A solemn event dedicated to May 28 – Independence Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan and June 15 – National Salvation Day was held in Stuttgart, Germany.

The event was organized by Gunay Mirzayeva, a member of the Board of the Alliance of Azerbaijanis in Germany and Head of the Azerbaijan House in Stuttgart with the support of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The ceremony began with the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan, followed by a minute of silence to honour the memory of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s territorial integrity.

In his address, Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, emphasized that Independence Day and National Salvation Day reflect the Azerbaijani people’s commitment to freedom, devotion to the traditions of statehood, and spirit of national solidarity. He noted that National Salvation Day, one of the most glorious chapters in Azerbaijan’s history, became a reality thanks to the farsighted leadership and saving mission of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. According to Muradov, this historic turning point laid a solid foundation for the sustainable development of the modern Azerbaijani state and for the prosperous and secure future of Azerbaijanis worldwide. He added that the achievements stemming from National Salvation Day continue to strengthen the Azerbaijani diaspora and define its clear directions of activity.

The event also highlighted Germany’s historical footprint in Azerbaijan, with particular attention paid to the former German colonies of Helenendorf and Annenfeld. Speakers noted that this historical heritage has left a profound mark on Azerbaijan’s culture and that such milestones are duly commemorated in Azerbaijan, a country renowned for its multicultural traditions and centuries-old culture of tolerance.

German professor Werner Ströbele, who served as Director of the Museum of Local History in Reutlingen for 35 years and Head of the Reutlingen Department of Culture for 16 years, referred to a number of historical facts about Azerbaijan. He noted that the first German Swabian families settled in the Helenendorf region, where Germans once lived in Azerbaijan.

Altay Rustamli, Chairman of the Board of the Alliance of Azerbaijanis in Germany, stated that these significant dates, which hold a special place in Azerbaijan’s history, further strengthen national unity and bring Azerbaijanis around the world closer together around shared values, thereby contributing to the country’s growing international standing. He emphasized the importance of such events in promoting Azerbaijan’s rich history and national and cultural heritage.

Makbule Koçak Kaçar, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Stuttgart, congratulated compatriots on the occasion of these commemorative dates. She noted that cooperation between Azerbaijani and Turkish communities abroad further strengthens relations between the two brotherly countries.

Francesco Macco, Vice Chairman of the Azerbaijani Cultural Centre in Germany, as well as an Italian composer and organizer of cultural events, addressed the audience and expressed his respect for Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and national values.

The event continued with a cultural program. Under the leadership of Stuttgart-based jazz performer Cemre Yılmaz, excerpts from works by Azerbaijani and international composers were performed. Among the most memorable moments of the evening were performances of the songs “Come, O Morning!” (Gel, ey seher”) and “My Paradise, Karabakh,” (“Cənnətim Qarabağ”) which reflect Azerbaijan’s national spirit, unity, and historical heritage, further enriching the solemn atmosphere of the celebration.