This year, Azerbaijan proudly commemorates the 5th anniversary of its historic Victory in the 44-day Patriotic War. On November 8, 2020, the valiant Azerbaijani Armed Forces liberated the country’s occupied territories, bringing an end to nearly three decades of longing and restoring national pride. This momentous date, symbolizing the dawn of a new era for Azerbaijan and the wider region, is celebrated as Victory Day, in accordance with the decree of H.E. Mr. Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Despite enduring severe economic, social, and humanitarian consequences resulting from Armenia’s military aggression and its 30-year-long occupation—marked by the violation of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and sovereignty—Azerbaijan consistently sought to resolve the conflict through peaceful negotiations. However, Armenia’s persistent illegal occupation, continued provocations, and inflammatory rhetoric, including claims such as “new wars for new territories” and “Garabagh is Armenia,” undermined the peace process and made a diplomatic solution impossible.
On September 27, 2020, following Armenia’s large-scale military offensive, Azerbaijan was compelled to exercise its inherent right to self-defense as enshrined in the United Nations Charter. The counter-offensive launched that day initiated the 44-day Patriotic War, ultimately leading to a decisive and historic victory.
In an attempt to maintain its unlawful occupation and demoralize the Azerbaijani people, Armenia committed grave war crimes by targeting civilians in cities such as Ganja, Barda, and Tartar—areas far from active combat zones. Yet, through the courage and determination of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, under the command of the victorious Commander-in-Chief, Azerbaijan liberated the cities of Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Zangilan, Gubadli, and the culturally significant city of Shusha, along with more than 300 other settlements.
This brilliant military victory also led to the peaceful return of Aghdam, Kalbajar, and Lachin districts to Azerbaijani control—achieved without a single shot fired or loss of life. In total, nearly 700 settlements were restored to Azerbaijani sovereignty. Through this triumph, Azerbaijan effectively implemented four key United Nations Security Council resolutions adopted in 1993 (Resolutions 822, 853, 874, and 884), reaffirming its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
On September 19–20, 2023, Azerbaijan conducted a swift, 24-hour counter-terrorism operation in the Karabakh region to neutralize remaining illegal armed formations and restore full sovereignty over all its territories.
Throughout this struggle, Pakistan has demonstrated unwavering support for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and internationally recognized borders, in line with the aforementioned UN Security Council resolutions. Pakistan’s principled stance during the Patriotic War and its continuous political and moral support stand as a true testament to the deep fraternal ties between the two nations.
Following its historic victory, Azerbaijan launched an ambitious reconstruction and development program in the liberated Karabakh and East Zangezur regions. Major infrastructure projects have been initiated, new urban centers are being built, and thousands of displaced citizens have already returned to their ancestral homes.
Azerbaijan continues to champion a peace-oriented foreign policy, striving to establish enduring stability and cooperation in the South Caucasus. Significant progress has been achieved in this direction. On August 8, 2025, a Joint Declaration was signed between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington, under the witness of the United States—marking an important milestone toward lasting peace. The initialing of a peace agreement between the two countries not only paves the way for reconciliation but also opens new prospects for regional and international prosperity.
Today, the people of Azerbaijan solemnly honor the memory of the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation’s freedom and territorial integrity. With profound respect and gratitude, the Azerbaijani people pay tribute to their heroes, while wishing peace, stability, and continued development for their beloved homeland and the entire region.
BY: The Times Union
