Baku, October 18, 2026 – The Europe Today: A solemn concert celebrating the 35th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s Restoration of Independence was held in Rome, Italy, bringing together diplomats, representatives of international organizations, media professionals, academics, cultural figures and members of the Azerbaijani diaspora.
The event was jointly organized by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Italy and the Cultural Center to commemorate October 18, a significant date in Azerbaijan’s modern history.
Addressing the gathering, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy Elchin Huseynli highlighted the historical importance of the restoration of independence in 1991, when the Azerbaijani people reaffirmed their determination to establish an independent state.
He emphasized that Azerbaijan’s independence was rooted in the principle of continuity with the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, established on May 28, 1918, as the first secular democratic republic in the Muslim East.
The ambassador also reflected on the complex challenges Azerbaijan faced on its path to independence, noting that the contributions of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and President Ilham Aliyev had played a significant role in transforming the country into a strong, independent and prosperous state on the international stage.
Deputy Director of the Cultural Center Gulnar Taghizada, in her remarks, underscored the importance of music and dance in conveying a nation’s history, cultural identity and traditions to international audiences.
The celebrations culminated in a concert titled “The Voice of a Nation,” featuring Azerbaijani classical and folk music alongside traditional national dances, including “Yalli” and “Jangi.”
The musical performances featured Madina Shahgaldiyeva on the kamancha, Ismayil Zulfugarov on the tar and Jafar Hasanov on the naghara, accompanied by six talented dancers from the Baku Choreography Academy.
The event highlighted Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage and served as an occasion to strengthen cultural ties and promote greater understanding of the country’s history and traditions among international audiences.
