Expert: Shusha becoming diplomatic arena for Azerbaijan

Hosting international events in Shusha is a demonstration of Azerbaijan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, political commentator Aziz Alibayli told Report.

According to him, in the modern era, Shusha's status as a cultural capital is undeniable. However, this also reflects how it is becoming a political center, becoming a symbol of Azerbaijan's victory, and how politics is geographically transferred to the diplomatic arena, he noted.

Alibayli reminded that during the era of empires, certain cities represented the strength of the state and its cultural identity. "Today, Shusha plays this role for Azerbaijan. Because the attributes of the state are already being formed here, and the ideological pillars of the state are being strengthened. The famous Jidir Plain in Shusha, natural monuments, frequent mentions in the political lexicon, and the prominence of both the cultural and political arenas confirm this reality. From now on, Shusha will play the role of the cultural and political capital of Azerbaijan, both symbolically and practically," he said.

"The transfer of the protocol from Baku to Shusha is truly a symbol of Karabakh's return to Azerbaijan's political and cultural space. Shusha is no longer just a cultural capital, but also a venue for major state events that demonstrate Azerbaijan's victory, sovereignty, and soft power to the world," the expert added.