Edited by Anna Popper
The Republic of Azerbaijan observes its Independence Day every year on 28 May, commemorating one of the most significant milestones in the nation’s history: the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan in 1918. Widely recognized as the first secular, democratic, parliamentary republic in the Muslim world, it introduced progressive democratic principles and became the first Muslim-majority nation to grant women the right to vote. Although its existence was short-lived, its legacy remains a cornerstone of modern Azerbaijani statehood. Following the restoration of independence in 1991, the Republic of Azerbaijan continued to build upon the democratic traditions and values established by its founders 108 years ago. This achievement was made possible by the resilience of the Azerbaijani people and their unwavering commitment to independence, progress, and national development.
On the occasion of Independence Day, H.E. Tahir Taghizade, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Hungary, and Mrs. Irada Rustamova hosted an official reception in the beautiful garden of Vadrózsa Restaurant in Buda. High-ranking Hungarian officials, members of parliament, ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of the cultural, academic, business, and scientific communities, members of the Azerbaijani diaspora, and representatives of the media attended the event amidst this idyllic setting.
The celebration began with the national anthems of Azerbaijan and Hungary, after which Ambassador Taghizade welcomed the distinguished guests.
In his remarks, the ambassador emphasized the historical significance of Independence Day, noting that the establishment of the Azerbaijani Democratic Republic represented a groundbreaking achievement not only for Azerbaijan but also for the entire Muslim and Turkic world. He underlined that the democratic ideals, parliamentary traditions, and commitment to statehood established in 1918 continue to guide the country’s development today.
Ambassador Taghizade highlighted the strengthening of Azerbaijani statehood over the past decades, paying tribute to National Leader Heydar Aliyev for consolidating the country’s independence and laying the foundations of the modern Azerbaijani state. He noted that this vision continues to be successfully advanced under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, during whose presidency Azerbaijan has further enhanced its international standing and consolidated its position as an important political, economic, and energy hub in the region.
A significant part of the ambassador’s speech was dedicated to the growing strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Hungary. He described the bilateral relations as being founded on friendship, mutual respect, and shared interests, noting that the regular exchange of high-level visits and the continuous political dialogue between the two governments reflect the excellent state of relations and their dynamic development.
The ambassador also highlighted the expanding legal framework underpinning bilateral cooperation, including dozens of agreements covering a wide range of sectors. He stressed the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and welcomed the increasingly active cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, which has further strengthened political dialogue and mutual understanding.
Addressing economic relations, Ambassador Taghizade noted that trade between Azerbaijan and Hungary has continued to grow steadily, exceeding USD 200 million in recent years. He pointed to the growing presence of Hungarian companies in Azerbaijan and praised the work of the Azerbaijan–Hungary Intergovernmental Commission in fostering economic cooperation.
Particular attention was devoted to the energy sector, where Azerbaijan and Hungary have developed a strong partnership. The ambassador recalled Hungary’s consistent support for the Southern Gas Corridor and highlighted the ongoing cooperation on natural gas supplies, energy diversification, and renewable energy projects. He also referred to the strategic green energy partnership between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania, and Hungary as an important contribution to Europe’s future energy security.
He further emphasized the importance of direct flights operated by Wizz Air between Budapest and Baku, which continue to promote tourism, business relations, and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.
Regarding educational and cultural cooperation, Ambassador Taghizade expressed his appreciation for Hungary’s continued support through the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme, under which more than 600 Azerbaijani students are currently pursuing their studies at Hungarian universities. He also highlighted the opening of the Azerbaijan Language and Culture Centre at ELTE University and welcomed the growing number of academic partnerships, student exchanges, and joint educational initiatives between institutions in both countries.
The Guest of Honour, Ali Huseynli, Chairman of the Azerbaijan–Hungary Inter-Parliamentary Relations Working Group, also addressed the invited guests. In his remarks, he underlined the successful development of Azerbaijani-Hungarian relations in the political, economic, cultural, and parliamentary fields. He emphasized the importance of inter-parliamentary dialogue for strengthening bilateral ties and fostering closer cooperation between the two nations.
Mr. Huseynli noted that Azerbaijan celebrates Independence Day this year with particular pride, highlighting the country’s achievements in strengthening its sovereignty and national unity. He expressed confidence that the establishment of lasting peace and enhanced regional connectivity would create new opportunities for cooperation and contribute to long-term stability, prosperity, and development throughout the wider region.
The cultural programme added a special dimension to the evening. Guests enjoyed video presentations filmed in Azerbaijan featuring the musical compositions “Mehriban Olaq” (“Let’s Be Kind”) and the beloved folk song “Sarı Gəlin” (“Yellow Bride”), performed jointly by the Hungarian Rhapsody Project ensemble and renowned Azerbaijani musicians with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. The performances vividly illustrated the cultural dialogue and friendship that continue to flourish between Azerbaijan and Hungary.
The reception concluded with a presentation of traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, which attracted considerable interest among the guests. The rich selection of national specialties offered an authentic glimpse into Azerbaijan’s culinary heritage and renowned hospitality.
The celebration served not only as a commemoration of Azerbaijan’s historic journey to independence but also as a reflection of the increasingly close and multifaceted partnership between Azerbaijan and Hungary. Through political dialogue, economic cooperation, educational exchanges, and cultural initiatives, the two countries continue to strengthen a relationship founded on friendship, strategic partnership, and mutual trust.
Source: Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Budapest
Photos from the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Budapest
