Poland commemorates 81st anniversary of victory over fascism
Vienna, May 7, AZERTAC
On the occasion of the 81st anniversary of the Victory over Fascism, an event organized by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Poland was held at the Muslim-Tatar cemetery in Warsaw, at the grave of Azerbaijani officer Veli bey Yadigar.
The ceremony was attended by Ambassador Nargiz Gurbanova, embassy staff, ambassadors of member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) accredited in Poland, and representatives of the religious community.
The event commenced with the laying of a wreath at the grave of Veli bey Yadigar, followed by prayers offered for his soul and the souls of all compatriots who perished in the war.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Nargiz Gurbanova noted that Azerbaijan played a crucial role during the war years, both on the front lines and in the rear. More than 681,000 Azerbaijanis participated in the war, with over half of them killed or missing. She highlighted that every fifth resident of the republic headed to the front, and the national divisions formed on Azerbaijani territory followed an honorable combat path from the Caucasus to Berlin. Azerbaijani soldiers were honored with high state awards for their bravery, with over a hundred Azerbaijanis receiving the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
Nargiz Gurbanova also specifically noted Azerbaijan's vital role in energy security during the war, emphasizing the scientific achievements led by Academician Yusif Mammadaliyev and the selflessness shown by the Azerbaijani people on the home front.
Touching upon historical ties with Poland, the Ambassador highlighted the legacy of the prominent Azerbaijani officer Veli bey Yadigar. She emphasized that he served in both the army of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and the Polish Armed Forces, participated in the Polish resistance movement during World War II, and played a significant role in organizing the 1944 Warsaw Uprising.
In conclusion, the Ambassador noted that such events are of great importance for preserving historical memory and passing it on to future generations. Azerbaijan's contribution to the victory and the activities of figures like Veli bey Yadigar reaffirm that the struggle for freedom and peace is based on universal human values.
Shahla Kazimova, head of the Center for Azerbaijani Studies at the University of Warsaw, also addressed the event. She underscored Azerbaijan's significant contribution to the victory over Nazism and the dedication of both the soldiers and society at large. She drew particular attention to the role of officers of Azerbaijani descent in Polish history, remembering figures such as Veli bey Yadigar and Jahangir bey Kazimbeyli, while also highlighting the service of women who actively participated during the war years.
Other news in this section
