Tajik ambassador: Azerbaijan holds its heroes in high esteem

Azerbaijan made a significant contribution to the Allied victory in the Second World War, the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Azerbaijan has said.

Speaking to journalists after a wreath-laying ceremony at the Memorial of Military Glory in Baku, held by ambassadors of CIS countries ahead of Victory Day, Ilhom Abdurahmon emphasised the shared sacrifice and enduring respect for wartime veterans, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

“Tomorrow, May 9, marks the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory. Our fathers and grandfathers—our veterans, of whom very few remain—played a vital role in achieving this victory,” the ambassador said. 

“I wish to extend heartfelt gratitude to all veterans and heroes, many of whom are no longer with us. I bow my head in honour of their sacrifice and thank them for defending the homeland for the sake of future generations.”

Ambassador Abdurahmon underlined that the memory of the Second World War is deeply revered across the Commonwealth of Independent States, including in Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Russia. These nations, he said, commemorate Victory Day each year with respect and gratitude.

“This victory was achieved through the participation of many people, including those from the Caucasus and Central Asia,” he noted. “Azerbaijan made a major contribution. Tajikistan, alongside its brotherly nations, also played a significant part. In 1941, Tajikistan’s population was only 1.5 million, yet 300,000 citizens were sent to the front—around 100,000 of whom lost their lives in battle.”

The ambassador also praised Azerbaijan’s commitment to honouring its veterans, highlighting the support provided both by the government and the public.

“Azerbaijan holds its heroes in high regard—we can see this clearly,” he said. “Commemorations are held annually in honour of the Azerbaijani soldiers who fought and prevailed in the war. It is of great value when a state takes care of its veterans. Tajikistan, like Azerbaijan, continues to support our war veterans.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev