Cultural tribute to Khojaly victims paid at landmark church in Netherlands Photo

A memorial concert marking the 34th anniversary of the Khojaly genocide was held at the Grote Kerk, the main church and a principal religious and cultural landmark in The Hague, Netherlands.

The event, entitled “Elegy of Eternal Echoes,” brought together representatives of Dutch government institutions and parliament, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the Netherlands, as well as figures from political, cultural and academic circles, Caliber.Az reports per local media. 

Addressing the audience, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Mammad Ahmadzada, said that the installation of the first monument in Europe dedicated to the Khojaly genocide in The Hague reflects the Netherlands’ respect for historical memory and its solidarity with the Azerbaijani people. He also highlighted the broader humanitarian and cultural ties between the two countries.

The concert was performed by the Italian chamber ensemble “I Briconcello,” led by Maestro Pierluigi Ruccero. Speaking at the event, Ruccero noted that for 15 years the ensemble has sought to serve as a cultural bridge between Azerbaijan and Europe, presenting Azerbaijan’s history and cultural narratives to European audiences through music.

He recalled that the programme “Elegy of Eternal Echoes” was first staged in 2021 in several Italian cities that expressed solidarity with Azerbaijan during the 2020 Patriotic War. The programme is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives in the conflict and to the country’s territorial integrity.

According to the organisers, the repertoire symbolically reflected Azerbaijan’s longstanding traditions of multiculturalism and religious tolerance, underscoring the idea that music can transcend borders and foster dialogue and mutual understanding.

The musical programme featured works by internationally renowned composers alongside Azerbaijani pieces, including “Shusha” by Farhad Badalbayli, the folk song “Sarı Gəlin” arranged by Kamalə Alizada, excerpts from the ballet “Seven Beauties” by Qara Qarayev, and selected compositions by Sevda İbrahimova.

By Sabina Mammadli