France remembers Azerbaijani partisans who fought Nazi occupation during WWII

In the heart of Paris, a moving ceremony was held to honour the memory of Azerbaijani heroes who fought valiantly for the liberation of France during World War II.

The event, rich with emotion and historic significance, brought together diplomats, scholars, military officials, and descendants of the wartime partisans whose bravery helped shape Europe’s future, Caliber.Az reports, citing domestic media.

Organised with the support of the Azerbaijani Embassy in France, the ceremony served as a solemn tribute to those Azerbaijanis who not only fought on the Eastern Front but also took up arms in Europe’s underground resistance against Nazi tyranny.

Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to France, Leyla Abdullayeva, opened the event with a powerful speech recalling the harrowing scale of the global conflict and the profound sacrifices made by the Azerbaijani people. “World War II was the bloodiest war in human history,” she said, noting that over 600,000 Azerbaijanis were dispatched to the front lines, with more than half never returning home.

Colonel Javid Abdullayev, the embassy’s military attaché, spotlighted the extraordinary role played by Azerbaijani partisans in France’s fight for freedom. Among the most notable names was Akhmadiya Jabrayilov, affectionately remembered in France as “Michel.” A symbol of resilience, Jabrailov was one of the first Azerbaijani nationals to join the French Resistance, fighting in guerrilla operations and contributing to the eventual liberation of occupied territories. Other partisans, such as Idris Hashimov and Khalaf Hajiyev, were also remembered for their commitment to the struggle against fascism.

The ceremony was attended by relatives of these heroes, who shared deeply personal stories and recollections that brought the past vividly to life. Their words added a human dimension to the historical narrative, linking the sacrifices of the past with the shared values of today.

Beyond its sons and daughters who fought across Europe, Azerbaijan was a critical energy hub for the Soviet war effort. The oil fields of Baku played an indispensable role, supplying 90 per cent of the USSR’s engine oil, 80 per cent of its gasoline, and 70 per cent of its overall oil needs. Without Azerbaijani oil, the Red Army’s momentum would have faltered.

Over 130 Azerbaijani servicemen were awarded the prestigious title of Hero of the Soviet Union, and more than 170,000 soldiers and officers received various military decorations. Azerbaijani divisions forged a path of courage from the Caucasus Mountains to the heart of Berlin, while many others fought anonymously in resistance movements across Europe.

By Tamilla Hasanova