Azerbaijan marks 34th Restoration of Independence Day
On October 18, 1991, the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Azerbaijan adopted the Constitutional Act on State Independence
BAKU, Azerbaijan (MNTV) — Azerbaijan celebrates the 34th anniversary of the restoration of its state independence on Friday. On October 18, 1991, the Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Azerbaijan adopted the Constitutional Act on State Independence, restoring the country’s sovereignty after decades under Soviet rule, AZERTAC reports.
In 2021, the Milli Majlis, on the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, adopted the new Law “On Independence Day.” Under this law, May 28 was designated as Independence Day, while October 18 became Restoration of Independence Day.
The early years of independence were marked by political turmoil and economic hardship. However, under the leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, who returned to power in 1993 at the people’s request, Azerbaijan overcame instability and laid the foundations for a strong, independent state.
Heydar Aliyev’s decisive policies restored order, strengthened governance, and placed Azerbaijan on a path of steady development, declaring that “protecting independence is much more difficult than gaining it.”
A milestone achievement of his leadership was the signing of the “Contract of the Century” on September 20, 1994, which enabled Azerbaijan to act as the rightful owner of its natural resources and positioned it as a key player in global energy security. These achievements ensured that Azerbaijan’s independence became eternal and irreversible.
Today, President Ilham Aliyev continues this strategic vision, advancing the nation’s political, economic, social, and military strength. Azerbaijan has emerged as an influential regional power and a reliable partner in international affairs.
Fulfilling Heydar Aliyev’s long-cherished goal, President Ilham Aliyev led the Azerbaijani Armed Forces to a historic victory in the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020, restoring the country’s territorial integrity and liberating the occupied lands, including the cultural capital Shusha. The subsequent anti-terrorist measures of September 2023 further reinforced Azerbaijan’s sovereignty across all territories.
Reconstruction and development are now underway in the liberated areas under the Great Return Program. New infrastructure, housing, schools, and social facilities are rapidly transforming the region, symbolizing the nation’s rebirth and enduring strength, AZERTAC adds.