Visit to Aghdam Fortress
The tour began with a visit to Aghdam Fortress. Camp participants were informed about the history and significance of this fortress, learning about its strategic importance and architectural features.
Khojaly: History and Restoration
In Khojaly, the camp participants were told about the brutal crimes committed by Armenian occupiers against peaceful residents 32 years ago. They also received information on the destruction of historical and architectural monuments and the restoration efforts undertaken after the city’s liberation. The youth learned about ongoing restoration and reconstruction projects in the area.
Visit to Shusha
In Shusha, the youth visited the central square, the “Executed Statues” monument, the Ganja Gates, and other landmarks. They were informed about Shusha’s rich history, the construction of fortress walls by Karabakh Khan Panah Ali Khan, which protected the city from external attacks for a long time. The participants also learned about the restoration work being carried out after Shusha’s liberation, with special attention to restoring the city’s historical appearance and cultural monuments.
Events in Lachin
In Lachin, the camp participants visited the city of Khankendi, where they received detailed information about the city and its significance. They then went to Karabakh University and met with Rector Shahin Bayramov. The rector emphasized that the camp participants were the university’s first guests and provided a detailed overview of its history, modern infrastructure, future plans, faculties, and specializations.
Visits to Local Attractions
As part of the camp, excursions were organized to “Hakari Fish Farm,” the “Gilabi Ceramics” center, the creative studio “Hochazfilm,” and the village of Zabukh in Lachin district. At “Hakari Fish Farm,” the youth learned about the process of sturgeon farming and caviar production. At the “Gilabi Ceramics” center, participants were introduced to ceramic products decorated with national patterns. At the “Hochazfilm” studio, they were informed about projects promoting the Karabakh region and cultural events.
Visit to Zabukh
Zabukh, located between the Hakari and Zabukh rivers, impressed the camp participants with its natural beauty. The youth highly appreciated the restoration work being carried out in the village. It is worth noting that the village of Zabukh was liberated from Armenian occupation on August 26, 2022, and the return of the population began on August 25, 2023.
Panel Discussion “Lachin Residents in Lachin”
A panel discussion on “Lachin Residents in Lachin” was also held in Lachin, moderated by Vasila Zeynalova, head of the analytical department of the State Committee on Work with the Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The panel featured Ikram Rustamov, a lecturer at the Azerbaijan Medical University and candidate of medical sciences; Gulmammad Mammadov, a lecturer at ADA University and deputy chairman of the “Karabakh Return” organization; and Elnur Aliyev, dean of the faculty of administrative management at the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The discussion took place at Secondary School No. 2 in Lachin, where Ikram Rustamov and Vasila Zeynalova once studied. Participants spoke about the significance of holding the camp on the ancient Azerbaijani land of Lachin and the return of its residents after 31 years of forced displacement. Lachin residents shared their difficult life stories in forced exile and their joy of returning to Lachin.
Impressions of Participants
Camp participants highly appreciated the discussion held in liberated Lachin, thanked Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and the heroic Azerbaijani army, and wished peace to the souls of the fallen. Diaspora youth expressed gratitude to the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora for organizing this event and emphasized the importance of the information received for the information war.
Many participants shared their impressions. Aren Rafipur from Canada noted that the story of the Lachin residents deeply moved him, while Lasha Isabalayev from Georgia said the discussion was more emotional than he expected. Humaya Mustafazade from Lithuania highlighted the beauty of the school where the panel discussion was held, and Murad Melikzade from France expressed satisfaction with the meetings with Lachin residents and supported the organization of such events.
It should be noted that the 5th Summer Camp for Diaspora Youth, considered one of the major projects in the history of the diaspora, is organized by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and will run from August 1 to 7. The camp hosts 115 young people from 60 countries, including both Azerbaijanis living in various countries around the world and representatives of nations friendly to Azerbaijan.
