Travellers from 13 nations explore rebuilding of Karabakh, East Zangazur PHOTO

A new group of international travellers, organized by the esteemed Most Traveled People (MTP) organization, has embarked on a journey through Karabakh and East Zangazur.

The group, led by renowned traveller Charles Veley, began their exploration on July 25, travelling along the Shusha-Khankandi-Aghdam route. Their itinerary includes visits to Lachin, Jabrayil (Khudafarin Bridge), and Fuzuli, where they will observe the extensive destruction from the Armenian occupation and ongoing restoration efforts, Caliber.Az reports, citing local media.

Charles Veley praised the progress made in the region. “This is the fourth time our group has come to Karabakh, and each visit reveals new progress,” Veley said. “The speed at which Fuzuli, Shusha, Aghdam, Lachin, and Zangilan are being restored is truly impressive. People genuinely enjoy coming to Karabakh, and I believe local tourism has a bright future here.”

This visit marks the 11th group organized by MTP to explore the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, bringing the total number of international visitors over the past four years to more than 360 from nearly 50 countries. The current delegation, which includes travellers from 13 nations such as the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom, will experience firsthand the transformation of these regions.

In Aghdam, the travellers witnessed the stark aftermath of the Armenian occupation and the ambitious reconstruction efforts. Charles Veley remarked, “Seeing the destruction in Aghdam is a sobering experience. The crumbling buildings and shattered infrastructure serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict. However, amidst the ruins, there is hope as Azerbaijan works tirelessly to reconstruct its beloved city.” The group also visited the recently restored Aghdam Mosque and paid respects at the Alley of Martyrs.

In Shusha, the delegation observed the city’s impressive restoration progress and visited the Shusha fortress. Joachim von Löben, a traveller from Germany, noted, “Shusha reminds me of Jerusalem. It’s a unique city with immense cultural and historical significance. The speed of the restoration work here is astonishing.”

American traveller Diane Pechenick expressed her admiration for the rapid reconstruction in the liberated territories. “This is my second visit to Azerbaijan and my first to Karabakh. It’s a beautiful place, and I would definitely come back,” Pechenick said. She also highlighted the ongoing challenge of landmines, noting, “The demining process could take decades, and it’s a tragic situation.”

US traveller Shelvin Shah reflected on the insights gained about the region’s history and the landmine issue. “The trip provided us with a wealth of information about the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan,” Shah noted. “I sincerely hope for a future free from the devastating consequences of landmines. Anything that brings peace to both Azerbaijan and Armenia is in the best interest of both countries.”

Vlad Kibol from Ukraine expressed his admiration for the swift reconstruction efforts. “I have visited Azerbaijan several times before, and I was thrilled when your country regained its rightful lands,” Kibol said. “The progress of construction projects in Fuzuli and the stunning natural beauty and architectural marvels in Shusha are breathtaking.”

The MTP-organized visit continues to highlight the remarkable restoration efforts in Karabakh and East Zangazur, showcasing Azerbaijan’s commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing these historically significant areas.