Baku ( WNAM MONITORING): On October 29, an International Parliamentary Conference dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan was held at the Milli Majlis.
The conference, held under the theme “The Constitution as the Foundation of States’ Independence and Sovereignty in the Contemporary World,” brought together parliamentary delegations from nearly 20 countries, as well as representatives of five international organizations.
The event provided a platform for participants to exchange views on the role of constitutions in strengthening the legal foundations of modern states and safeguarding their sovereignty and national independence.
In her opening remarks, Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova highlighted the symbolic significance of hosting the international parliamentary conference in Azerbaijan, saying:
“The history of Azerbaijani statehood is marked by profound trials and remarkable victories. After restoring its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan faced a complex and challenging situation across political, economic, military, and other spheres.
Armed aggression and internal crisis posed a serious threat to Azerbaijan’s state independence. In such a critical situation, the historic mission carried out with determination by the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, played a pivotal role in resolving the country’s pressing challenges, restoring stability, re-establishing the rule of law, and laying the foundations of a modern state. Under his leadership, the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan was drafted and adopted in 1995, setting forth the country’s development strategy.”
Noting that the Constitution established the principles of national sovereignty, the rule of law, and the separation of powers, while also providing guarantees for the protection of human rights and freedoms, Speaker Gafarova added:
“In this sense, the fundamental law of our state is not merely a legal document; it is also a symbol of a new era in Azerbaijan’s national history, marked by confidence in the future and a spirit of nation-building. The path initiated by National Leader Heydar Aliyev is being successfully continued under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.”
“The past 22 years have entered the history of Azerbaijani statehood as a period of dynamic and comprehensive development,” the Speaker emphasized.
Saqr Ghobash, Speaker of the Federal National Council of the United Arab Emirates, in his remarks, extended congratulations on the 30th anniversary of the adoption of Azerbaijan’s Constitution, noting its role in strengthening the country’s sovereignty and ensuring sustainable development.
Hailing Azerbaijan’s remarkable achievements in all spheres, including education, healthcare, environmental protection, and energy security, Saqr Ghobash expressed confidence in the further strengthening of collaboration based on mutual respect and underscored the crucial role of legislative bodies in upholding constitutional principles. He also conveyed his best wishes for continued progress and prosperity to the Azerbaijani people.
Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, described the Constitution as a supreme document that serves as a link between the state and the people, establishing principles of justice, statehood, and citizens’ rights and freedoms. He also highlighted the essential role of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in the democratic process of developing and adopting Azerbaijan’s Constitution.
Highly commending the steps taken by President Ilham Aliyev to protect the sovereignty and independence of the Azerbaijani state, he emphasized:
“Let me bring to your attention one point concerning Azerbaijan. Under President Ilham Aliyev’s leadership, Azerbaijan has seen a strengthening of national unity, identity, and dedication. The fact that President Ilham Aliyev has declared this year the ‘Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty’ in Azerbaijan is a clear example of his commitment to these values. Today, sovereignty is facing various tests. Let us together remain committed to the principles of sovereignty and equality.”
Samil Ayrim, member of the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye, said:
“The Constitution is the supreme document that enshrines the existence, national will, and independence of every state. It is a symbol of state sovereignty. The Constitution of Azerbaijan, adopted on November 12, 1995, marked the beginning of a new chapter in the destiny of the Azerbaijani people. On that day, Azerbaijan, having restored its independence, declared to the world its will to build a modern state based on the rule of law, human rights, and democratic values. The architect of this great historical step is the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. Today, this legacy has been further strengthened under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, with the principles of justice, development, and national unity.”
Other key parliamentary officials extended their sincere congratulations on the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of Azerbaijan and expressed gratitude for the excellent organization of the event. They highlighted the significance of the Baku-hosted conference, underscoring the role of constitutions as foundational legal documents that define a state’s structure, powers, and rights, and safeguard its sovereignty.
Speakers drew parallels between the constitutional histories of their respective countries and Azerbaijan, noting shared historical experiences in their struggles for independence and sovereignty.
Ahmed bin Mohamed Al Jarwan, President of the Global Council for Tolerance and Peace (GCTP); Aktoty Raimkulova, President of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation; Asaf Hajiyev, Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Black Sea Economic Cooperation (PABSEC); and Muhammet Alper Hayali, Deputy Secretary General of TURKPA, also delivered remarks at the conference.
In their speeches, the participants praised Azerbaijan’s contributions to peace, progress, and interparliamentary cooperation, and hailed the Milli Majlis’s active engagement with partner organizations. They emphasized Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting interparliamentary dialogue as an effective tool for strengthening peace, mutual understanding, and global well-being.
