On 27th September 2023, Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Pakistan held a commemoration ceremony to honor Patriotic War martyrs and a book presentation ceremony titled “The History of the Patriotic War – Personality Factor” at the National Library of Pakistan.
Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF) delivered the keynote address and highlighted the significance of this day for not only the Azerbaijani people but also Pakistanis. He stated that this day serves as a remembrance and triumph, commemorating the brave martyrs who sacrificed their lives to liberate ancestral lands from years of Armenian occupation. He also acknowledged the patience and resilience displayed by civilians in the face of the enemy's attacks on civilian buildings and houses.
His Excellency Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan, recounted the history of the conflict and highlighted the country's resilience in the face of nearly 30 years of occupation by Armenia. He pointed out that Armenia had constantly provoked Azerbaijan during this time. He then discussed the critical moment on September 27th when Azerbaijan launched a counter-attack in response to Armenia's attack on military positions and civilian settlements. The country's Armed Forces, led by President Ilham Aliyev, successfully liberated their territories from Armenian occupation, leading to Armenia's surrender.
Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, Member of the Senate of Pakistan, was also present at the event and paid tribute to the sacrifices of the martyrs and expressed solidarity with the people of Azerbaijan. He also expressed his admiration for the courage and resilience of the people of Azerbaijan, who have not only fought for their independence but have also made great strides in terms of economic and social development.
The chief guest at the ceremony was Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Chairman of the Senate's Defense Committee, who commended Ambassador Farhadov for his detailed account of the events surrounding the Patriotic War and the decisive role played by the leadership of Azerbaijan in securing victory. The senator also praised the government and people of Azerbaijan for their generosity in hosting refugees from other countries, especially those who were displaced during the recent conflict.
H.E Khazar Farhadov, of the Republic of Azerbaijan, presented a copy of the book "The History of the Patriotic War – Personality Factor" to Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, and Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, ED, PRCCSF
The ceremony was attended by 56 participants, including leading experts, media personnel, government institutions, and members of the diplomatic corps.