Mirziyoyev visits Heydar Aliyev’s grave during the Azerbaijan state visit

On July 3, the second day of his state visit to Azerbaijan, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the Alley of Honor in Baku to pay tribute at the grave of Heydar Aliyev, the national leader of the Azerbaijani people, the press service of the Uzbek President reported.

Mirziyoyev laid flowers at Aliyev’s grave, honoring the memory of the distinguished statesman and politician.

“Heydar Aliyev is rightfully considered the founder of independent Azerbaijan. Under his leadership, a solid foundation was laid for the country’s rapid development and growing influence on the international stage. His contribution to state building and the strengthening of national sovereignty occupies a special place in Azerbaijan’s history,” the report stated.

Heydar Aliyev is highly respected in Uzbekistan as a leader who prioritized the development and reinforcement of friendly relations between the two fraternal nations.

For background, Heydar Aliyev was born on May 10, 1923, in Nakhichevan, Azerbaijan, and passed away on December 12, 2003. He is regarded as one of the most influential politicians in Azerbaijan’s history. Aliyev began his career in the KGB, later serving as head of the Azerbaijan SSR from 1969 to 1982. From 1982 to 1987, he was Deputy Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers. After Azerbaijan gained independence, Aliyev was elected president in 1993 and led the country until 2003. His tenure was marked by economic stabilization through an oil strategy and attracting foreign investments. Aliyev is credited with ensuring national stability and is recognized as a national leader. Since 2003, his son Ilham Aliyev has held the presidency.

It is worth noting that on July 2, an official welcoming ceremony took place at the Zagulba residence in Baku for President Mirziyoyev. Following bilateral negotiations, Mirziyoyev and President Aliyev adopted decisions during the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council. Several bilateral agreements were signed in the presence of both heads of state. Additionally, the new building of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Baku was inaugurated.