Baku: Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement on 20 January - National Mourning Day. The statement reflects on the events of 20 January 1990, a significant and somber date in Azerbaijan's history, marking the ruthless aggression by the Soviet army against the civilian population in Baku and other regions.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the tragic events led to the death of 150 civilians, with 744 individuals seriously injured and 4 reported missing. The statement emphasizes that this day was an attempt to suppress the Azerbaijani people's aspirations for freedom, national dignity, and sovereignty. However, it also highlights that this act of violence only strengthened the nation's resolve to restore independence and fight against mass deportations and occupation policies.
The Ministry's statement further highlights the critical role the martyrs of 20 January played in the eventual restoration of Azerbaijan's independence in 1991. It also draws a connection between the spirit of resistance demonstrated during that period and the successes achieved in the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020, as well as the antiterror operations of 2023. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, the Azerbaijani army managed to liberate occupied territories, thereby restoring the country's territorial integrity and sovereignty in line with international law.
The statement notes that Azerbaijan's recent achievements in promoting peace and security, undertaking large-scale restoration activities, and facilitating the return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral lands are a testament to the unwavering will and determination of the Azerbaijani people. These accomplishments honor the sacrifices made by the martyrs of 20 January and all those who have fought for the nation's independence and sovereignty.
On this day of remembrance, the Ministry honors the memory of the martyrs and expresses condolences to their families. It reaffirms its commitment to preventing future crimes against humanity and ensuring that the events of 20 January are not repeated.