Kalbajar welcomes Azerbaijani families after three decades PHOTO

Another group of former internally displaced persons has departed for the city of Kalbajar, marking the latest phase of Azerbaijan’s nationwide resettlement programme.

The current group consists of 27 families, totalling 112 people, now returning to Kalbajar, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

These families had been temporarily accommodated in dormitories, sanatoriums, children’s camps, unfinished buildings and other administrative facilities for many years.

Their return has become possible following the Azerbaijani Army’s victory in the Patriotic War under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, which enabled displaced citizens to go back to their homes voluntarily, safely and with dignity after nearly 30 years.

The current group consists of 27 families, totalling 112 people, now returning to Kalbajar.

Mahmud Aleskerov, a former resident of Kalbajar travelling with today’s convoy, expressed his gratitude to the President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Ilham Aliyev, for the opportunity to return to his homeland. 

Speaking to journalists, he said the return was achieved through the sacrifice of the country’s martyrs, adding that the state had created all necessary conditions for resettlement.

“The Armenians expelled us from our homes in 1992, when we had small children. We had to live in Baku and Ganja. Today, thanks to the Almighty, we are returning to our liberated land,” he said.

Another returnee, Samaya Aghalarova said she had lived all these years with a longing for her native land.

“I pray for the souls of our martyrs and for the health of our veterans. Under the leadership of the head of state, our lands were liberated. I left my home with four children, and now I am returning with nine grandchildren,” Aghalarova noted.

State agencies say the resettlement of families to Kalbajar will continue in phases as reconstruction works progress and new housing becomes available.

By Aghakazim Guliyev