Aghdam: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, along with First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, inaugurated the second residential complex in Aghdam city and met with the residents who will be relocating there. The opening ceremony marked a significant step in the ongoing development and resettlement efforts in the region, as part of Azerbaijan's Great Return Program.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Emin Huseynov, the Special Representative of the President in the Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend districts, provided President Aliyev with an overview of the new complex. Spanning over 13 hectares, the complex comprises 11 quarters with 60 buildings, totaling 1,268 apartments of various sizes. In December, 104 families are expected to move in, with a further 1,164 families anticipated to relocate by early 2026. The complex is equipped with essential utilities and amenities, including water, electricity, high-speed internet, and extensive landscaping.
President Aliyev expressed joy at the return of Aghdam's residents to their city after many years, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. He highlighted the destruction the city had faced during the occupation and praised the resilience and determination of the Azerbaijani people in reclaiming their ancestral lands. He criticized the international community's response during the conflict, particularly the OSCE Minsk Group, accusing them of perpetuating the occupation rather than resolving it.
The President underscored the importance of remembering the history of occupation and the sacrifices made by the Azerbaijani people. He also emphasized the need for vigilance and continued military strength to ensure lasting peace and security. Aliyev praised the support from Trkiye and expressed gratitude to the Azerbaijani people for their unity and determination, which led to the victory in the Second Karabakh War.
The President highlighted ongoing reconstruction efforts in Aghdam and other liberated territories, noting significant progress in infrastructure and cultural restoration. He mentioned the development of industrial facilities and transportation links, aiming to transform Aghdam into a major industrial hub in Azerbaijan.
In his speech, President Aliyev reiterated the importance of historical memory and the need to pass it on to future generations. He assured the residents that the government was committed to rebuilding their city and providing a comfortable living environment. Following his speech, the President participated in a ceremony to hand over the keys to the new homes, marking a new chapter for the residents of Aghdam.
The event concluded with the residents expressing their gratitude, and commemorative photos were taken to capture the momentous occasion.