Baku: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev addressed participants of the International Symposium of Ombudsmen on 'Strengthening the Rule of Law: The Role of Ombudsmen and National Human Rights Institutions,' APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, President Aliyev's address highlighted the significance of the symposium coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Azerbaijan's Constitution and the fifth anniversary of the country's victory in the Patriotic War. He announced that 2025 has been declared a 'Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty' in Azerbaijan. The symposium's timing, aligned with such notable dates, underscores its importance in promoting the values of independence, sovereignty, democratic principles, and human rights in Azerbaijan.

President Aliyev emphasized the critical role of protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms, especially in the context of recent global developments, geopolitical tensions, and technological advancements. He underscored the need for new priorities and stronger human rights mechanisms to address these challenges. He also detailed ongoing reforms aligning the ombudsman institution's mandate with international law as part of Azerbaijan's legal and institutional advancements.

A significant topic at the symposium is the rights of refugees, with a focus on the forced deportation and ethnic cleansing of Azerbaijanis from Western Azerbaijan, now part of Armenia, beginning in the early 20th century. President Aliyev stressed the necessity for Armenia to respect Azerbaijanis' right to return to their ancestral lands as a crucial step for peace, reconciliation, and human rights in the region.

President Aliyev expressed confidence that the symposium's discussions and experience-sharing would enhance human rights protection, foster a culture of law, and strengthen institutional cooperation, determining future pathways for ensuring the rule of law. He concluded his address by welcoming participants and wishing success for the symposium.