Azerbaijan commemorated Victory Day on November 8, 2023, marking the third anniversary of the Azerbaijani victory in the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war. Instituted by the President of Azerbaijan’s decree on December 2, 2020, the holiday honors the day of Shusha’s recapture, celebrating an extraordinary victory that has become emblematic of the people’s strength and national pride. The liberation of Shusha played a pivotal role in the 44-day war.

In Baku, a memorial complex and Victory museum were erected, showcasing unparalleled heroism and commemorating this significant historical victory.

Mr. Yamin Jafarov, ChargĂ© d’Affaires, warmly welcomed guests to the event held at the Pretoria Club. The national anthems of both countries were proudly sung, followed by a speech from Mr. Jafarov. The formalities concluded with a video displaying the military procession in Baku, the capital of Karabakh.

South Africa and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations in 1992, fostering continued growth and collaboration over the years.

At a parade in Xankendi, President Ilham Aliyev stated, “We have achieved all our objectives, but from now on, army-building will remain one of the priority issues for us. Everyone must know about it.”

by Marion Kate