Ilham Aliyev: We are an independent state in the true sense of the word

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on May 28 inspected the progress of restoration work in Boyuk Galaderesi village of the Shusha district and met with residents who had returned to their native homes.

The head of state was briefed on the restoration of individual houses and the creation of the necessary infrastructure. New power lines have been laid in the village, a transformer has been installed, and work is underway to provide gas, drinking water, and communications. Internal village roads have also been improved, a park has been built for residents, and a Flag Square has been established.

There are a total of 50 individual houses in Boyuk Galaderesi. Of these, 13 have been deemed unfit for habitation, while 37 are partially usable. During the first phase, 17 houses have already been restored, with another 20 planned for restoration at the next stage. Initially, 64 people, comprising 14 families, have returned to the village.

Boyuk Galaderesi was occupied by Armenian armed forces in 1992 and liberated in 2023 during the anti-terror measures carried out by the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan.

During the meeting with residents, the President congratulated them on Independence Day and Eid al-Adha, noting that returning to one’s native land after a long separation is a great happiness.

“You are celebrating both Independence Day and Eid al-Adha on your native Karabakh land. This is a great happiness,” Ilham Aliyev said.

The head of state emphasized that Azerbaijan is a truly independent state, as it determines its own destiny, conducts its policy without external influence, and acts on the basis of national interests.

According to the President, the victory in the Second Karabakh War and the subsequent events of 2023 fully restored Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He also noted that peace was achieved on Azerbaijan’s terms.

“Today, every inch of Azerbaijan’s territory is under our control. Azerbaijan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity have been fully restored,” Aliyev said.

The President also highlighted the scale of restoration work in the liberated territories, stressing that a vast number of projects are being implemented within a short period of time to ensure the return of former internally displaced persons and create decent living conditions for them.

At the end of the meeting, Ilham Aliyev wished the residents good health and well-being. The meeting concluded with the taking of commemorative photographs.