Azerbaijani Armed Forces Day and 100th Anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev Celebrated in Australia
To commemorate the 105th anniversary of the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and the formation of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces in 1918, as well as the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the Commonwealth of Australia hosted an official reception in Canberra on June 23, 2023.
The event brought together officials from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, members of Parliament, heads of diplomatic missions, Azerbaijani community leaders, distinguished guests, and members of the media.
The reception began with the national anthems of Australia and Azerbaijan, symbolizing the respect and mutual recognition between the two nations.
Mr. Vagif Jafarov, Chargé d’Affaires of the Azerbaijani Embassy accredited to Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, delivered a speech highlighting Azerbaijan’s rich history, its enduring struggle for independence and sovereignty, and the enduring legacy of Heydar Aliyev.
He emphasized the historic significance of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic as the first secular democratic state in the Muslim East, noting its progressive policies of granting equal rights to all citizens regardless of ethnicity, religion, or gender. Despite its short-lived independence, ending in April 1920 due to Soviet occupation, the Republic laid the foundation for Azerbaijan’s modern statehood.
The diplomat underscored that the restoration of independence in 1991 came at a great cost, but thanks to the visionary leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, Azerbaijan entered a period of development, stability, and nation-building. His leadership played a crucial role in strengthening national identity, promoting statehood, and guiding the country through challenging times.
The event also highlighted the achievements of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, who have become the pillars of the country’s independence, territorial integrity, and national security. Mr. Jafarov noted their contributions to international peacekeeping operations, and particularly their pivotal role in the 2020 Patriotic War, during which Azerbaijan restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty by ending decades of illegal occupation.
In his speech, Mr. Jafarov also addressed the dynamic bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Australia, expressing gratitude to the Australian government for its longstanding support of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He noted the potential for deepening cooperation in key sectors, particularly green energy, mining, and agriculture.
He highlighted the importance Azerbaijan places on environmental sustainability and clean energy, and mentioned the recently signed Framework Agreement between the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan and the Australian company Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) to collaborate on renewable energy and green hydrogen development. This partnership aligns with Azerbaijan’s broader vision to become a key supplier of clean energy to international markets, particularly the European Union.
Additionally, in honor of this dual celebration, an article titled “From Struggle to Triumph: Azerbaijan’s Path to Independence” was published on the popular Australian news platform Vibe Media, offering local readers insights into Azerbaijan’s historical journey and contemporary achievements.
