Baku: On November 8, a Military Parade marking the fifth anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War took place at Azadlig Square in Baku. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, President of the Republic of Trkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif were present at the event.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the parade began with the performance of the national anthems of Azerbaijan, Trkiye, and Pakistan. A minute of silence was observed to honor the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the heroic martyrs of Azerbaijan. Minister of Defense Colonel-General Zakir Hasanov reported to President Ilham Aliyev, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan.
President Ilham Aliyev delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to the servicemen and distinguished guests, while highlighting the unity and support from Trkiye and Pakistan during the Second Karabakh War. The President recalled the historical ties and the significance of the Shusha Declaration, which elevated Azerbaijan-Trkiye relations to the level of an alliance. He also emphasized the strategic collaboration with Pakistan and appreciated the participation of Pakistani soldiers in the parade as a symbol of unity among the three nations.
President of Trkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan spoke at the event, acknowledging the shared pride of the Azerbaijani victory in the Patriotic War. He reiterated the support of Trkiye and the Turkic World, celebrating the liberation of Karabakh as a monumental achievement. Erdogan also highlighted the strengthening of bilateral relations and strategic projects between Azerbaijan and Trkiye, underscoring the significance of peace and cooperation in the region.
Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also addressed the gathering, noting the enduring friendship between Azerbaijan, Trkiye, and Pakistan. Sharif commended the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev and the resilience of the Azerbaijani people in reclaiming their ancestral lands. He emphasized Pakistan’s unwavering support for Azerbaijan and highlighted the importance of peace and development in the region.
The military parade commenced following the speeches, with the participation of parade squads from the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan, Trkiye, and Pakistan. The parade showcased military equipment, battle flags, and high combat readiness in the coastal waters of the Caspian Sea. Azerbaijani and Turkish pilots conducted aviation demonstrations, flying over Azadlig Square in a display of aerial prowess.
The event concluded with a vivid display of military might and cooperation among the participating nations, symbolizing a shared commitment to peace and security in the region.