Representatives of the diplomatic corps, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, culture and science, as well as prominent figures from Kyrgyzstan, including teachers from the International Kyrgyz-Turkish University "Manas," where the ceremonial part took place, and members of the Azerbaijani diaspora gathered for the event.
The ceremony began with a screening of a documentary film that opened with footage from the international music festival "Khari Bulbul," which took place in 2021 in Shusha, just a few months after the victory. Shusha, as a symbol of Azerbaijan, holds a special place in the hearts of its people, and the liberation of this city became one of the main dreams of Azerbaijanis. On November 8, 2020, President Ilham Aliyev announced the end of the Karabakh War, after which the festival, held for the first time in 30 years, became a landmark event for the country and the entire liberated region.
The film included a touching song about Karabakh, reflecting the suffering of a people who fought for over 30 years for their rights and the restoration of lost lands.
The speakers emphasized the importance of November 8 as Victory Day for Azerbaijan, highlighting that this event symbolizes the triumph of justice and international law.
The Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan, Meder Abakirov, congratulated the people of Azerbaijan on the holiday and expressed hope for further successes in the restoration of the liberated territories. "This date symbolizes the unity and strength of the spirit of a people who defended their independence and territorial integrity. Kyrgyzstan highly values its fraternal ties with Azerbaijan, based on common historical roots and cultural values," he noted.
Ismet Altentash, the rector of the "Manas" University, expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijani ambassador in Kyrgyzstan, Latif Gandilov, for organizing the event, adding that such events strengthen the fraternal relations between Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey.
The Ambassador of Turkey to Kyrgyzstan, Mekin Mustafa Kemal Okem, also delivered a congratulatory speech, noting that the long-awaited peace is finally coming to the South Caucasus thanks to the efforts of the leaders of both countries.
The Ambassador of Kazakhstan, Rapil Zhoshybaev, pointed out the importance of the assistance of fraternal nations, including Kazakhstan, in the restoration of Karabakh, emphasizing that the victory has formed a new regional reality.
"For Azerbaijan, November 8 is a significant date. During the 44-day war under the command of President Ilham Aliyev, our lands were liberated from occupation," stated Latif Gandilov, the Azerbaijani ambassador to Kyrgyzstan.
He also emphasized that Azerbaijan has always advocated for a peaceful resolution of the conflict; however, when peaceful negotiations yielded no results, the people of the country decided to act in accordance with the UN Charter. "We defended our territorial integrity," he added.
Latif Gandilov noted that now is the time for peaceful restoration of relations and rapprochement of peoples. In this context, he mentioned the signing of a peace agreement that was reached between the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia in August of this year.
In his opinion, this agreement will be signed soon, and both sides agree on the unblocking of communications, which is already positively affecting trade.
The road to Zangezur will create a direct transport link between Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan, significantly increasing the volume of cargo transportation.
In conclusion of his speech, Latif Gandilov expressed confidence that peace in the region will be stable and durable, as this is what the people of both countries strive for.
Medetkan Sherimkulov, the former speaker of the Jogorku Kenesh, delivered a warm and sincere speech.
He noted that he is happy for Azerbaijan's achievements and considers its victory his own. "I spoke with Heydar Aliyev when peace was under threat. I saw the suffering of the people, and I am glad that all of this is now in the past," he said. "Kyrgyzstan and other fraternal nations share the joy with Azerbaijanis on this important date."
Sherimkulov also recalled a meeting with Ilham Aliyev during the visit of the President of Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan, where the achievements of peace were discussed. "I am glad that our countries are getting closer, and we continue to help each other. An example of this is the construction of a school in Karabakh, which was initiated last year," he concluded.
The social program concluded with a vibrant concert that created an atmosphere of celebration and unity among those present, where Azerbaijani music once again reminded everyone of the strength of the human spirit and hope.
