Baku Engineering University (BEU) has hosted an event on the occasion of May 28 - Independence Day. 

Speaking at the event, BEU Rector, Professor Havar Mammadov recalled that the Azerbaijani nation established the first democratic parliamentary republic in the Muslim East 104 years ago, on May 28, 1918, noting that the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was the beginning of a new stage in the life of our people with ancient statehood traditions. Speaking about the great work done by the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, which lasted only 23 months, the Rector emphasized that it was not feasible to preserve the state, established in a particularly difficult political situation at the time.

Mentioning the political processes occured in the early years after the restoration of our state independence, the University's Rector stated that internal socio-political stability in Azerbaijan was only achieved with Great Leader Heydar Aliyev's return to power. By underlining that preserving historical processes and independence were a more difficult and responsible affair, Havar Mammadov pointed out that National Leader Heydar Aliyev took decisive steps to protect the Azerbaijani statehood and perpetuate our independence, established lasting socio-political stability in the country, founded our military industry, carried out fundamental reforms, and signed many fateful energy projects.

Havar Mammadov added to his viewpoint that under the leadership of the worthy successor of the Great Leader, President Ilham Aliyev, political, economic and social reforms were being successfully implemented in our country, citing the significant achievements accomplished in a short period of time. Stating that Azerbaijan's military and economic might has grown in recent years, the Rector noted that the strong state, army, national unity strategy implemented by President, Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and the unparalleled heroism of the patriotic youth underlay the historic victory in the 44-day Patriotic War. By stressing that the Azerbaijani people have been celebrating Independence Day as a victorious nation with honour for two years, Havar Mammadov said that our independent state, whose territorial integrity had been restored, was experiencing its strongest period in history as the successor of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic.

In his speech, noting the work done to establish human rights and freedoms, recognize the equal rights of all citizens, regardless of religion, grant women the right to vote before many European countries during the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, the Rector touched upon the reforms continued by President Ilham Aliyev, the important measures taken to ensure the country's reputation as a legal and democratic state and the rights and freedoms of citizens. Reminding that the "May 18 - June 18 Human Rights Month" was held annually in accordance with the respective Order of the President of Azerbaijan, Havar Mammadov stated the importance of developing legal thinking and culture in the younger generation, and briefed the participants on the work carried out at the university

At the end, the Rector conveyed his best wishes on the occasion of Independence Day and gave recommendations to the youth, emphasizing that state independence of Azerbaijan would last forever.

The festive event continued with a concert program, prepared by Zamina Akhundova, the Head of BEU Division of Creative Arts, Doctor of Philosophy in Art History, and songs and dances, performed by the University student.

The event also featured handicrafts by Aysun Mustafazadeh, a fresher at the Faculty of Architecture and Construction at BEU, on patriotism and other topics.

Public Relations Department