An event titled “November 8 Azerbaijan Victory Day” was organized by the Üsküdar Üniversitesi International Relations Department. Enthusiastic moments were experienced at the event, where Azerbaijan's victory and independence were celebrated. The program created an intimate atmosphere of Azerbaijani culture with the Azerbaijani anthem, local music, and dance performances. Emphasizing the two brotherly countries, Üsküdar Üniversitesi Rector Prof. Dr. Nazife Güngör said; “Every step you take will be our pride. We will give strength to each other reciprocally and strengthen together.”
The event was held at the Nermin Tarhan conference hall of Üsküdar Üniversitesi Central Campus.
Attendees of the event included Üsküdar Üniversitesi Rector Prof. Dr. Nazife Güngör, President of Turkey Azerbaijan Culture and Strategic Research Center Prof. Dr. İbrahim Öztek, Head of Üsküdar Üniversitesi International Relations Department Peyman Jaferi, Vice Chairman of Turkish States Martyrs' Relatives and Veterans Foundation, Atty. İbrahim Gögsu, as well as academicians and students.
Prof. Dr. Nazife Güngör: “Education is indispensable for a country's development”
The event, which began with the recitation of the Turkish National Anthem and the Azerbaijani Anthem, featured an opening speech by Üsküdar Üniversitesi Rector Prof. Dr. Nazife Güngör within the scope of November 8 Azerbaijan Victory Day.
Reminding that she had just returned from Azerbaijan, Prof. Dr. Nazife Güngör emphasized that human capital is the most valuable asset. Güngör stated; “One of the most striking features of Azerbaijanis that impressed me is the importance they attach to education. Education, consciousness, culture, and art are indispensable for a country's development. I see these values and consciousness abundantly in our Azerbaijani people. Everyone talks about education on the streets, in conversations. Another observation I made is that in Azerbaijan, educational institutions, bureaucracy, and politics are all united. They are never stingy in investing in human capital and they know that human capital is the most valuable capital, and investments in children and youth are very important.”
“We will give strength to each other and strengthen together”
Emphasizing that the two brotherly countries will always be together, Güngör said; “Every step you take will be our pride. We will give strength to each other reciprocally and strengthen together. Every good thing done by Azerbaijanis is a great happiness for us. I believe that we will stand firm against all imperial powers. We have independence in our spirit. As long as we are together, undivided, and aware of our strength, we will achieve great things.”
Peyman Jaferi: “Celebrating this victory is an opportunity to make our common future brighter”
Peyman Jaferi, Head of Üsküdar Üniversitesi International Relations Department, delivered a speech at the event held as part of November 8 Azerbaijan Victory Day. Jaferi said; “This meaningful day is not only a symbol of Azerbaijan's struggle for independence and territorial integrity, but also represents the triumph of justice, solidarity, and determination. The people of Azerbaijan have faced great difficulties throughout history, but have always managed to overcome them with courage, unity, and togetherness. This victory, as one of the unforgettable pages of history, has also proven the supremacy of international law and justice. Such victories remind us that nations exist not only by their lands, but by their cultures, histories, and the will of their people. Victory Day carries a universal message, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and peace not only for Azerbaijan but among the peoples of the world. Therefore, coming together here today to celebrate this victory is an opportunity to both strengthen our fraternal ties and to make our common future brighter.”
Atty. İbrahim Gögsu: “The Azerbaijani people are united”
Vice Chairman of Turkish States Martyrs' Relatives and Veterans Foundation, Atty. İbrahim Gögsu, delivered his speech at the event. Gögsu drew attention to the patriotism of the Azerbaijani people. Gögsu stated; “Today I am here representing the Turkish States Martyrs' Relatives and Veterans Foundation. Our foundation is a non-governmental organization established to ensure the integration and solidarity of martyrs' relatives and veterans in Turkish states, especially Azerbaijan, within the context of fraternal law. Although we were only established in 2023, I can very easily say that we are a pioneering NGO in this field. I have visited many martyrs' relatives and veterans in Azerbaijan. We are trying to support spiritual integration. We have important projects, and our work continues. The Azerbaijani people are united. Their citizenship and patriotism are truly impressive…”
Following Gögsu's speech, a video message from Gazi-Polkovnik Leytenant Elmar Hüseyn, director of the martyrs-veterans branch of Surakhany district, Baku city, was shown.
Afterward, a video message from Prof. Dr. Ebulfez Süleymanlı, faculty member of the Sociology Department at Üsküdar Üniversitesi Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, and Gülüstan Karimli, ASAP International Relations Manager, was also shown.
Prof. Dr. İbrahim Öztek: “I feel more than just an Azerbaijani…”
President of Turkey Azerbaijan Culture and Strategic Research Center Prof. Dr. İbrahim Öztek delivered his speech at the event. Öztek said; “I am deeply honored to celebrate this great victory together with our Azerbaijani brothers and sisters. Karabakh is Azerbaijan. I have experienced the injustices suffered by Azerbaijan in my heart, soul, and conscience. Together with my Azerbaijani friends, we have given many conferences in various parts of Turkey and in Azerbaijan. That’s why I feel more than just an Azerbaijani…”
The musical performances and traditional dance shows at the event garnered great appreciation. At the end of the event, Azerbaijani tea and traditional sweets were tasted.
The event concluded after a group photo session.