Prague: Azerbaijan's Embassy in the Czech Republic hosted an official reception in Prague to mark May 28, the country's Independence Day. The event was attended by high-ranking guests, including Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babi and Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies of the Czech Parliament Tomio Okamura. Other notable attendees included representatives of Czech government agencies, members of the Azerbaijan-Czech Friendship Group, and heads of diplomatic corps accredited in the Czech Republic.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, addressing the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Czech Republic Yashar Aliyev highlighted the historical significance of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR), which existed for only 23 months following its establishment in 1918. He emphasized the role it played in strengthening national identity and shaping modern statehood traditions. Aliyev remarked that this legacy laid the groundwork for Azerbaijan to restore its independence in 1991.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babi in his opening remarks, praised the strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic. He noted that the bilateral cooperation between the two countries continues to strengthen. Prime Minister Babi highlighted that energy cooperation remains a cornerstone of their relations, with Azerbaijan being the largest supplier of crude oil to the Czech Republic.

Recounting his recent visit to Azerbaijan and discussions with President Ilham Aliyev, as well as their meeting at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Prime Minister Babi emphasized that the dialogue between the two countries extends beyond formal diplomacy. He expressed confidence that ongoing contacts would deepen mutual understanding and enhance economic cooperation between the Czech Republic and Azerbaijan.

The event also featured a special exhibition curated by Leyla Begim, Head of the Azerbaijan Culture House, to commemorate Independence Day.