Mustafa Babanli, rector of Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University - "The process of state-building, the economic rejuvenation of an independent Azerbaijan, advancements in various domains, and the consolidation of its position and influence within the global community as an independent nation are intrinsically linked to the prominent figure of Heydar Aliyev, a revered leader. He is recognized as the originator of the Azerbaijanism ideology, diligently endeavouring to enhance and refine this ideology during both phases of his leadership. The philosophy of Azerbaijanism, formulated and nurtured by Heydar Aliyev, has been instrumental in defining Azerbaijan's position in the contemporary world, establishing the ideological groundwork for our national sovereignty, and fostering a firm basis for the unity of the Azerbaijani people worldwide. A notable aspect deserving particular attention is the paramount significance accorded to the unity of the global Azerbaijani community during the national leader's activities in Nakhchivan. This emphasis on unity was explicitly reflected in a decision made on December 16, 1991, during a meeting of the Supreme Majlis of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic under the chairmanship of the great leader, Heydar Aliyev. It was agreed upon to designate December 31 as the Day of Solidarity of World Azerbaijanis. By establishing this occasion, the great leader, who consistently prioritized the organizational process of the Azerbaijani diaspora, effectively achieved the consolidation and ideological coherence of the people. Solidarity Day plays a crucial role in establishing connections with over 70 million Azerbaijanis residing in more than 50 countries across the globe. The unity demonstrated by our compatriots living in various countries and their valuable contributions to promoting the realities of Azerbaijan serves as a testament to our historic victory in the 44-day Second Karabakh War."
Mustafa Babanli also emphasized the significance attached to the national leader's momentous endeavour in ensuring national unity: "The attainment of official status for the Azerbaijani language as a state language is a direct result of the unwavering determination of the esteemed leader. The national leader is an eminent defender of our state language. The great leader stated that preserving, strengthening, and developing the Azerbaijani language as a state language represents one of our most remarkable achievements. This issue holds significance not only in terms of language itself but also concerning Azerbaijanism. The inclusion of Article 73 in the Constitution of the Azerbaijan SSR, which was adopted on April 21, 1978, stands as a testament to the national leader's unwavering principle and determination. Such a forward-thinking historical stride vividly exemplified the national leader's steadfast commitment to his native language. In formulating the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan in 1995, diverse proposals emerged concerning the nomenclature of the state language. Following extensive discussions, Article 21 of the Constitution, ratified in 1995, firmly established Azerbaijani as the designated state language of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Subsequently, this decision reinforced and enhanced the endeavours to develop and preserve the native language."
Both phases of the national leader's leadership exemplify his dedicated service to the state and its people: "The main dream of the genius person was Azerbaijan, which he holds a profound love for, to be always at the forefront, achieving remarkable heights. His resounding declaration, "I am proud that I am an Azerbaijani," served as a unifying force, rallying Azerbaijanis worldwide behind the shared objective of promoting the ideology of Azerbaijanism and inspiring them to contribute to the continued fortification of our nation actively."
The acknowledgement of modern independent Azerbaijan as a masterpiece of a great leader, and his attainment of authority, unequivocally demonstrate his contributions to our nation and its people: "With the national leader's return to power, Azerbaijan averted tragedies and the peril of losing its independence. The visionary leader ensured Azerbaijan's sovereignty's enduring and steadfast nature. As President Ilham Aliyev emphasized, the most profound tribute to the memory of Heydar Aliyev lies in our unwavering commitment to following the path he forged. We continue to tread this path, with Azerbaijan's present realities, achievements, and triumphs at the foundation of this path."
According to Mustafa Babanli, attempting to encapsulate the successes of Heydar Aliyev's policies in a single article is an impossible task: "Through his historic address to the nation in 2003, the national leader established the groundwork for the sustained progression of Azerbaijan along its chosen path, aiming to reach even more significant achievements. Demonstrating unwavering faith in Mr Ilham Aliyev, comparable to his own, the esteemed leader Heydar Aliyev expressed confidence that he would successfully carry forward the unfinished endeavours and accomplish the tasks left incomplete. The resolution of the Karabakh conflict stood at the forefront of the outstanding issues that needed to be resolved. With the relentless determination of President Ilham Aliyev, the triumphant Supreme Commander-in-Chief, Azerbaijan marked a historic victory in its centuries-old history. President Ilham Aliyev expressed his sense of fulfilment and happiness in fulfilling his father's aspirations and wishes. Over the past two years, a new era has commenced in our nation's history. Extensive efforts to rebuild and construct are underway in liberated Karabakh and East Zangazur. These remarkable developments stand as a testament to the triumph of Heydar Aliyev's visionary policies. Regardless of the vantage point from which we observe Azerbaijan, we witness the indelible contributions of the National Leader. With a firm foundation, the great leader expressed unwavering confidence in a brighter future for our state and its people, proclaiming, "As long as Azerbaijan exists, I exist. And I will be in Azerbaijan forever!"
