Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev presented the 'Dostlug' (Friendship) Order to Kurban Kurbanov, a prominent public and political figure from the Republic of Dagestan in the Russian Federation. This recognition took place during a meeting on June 19, APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News agency, President Aliyev addressed Kurbanov, acknowledging his recent anniversary and extending warm wishes to him and his family. He highlighted the respect Kurbanov's family holds in both Azerbaijan and Dagestan, recalling the significant relationship between Kurbanov's father, Seid Jemalovich, and Heydar Alirza oglu, the National Leader of Azerbaijan. Aliyev emphasized the historic ties and shared history that bind Azerbaijan and Dagestan, underscoring the importance of their relationship for regional stability and development.

President Aliyev also paid tribute to his grandfather, Aziz Aliyev, who played a crucial role in Dagestan during the Great Patriotic War. He noted the profound respect Aziz Aliyev commands in Dagestan, evidenced by a bust that was preserved and gifted to him by the Dagestanis, which holds a place of honor in his office.

Kurban Kurbanov expressed his gratitude for the award, acknowledging the historical significance of the friendship between his father and the National Leader in fostering ties between Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, and Dagestan. He also praised the lasting legacy of Aziz Aliyev in Dagestan, noting the monuments and streets named in his honor.

Kurbanov fondly remembered past meetings with the National Leader and President Aliyev, emphasizing the efforts to preserve the memory of Heydar Aliyev, including the establishment of the Heydar Aliyev Center at the Derbent branch of the Azerbaijan State University of Economics.