Edited by Anna Popper
On 28 May, Azerbaijan celebrated its National Day, commemorating the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan (ADR) 106 years ago. Founded in 1918, it was the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world, making groundbreaking progress such as being the first Islamic nation to grant women the right to vote. Although the ADR existed less than two years, its legacy remains profound. It laid the foundations for democratic institutions, defined national borders, and asserted Azerbaijan’s presence in international affairs – contributing significantly to the country’s enduring democratic traditions and national identity.
To mark this historic occasion, H.E.Tahir Taghizade, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Hungary, and Mrs. Irada Rustamova hosted a grand reception at the picturesque Aranybástya venue in the Buda Castle. The guests were welcomed with warm Azerbaijani hospitality in an exceptional setting, with the panoramic view of Budapest providing a stunning backdrop for the celebration.
Despite threatening clouds and gusty winds, we were fortunate to avoid the rain, and the setting offered a magnificent view of the entire city of Budapest. The event was attended by a diverse array of dignitaries, including Hungarian politicians, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives from the business, cultural, and academic sectors, as well as members of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Hungary.
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Péter Hoppál, Government Commissioner of the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, graced the event with his presence. The evening began with the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Hungary.
Following the official opening, Ambassador Tahir Taghizade delivered a speech on Azerbaijan’s historical development, the accomplishments of his homeland in the Caucasus region, and the growing bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Hungary:
“Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
it is a great honour and privilege to welcome you all to the celebration of the Independence Day of the Republic of Azerbaijan. On this special day, we commemorate the establishment of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic in 1918 – the first democratic republic in the Muslim East. Though short-lived, it laid a strong foundation for the values of independence and sovereignty that we proudly uphold today. Azerbaijan restored its independence on 18 October 1991, and re-emerged as the rightful successor of the ADR.
2025 – Year of Constitution and Sovereignty
“This year, we also mark two important anniversaries: the 30th anniversary of the adoption of our Constitution and the 5th anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War. In recognition of these significant milestones, the year 2025 was declared the Year of Constitution and Sovereignty in Azerbaijan.
The Constitution, adopted on 12 November 1995, under the direct leadership of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, laid the groundwork for wide-ranging legislative and institutional reforms in our country. Its preamble clearly articulates the commitment of the Azerbaijani people to defend the country’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
Thanks to the historic victory in the Patriotic War of 2020 and the successful anti-terrorist operation of 19-20 September 2023, Azerbaijan has fully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty, ending the nearly 30-year Armenian occupation of 20 percent of our lands. Accordingly, 20 September was declared the Day of State Sovereignty by Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.”
Achievements in State-Building and International Relations
“Over the past three decades, Azerbaijan has made remarkable strides in its political, economic, and social development. The country has emerged as a reliable international partner, pursuing an independent foreign policy based on the principle of sovereign equality of all nations.
In 2024, we had the distinct honour of hosting COP29 in Baku – one of the most significant international events. With participation of more than 80 heads of state and government, including Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, the Baku COP was widely recognized for its historic outcomes and key decisions.”
Azerbaijan–Hungary Strategic Partnership
“Our strategic partnership with Hungary is a shining example of strong bilateral relations that continue to grow dynamically and comprehensively. Reciprocal visits by high-level politicians, including the official visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Hungary on 20-21 May 2025, have significantly advanced our cooperation in numerous areas.
The Azerbaijan-Hungary Strategic Dialogue, initiated in 2023, continues to operate successfully. The 11th meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation in Budapest further reinforces our economic ties.”
Economic and Energy Cooperation
“Several prominent Hungarian companies are actively engaged in Azerbaijan: The KÉSZ Group is contributing to the reconstruction of Soltanli village in Karabakh. Hell Energy is establishing a production facility in Azerbaijan. Gedeon Richter is involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing in our country. On 24 April 2025, Azercosmos signed a memorandum of understanding with 4iG Space and Defence Technologies.
Direct flights between Baku and Budapest, operated by Wizz Air, have played a key role in strengthening tourism and people-to-people relations.
Since 2024, Azerbaijan has been exporting natural gas to Hungary, and our energy cooperation continues to grow. Energy giants are also expanding cooperation: MOL Group, which holds shares in the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli field and the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, signed a memorandum of understanding with the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) in September 2024 to evaluate potential exploration opportunities in the Shamakhi-Gobustan field. In 2024, the MVM Group acquired a share in the Shah Deniz field. The Green Energy Corridor initiative has become another area of cooperation between our countries.”
Parliamentary and Cultural Ties
“Interparliamentary relations are another vital component of our partnership. We were delighted to welcome Deputy Speaker Sándor Lezsák during his recent visit to Baku and Nakhchivan, where he held fruitful discussions with the Speaker Sahiba Gafarova and other senior officials.
In the cultural sphere: in March 2025, a vibrant program on Azerbaijan took place at Hungarikum Liget with the support of the Lakitelek Foundation.
On 19 May 2025, the Centre for Azerbaijani Language and Culture was inaugurated at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) – a milestone for cultural and academic cooperation.”
Multilateral Cooperation and the Organization of Turkic States
“We are also actively engaged in multilateral cooperation, especially within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). Hungary successfully hosted the OTS Informal Summit on 20-21 May 2025, in Budapest.
We highly value the work of the OTS Representation Office in Hungary and welcome Ambassador Balázs Hendrich as its new Executive Director. We look forward to working closely with him in the time ahead.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we are confident that the mutually beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan and our strategic partner Hungary will continue to flourish and reach new heights in the coming years. Thank you all for joining us in this celebration.”
“Long live the friendship between Azerbaijan and Hungary!” – declared the Ambassador in a heartfelt toast, raising glasses high with the guest of honour in the spirit of friendship.
In his address, the guest of honour, Mr. Péter Hoppál, Government Commissioner at the Ministry of Culture and Innovation, warmly welcomed the Ambassador of Azerbaijan and all attendees, extending his heartfelt congratulations on the occasion of this momentous anniversary. He conveyed his best wishes to the leadership and people of Azerbaijan on Independence Day. He praised Azerbaijan’s remarkable achievements over the past decades, highlighting its development, international engagement, and growing influence. He also underscored the importance of the close and mutually beneficial relationship between Hungary and Azerbaijan, which is anchored in a strategic partnership based on shared values and long-standing cooperation.
Concluding his speech, Mr Péter Hoppál proposed a toast to Azerbaijan’s continued progress, prosperity, and the enduring friendship between the two nations.
Though the evening began overcast, the weather soon cleared, allowing guests to fully enjoy the outdoor reception on the terrace with breath-taking views of the city skyline. A lavish buffet offered an exquisite array of traditional Azerbaijani specialties alongside international favourites for all in attendance.
The festive atmosphere was enhanced by a live performance from an Azerbaijani trio, highlighted by the virtuosity of renowned guitarist Rahman Mammadli, whose captivating melodies added a special touch to the memorable evening.
Source: Embassy of Azerbaijan in Budapest
Photos by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Budapest and DPA
