President Ilham Aliyev Meets Residents in Khojavend, Highlights Historic Progress in Karabakh

Khojavend, The Gulf Observer: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with residents of Girmizi Bazar, Hadrut settlements, and Sos village in the Khojavend district, reaffirming the nation’s achievements in restoring sovereignty and rebuilding Karabakh.

During the visit, President Aliyev addressed the residents, who warmly welcomed him, emphasizing the significance of the ongoing “Great Return” Program and the historic restoration of Azerbaijani control over the region.

President Aliyev remarked, “We are truly living through historic days. I wholeheartedly congratulate you. You have already settled in your native Karabakh land. All of Karabakh is now fully under our control, liberated from the occupiers two years ago. During these very days—September 19–20—our glorious Army ended separatism, closing that chapter and fully restoring Azerbaijan’s sovereignty.”

He highlighted the progress made in the past five years, noting that houses have been built and repaired, and all essential amenities, including water, gas, electricity, heating, schools, medical facilities, and roads, are now available. “Most importantly, this is our native Karabakh land, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, mountains, forests, and abundant water. All conditions are in place to live comfortably, raise children, and build a prosperous future,” he said.

President Aliyev paid tribute to Azerbaijani martyrs, emphasizing their heroism in defending the homeland. He recalled the efforts for a peaceful resolution of the Karabakh conflict, stating that the Armenian side and its supporters sought to make the occupation permanent, but failed to overcome the will, strength, and unity of the Azerbaijani people. “If the Armenian leadership had heeded my words in time, the Second Karabakh War and anti-terrorist operation would not have been necessary, and we would not have lost more than three thousand martyrs. May Allah grant them eternal peace,” he added.

The President underscored the resilience and patriotism of the Azerbaijani people, noting that victory was achieved in accordance with international law and historical justice. “In 44 days and one day, no country in the last 80 years has achieved such a complete and just victory,” he said.

President Aliyev also highlighted the scale of post-war reconstruction in Karabakh and Zangezur, including cities, villages, bridges, tunnels, water reservoirs, and power stations, describing it as unparalleled globally. “The most important achievement is that the Azerbaijani people live comfortably, happily, and in peace,” he concluded.