UPDATES WITH REMARKS FROM ERDOGAN
By Efe Ozkan
ISTANBUL (AA)— Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday congratulated Azerbaijan on its independence day, saying the victory in Karabakh "is illuminating the path of a much stronger Azerbaijan."
Speaking at an event commemorating Azerbaijan's 34th Independence Day in Lachin, which Azerbaijan gained as a result of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war, Erdogan said the country's victory in the war made it stronger and more prosperous.
“The victory in Karabakh has made Azerbaijan much stronger and more prosperous today. The torch of independence lit on that day is illuminating the path of a much stronger Azerbaijan,” he said.
Erdogan expressed his delight at attending the meeting, saying: "As a son of a nation that knows very well how independence is achieved and how valuable it is, I wholeheartedly congratulate you on your Independence Day."
"I remember our heroes' glorious struggles for independence and the future, which were crowned with martyrdom, mercy, and respect. May God bless the souls of our dear martyrs and grant them paradise,” he continued.
The Turkish president said: “After 30 years of captivity, it is now time for Karabakh to write a story of success, peace, and development.”
Recalling that he and Aliyev had previously opened the Fuzuli and Zengilan international airports, Erdogan said, “Today, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to open the Lachin International Airport. From energy to transportation, from defense to trade, from agriculture to education, we are establishing strong partnerships with Azerbaijan in every field, thanks be to God.
"With the unique contributions of my brother Ilham, we are elevating our relations to a level that will serve as an example not only for the region but for the entire world.”
After his speech, Erdogan was accompanied by Aliyev and Sharif at the concert held at the same venue, which featured performances of works unique to Azerbaijan, Türkiye and Pakistan on the banks of the Hekeri River.
After the concert, Erdogan congratulated the artists on stage and chatted with them.