Baku: SOCAR hosted an event dedicated to the 103rd anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, the founder of modern independent Azerbaijan and architect of the country's new energy strategy. The event commenced with the laying of flowers in front of Heydar Aliyev's bust at SOCAR's Head Office, honoring his memory with deep respect.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the ceremony began with the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan. SOCAR President Rovshan Najaf addressed the attendees, highlighting the exceptional contributions of Heydar Aliyev, who played a crucial role in leading Azerbaijan through complex challenges and strengthening the country's independence. He emphasized that the energy strategy initiated with the 'Contract of the Century' laid the groundwork for Azerbaijan's comprehensive development and bolstered its position on the global energy map.

Rovshan Najaf further stated that the strategic development concept established by Heydar Aliyev is successfully being continued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. Under his leadership, Azerbaijan has achieved historic victories and is creating new opportunities for regional stability, cooperation, and development. Azerbaijan is now recognized as a leading state implementing strategic projects and initiatives both regionally and globally.

Gulnara Huseynova, daughter of distinguished oilman Israfil Huseynov, also addressed the gathering, sharing her father's memories of Heydar Aliyev and the attention he showed towards oil workers and their families. Elmir Gojayev, Group Leader for Production Operations at 'SOCAR Upstream Operations Management', spoke on the youth policy initiated by Heydar Aliyev and the opportunities it created for young people's development in Azerbaijan under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership.

The event featured a video presentation showcasing photographs of Heydar Aliyev's life and his contributions to Azerbaijan's oil industry, accompanied by tar music from Ismayil Zulfigarov. The ceremony concluded with a concert dedicated to Heydar Aliyev's memory, featuring performances by the 'Rhythm' dance group and People's Artist of Azerbaijan Samir Jafarov, who sang pieces cherished by the National Leader and dedicated to love for the Motherland.

Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency