Pretoria: The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in South Africa organized a ceremony on February 24 to commemorate the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide. A moment of silence was observed at the start of the event to honor the memory of the tragedy's victims.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Huseyn Rahimli, Charg© d'Affaires of the Azerbaijani Embassy, addressed the attendees, recounting the events of February 25-26, 1992, when Armenian forces, with the support of the former USSR's 366th Motorized Rifle Regiment, carried out the Khojaly genocide. The massacre resulted in the deaths of 613 civilians, including 106 women, 63 children, and 70 elderly individuals. Rahimli described the incident as a systematic act of ethnic violence, indicative of Armenia's broader policy against Azerbaijanis.

Rahimli pointed out that the National Leader Heydar Aliyev was instrumental in pursuing an objective political and legal assessment of the Khojaly tragedy. This work was continued by President Ilham Aliyev, who played a crucial role in restoring Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty. He further noted that the liberation of Khojaly and efforts to prosecute war criminals serve as historical justice, with the reconstruction of liberated territories and the return of displaced families honoring the memory of the victims.

The ambassador highlighted the efforts of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, led by First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, in promoting global awareness of the Khojaly genocide. He acknowledged the international campaign 'Justice for Khojaly!', initiated by Leyla Aliyeva, which aims to educate the global community about the atrocity.

The ceremony concluded with a photo exhibition and materials displaying the atrocities committed during the Khojaly genocide. Rahimli reiterated that Azerbaijan remains committed to honoring the memory of the victims and recognizing the sacrifices made for the country's independence and territorial integrity.