Gernika: Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev expressed his profound gratitude for being awarded the ‘Gernika Award for Peace and Reconciliation.’ He acknowledged the Town Councils of Gernika-Lumo and Pforzheim, the Gernika Peace Museum, the Casa de Cultura, and the Gernika Gogoratuz Peace Research Center for recognizing his efforts to foster peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia and to encourage dialogue.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev addressed the participants at the “Guernica Prize for Peace and Reconciliation” presentation ceremony, emphasizing the honor it was to receive the award. He noted the significance of the award in perpetuating the historical memory of the Gernika tragedy and honoring individuals who contribute to peace and reconciliation processes. The award presentation on April 26, which is Gernika Victims’ Remembrance Day, carried particular symbolism for President Aliyev.
President Aliyev reflected on the tragic events in Gernika 89 years ago, describing them as one of the most horrific and bloody pages of the last century. He emphasized that any crime against civilians is a violation of humanity and humanistic principles. The President expressed solidarity with the pain and grief of Gernika and paid tribute to the memory of its victims.