Today two South Caucasian republics, Armenia and Azerbaijan, are
celebrating their main state holidays – Independence Day and Day of
the Republic. 92 years ago the Azerbaijani Democratic Republic and the
Republic of Armenia were proclaimed.
The first Armenian republic existed for 2 years – until the arrival of
Soviet authorities. Traditionally, May 28th is a holiday in the
country. There are celebrations going on all over Armenia. The main
celebration is at the memorial complex of Sardarapat, in which
President Serzh Sargsyan will participate. The memorial is located not
far from Yerevan at the scene of the Battle of Sardarapat, where
Armenian forces prevailed over Turkish invaders in 1918. The
celebrations will be ended with fireworks.
The Azerbaijani Democratic Republic did not last long either – only 23
months before it fell after the arrival of the Soviets. It was the
first democratic country throughout the Muslim world.
Historians believe that the country did much for the establishment and
development of Azerbaijani statehood, the formation of parliamentary
democracy and a secular foundation within this period. It was the
first country in the East to establish a parliament, form an army and
provide women with suffrage, MTRK Mir reports.
Azerbaijan will see open air celebrations in the evening on Primorskiy
Avenue and a festive concert and fireworks.
