As part of The Autochthonous Peoples of the Caucasus-Caspian Region in the Light of the Scientific Realities and Falsifications conference, ethnic Lezgin public figure Vagif Kerimov, who now lives in Russia, was among the many participants.
In an interview with Aravot Daily, he said, “This conference is a wonderful platform that society gives ethnic minorities to speak about our painful issues. Unfortunately, ethnic minorities in the South Caucasus are prevented from having such opportunities. But we have many scientists and politicians and so much to say. I do not have any official status at this conference. I am not a president and I am not the founder of any organization. I am simply someone who carries the Lezgin mentality, identity, and genetic code. I am a representative of my people who will speak clearly without being two-faced. The purpose of this conference is very important. Lezgins, unfortunately, are under the control of Russia and Turkey, and we are being pressured by Russian and Turkish ideology. Unlike us, you have a state and Diaspora, and you have a Sparta by the name of Artsakh. We learn from you. I came to this conference, listen to what you have to say, and take notes… Armenians and Lezgins have had good relations historically. Perhaps there were some problems, but they were so meaningless that it is not even necessary to mention them. However, Azeri propaganda sometimes wants to take advantage of that.”
Vagif Kerimov emphasized, “Lezgins are people who have their own language, culture, origins, historical homeland, traditions, and historical memory. We want to be reborn…”
He said that he has a slogan. “Lezgins existed, exist, and will exist.”
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He added, “Politicians can say whatever they want to, but it’s the people who need to establish relations with one another and not burn bridges.”
Gohar Hakobyan
