In the late 80s of the twentieth century, the threat to our territorial integrity and sovereignty excited our people, and the national liberation movement began to develop. Regular protest rallies were held. However, the Soviet empire did not want to accept the independence of the people who wanted to restore historical justice. Therefore, the January 20 massacre, prepared by the special services of the empire, was carried out. On that day, our people, who fought for their constitutional rights and territorial integrity, faced the armored tanks of the Soviet army, as well as Special Forces, including Armenians. These groups shot and killed our civilians and crushed them under the caterpillars of tanks. This event showed the true nature of the USSR leadership.

At that time, National Leader Heydar Aliyev and his children visited the Permanent Representation of Azerbaijan in Moscow and expressed condolences to the people of Azerbaijan, pointing to the leadership of the republic and the USSR, first of all, Gorbachev, as the main culprit in these events. This was indeed the case and was the first political assessment of the January 20 massacre.

It should be noted that a full political and legal assessment of the freedom struggle of our people, the tragedy of January 20, the perpetuation of the memory of the martyrs was made possible by the measures taken by National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The steps taken by the National Leader to perpetuate the memory of the martyrs during his presidency, including the establishment of the name "Martyr of January 20" by the Decree of March 31, 1998, the establishment of the "Eternal Flame" complex in the Alley of Martyrs by the Order of August 5, 1998, are of historical importance.

After being elected President in 2003, Ilham Aliyev stated at the inauguration ceremony that he would continue Heydar Aliyev's policy. Continuing the policy of the Great Leader, he further developed the country and created a strong army. In response to the provocation created by Armenia on the line of contact, he ordered the army a counterattack.

 President Ilham Aliyev, the Supreme Commander-in-Chief used every opportunity to liberate our lands from occupation within 44 days. The liberation of Shusha from occupation, being the brightest page in the heroic history of our people, broke the back of Armenian fascism. This historic victory made the soul of our Great Leader and all our martyrs happy.

Increasing attention and care for the families of martyrs, the visit of heads of state and government, famous guests to the Alley of Martyrs is a manifestation of official respect at the state level for those who died for the Motherland.

Novruz GULIYEV, Correspondent member of ANAS