Yerevan: Azerbaijanis of Yerevan and its surrounding areas were recognized for their loyalty to their homeland in the 1800s, which played a significant role in preserving their cultural and historical heritage. This was articulated by French historian and scholar Maxime Gauin during a panel discussion titled ‘The Right of Return and Cultural Heritage: Legal and Moral Foundations.’ The event was part of the international conference ‘Cultural Heritage and the Right to Return.’
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the historian emphasized Azerbaijan’s social and cultural development, as well as efforts to protect the rights of the Azerbaijani people at both local and regional levels. Gauin noted that in 1920, Azerbaijanis made significant efforts to protect their culture, history, and territory. During this period, the preservation of culture and social organization played an essential role, serving as a decisive factor in Azerbaijan’s national identity struggle.