A formal reception was held at the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Belgium on the occasion of 28 May – Independence Day
H.E. Mr. Vagif Sadigov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Belgium and Luxembourg and Head of the Mission to the European Union, and H.E. Mr. Jafar Huseynzade, Head of the Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO, delivered speeches at the reception.
Ambassador Vagif Sadigov emphasized the historical significance of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the first democratic republic in the Muslim East, and honored the memory of the prominent figures who contributed to the establishment of Azerbaijani statehood. He also noted that the cherished memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan is always held in the highest esteem.
In his address, Ambassador Vagif Sadigov further highlighted that, against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical and economic uncertainty in the international system, the importance of diplomacy and multilateral cooperation has become even more paramount.
In this regard, Ambassador Vagif Sadigov noted that Azerbaijan has successfully hosted important international events. He stated that the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13), held in Baku this month, was highly acclaimed by the international community and further reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s reputation as a reliable partner. Furthermore, the successful hosting of COP29 and the outcomes achieved in climate finance were highlighted as a significant contribution by Azerbaijan to the global climate agenda.
Touching upon regional developments, Ambassador Vagif Sadigov emphasized the historical significance of the progress achieved toward the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He noted that the signing of the Agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia on August 8, 2025, has created new opportunities for sustainable peace and cooperation in the region. It was also emphasized that Azerbaijan remains committed to confidence-building through humanitarian initiatives and the promotion of regional transport connectivity.
Ambassador Vagif Sadigov further stated that Azerbaijan’s relations with the European Union, Belgium, and Luxembourg are developing dynamically. Noting that the European Union is Azerbaijan’s largest foreign investor, the Ambassador emphasized that cooperation is expanding not only in the energy sector but also in strategic areas such as renewable energy, transport, logistics, connectivity, and digital transformation.
During his speech, Ambassador Vagif Sadigov emphasized the intensification of high-level political dialogue with the European Union and noted that the visits of the President of the European Council, António Costa, and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, to Baku indicate a new stage in relations.
In his remarks, Jafar Huseynzade, Head of the Mission of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO, emphasized that safeguarding independence requires strong state institutions and reliable defense capabilities. He noted that the political and military reforms carried out under the leadership of National Leader Heydər Əliyev entered a new stage under the leadership of President İlham Əliyev, resulting in the full restoration of Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders.
Jafar Huseynzade stated that the resolution of the conflict and the establishment of peace in the region have enabled Azerbaijan to play a more active role in the international arena. It was emphasized that Azerbaijan’s unique geopolitical position, connecting the South Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East, and the Black Sea region, along with its energy resources and transit potential, enables the country to pursue an independent and multifaceted foreign policy.
During the cultural part of the event, performances were delivered by professional Azerbaijani musicians and dancers residing in European countries, as well as young diaspora representatives, while samples of Azerbaijani national cuisine were presented to guests.
The reception was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Belgium and the European Union, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Brussels, NATO representatives, prominent figures from academia and the arts, media representatives, and members of the Azerbaijani community.
