In commemoration of Azerbaijan's national leader-Heydar Aliyev

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Today, the Azerbaijani people with deep respect and reverence commemorate the birthday of the architect of modern Azerbaijani statehood, the savior of national independence, and the National Leader-Heydar Alirza oglu Aliyev.

Born on May 10, 1923, in the city of Nakhchivan, Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev dedicated his entire life to serving his homeland and its people.

He ascended through the ranks by virtue of his extraordinary intellect, unwavering dedication, and outstanding organizational skills.

Early in his career, he distinguished himself within the Soviet Union's security and government structures, earning a reputation as a leader of exceptional talent and foresight.

In July 1969, after being elected First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev initiated a period of unprecedented political, economic, social, and cultural revival in Azerbaijan.

Under his wise leadership, the republic experienced rapid industrialization, comprehensive educational reforms, and dynamic improvements in science, healthcare, and the arts.

A new generation of highly qualified Azerbaijani specialists emerged, contributing to the modernization and national awakening of the Azerbaijani society.

During this period, national consciousness was carefully nurtured and preserved within the broader Soviet system.

Following Azerbaijan’s restoration of independence in 1991, the newly sovereign state faced immense challenges: political instability, economic collapse, social chaos, external aggression, and threats to its territorial integrity.

It was at this most critical juncture, in 1993, that the Azerbaijani people once again turned to Heydar Aliyev, calling him to the highest leadership position.

Responding to the call of his nation, he assumed the presidency and steered Azerbaijan away from the brink of civil war and fragmentation.

The period of Heydar Aliyev’s leadership in independent Azerbaijan was characterized by the establishment of the fundamental principles of statehood: building a constitutional democracy, ensuring the rule of law, preserving national unity, fostering economic reforms, and strengthening the foundations of the armed forces.

His wise foreign policy balanced relations with global powers while safeguarding Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and promoting its national interests.

One of Heydar Aliyev’s most significant achievements was the signing of the "Contract of the Century" in September 1994.

This groundbreaking agreement opened Azerbaijan’s rich oil and gas reserves in the Caspian Sea to international investment, placing Azerbaijan firmly on the global energy map and securing the country’s economic independence for generations to come.

Under his leadership, the successful implementation of large-scale transnational energy projects transformed Azerbaijan into a key player in global energy security and regional cooperation.

Heydar Aliyev’s political philosophy was deeply rooted in the concepts of national statehood, secularism, democratic development, respect for universal human rights, and socio-economic progress.

His visionary leadership ensured internal political stability, attracted international investment, and promoted the emergence of Azerbaijan as a respected member of the international community.

Beyond his achievements as a statesman, Heydar Aliyev also laid the moral and ideological foundations for the Azerbaijani society of today — emphasizing patriotism, loyalty to national traditions, cultural enrichment, education, and the imperative of preserving sovereignty at all costs.

The ideas and principles set forth by Heydar Aliyev continue to serve as a guiding light for Azerbaijan’s ongoing development under President Ilham Aliyev's leadership.

The political course established by Heydar Aliyev ensures that Azerbaijan today stands strong, united, and increasingly influential on the global stage.