09 July 2024 11:48

On 8 July 2024, an official reception dedicated to the 105th anniversary of the diplomatic service bodies of the Republic of Azerbaijan was held at the Gulustan Palace.

The official reception was attended by the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, high-level representatives of relevant state institutions, as well as members of the diplomatic corps accredited in our country.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Jeyhun Bayramov, congratulated all employees who protect and promote the interests of our country in the international arena on the occasion of 9 July – the professional holiday of diplomatic service employees, and wished them success in their activities. The memory of diplomats who passed away during their service was honored with respect.

It was noted that the sovereign, far-sighted and pragmatic foreign policy course conducted by the country’s leadership based on national interests is aimed at safeguarding the integrity of our country, the welfare and development of our citizens, while also contributing to sustainable regional and international development.

In this direction, it was stated that bilateral and multilateral relations are developed based on principles such as mutual respect and non-interference in internal affairs, and that initiatives are being put forward in various fields, including economic, energy, transport, humanitarian, and digital diplomacy.

It was emphasized that as a result of the great work carried out by the National Leader Heydar Aliyev and his worthy successor, the President Ilham Aliyev, international support for our territorial integrity and sovereignty was ensured, thereby creating the necessary political and legal framework for our victory in ending Armenia’s past occupation, which had long been a priority of our foreign policy.

It was noted that following the end of the former conflict, new realities have emerged in the region, creating new opportunities for peace, stability, and cooperation. In this historical context, it was underlined that our country continues to act as a proponent of dialogue and peace, and that the time has come for Armenia to choose regional cooperation over territorial claims.

It was stated that amid the current global instability in the international relations system, Azerbaijan’s vision is to strengthen solid cooperation in addressing challenges, and that promoting this vision reflects the new proactive role of our foreign policy. In this regard, particular emphasis was placed on strengthening the Organization of Turkic States, which we consider our family, as well as on initiatives to build bridges between developed and developing countries in combating climate change within the framework of our hosting of the COP29.

Later, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, Hikmet Hajiyev, congratulated all employees of the diplomatic service bodies, including those awarded diplomatic ranks by President Ilham Aliyev on the eve of the professional holiday. It was noted that after the elimination of the past occupation and conflict, the professional holiday of diplomatic service employees is now being celebrated in a completely different atmosphere.

Speaking extensively about our country’s regional and global initiatives, Hikmet Hajiyev emphasized that our COP29 presidency demonstrates our commitment to addressing global challenges.

It was highlighted that the time has come for building peace and security in our region, and that our region needs cooperation rather than weapons.

It was stressed that the peace agreement, which is a key component of the peace process, must be genuine and sincere rather than imitative, and that first of all, the domestic audience of Armenia must be prepared for this.

Speaking at the event, the Dean of the diplomatic corps accredited in our country, Nasir Abdul Karim Abdul Rahim, conveyed sincere congratulations on behalf of diplomatic missions operating in Azerbaijan. It was noted that Azerbaijan’s diplomatic achievements since the early years of independence are commendable, and wishes were extended for continued success.

Afterwards, the participants watched a video dedicated to the history of Azerbaijan’s diplomacy.

The official reception continued with a banquet and a concert program.