Azernews.Az

By Laman Ismayilova

Republic Day is a national holiday in Azerbaijan, observed annually on 28 May. This was the day in 1918, when the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was proclaimed for the first time.

Although it existed for only 23 months, it brought about great progress in foreign policy, and introduced Azerbaijan to the international community. During the short period of independence Azerbaijan granted all people the rights to vote regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, and religion, becoming the first Muslim nation to give women equal political rights with men, an accomplishment preceding the United States.

Azerbaijan’s independence was interrupted in 1920, when it was invaded by Bolshevists, and forcefully incorporated into the USSR in 1922 to restore its independence only in 1991.

The diplomatic mission of Azerbaijan in Montevideo has organized a reception to mark the Republic Day, Azertac reported.

The event brought together Uruguay`s officials, senators, MPs, representatives of diplomatic corps and businessmen.

Azerbaijani Ambassador to Uruguay Rashad Aslanov said the first democratic republic in the Muslim world was established in Azerbaijan.

He also highlighted Azerbaijan`s achievements under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev in recent years.

The diplomat said that bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Uruguay are dynamically developing.

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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova

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