October 18 is an important and memorable day in the history of Azerbaijan. This day reminds the struggle of the Azerbaijani people for freedom, independence, and the right to have their own state.

The independent Republic of Azerbaijan celebrates one of the most glorious chapters in its history, the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its state independence this year. The Supreme Soviet of the Republic of Azerbaijan adopted the Constitutional Act on State Independence 35 years ago. Although the extraordinary session that began on October 8 discussed the issue for four days, the decision was postponed for one week. Finally, the document was adopted at a session of the Supreme Soviet on October 18, 1991. Azerbaijan’s state independence was legally restored with this document.

Following the persistent demands of the people, National Leader Heydar Aliyev returned to power in Azerbaijan in 1993 and made our country's independence eternal and irreversible. Although the Constitutional Act on State Independence was adopted on October 18, 1991, Azerbaijan truly achieved its independence after National Leader Heydar Aliyev returned to power. It was precisely the National Leader’s extensive political experience, outstanding leadership skills, and boundless love for his homeland that saved Azerbaijan’s state independence from danger.

To more accurately reflect this important historical event, a new law entitled “Independence Day” was adopted on October 15, 2021, on the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev. According to the law, May 28 was designated as “Independence Day,” while October 18 was established as “Independence Restoration Day.”

October 18 symbolizes Azerbaijan’s existence and freedom as a sovereign state, strengthens feelings of national unity and patriotism, reminds the younger generation that independence was achieved through a great historical struggle, and emphasizes the importance of protecting our statehood and passing it on to future generations.

Under the leadership of Victorious Supreme Commander-in-Chief President Ilham Aliyev our people have achieved remarkable successes and, with the historic Victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, once again demonstrated to the entire world that Azerbaijan’s independence is unshakable, eternal, and irreversible!

We congratulate our people on October 18 – Independence Restoration Day, and wish that our independence remain eternal and our statehood unshakable!