Türkiye has officially congratulated Azerbaijan on the 34th anniversary of its Restoration of Independence Day, with multiple government institutions expressing solidarity with the Turkic nation. Communications Director Burhanettin Duran emphasized that Ankara is "honored" to stand with Baku, explicitly referencing the foundational "one nation, two states" principle that characterizes the unique bilateral relationship.

Government-Wide Celebrations

The Turkish Foreign Ministry publicly conveyed its wishes for a "Happy 34th anniversary of the Restoration of Independence Day to our ally and brother Azerbaijan" through official social media channels. Echoing this sentiment, the National Defense Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to standing "united and together with Baku," underscoring the depth of the strategic partnership that spans both diplomatic and security domains.

Historical Context of Azerbaijani Independence

Azerbaijan marks October 18 as the date it adopted the Constitutional Law on the Independence of the State in 1991, formally establishing itself as the successor to the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic that existed from 1918 to 1920. This declaration represented a pivotal moment in the nation's history, reestablishing sovereign statehood after decades of Soviet governance.

Türkiye's Pioneering Recognition

The historical bonds between the two nations were immediately evident during Azerbaijan's independence process, with Türkiye becoming the first country in the world to formally recognize Azerbaijan's sovereignty on November 9, 1991. This swift diplomatic acknowledgment came just months after Azerbaijan's initial declaration of independence on August 30 of the same year, setting the stage for the exceptionally close relationship that has developed over the subsequent three decades.