Bucharest:An official reception marking November 8, Azerbaijan’s Victory Day, took place in Bucharest, organized by the Azerbaijani Embassy in Romania. The event brought together various notable figures, including Mircea Abrudean, President of the Senate of Romania, government officials, parliamentarians, and members of the diplomatic corps. Attendees also included public figures, representatives of academic and cultural circles, media personnel, and members of the Turkish and Tatar communities, along with Azerbaijanis residing and studying in Romania.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event commenced with the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Romania, followed by a moment of silence to honor the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. During the event, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Romania, Gudsi Osmanov, emphasized the historical importance of the 44-day Patriotic War, recalling the nearly 30-year occupation of Azerbaijani territories and the displacement of over one million people, alongside the destruction of cities and villages.
The ambassador highlighted the Azerbaijani Army’s historic victory under the leadership of President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev in the war initiated on September 27, 2020. Additionally, he mentioned the large-scale reconstruction projects underway in Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur, focusing on infrastructure development and the rebuilding of settlements, as well as the ongoing return of former internally displaced persons to their homeland.
Mircea Abrudean, the guest of honor, stressed the special significance of November 8 for Azerbaijan, describing it as the start of a new chapter in the South Caucasus’s development. He reaffirmed Romania’s commitment to its friendship and strategic partnership with Azerbaijan, emphasizing the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity and resolving disputes through diplomatic channels. Abrudean expressed optimism about a new era of development in the South Caucasus, suggesting that the region could become increasingly renowned for its economic, energy, and transport projects.
The event also showcased a video dedicated to Azerbaijan’s Victory Day and a photo exhibition highlighting the victory in the Patriotic War, reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories, and the ongoing mine threat. Guests were treated to Azerbaijani national cuisine as part of the celebration.