Among those present were representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan, members of the Milli Majlis, ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic corps of partner countries, the Ukrainian community, friends and partners of Ukraine, as well as the Hero-Defenders of Mariupol — former prisoners of war who arrived in Azerbaijan for rest and rehabilitation.

We sincerely thank everyone who stood with us on this day — in solidarity, support, and shared remembrance.

In his address, Ambassador of Ukraine Yuriy Husyev spoke to the audience and emphasized the heroism and resilience of the Ukrainian people, who together with international partners defend the values of freedom and democracy in Europe and around the world. The Ambassador also expressed gratitude to the leadership and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as to all international partners, for the support Ukraine has received since the first days of the full-scale war. The memory of the fallen Heroes and civilian victims was honored with a minute of silence.

As part of the event, the documentary film Ukraine Under Fire was screened, portraying the horrors and crimes of Russian aggression. Guests were also presented with the exhibition “GENERATION OF WAR” — a selection of works from the art marathon “Generation of War,” organized by Association for the Development of International Relations. This is art born of war, yet filled with hope, strength, and faith in the triumph of good over evil.

The event concluded with a flower-laying ceremony at the Memorial Wall near the Embassy, as a sign of respect for the fallen defenders of Ukraine and innocent victims of the war.

On the same day, prayers for Ukraine were held at the Ukrainian Center in Baku and in Christian churches.

In these days, we not only remember the tragic events of February 2022 and the beginning of Russian aggression in 2014. We look forward. Ukraine continues to fight. Ukraine is rebuilding. Ukraine is reforming. Ukraine is strengthening international partnerships.

And Ukraine will undoubtedly prevail — because it defends truth, freedom, and the very right to live and develop. I am convinced that the stronger international solidarity becomes, and the more actively the efforts of states that uphold the principles of international law are united, the sooner a just and lasting peace will come. Once again, I express sincere gratitude to Azerbaijan for its support, friendship, and the brotherly helping hand extended in the most difficult days. We value this. We remember this. And we are confident that new chapters lie ahead for our countries — chapters of expanded strategic partnership, successful and mutually beneficial cooperation, and true friendship based on mutual trust, respect, and a shared peaceful and prosperous future for our peoples.