Ilham Aliyev stated that he remains faithful to the policy of Heydar Aliyev

Baku/10.05.23/Turan: President Ilham Aliyev delivered a speech in Shusha, a city symbolizing Azerbaijan's victory in the Karabakh conflict, on the 100th anniversary of Heydar Aliyev, a prominent Soviet and Azerbaijani statesman.

The President emphasized Heydar Aliyev's dream of seeing Karabakh and Zangezur free, which has been achieved. He praised Heydar Aliyev's leadership during the Soviet era and his contributions to Azerbaijan's development.

The President noted that the tragedies faced by the Azerbaijani people began after Heydar Aliyev's resignation, and that if he had remained in power, the Armenian nationalists would not have dared to annex Nagorno-Karabakh. He highlighted Heydar Aliyev's courage and patriotism, particularly in his condemnation of the Soviet government's massacre of Azerbaijani civilians in 1990, and noted that his leadership worried the then-leadership of Azerbaijan.

President Aliyev emphasized the importance of remembering Heydar Aliyev's legacy in shaping Azerbaijan's history, and ongoing efforts to rebuild and develop Karabakh and Zangezur.

The speech also touched on Heydar Aliyev's role in protecting Nakhchivan from Armenian invasion and paving the way towards Azerbaijan's independence.

The establishment of the New Azerbaijan Party under Heydar Aliyev's leadership led to the emergence of a modern political system in Azerbaijan, which remains the leading political force in the country today. Heydar Aliyev also played a significant role in signing the Contract of the Century in 1994, which strengthened Azerbaijan's economy through foreign investment.

Despite challenges, Azerbaijan's stability since then has allowed for successful progress along the path laid down by Heydar Aliyev. President Aliyev credits Heydar Aliyev's foresight and contributions to Azerbaijan's progress, particularly in protecting national and moral values, youth development, and army building. Azerbaijan has become a significant transport hub in Eurasia, with the Europe-Caucasus-Asia International Transport Corridor passing through its territory, and its oil and gas industries critical to its economic development.

President Aliyev promises to continue following Heydar Aliyev's path, as Azerbaijan strengthens its independence and pursues a long-term strategy underpinned by domestic resources. The country's stability, security, and independence are significant assets in a world plagued by wars and conflicts.—0—