Concert held in London to mark Nov. 8 Victory Day

A concert titled "Echoes of Victory" was held in London, the capital of Great Britain, to mark Nov. 8 – Victory Day.

Operativ Media reports that the event, held at the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall of the historic Royal College of Music—one of the world's leading conservatories—was jointly organized by Azerbaijan's State Committee on Work with Diaspora, the Coordination Council of Azerbaijanis Living in the UK, the British Azerbaijani Society, and Agshin Karimov.

The event was attended by Azerbaijan's Ambassador to the UK Elin Suleymanov, representatives of the Azerbaijani diaspora, figures from the arts, and compatriots living in London. Senior diplomats from the Turkish Embassy in the UK also attended.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Elin Suleymanov congratulated the attendees on Nov. 8 – Victory Day, emphasizing that this date holds exceptional significance in the life of the Azerbaijani people.

Suleymanov stated that President Ilham Aliyev's resolute leadership, farsighted policy, and strategic vision played a crucial role in achieving the historic victory. He stressed that under the head of state's leadership, the Azerbaijani people united around a single goal, demonstrating unity and solidarity. Recalling that thousands of young people lost their lives during the Patriotic War, he noted that great sacrifices lay behind this victory.

The ambassador noted that citizens of Azerbaijan and Azerbaijanis living in various countries around the world are currently experiencing a special period in the country's history. He emphasized the importance of not forgetting the significance of this historical moment, preserving the nation's unity and solidarity, and stepping into the future together.

In his speech, the diplomat also touched upon Nov. 9 – National Flag Day. Stating that the Azerbaijani flag flies high today thanks to great struggle and sacrifices, the ambassador noted the importance of keeping the memory of the martyrs alive forever and always holding the tricolor flag high.

First Counselor of the Turkish Embassy in the UK Elvan Haciefendioglu spoke next, congratulating the Azerbaijani people on Victory Day. Stating that the phrase "One nation, two states" demonstrates the deep bonds between the two countries, Haciefendioglu added that Türkiye and Azerbaijan have always stood side by side and will continue to do so. Emphasizing the importance of lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, the Turkish diplomat concluded his speech by saying, "Happy Victory Day to dear Azerbaijan."

The event then continued with a cultural program.

Students from the "Qarabag" school, led by Saadat Farziyeva, and the "Acapella" academy performed various musical pieces. The concert program also featured performances of Azerbaijani and world music by People's Artist of Azerbaijan Fidan Hajiyeva, international competition laureate and presidential scholar pianist Vusala Babayeva, London-based Azerbaijani singer Emin Eminzade, kamancha player Rasim Farziyev, and Honored Cultural Worker and tar player Rafig Rustamov.

Compatriots residing in the UK who attended the concert sang along with the musicians to songs such as "Can Qarabag", "Yasha Azerbaijan", and "Ey aziz Anam, Azerbaijan", sharing in the spirit of Victory Day.