Aliyev: Efforts must be intensified to ensure return of Azerbaijanis expelled from Armenia

President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the importance of restoring and protecting Azerbaijani cultural heritage in Armenia and reaffirmed the right of return for displaced Azerbaijanis during his address at the international conference on “Cultural Heritage and the Right of Return” held in Baku.

A message from President Ilham Aliyev was read out to participants at the event, according to AZERTAC.

“Today, it is essential to intensify efforts to ensure the return of Azerbaijanis forcibly expelled from Armenia within the framework of the right of return enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention on the Status of Refugees, and other important international instruments. It is also important to initiate a process, with the participation of the international community - including specialised UN agencies - on the restoration and protection of cultural heritage. The right of return is one of the fundamental principles of human rights. Securing this right is not only about the physical return to one’s homeland; it is also about restoring the spiritual integrity, cultural heritage, and historical memory of society,” President Aliyev said.

He further stressed the broader significance of protecting Azerbaijani cultural heritage. “The restoration and protection of Azerbaijani cultural heritage in Armenia, in addition to being a legitimate demand of the Azerbaijani people, is necessary in the context of respect for universal human values, closing the page of hostility, and fostering mutual understanding between peoples," he said.

President Aliyev also commended the Western Azerbaijan Community for its constructive approach. “The Western Azerbaijan Community, which includes individuals directly affected by deportations and massacres, should be commended for its discreet and constructive approach, openness to reconciliation and dialogue, adherence to international law, and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states.”

The President highlighted recent diplomatic efforts between Azerbaijan and Armenia. “The fact that Azerbaijan and Armenia came together in Washington on August 8, 2025, with the mediation of the United States of America, the signing of the Joint Declaration, and the initialling of the draft peace agreement creates hope and confidence for the future coexistence of both peoples,” he added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev