*This article is based on an exclusive talk with Dr. Khayala Mammadova, a scientific researcher in Baku, on the eve of fifth Victory Day celebrations in Azerbaijan.
On November 8, Azerbaijan commemorated Victory Day, celebrating the historic triumph of its people, military, and leadership in restoring national honor and liberating occupied lands. Marking the fifth anniversary of the Patriotic War, this day not only honors the bravery and sacrifices of Azerbaijani heroes but also highlights the enduring brotherhood between Azerbaijan, Pakistan and Turkiye.
In this interview, Dr. Khayala Mammadova shares her thoughts on the significance of Victory Day, the military parade, and the unity that continues to inspire generations.
It is very interesting to know your thoughts on these days when Azerbaijan celebrates its historic victory.
November 8 – Victory Day, the culmination of the Azerbaijani people’s struggle for freedom and justice, represents the strength of our state, the unity of our people, and the spirit of victory. This glorious day, of course, symbolizes the historic victory won thanks to the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the determination of our people, and the courage of our army. Victory Day is one of the most glorious pages in our people’s history for all of us. Today, it symbolizes both the liberation of our lands and the restoration of our national honor. Throughout 30 years of occupation, our people never lost hope and trusted their state and army.
With the Decree of President Ilham Aliyev dated December 3, 2020, it was decided to solemnly celebrate November 8 every year as Victory Day in Azerbaijan in order to perpetuate this unparalleled victory, which is of exceptional importance in terms of the reputation and future development of our state, and which became a celebration of our people’s power and national pride.
In response to Armenia’s provocation and further military aggression, the Azerbaijani Army launched a counteroffensive on September 27, 2020, to end the occupation of the Azerbaijani lands, force Armenia to peace, apply the UN Security Council resolutions, return IDPs to their native lands and restore justice.
For 44 days, our glorious Armed Forces moved forward every day, not taking a single step back. They showed great professionalism, courage, heroism and selflessness. Over the course of the 44 days, more than 300 cities and villages were liberated from the enemy on the battlefield. All the people of Azerbaijan were united for this sacred cause.
November 8th is the day when this faith, solidarity, and love for our homeland transformed into victory. This victory is not only the result of our armed forces’ excellent combat capabilities, but also an unshakable display of our nation’s national pride and courage. The bravery of the heroic soldiers and officers of the Azerbaijani Army will forever leave an indelible mark on the hearts of every Azerbaijani and will serve as the greatest source of inspiration for future generations.
Why do you think celebrating November 8 as Victory Day is an important step?
The foundation of victory is the unity of the people and the government. Five years ago, under the resolute leadership of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev the people, army, and state united for a common cause. As a result of this unity, we achieved historic successes both on the battlefield and in the diplomatic arena. Love of the homeland and the spirit of mobilization within every citizen were the fundamental driving forces of this victory.
Victory Day conveys to future generations a message of pride, love of freedom, and loyalty to our national heritage. Today, it demonstrates that people fighting for unity and justice will never be defeated. For children and young people, this date is not only a victory but also a lesson in patriotism, courage, and national identity.
Celebrating November 8 – Victory Day every year is of great importance in strengthening the historical consciousness of future generations. It is both a sign of respect for the memory of our martyrs and one of the spiritual pillars that has constantly kept the unity and statehood of the Azerbaijani people alive. Victory Day instills in us a sense of national pride and reminds us of the value of freedom.
Could you especially highlight the Military Parade held at Azadlig Square in Baku to mark the fifth anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War?
Yes…. On November 8, a Military Parade dedicated to the fifth anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War got underway at Azadlig Square in Baku. This is a historic event. The military parade is a symbol of the confirmation of our victory, once again demonstrating the will of the Azerbaijani Army to the world. Military equipment, along with servicemen representing all branches of the armed forces, also passed through the military parade.
The pride that our people experienced in the Victory parade was engraved in their memories forever. Now we can surely say that a historic mission has already been completed and the Karabakh conflict has been resolved according to the requirements of international law and within the framework of the territorial integrity of our country. At the same time, it embodies our country’s successes in all areas. The military parade held in Baku was a significant event not only for the Azerbaijani people but also for the entire Turkic World.
It is a proud moment for the Pakistani army to march alongside the Azerbaijani and Turkish armies. What initiatives are important in showing this unity to the world?
The participation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif in the parade once again demonstrated to the world that Azerbaijan-Turkiye-Pakistan friendship and brotherhood are built on unshakable, eternal, and strategic foundations. The national anthems of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan were also performed. The exemplary parade of Turkish and Pakistani soldiers carries political and symbolic significance. In his speech, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also stated that the Turkish and Pakistani states supported Azerbaijan from the first day of the 44-day Patriotic War to its last, and that he greatly appreciated this solidarity. Of course, this has certainly given us added morale and strength. Also, he emphasized that Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Turkey had taken their mutual relations to new heights.
It is pleasing that, on the occasion of the fifth anniversary of our victory, Islamabad, Pakistan, has been decorated with Azerbaijani flags and many buildings, including the Prime Minister’s Office, Parliament, and the Supreme Court of Pakistan, have been illuminated with the colors of the Azerbaijani flag.
All of this once again proves that the friendly and fraternal relations established between Azerbaijan, Turkiye, and Pakistan are not just political ties, but also shared values, historical bonds, and strategic cooperation for the future.
We can definitely say that public and political stability was fully established in Azerbaijan. Civil solidarity, civil unity, the unity between the people and the government have been the key factors. Patriotism and our moral qualities are some of the key factors behind our glorious Victory.
Baku, Azerbaijan
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