Brussels: An official reception marking the 108th anniversary of Independence Day of Azerbaijan was held at the Lancaster House in London, a prestigious and historic venue for celebrations. Organized by the Azerbaijani Embassy in the United Kingdom, the event was attended by the Minister of State for Defence of United Kingdom, representatives of other government agencies, as well as members of the Azerbaijani diaspora. According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Aysel Mammadova, who represented Azerbaijan in the Eurovision Song Contest 2018, began the event by performing the national anthems of Azerbaijan and the United Kingdom. Elin Suleymanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the United Kingdom, addressed the gathering by providing insight into the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) on May 28, 1918, noting the ADR was the first parliamentary democracy founded in the Muslim East. The diplomat highlighted that despite its brief existence, the ADR left a significant mark on Azerbaijan's histor y by granting all citizens voting rights regardless of ethnicity, religion, race, or gender. Ambassador Suleymanov stated that Azerbaijan remains committed to these progressive foundational values, including tolerance and multiculturalism. He also expressed gratitude for the congratulatory letter from Charles III, King of the United Kingdom, to President Ilham Aliyev on this occasion. Ambassador Elin Suleymanov emphasized the reliability of the United Kingdom as a partner since the early years of Azerbaijan's independence. He commended both countries' intention to elevate relations to a strategic partnership as announced in August 2025, noting the successful development of cooperation across political, economic, educational, security, and other domains. Lord Vernon Coaker, the UK Minister of State for Defence, spoke at the event, underscoring Azerbaijan's role as a vital diplomatic and security partner for the United Kingdom in the region. He mentioned that his meetings with President Ilham Aliyev and Azerb aijani defense officials have contributed to enhancing bilateral defense ties. Describing Azerbaijan as a close friend and important partner, Lord Coaker expressed satisfaction with the recent elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership. The British minister noted that the founders of the ADR would have been proud of modern Azerbaijan's successes and achievements. He extended congratulations to the people of Azerbaijan on Independence Day, wishing for the country's peace, stability, and prosperity. The event concluded with a banquet and concert program for the attendees.