BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 30. The solidarity
day unites the world Azerbaijanis around a common goal, shared
values, and national interests, political analyst Azer Garayev told
Trend.


According to him, the Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis is
significant, celebrated annually on December 31, which expresses
the national identity, historical memory, and idea of ​​unity of
Azerbaijanis on a global scale.


"This day is not just a date on the calendar, but a symbol of
the solidarity of a people who have lived for hundreds of years as
part of various empires, geographically divided, but have
maintained their spiritual unity.


The historical roots of the Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis
are closely connected to significant socio-political events that
took place in the late 20th century. In December 1989, the removal
of border fences along the Araz river and the desire of
Azerbaijanis living in both northern and southern parts of the
country to reunite were a clear manifestation of the people's wish
for freedom and unity. This event was a protest not only against
geographical borders but also against artificial separations formed
over many years. After the establishment of independent Azerbaijan
in 1991, this idea was supported at the state level.


On the initiative of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, December 31
was declared the Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis. This
transformed the idea of solidarity from an emotional appeal into
one of the key directions of national policy.


According to the analyst, the concept of "solidarity" transcends
mere unity for the Azerbaijani people; it embodies a profound
commitment to preserving national identity, safeguarding the native
language, culture, and traditions, and advocating for the
restoration of historical justice. While Azerbaijanis living in
diverse socio-political contexts across the globe may operate in
distinct environments, the unifying force remains the ideology of
Azerbaijanism.


"Azerbaijanism is a unifying ideology that brings together all
Azerbaijanis under a singular identity, irrespective of national
origin, religious beliefs, or political affiliations. Solidarity
Day of World Azerbaijanis serves to reinforce this ideology,
bolster the efforts of the diaspora, and champion national
interests. In the contemporary geopolitical landscape, where
information warfare, political pressures, and global competition
are intensifying, the role of organized and coordinated diaspora
efforts has never been more crucial in defending national
interests."


In this regard, the Azerbaijani diaspora has witnessed
considerable growth and transformation. Solidarity Day of World
Azerbaijanis stands as a key platform to amplify attention on
national issues among expatriates, to raise awareness about the
realities of Karabakh, and to project Azerbaijan's legitimate voice
within the international arena. The remarkable unity and activism
demonstrated by diaspora organizations, particularly during the
2020 Second Karabakh War, unequivocally highlighted the tangible
outcomes of solidarity in action," he added.


Garayev emphasized that Azerbaijan considers strengthening
relations with the global Azerbaijani community as one of its
strategic priorities. In this regard, the activities of the State
Committee on Work with Diaspora, the holding of World Azerbaijanis
Congresses, and the implementation of various international
projects are of special significance.


"Solidarity Day forms the ideological foundation of this policy.
The mutual trust, information exchange, and joint action mechanisms
between the state and the diaspora are built on this pan-national
idea. As a result, Azerbaijanis living abroad feel not only as
members of an ethnic community but as an integral part of a strong
and independent state. In the era of globalization, the
preservation of national identity is particularly important for the
younger generation. Azerbaijani youth born and raised abroad,
shaped by different cultural environments, can strengthen their
connection to the mother tongue, history, and national values
through targeted policies and public initiatives.


The Solidarity Day of World Azerbaijanis is an important
ideological tool in the formation of national consciousness among
young people. The forums, cultural events, conferences, and online
platforms held on this day create an opportunity for young people
to connect and strengthen the sense of shared identity," he
noted.


The analyst stressed that one of the main pillars of national
unity is culture and language. The Azerbaijani language serves as a
spiritual bond for Azerbaijanis living in different countries.
Literary and artistic evenings, concerts, and exhibitions held on
Solidarity Day are of great importance in promoting national
culture.


"Through these events, both Azerbaijani culture is preserved and
presented to other nations. Thus, Solidarity Day not only
strengthens internal unity but also contributes to the formation of
Azerbaijan's international image. Today, the world is rapidly
changing, and new political and informational challenges are
emerging. In the context of disinformation, double standards, and
regional tensions, preserving national unity is becoming even more
relevant.


World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day serves as a moral shield
against these challenges. In the future, enriching the content of
this day and strengthening the global Azerbaijani network through
digital platforms will be crucial. Coordinated actions in social
media, international media outlets, and academic environments can
elevate the idea of solidarity to a new stage. The Solidarity Day
of World Azerbaijanis is the celebration of Azerbaijan’s historical
memory, national identity, and global unity.


Regardless of where Azerbaijanis live, this day unites them
around common values, forming a shared sense of responsibility for
national interests. Solidarity is strength. This strength combines
the moral heritage passed down from Azerbaijan's past, the
statehood mentality that defines its present, and the strategic
vision for its future. December 31 – Solidarity Day of World
Azerbaijanis will continue to live as a symbol of this unity and
strength," added Garayev.