• 18 Jan 2025

A commemorative event marking the 35th anniversary of the January 20 tragedy was held at Baku Eurasian University (BAAU). The event was attended by members of the academic and administrative staff, as well as students of BAAU.
Prior to the memorial event, the university administration, faculty, and students visited the Alley of Martyrs to honor the victims of the January 20 tragedy. During the visit, carnations were placed on the graves of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan's independence and territorial integrity, and their memory was commemorated with profound respect and reverence.
Following the visit, the memorial event at the university commenced with the playing of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan, followed by a moment of silence in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence and territorial integrity.
The event commemorating the 35th anniversary of the January 20 tragedy began with an opening speech by Professor Gulzar Ibrahimova, Vice-Rector for Scientific Affairs at BAAU. She highlighted the importance of remembering the tragedy and ensuring that its memory is passed on to future generations. Professor Ibrahimova also emphasized the significance of accurately presenting the January 20 tragedy to the public, noting how this historical event contributed to the formation of national consciousness. She encouraged young people to take a greater interest in learning about history. In his speech, the Vice-Rector emphasized that while the 35th anniversary of the January 20 events was being commemorated this year, it has been observed from a distinctly different perspective for the past five years. He noted that with the historic victory achieved in 2020, Azerbaijan's territorial integrity was restored, bringing comfort to the souls of the martyrs.
The Dean of the Faculty of Regional Studies and Economics at BAAU, Associate Professor Mutallim Rahimov, then delivered a speech in which he described the January 20 events as one of the most vivid examples of the national will of the Azerbaijani people and their struggle for freedom. He emphasized that this history represents an honorable chapter, reflecting both sorrow and the unity and resilience of the nation. The Dean underscored the importance of future generations studying this history in depth and stated that preserving the memory of the martyrs is a moral duty for each of us.
Speeches were delivered highlighting the significance of the January 20 tragedy in modern Azerbaijani history and its impact on the nation's struggle for independence. The speakers emphasized that the events of January 20 have become a symbol of the Azerbaijani people's fight for freedom and sovereignty, marking an indelible moment in the country's history. Additionally, the speakers discussed the international media's coverage of the events and provided insights into the global recognition of this tragedy.
The speeches also underscored the importance of preserving the memory of January 20 for future generations. It was emphasized that this tragedy has transcended its role as a mere violent event, evolving into a symbol that reinforces Azerbaijan's enduring aspirations for independence.
The event, which garnered significant interest from the participants, continued with subsequent discussions.