On this day in history, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic's independence was de facto recognized at the Versailles Peace Conference on January 11, 1920.
The recognition of Azerbaijan’s independence by many countries was one of the successful outcomes of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic’s 23-month activity. The delegation sent to the Paris Peace Conference, led by Alimardan Bey Topchubashov, informed the world of the existence of a state – Azerbaijan that prefers to live in freedom, is committed to democratic development, and treats all people with respect and dignity, regardless of religion, race, or nationality.
On January 11, 1920, at the suggestion of then-British Foreign Secretary Lord George Nathaniel Curzon, the Supreme Council of the Versailles Peace Conference convened in the aftermath of World War II and adopted a decision on the de facto recognition of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. On January 14, 1920, a day before the official decision of the Paris Peace Conference was presented to A.B. Topchubashov, Nasib Bey Yusifbeyli, Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan, addressed the citizens and informed them of the recognition.
In this regard, January 14 was declared a non-working day in the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. At a solemn meeting of the Parliament on January 14 in connection with the de facto recognition of the Republic, a minute of silence was observed in memory of those who gave their lives for independence, followed by congratulatory speeches. M.A. Rasulzade, the founder of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, concluded his speech with the following words: “The people of Azerbaijan have demonstrated their independence to the rest of the world. The flag, once raised, will never fall!”
