The outgoing year of 2023 will be recorded in the history of Azerbaijan as another triumphant chapter. Designated as the "Year of Heydar Aliyev" in Azerbaijan, the year was marked by significant events, with the complete restoration of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty standing out prominently in the memory of its people.

When the Second Karabakh War ended in 2020, and our national flag was raised in Shusha and other liberated territories, everyone knew perfectly well that our work was not completed. Azerbaijan had to restore its sovereignty in full, and so it did. As a continuation of the Karabakh Victory, the eradication of Armenian separatism in Khankendi, Aghdara, Asgaran, Khojavand and Khojaly through local anti-terrorist measures on September 19 of this year, along with the raising of the Azerbaijani flag in those areas, added another significant chapter to the success story in the country’s history.

In 2023, Azerbaijan achieved full restoration of its sovereignty, ensuring the withdrawal of occupying forces from Karabakh to the last person. Armenian armed groups were crushed, and their military equipment was either destroyed or seized as trophies.

Thanks to the wise policy of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Victorious Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev, the Karabakh victory was not only consolidated at the political and diplomatic levels but also led to the enhancement of the country`s international prestige, successfully achieving its primary objectives. The military strength of Azerbaijan was further increased, marked by joint Azerbaijani-Turkish military exercises. Effective measures have been taken to open the Zangezur corridor.

Azerbaijan, having successfully implemented the Great Return Concept, is carrying out huge infrastructure projects in the liberated territories. The phased return of IDPs to Zangilan, Fuzuli and Lachin cities has already been accomplished, and work in this regard is underway. Currently, intensive efforts are underway to facilitate the return of people to their native lands in the Kalbajar, Jabrayil and Aghdam districts.

With the Karabakh Victory reshaping the region`s reality, Azerbaijan has successfully positioned itself as a hub for large-scale global projects and a leading country in the South Caucasus, all while ensuring its stability and development.