Khankendi hosts special session on Azerbaijan’s foreign policy post sovereignty restoration

A special session titled “Azerbaijan’s foreign policy after the restoration of sovereignty: priorities, opportunities and challenges” was held at Karabakh University in Khankendi on July 9 as part of the 9th Meeting of the Heads of Diplomatic Service Bodies.

The event brought together senior officials, diplomats, and university representatives to discuss Azerbaijan’s post-conflict foreign policy direction and developments in the Karabakh region. Participants were first introduced to the ongoing restoration and reconstruction efforts in Khankendi, including the newly established facilities at Karabakh University, Caliber.Az reports via Foreign Ministry. 

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Rector of Karabakh University Shahin Bayramov highlighted the institution’s progress since its founding, outlining its academic programs, experienced faculty, modern infrastructure, and active socio-cultural environment.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Elnur Mammadov addressed the historical context of Khankendi, noting that attempts to Armenianise the city following 1923 were reversed with the full restoration of Azerbaijani sovereignty in 2023 — marking a symbolic centenary. He underlined the significance of President Ilham Aliyev’s decision to establish Karabakh University immediately after the return of the city to Azerbaijani control.

Mammadov also emphasised that the large-scale reconstruction projects and international events held in Khankendi and across Karabakh stand as testament to Azerbaijan’s strength and determination.

In his remarks, Deputy Special Representative of the President for Khankendi, Agdara, and Khojaly, Sabuhi Gahramanov, provided an overview of the restoration and future development plans in the region, noting the pace and scale of progress.

The speakers collectively noted the symbolic significance of holding both the diplomatic meeting and the professional holiday of diplomatic service employees on July 9 in Khankendi. The choice of location was portrayed as a demonstration of national pride and support for Karabakh University.

As part of the event, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs donated approximately 500 books—acquired from Azerbaijani diplomatic missions abroad—to the university’s library.

The visit concluded with a concert performance by students from the Faculty of Arts and a cultural excursion to the historical city of Shusha.