“The first secular republic in the Muslim world”
Azerbaijan’s National Day
The Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Nasimi Aghayev, delivered the opening address
Ambassador H.E. Nasimi Aghayev and his wife Lala Aghayeva welcomed the guests. Pictured here: the Mexican Ambassador, H.E. Francisco Jose Quiroga Fernandes (left)
Dr Christoph Israng, the new Head of the European Department at the Federal Foreign Office, paid tribute to the close and long-standing relations between Germany and Azerbaijan
“This evening is more than just a celebration of a historic date. It is a celebration of freedom, dignity and the indomitable will of a people to determine their own destiny,” said Ambassador Aghayev in his speech marking Azerbaijan’s Independence Day. He recalled the founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918 as “the first parliamentary and secular republic in the Muslim world”, as well as the restoration of independence in 1991 following decades of Soviet rule.
Azerbaijan – a key hub between Europe and Asia
He highlighted the role played by Azerbaijan’s first president, Heydar Aliyev, in stabilising the country and its development under President Ilham Aliyev into a modern, sovereign and internationally recognised state. Today, he said, Azerbaijan is a key hub between Europe and Asia, a reliable energy partner and an important player in regional cooperation.
The Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan, H.E. Omurbek Tekebaev, and his wife
From left: H.E. Fernando Lopez Fabregat, Ambassador of Uruguay, with his wife; the Ambassador of Croatia, H.E. Gordan Bakota
Azerbaijan and Germany
He attached particular importance to German-Azerbaijani relations, which bring together the worlds of business, science, culture and people-to-people exchanges. In the face of global uncertainties, he said, reliable partnerships were more important than ever.
Azerbaijan and Armenia
With regard to the region, he highlighted Azerbaijan’s progress: “Following the restoration of our territorial integrity and full sovereignty, Azerbaijan is steadfastly continuing on its path of reconstruction, reconciliation and sustainable peace.” Around 85,000 people were now living once again in the recaptured territories. Trade relations and new transport routes are visible signs of growing trust between Azerbaijan and Armenia and represent a historic opportunity for lasting peace in the South Caucasus. In conclusion, he emphasised the responsibility to ensure a peaceful future for future generations.
H.E. Mitsuko Shino, Ambassador of Japan, and H.E. Chittipat Tongprasroeth, Ambassador of Thailand
From left: The Ambassador of Türkiye, H.E. Gökhan Turan, and the Ambassador of Tajikistan, H.E. Dr Imomudin Sattorov
Representatives of the Federal Foreign Office
Dr Christoph Israng, the new Head of the European Department at the Federal Foreign Office, paid tribute to the close and long-standing relations between Germany and Azerbaijan. He described Azerbaijan as an important political and economic partner and as a significant bridge between Asia and Europe. He particularly highlighted the progress made in normalising relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia and pledged Germany’s support for a sustainable peace process. He thanked Azerbaijan for its increased cooperation with Ukraine and emphasised the importance of joint initiatives in the economic, cultural and energy sectors for the further deepening of bilateral relations.
From left: H.E. Lorenzo Ravano, Ambassador of Monaco; H.E. Augusto Arzubiaga Scheuch, Ambassador of Peru; H.E. Vicente Albornoz, Ambassador of Ecuador
Several hundred guests had accepted the invitation. After the official part of the event, the visitors were able to enjoy the warm hospitality, including a sumptuous buffet featuring local specialities