Rasim Shukurov and Zarifa Manafova

In Rasim Shukurov’s opinion, the return to Lachin after 30 years of displacement is a moment filled with indescribable joy and pride. He and his wife, Zarifa Manafova, recall how they cried tears of happiness when they first set foot in their homeland after its liberation. For Rasim, Baku, where they lived during their displacement, was always considered their home, but Lachin remained their true birthplace. The long wait to return was filled with anticipation, and the overwhelming emotions they felt upon their return are difficult to put into words. Rasim expresses his gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for leading the country to victory and making it possible for them to return to Lachin. He speaks highly of the president’s sincerity, describing him as a leader beloved by the Azerbaijani people and respected around the world.

Rasim and Zarifa also honor Azerbaijan’s martyrs and veterans, acknowledging that it is because of their sacrifices that they are able to live in their homeland once again. Rasim praises the strength of Azerbaijan’s military and its unwavering commitment to peace, not only in Azerbaijan but in the broader region. He reflects on his time studying at Khankendi University, where he had many Armenian friends. He believes that if Armenians are willing to live peacefully under Azerbaijani citizenship, they can once again coexist as they did before the conflict. Rasim emphasizes that Azerbaijanis are a hospitable and peaceful people, and he remains hopeful that peace will prevail in the future.

Zarifa, meanwhile, shares her own deep connection to Lachin and the emotional journey of returning to her family’s home, which had been destroyed by Armenian forces. She recounts how the house they built in 1982-1983, where they started their family, was damaged but later restored by the Azerbaijani government. Zarifa expresses her gratitude for the reconstruction efforts, noting that while the Armenians had destroyed their home, they are now able to rebuild their lives in Lachin. She also shares the joy of being able to bring her children and grandchildren back to the land of their ancestors, emphasizing that her family is deeply rooted in Lachin’s soil.

Reflecting on the years of displacement, Zarifa recalls the difficult life they led in Baku, where she worked as a teacher. Despite the hardships, she always believed that one day they would return to their homeland. Zarifa speaks proudly of her children, who have all received higher education and now work in various professions, including law enforcement and teaching. She is particularly proud of how her grandchildren, despite being born in Baku, identify strongly with Lachin and Karabakh, proudly declaring that "Karabakh is Azerbaijan."

Both Rasim and Zarifa remain optimistic about the future of Lachin. They express hope that more families will soon return to their homes, and they are excited to see the ongoing reconstruction efforts. Rasim recalls the strong political involvement he had during the years of displacement, serving as the chairman of an election commission that supported Heydar Aliyev’s policies. He reflects on the importance of maintaining peace and unity, not just in Azerbaijan but across the world. He dreams of a future where people live as friends and brothers, without the divisions that led to the conflict.

Ultimately, Rasim and Zarifa’s story is one of resilience, hope, and a deep love for their homeland. They are grateful for the chance to rebuild their lives in Lachin and are committed to contributing to the restoration of their community, passing on the legacy of Karabakh to future generations.