National Salvation Day Date: June 15
National Salvation Day is a public holiday in Azerbaijan.
Azerbaijan is a country near the intersection of Asia and Europe. This country has its borders on the verge of Russia in the north, Armenia in the west, Iran to the South, and the Caspian Sea eastwards. The majority of the people are Shiite Muslims and ethnic Azeri. The country follows secularism as a policy, and its love for peace is demonstrated by the membership in various organizations such as GUAM, Organization for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, and the United Nations. It is also a part of the NATO Partnership for Peace program.
One of the most important days in the calendar of this country is National Salvation Day celebrated every year on June 15.
History of National Salvation Day in Azerbaijan
National Salvation Day is celebrated to commemorate both the end of a civil war that went on within the country and the return of democracy to the people. The military coup was conducted by Surat Huseynov’s military on June 4 in Ganja and demanded resignation of Parliament Speaker Isa Gambar and Prime Minister Panah Huseyn. This led Azerbaijan to anarchy. These rebels then seized power in Ganja and moved towards Baku.
To stop this insurgence and to battle against these anarchists, Heydar Aliyev was invited to Baku. He accepted the invitation, and once he arrived, he was elected unanimously as speaker and head of state. He held talks with the revolting group of the army when he reached Baku. The talks went on smoothly, and he reported the turn of events and the demands of the rebellion in the parliament. The members of the rebellion agreed to the demands, and hence the threat of the civil war that hung upon the country was lifted.
To mark this day of lifting the specter of war, every year on June 15, National Salvation Day is celebrated. It is on this day when Heydar Aliyev was elected as the chairman of the parliament and subsequently as the president. This holiday was made official by an act of parliament in 1997.
Azerbaijan’s National Salvation Day Traditions, Customs and Activities
The defense wing and the veterans of the military take part in the ceremonial parade that takes place every year. The president presides over this parade accepting the salute from the various wings or parts of his defense force. Like any other important day, this is also a public holiday with the majority of commercial establishments closing.
The president also addresses the nation on this day emphasizing the need for national unity and security. These celebrations are also extended to the television, which broadcasts live the speech of the president to the civilians. There are also celebrations in the form of a fireworks display at night.
Other interesting posts:
- Solidarity Day Celebrated in Azerbaijan
- Azerbaijan Remembers Its Martyrs
- Azerbaijan Independence Day
- Azerbaijan Celebrates Republic Day
- Constitution Day Observed in Azerbaijan
Other interesting posts:
