Anniversary of Azerbaijan's independence celebrated in U.S.

The 18th anniversary of Azerbaijan's independence was celebrated in New York City by the raising of the Azerbaijan national flag on Bowling Green, Broadway in lower Manhattan on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009.

The flag flew alongside the American flag, which had also been raised to acknowledge the many Azerbaijani-Americans in the U.S.

he two flagpoles stand just steps away from the famous sculpture of a charging bull, a Wall Street symbol and a landmark known worldwide.

The event marked the sixth time such a ceremony took place; the first time was 2004. The events were organized and arranged by the Azerbaijan Society of America.

Members, friends and supporters of Azerbaijan Society of America gathered at noon for the ceremony. Speakers included Ambassador Agshin Mehdiyev of the Permanent Mission of Azerbaijan to the United Nations who spoke about the solidarity between the United States and Azerbaijan. Mr. Basar Sen, Deputy Consul General of Turkey, stated that Turkey and Azerbaijan are two states with same nationality and will always stay this way.

Azerbaijan Society of America (ASA) President Tomris Azeri then spoke about the sacred right of every Azerbaijani to proudly carry or raise their flag without fear of oppression. "It is a sacred right - whether we are in our motherland, or in another country".

"We have the honor and privilege of raising the flag of Azerbaijan in this most historic space, Bowling Green, a place which was so involved in the events surrounding America's fight for freedom. So it is very fitting that today we raise here not only the American flag, but also the flag of Azerbaijan. It is also a flag for which blood was shed and which also represents the spirit of its people, who value, above all else, their independence, their land and their sovereignty. Even during all the years when Azerbaijan was not recognized as an independent country by the rest of the world, Azerbaijani-Americans raised their flag here in America, land of the free. Being able to raise a flag means so much more than just watching a beautiful piece of cloth high up in the sky. Our flag represents hope and determination; our pride and fortitude; our strength and perseverance; our love and aspirations; and so much more."

"As these two flags fly here together today, it is a beautiful reminder of the friendship America and Azerbaijan, continue to enjoy. As thousands of people pass here daily - international business people, tourists, and New Yorkers of many diverse backgrounds -- they will see a testament to the future of two nations whose hands have reached out across oceans and seas."

Following the playing of the American national anthem, the Azerbaijani national anthem was played. Brisk gusts of wind caught the two flags, which flapped majestically against the towering backdrop of the "skyscraper" towers of Manhattan. The two flags will remain flying for ten days.

Beautiful children dressed up in colorful Azerbaijani costumes from Kavkaz Youth Center and their director Luba Yusubova was also present.

/Trend News/