The 103rd anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was commemorated at the Institute of Geography of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Date: 04 May 2026

THE 103RD ANNIVERSARY OF NATIONAL LEADER HEYDAR ALIYEV WAS COMMEMORATED AT THE INSTITUTE OF GEOGRAPHY OF THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN

On May 4, 2026, an event dedicated to the 103rd anniversary of the birth of National Leader Heydar Aliyev was held at the Institute of Geography of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The event began with a one-minute moment of silence in honor of the cherished memory of the Great Leader.

Delivering the opening speech, Acting Director of the Institute of Geography, Doctor of Geographical Sciences, Associate Professor Zaur Imrani spoke about Heydar Aliyev’s exceptional contributions to strengthening Azerbaijani statehood and advancing science and education. He emphasized that the strategic course defined by the Great Leader continues to be successfully implemented today.

Member of Parliament Arzu Naghiyev, Chairman of the Committee on Defense, Security and Combating Corruption, delivered a presentation titled “Heydar Aliyev and the Security System.” He noted that even during the Soviet period, Heydar Aliyev paid special attention to the training of professional personnel in the national security system and took important steps toward building national кадров potential. According to him, in the early 1990s, amid internal and external threats faced by Azerbaijan, there was a serious need for strong governance and coordination. With the Great Leader’s return to power in 1993, stability was ensured, state institutions were strengthened, and the security system was rebuilt.

Arzu Naghiyev also highlighted that key strategic documents signed during that period, including the “Contract of the Century,” played a decisive role in ensuring Azerbaijan’s economic and political security. He stressed that the foundation of Azerbaijan’s current achievements, including the victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, lies in the statehood strategy defined by Heydar Aliyev.

At the event, Chairman of the United Trade Union Committee of Scientific Organizations, Doctor of Law Habil Gurbanov spoke about the Great Leader’s rich political legacy and noted that the strong foundations he established in public administration remain relevant today.

PhD in Geography Shamil Azizov delivered an engaging talk on “Heydar Aliyev and Chess,” highlighting the Great Leader’s interest in intellectual games, particularly chess.

Chairman of the Institute’s Trade Union Organization Kamran Ramazanli stated that various sports competitions are organized annually ahead of the commemoration day of the Great Leader. The main goal of these initiatives is to promote a healthy lifestyle among employees and strengthen team spirit.

At the end of the event, winners of the chess tournament were awarded. First place was taken by Professor Rza Mahmudov, Doctor of Geographical Sciences; second place by PhD Ceyhun Gasimov; third place by PhD Emil Jabrayilov; and fourth place by Samir Seyidmammadov. The winners were presented with diplomas.

Participants emphasized the importance of continuing this tradition in the future and highlighted the significance of regularly organizing such initiatives.