Azerbaijan’s National Salvation Day, celebrated annually on June 15, holds a significant place in the modern history of the country. This day marks the return to power of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in 1993—a historic moment that played a decisive role in preserving the country’s independence, restoring political stability, and setting the course for its future development.

After regaining independence on October 18, 1991, Azerbaijan faced numerous internal and external challenges, with a real danger of losing its hard-won statehood. Military aggression by Armenia, economic collapse, and a severe internal government crisis culminated in June 1993. The situation within the armed forces was also critical, marked by a growing number of desertions from military units.

Various armed groups and factions were vying for control, while the country descended into a deep internal political crisis. The military unit stationed in Ganja, Azerbaijan’s second-largest city, refused to comply with orders from the Ministry of Defense. In response, the government sent troops to Ganja to suppress the uprising.

Due to poor decision-making, the uprising expanded and spiraled out of control. The rebels began marching toward Baku, demanding a change in government. The ruling coalition, led by the Popular Front of Azerbaijan and the Musavat Party, realized it could no longer contain the threat of a civil war.

Amid this turbulence, the country needed a strong-willed, visionary, and experienced leader—someone capable of navigating the crisis and averting national catastophe. As Azerbaijan teetered on the brink of collapse, the people and government turned to Heydar Aliyev, the distinguished statesman then serving as Chairman of the Supreme Mejlis (regional parliament) of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

On June 15, 1993, responding to a national call, Heydar Aliyev returned to Baku and assumed leadership at a time when Azerbaijani statehood was under grave threat. His prudent and resolute leadership restored constitutional order, stabilized the political climate, and laid the groundwork for economic reforms and the creation of robust state institutions.

It is particularly noteworthy that Heydar Aliyev personally traveled to Ganja, risking his life to resolve the crisis. Through negotiation, he successfully prevented the outbreak of civil conflict. His timely and courageous actions ensured the preservation of Azerbaijan’s independence.

In his address to the Milli Majlis (Parliament) on June 15, 1993, Heydar Aliyev outlined strategies to strengthen the state. He later implemented this vision through concrete reforms. While the declaration of independence had been the first major step, safeguarding and developing that independence was equally vital. On October 3, 1993, he was elected President of the Republic of Azerbaijan through a nationwide vote.

June 15 was subsequently enshrined in the national calendar as the Day of National Salvation. It received official status in 1997 and has been celebrated as a national holiday since 1998.

Azerbaijan’s National Salvation Day is more than a commemoration of a turning point in political history—it is a tribute to the resilience, unity, and unwavering determination of the Azerbaijani people in defending their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peace. Today, Azerbaijan continues to build on this legacy, striving for sustainable development, the strengthening of the nation-state, and enhanced regional cooperation.

*Mr. Anar Huseynov is the Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Republic of Albania