By UN Journal Lee Kap-soo

A solemn event dedicated to 8 November-Victory Day was held in Seoul, organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Korea.

The Ambassador of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Korea, Ramin Hasanov, delivered a heartfelt speech to those gathered at the event. He began by emphasizing that Azerbaijan’s victory in the Patriotic War in 2020 not only ended occupation of Azerbaijani territories after more than 30 years of historical injustice, but also created the conditions necessary for peace in the region. He explained that the end of the occupation, which had violated international law for decades, was made possible through unwavering national will and extraordinary heroism of the Azerbaijani people.

Ambassador Hasanov paid tribute to the thousands of Azerbaijani martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their country’s struggle, and expressed condolences, wishing mercy to the fallen and healing to the veterans who had fought in the conflict.

Ambassador further said that the victory won in the Patriotic War secured the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, and led to restoration of its sovereignty over its entire territory.

Quoting the President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan who said during the last session of the UN General Assembly, - “We won, both in war and in peace,”- Ambassador noted that Azerbaijan and the region as a whole entered a new era as a result of the end of the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Following the conflict, Azerbaijan extended a hand of peace to Armenia, offering to work together on a peace agreement.

The diplomat also touched on the ongoing peace negotiations, underscoring the positive outcomes of President Ilham Aliyev’s historic visit to Washington in August 2023. He discussed the various challenges that remain, including the humanitarian demining efforts, the fate of missing persons, and the restoration of the rights of the Western Azerbaijani Community. These issues, he noted, continue to require attention as part of Azerbaijan's peace agenda.

Ambassador Hasanov highlighted the significant strides made in rebuilding the territories that were devastated during the Armenian occupation. More than 50,000 former internally displaced persons have already returned to their homes as part of the "Great Return Program."

A video clip dedicated to the Victory Day was screened at the event, followed by a concert program performed by Korean musicians, and a banquet, where attendees were able to socialize and reflect on the significance of the day.