Baku: President Ilham Aliyev emphasized the critical importance of restoring and protecting Azerbaijani cultural heritage in Armenia, labeling it a legitimate demand of the Azerbaijani people. Speaking at the international conference on ‘Cultural Heritage and the Right of Return’ held in Baku, President Aliyev underscored the necessity of intensifying efforts to ensure the return of Azerbaijanis who were forcibly expelled from Armenia. This effort is part of upholding the right of return as enshrined in various international human rights instruments, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev highlighted that securing the right of return goes beyond physical relocation. It encompasses the restoration of spiritual integrity, cultural heritage, and historical memory of society. He called for international involvement, particularly from specialized UN agencies, in the process of res
toring and protecting cultural heritage. He noted that this endeavor is crucial not only for the Azerbaijani people but also in the context of respecting universal human values and fostering mutual understanding between peoples.
The President praised the Western Azerbaijan Community for its approach to reconciliation and dialogue, as well as its adherence to international law. He commended the community’s commitment to respecting the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. President Aliyev also expressed optimism regarding the recent developments between Azerbaijan and Armenia, noting their collaboration in Washington on August 8, 2025, which led to the signing of the Joint Declaration and the initialing of a draft peace agreement. This development, he noted, provides hope for future coexistence between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Armenia.