Online International Conference on, “Cooperation Perspectives Between Azerbaijani and Pakistani Youth Diaspora to the International Recognition of Khojaly Genocide” jointly organized by State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Diaspora Youth & CGSS

On 23rd February 2021, an online International Conference was organized to discuss “Cooperation Perspectives Between Azerbaijani and Pakistani Youth Diaspora to the International Recognition of Khojaly Genocide”. This conference was jointly organized by State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Diaspora Youth & Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad.
The conference commenced with the opening remarks of Dr. Mehmud Ul Hassan Khan, member board of experts, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad, and Regional Geopolitical Analyst.
He stated that genocides against Azerbaijan have achieved nothing but widespread condemnation. It also fueled concepts of self-defense, self-reliance, economic sustainability, protection of national pride, the safety of heritage, and unbending passions for territorial sovereignty.
He acknowledged and appreciated the energetic youth of Azerbaijan who stood firm against Armenian atrocities. Furthermore, he stated that Azerbaijan is now stronger than ever, their victory in Nagorno Karabakh signifies their unity and strength against Armenia and their barbaric activities.
Dr. Zarmina Baloch, Member Board of Experts, CGSS, and Lecturer at Islamia College University, Peshawar, Pakistan highlighted the historical background of Armenian aggression against Azerbaijan. She emphasized that even before the Khojaly massacre, Armenia was against Azerbaijan and took evil initiatives for the ethnic cleansing of the Azerbaijani people. She also highlighted the reasons behind this ethnic cleansing that include mono-ethnic beliefs and their ambition to destroy the Azerbaijani history and culture.
Dr. Zarmina emphasized the important role of youth in spreading awareness regarding inhumane acts against humanity, she also mentioned atrocities in Occupied Kashmir and expressed her solidarity with the victims of the Khojaly massacre.
Mr. Hasan Alakbar, a Khojaly resident from Azerbaijan shared his experience of being a victim of the Khojaly massacre. He stated that almost 29 years have been passed but the heartbreaking and tragic events are still fresh in our minds. He also emphasized that due to the Armenian attacks his family had to vacate their house in a state of fear and anguish.
Mr. Nasir Zaman, Research Assistant, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad highlighted that Pakistan has substantially helped Azerbaijan over past decades in highlighting the now-ended Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and Khojaly genocide before the international community. It is also an important task for the young diaspora of both countries to highlight the illegality of the Khojaly genocide before the international community by proving the violation of relevant international laws in this context. He suggested that policy of global and public outreach and awareness campaigns must be initiated in Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Ms. Tehreem Qizilbash, Azerbaijani Community Member in Pakistan discussed the importance of youth inclusion in matters of international importance. She stated that Pakistan and Azerbaijan share an ancient and historical cultural bond that must be utilized in all capacities. She also highlighted that it was witnessed in recent events that Armenia is capable of manipulating history and using it for its gain. She stated that the youth diaspora of both countries should study the history of Pakistan and Azerbaijan.
Ms. Tehreem also emphasized that Pakistan has always supported Azerbaijan on all international forums and similarly Azerbaijan has shown solidarity with Pakistan in the Kashmir issue.
Mr. Malik Musawwar Hameed, Student Ambassador, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad highlighted the importance of enhancing bilateral ties through diasporas as they play a vital role in displaying a soft image of a country.
He highlighted that it is important that the diaspora committees of both countries celebrate national days together in different countries of the world. This conference is also an important step to highlight the atrocities committed by Armenia on national and international forums.
Ms. Palwasha Nawaz, Project Executive, CGSS in her closing remarks mentioned that Khojaly Genocide is one of the most serious crimes of history not only against the people of Azerbaijan but also against humanity. She stated that the state of Pakistan and its people gave always given unreserved support to Azerbaijan and its people as we are linked by our shared history.
The conference was moderated by Ms. Laraib Fatima Hassan, Communication & Coordination Manager, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad. She stated that the diasporas of Pakistan and Azerbaijan will further cooperate in many areas specifically in raising voices against these crimes against humanity.
The conference was attended by 40 participants and was viewed live on various social media platforms as well.