Ilham Aliyev: Shusha was under captivity for 28 years, but did not lose its national spirit

The city of Shusha was under captivity for 28 years, but it did not lose its national spirit.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said this at a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Shusha, Operativ Media reports.

According to the head of state, Shusha was liberated from Armenian occupation exactly 6 years ago:

"We are delighted that you are with us on Victory Day. Shusha was liberated from Armenian occupation 6 years ago. A day later, Armenia officially capitulated, bringing an end to 30 years of occupation."

The head of state noted that the liberation of Shusha carried immense symbolic significance and was one of the key milestones of the Second Karabakh War.

"Throughout the 44 days, you, my dear brother, and the brotherly Turkish people stood by our side. The statement you issued in the first hours of the war and your phone call with me showed the entire world that Turkiye stands with Azerbaijan. Your statement gave us added strength and spirit. Your historic words—'Azerbaijan is not alone. Turkiye is by its side'—will never be forgotten."