44-day war marked a turning point in Azerbaijan’s national identity – ADA University Rector

The 44-day war not only ended the decades-long conflict with Armenia but also became a defining moment in shaping a new national identity for Azerbaijan, said ADA University Rector Hafiz Pashayev during the 7th ADA Political Forum titled “Towards a New World Order” held at Karabakh University in Khankandi, according to Report.

Highlighting the deep significance of Karabakh for Azerbaijan, Pashayev reflected:

“Karabakh has always been a major national issue. During my tenure as ambassador to Washington, it was a constant priority. Holding that position was an honor, but it was also a difficult decision for me personally."

He recalled the unique challenges Azerbaijan faced in Washington:

“Most ambassadors didn’t even engage with Congress. But for Azerbaijan, that wasn’t an option—we had to. The Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan dominated our agenda. I spent much of my time working with members of Congress on this issue.”

Pashayev also shared his frustration with the often repetitive nature of diplomatic efforts:

"Toward the end of my mission, I sometimes felt our work didn’t have lasting impact. You brief a Congressman, then he retires or leaves office, and you’re back to square one. I never imagined that one day this issue would be resolved in such a decisive way—one that would fill our people with pride."

The rector emphasized that the 44-day war brought a resolution to a historic struggle and marked the birth of a renewed national spirit:

“Now, we are standing at Karabakh University. There’s no better symbol for our national revival than the city of Khankandi. And with time, more people will come to witness the transformation happening here.”