Aghdara: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with residents of the villages of Ashaghi Oratagh, Childiran, Heyvali, and Chapar in the Aghdara district, marking a significant milestone in the resettlement of former internally displaced persons in the region. The residents warmly welcomed the head of state during his visit to Ashaghi Oratagh village.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, President Aliyev addressed the gathering, congratulating the residents on their return to the villages that have been restored and rehabilitated over the past two years. He highlighted the efforts made to monitor and restore the settlements in the liberated Aghdara district, emphasizing the return of residents to nine villages in the district.
President Aliyev stressed the importance of the triumph of justice and righteousness, noting that Azerbaijan had successfully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty. He expressed confidence in the future peace of the region, attributing the country’s strength to the unity of its people.
The President also detailed the revitalization efforts across Aghdara, Khojaly, Khankendi, and Khojavend following the anti-terror operation in 2023. With 73,000 individuals, including former internally displaced persons, now settled in the liberated territories, President Aliyev highlighted the infrastructure developments, including electricity, water, gas, roads, and jobs, as integral to the resettlement process.
Highlighting the region’s development, President Aliyev announced the inauguration of a hydroelectric power plant in the village of Gozlukorpu, which will supply electricity to the area and beyond. He also mentioned the ongoing construction and expansion of roads connecting Tartar and Kalbajar.
In his address, President Aliyev paid tribute to the martyrs and the courageous fighters whose sacrifices made the current achievements possible. He recounted the nation’s resolve during the conflict and the subsequent restoration of lands and pride. He reflected on the strategic decisions made to protect the youth and achieve a complete victory.
The meeting concluded with commemorative photographs, and President Aliyev shared plans for future development, including the presentation of a new Master Plan for Aghdara city. He envisioned Aghdara as an industrial and tourism center, noting the region’s natural beauty and potential for agriculture and tourism.
President Aliyev criticized the previous occupation of the region, citing the looting of resources and destruction of infrastructure. He emphasized the reconstruction efforts and the creation of employment opportunities for local residents.
The residents expressed their gratitude to President Aliyev for his leadership and commitment to rebuilding their communities.