Islamabad – 7 November 2023 : Embassy of Azerbaijan in Islamabad marks Victory Day, a day of deep respect and gratitude, commemorating the liberation of its territories from Armenian occupation, and the restoration of its territorial integrity. Azerbaijan’s Ambassador Khazar Farhadov during his speech said that, we remember and honor the Martyrs who gave their lives for the independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of our nation.
For nearly three decades, Armenia occupied 20% of Azerbaijani territories, during which war crimes were committed, including the Khojaly Genocide in 1992, resulting in the loss of innocent lives. Armenia’s actions also included ethnic cleansing, forcibly expelling Azerbaijani populations from the occupied areas.
Despite international calls for the withdrawal of Armenian troops from Azerbaijani territory, Armenia consistently ignored United Nations Security Council resolutions and decisions from various international organizations, maintaining the status quo.
Azerbaijan had pursued peaceful negotiations to resolve the Karabakh conflict, but Armenia continued to provoke hostilities during the occupation. In 2020, Azerbaijan launched a successful counter-offensive, liberating its territories under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.
The conflict had left Azerbaijani cities and villages in ruins, cultural and religious monuments destroyed, and mosques desecrated. In contrast, Azerbaijan has always maintained a commitment to avoiding harm to civilians and civilian infrastructure during its operations.
Even after the war, Armenia’s military provocations continued, leading to further loss of life in the newly liberated territories. To ensure the safety of civilian populations and restore order, the Azerbaijan Army initiated local anti-terrorist measures, in accordance with the Joint Trilateral Statement signed on November 10, 2020.
Farhadov further said that, Azerbaijan has taken significant steps towards rebuilding and restoring the liberated areas, with over $7 billion allocated so far and plans to allocate $2.4 billion for 2024. The “Great Return” initiative aims to facilitate the return of Azerbaijani IDPs to their historical homeland, including a special reintegration portal for Armenian residents living in the Karabakh economic region.
The international community plays a vital role in supporting these efforts, with brotherly Pakistan having provided moral and diplomatic support throughout the conflict. Azerbaijan extends its gratitude to the Government and people of Pakistan for their unwavering assistance.
Azerbaijan’s dedication to rebuilding and restoring its liberated territories is a testament to its commitment to peace and stability in the region.
