National Salvation Day is a significant public holiday in Azerbaijan held annually on the 15th of June. This momentous day commemorates the return of former Azerbaijani president Heydar Aliyev from Nakhchivan to Baku on June 15, 1993. It was a pivotal event in the country's history that started an era of stability and growth, hence the term 'salvation'.
In the early '90s, Azerbaijan was facing political, economic, and military challenges as well as an ongoing war with Armenia over Nagorno Karabakh. The national crisis peaked in 1993, when the then-ruling Popular Front was unable to maintain stability amidst political and military failures. This instability led to the invitation of Heydar Aliyev, the leader of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, to Baku to take control of the country. He reached Baku on June 15, signifying the beginning of a new era for Azerbaijan.
Upon coming to power, Aliyev stabilized the political and economic situation and was able to secure a ceasefire with Armenia. His leadership brought about significant improvements in the living standards of Azerbaijanis and modernization in all areas of life. Today, Azerbaijanis celebrate National Salvation Day not just to recall the history of their nation’s survival, but also to pay respect to late president Heydar Aliyev, whose efforts led to the nation’s progress and prosperity.