The unshakable alliance of Azerbaijan and Türkiye, built on the principles of both the founding leader of Türkiye, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, and Heydar Aliyev, who made exceptional contributions to the development of the state of Azerbaijan, is an example to the whole world, Rector of Hacettepe University, Professor Mehmet Cahit Guran told Report.
Recalling Ataturk’s statement “Azerbaijan's joy is our joy, and its sorrow is our sorrow” and Heydar Aliyev’s statement “One nation, two states”, the rector said that Azerbaijan-Türkiye, following the principles set by both leaders, laid the foundation for the Turkic unity:
“The path set by the great leaders of Türkiye and Azerbaijan led to the creation of a powerful alliance like the Organization of Turkic States. This union, which is growing more and more, will prove its worth to those who ignore the Turk. That is, all these are the result of far-sighted policies of rare personalities like Atatürk and Heydar Aliyev.”
The rector reminded that in 1918, under the command of Nuru Pasha, the Turko-Caucasian Islamic Army came to Baku and freed Baku from occupation after fierce battles, which was highly appreciated by Heydar Aliyev. This can also be considered an admirable example:
“Especially emphasizing this period the late Aliyev’s statement ‘The arrival of the Turkish army to Azerbaijan, to Baku, saving Azerbaijan from the aggression of the Dashnaks lives in the heart of every Azerbaijani. The people of Azerbaijan will never forget the help and support given to them by the Turkish people during that difficult period’ gives important messages.
Heydar Aliyev fought throughout his life for the development of Azerbaijan, whose foundation of independence was laid in 1918. He established useful cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye in the political arena on the one hand, and in military strategy and command, on the other hand. I believe that rare people like Heydar Aliyev, who is an important personality for both states, will always be remembered with respect.”