultural dialogue, and striving for peaceful coexistence as fundamental principles for the future.
The Azerbaijani side proposed five options for a peace agreement with Armenia, and as a result of efforts, a preliminary agreement was signed in the USA in August 2025. We hope for the swift signing of a peace treaty after fulfilling the requirements to amend certain provisions in important state documents.
It is no coincidence that a mutual exchange of delegations has begun between both countries, and the dialogue process is underway. Azerbaijan has opened its airspace to Armenian airlines and supplies fuel and lubricants to Armenia. Cargo from Kazakhstan and Russia is being delivered to Armenia through the territory of Azerbaijan.
We advocate for durable peace and peaceful coexistence. As President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said, our peoples must live together.
