Parliament speaker highlights Azerbaijan's crucial role in WWII victory at CIS plenary PHOTO

During a plenary session of the Inter-Parliamentary Assembly of CIS Member States in St. Petersburg, Speaker of Azerbaijani parliament, Sahiba Gafarova, has emphasised the significant contributions of the Azerbaijani people in the historic victory over fascism during World War II. 

Gafarova reminded the assembly that over 600,000 Azerbaijanis fought on the front lines during the war, with more than 300,000 of them tragically losing their lives, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

She highlighted the bravery of Azerbaijani soldiers, stating that over 130 Azerbaijanis were awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for their courage during the war. Additionally, over 170,000 Azerbaijani soldiers and officers were decorated with various honors, including orders and medals.

The 77th, 223rd, 336th, 402nd, and 416th national rifle divisions, formed from Azerbaijani conscripts and volunteers, were recognised for their remarkable valour. Gafarova also pointed out that the heroism of the Azerbaijani people extended beyond the battlefield, with the country’s industrial enterprises producing 130 different types of weapons and ammunition to support the Soviet war effort. 

In addition to acknowledging Azerbaijan's wartime contributions, Gafarova also referenced the second Karabakh war, where Azerbaijan successfully liberated its territories after nearly 30 years of occupation. She noted that the victory restored Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty.

By Naila Huseynova