Lachin, May 29, 2025 – The Europe Today: A concert celebrating the May 28 Independence Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan was held in the city of Lachin, a symbol of national resilience and liberation. The event was graced by the presence of President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan of Türkiye, and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, marking a historic display of trilateral unity among the three brotherly nations.
Ceremony Opens with National Anthems
The solemn event commenced with the national anthems of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan, setting a dignified tone for the evening’s proceedings. It was held in the symbolic city of Lachin, which was under occupation for nearly three decades and has since become a beacon of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty.
President Ilham Aliyev: “Victory is Ours and Will Remain So”
In his address, President Ilham Aliyev extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Azerbaijan on Independence Day. He warmly welcomed his counterparts from Türkiye and Pakistan, emphasizing the strength and unity shared among the three nations.
“Holding this ceremony here in Lachin… and in the presence of the leaders of two brotherly countries is further evidence of the unity and brotherhood of Azerbaijan-Türkiye-Pakistan,” said President Aliyev.
The Azerbaijani leader reflected on the historical injustices suffered by his nation, including the occupation of West Zangezur and the Khojaly genocide, while underscoring the unwavering determination of the Azerbaijani people to reclaim their lands and dignity. He highlighted the significance of the Second Karabakh War and Azerbaijan’s 2023 anti-terror operation that fully restored the country’s territorial integrity.
He also praised the extensive post-liberation reconstruction efforts, noting the return of tens of thousands of citizens and the development of critical infrastructure, including airports, schools, and highways across liberated territories.
“Our strength lies in our unity… Today, we have once again confirmed our unity in a trilateral format,” President Aliyev affirmed.
President Erdoğan: “One Nation, Three States”
President Erdoğan delivered a heartfelt address, paying homage to Azerbaijan’s independence and expressing Türkiye’s unwavering solidarity.
“From here, from Baku to Ganja, from Shusha to Nakhchivan, I am sending my love and respect to my brothers in every corner of Azerbaijan,” Erdoğan declared.
The Turkish leader emphasized that the strong partnership between Azerbaijan and Türkiye now extends further with Pakistan, forming what he described as “one nation, three states.” He praised Azerbaijan’s triumph in Karabakh, stating that the victory heralds a new era of peace, reconstruction, and regional stability.
President Erdoğan also highlighted collaborative infrastructure achievements, including the newly opened Lachin International Airport, built in cooperation with Turkish expertise.
“With the freedom of Karabakh, every musical sound that rises in these lands became the sound of not only a Victory but also of national revival,” he noted.
Prime Minister Sharif: “A Historic Day for Both Azerbaijan and Pakistan”
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif recalled the historical coincidence of the date—May 28 also marks the day Pakistan became a nuclear power in 1998.
“It is a great pleasure and honour to participate in this celebration event… What a great honour to be here on Azerbaijan’s Independence Day in the beautiful city of Lachin,” he said.
He commended President Aliyev’s leadership in restoring Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Azerbaijani people. Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for Azerbaijan and expressed optimism for a future rooted in peace, prosperity, and shared values.
Cultural Performances Cement Unity
Following the speeches, the celebratory concert featured musical performances symbolizing the cultural richness and solidarity of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan. The event served as both a commemoration of national independence and a powerful message of fraternity among three strategic allies.
Conclusion
The Lachin celebration on May 28 not only marked Azerbaijan’s historic independence but also showcased an unshakable trilateral alliance. With the participation of top leaders from Türkiye and Pakistan, the event sent a clear message to the world: Unity, sovereignty, and shared destiny define the future of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, and Pakistan.
Long live the unity and brotherhood of Azerbaijan-Türkiye-Pakistan!
