Baku: Restoration of Azerbaijan’s state sovereignty over the Garabagh region has created fresh avenues for ensuring enduring peace in the area, as declared by the nation’s Foreign Ministry. The Ministry emphasized that September 20 is a landmark date, celebrated for restoring state sovereignty and highlighted in the nation’s long-standing statehood chronicles.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, local anti-terrorist operations were conducted on September 19-20, 2023, to disarm and remove the remnants of Armenian armed forces from Azerbaijani territories. These operations concluded within 24 hours, resulting in the successful reinstatement of state sovereignty. This victory was attributed to the professionalism, bravery, and heroism of Azerbaijan’s Armed Forces, under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.
During these operations, the safety of civilians was prioritized, with efforts targeted solely at legitimate military facilities and infrastructure of illegal armed formations. The restoration of
sovereignty has ushered in a new political landscape, fostering opportunities for the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and paving the way for lasting peace. Azerbaijan has consistently demonstrated its dedication to peace, taking deliberate measures towards normalizing bilateral relations.
A significant milestone in this peace process was the historic meeting held on August 8, 2025, in Washington D.C., involving the leaders of Azerbaijan, the United States, and Armenia. The agreements reached are crucial for regional stability and realizing the economic potential of the area. The restoration of economic ties, along with regional integration of international transport and logistics routes, promises economic benefits and cooperation opportunities for all stakeholders.
The focus now lies on fully normalizing relations and signing a comprehensive peace agreement. Azerbaijan is actively working on the restoration of liberated territories, the return of internally displaced persons, and
the sustainable development of these areas. Addressing the landmine threat and resolving the issue of missing persons are also paramount priorities.
State Sovereignty Day stands as a testament to the Azerbaijani people’s dedication to their statehood and territorial integrity. This day is a moment to honor the memory of martyrs and ensure that the historic victory is remembered and cherished by future generations. The sovereignty of Azerbaijan is declared eternal, indivisible, and inviolable, marking a new chapter in its history.