Berlin Celebrates Azerbaijan’s Independence Day – A Day of Pride, Remembrance, and Hope
Berlin, May 28, 2025 – With a festive reception at the Azerbaijani Cultural Center, the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Berlin marked the 107th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s independence. More than 400 guests attended the event, including representatives of German federal authorities, members of the Bundestag, diplomats, academics, media professionals, and civil society members. The celebration took place under the theme of the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty,” proclaimed by President Ilham Aliyev.
In his address, Ambassador Nasimi Aghayev described May 28 as “a day of pride, remembrance – and hope.” He reminded attendees that on May 28, 1918, Azerbaijan established the first parliamentary and secular republic in the Muslim world. This first republic was violently overthrown by a Soviet invasion in 1920. It was not until 1991 that Azerbaijan regained its independence – under challenging circumstances.
“This second independence was not a gift of history, but a difficult test,” the ambassador emphasized, referring to the political and military challenges after 1991.
A turning point, he noted, was the return of Heydar Aliyev to the leadership of the state in 1993. “Under his leadership, we found stability, unity, and direction.” Over the past three decades, the country has fundamentally transformed.
Azerbaijan is now the strongest economy in the region and a major hub for energy and transportation, Aghayev noted. Especially during the 2022 energy crisis, Azerbaijan supported Europe: “We stepped up and made a decisive contribution to stabilizing energy supplies – including for Germany.”
The ambassador highlighted the strong momentum in bilateral relations: “In the past two years, President Ilham Aliyev has visited Germany four times. In April of this year, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Azerbaijan – for the first time in our history.”
A central theme of his speech was the complete restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and national sovereignty. “Our victory was never a triumph of revenge – but a triumph of justice and international law.”
He pointed out that over 14,000 displaced Azerbaijanis have already returned to their homeland. Azerbaijan is carrying out one of the largest humanitarian reconstruction projects in the world – without significant international assistance.
“For the first time since the year 1801, there is not a single foreign soldier on the territory of present-day Azerbaijan. This marks the full completion of our sovereignty.”
The ambassador placed special emphasis on the peace agreement finalized between Azerbaijan and Armenia in March. It represents a milestone – achieved without external mediators.
Ambassador Michael Reiffenstuel, the Federal Foreign Office’s Commissioner for Southeastern Europe, Turkey, OSCE, and the Council of Europe, conveyed congratulations on behalf of Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. He highlighted the historic roots of German-Azerbaijani relations, starting with the settlement of German Swabians in the 19th century.
He also praised the dynamic bilateral relationship, which has been further strengthened by mutual visits.
The evening featured a musical performance by the “Caucasian Consort” ensemble, presenting traditional music from the Caucasus. The program also included performances of traditional Azerbaijani folk dances, offering the audience a vivid insight into the country’s cultural heritage. A visual video presentation showcasing Azerbaijan’s nature, culture, and capital city Baku complemented the program.
A short video of the event is available here:
🔗 https://youtu.be/NEWURPGVzbo?feature=shared