The Independence Day of Azerbaijan was celebrated in Los Angeles. The event, organized by the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles, was attended by U.S. political figures, the head of the Los Angeles Regional Office of the State Department's Office of Foreign Missions, the secretary of the Consular Corps, consuls general of various foreign countries, notable figures in science and culture, journalists, members of the Azerbaijani community, as well as leaders of friendly Turkish, Jewish, Pakistani, and other communities.

After the national anthems of Azerbaijan and the U.S. were performed, Azerbaijan's Consul General Ramil Gurbanov gave a speech about the significant milestones in Azerbaijan's history, focusing on the establishment and achievements of the first republic. He noted that Azerbaijan, which regained its independence in 1991, faced immense challenges. However, thanks to the purposeful domestic and foreign policies of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, who returned to power in 1993, Azerbaijan overcame great difficulties and laid strong foundations for its development.

The Consul General highlighted that today Azerbaijan is one of the fastest-modernizing countries in the world. Under the leadership of Commander-in-Chief President Ilham Aliyev, the victorious Azerbaijani Army liberated the occupied territories in 2020, restoring historical justice. Currently, restoration and reconstruction work based on smart and green technologies are underway in these areas. The Consul General also mentioned that Azerbaijan is ready for regional peace and has taken important steps in this direction.

Denise Chen, the Regional Director of the State Department's Office of Foreign Missions in Los Angeles, also spoke, congratulating all Azerbaijanis on Independence Day on behalf of the State Department. She spoke about Azerbaijan's relations with the U.S. and emphasized its importance as a reliable partner in ensuring energy security.

Mame Mbaye, the secretary of the Los Angeles Consular Corps, shared her pleasant impressions from participating in the 6th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.

During the event, a short film about the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), which will be held in Azerbaijan in November 2024, was presented. National costumes were showcased, folk songs were performed by singer Zaka Zeynalov, Azerbaijani music was played by the "Sounds of Fire" music group, and Azerbaijani folk dances were performed by Anar Allahverdov and Leman Musayeva. Guests also enjoyed delicious Azerbaijani cuisine and sweets. The event was met with great interest.

Malahat Najafova

Special correspondent