President Ilham Aliyev Reviews Reconstruction in Khojavend’s Khanoba Village

Khojavend, The Gulf Observer: President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, accompanied by First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, on March 18 reviewed ongoing restoration works in Khanoba village of the Khojavend district, as part of continued efforts to rebuild liberated territories.

During the visit, Emin Huseynov, Special Representative of the President in the Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend districts, briefed the head of state and the First Lady on the progress of reconstruction and upcoming development projects in the village.

Khanoba village, located 15 kilometers southwest of the district center, holds historical significance as part of the Garabagh khanates. The village was liberated in 2023 following Azerbaijan’s anti-terror operations. Prior to occupation, it had essential facilities including a school, library, medical point, and communications department.

The village currently comprises 153 individual houses, of which 132 are partially usable and 21 are unfit for habitation. Authorities reported that 26 homes have already been made ready for occupancy, while the remaining 106 are expected to be completed by the end of the year.

In the initial phase of resettlement, 25 families totaling 114 residents have recently returned to Khanoba. Plans are underway to relocate an additional 107 families by October. Overall, since October last year, 1,818 people from 441 families have returned to six residential areas within the Khojavend district under the government’s “Great Return” program.

Significant improvements have also been made to the village’s infrastructure. Two transformer substations, along with electricity and gas lines, have been restored. New electricity, gas, and fiber-optic networks have been installed, while repairs have been completed at the subartesian well and pumping station.

During the visit, President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva also visited the home of returning resident Beybala Gasimov and later met with other residents of the village.

Marking the occasion of the upcoming Novruz holiday, the President joined residents in lighting the traditional Novruz bonfire. Addressing the gathering, President Aliyev congratulated residents on their return to their ancestral lands and the festive season.

“All conditions have been created here for living and working. The most important thing is that you have returned to your native Garabagh land,” he said, describing the moment as a source of great happiness after years of displacement.

The President highlighted ongoing reconstruction efforts across Garabagh and East Zangezur, noting that more than 80,000 people are now living, working, and studying in the liberated territories. He emphasized that former internally displaced persons continue to return regularly as part of the state-led resettlement initiative.

President Aliyev also reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to rebuilding the region, restoring infrastructure, and creating sustainable living conditions, including employment opportunities and access to natural resources.

Residents expressed their gratitude to the President for the comprehensive reconstruction efforts and improved living conditions, marking a new chapter of stability and development in the region.