Azerbaijan, Baku, Jan.27 / Trend News, S.Agayeva /

A workshop dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the tragedy on January 20 has been held at the California University in Los Angeles.

Azerbaijani General Consul in Los Angeles Elin Suleymanov spoke of Azerbaijani's heroism and about the development of the events in the tragic days of "Black January," the consulate office said. 

It was noted that this day was a key date in the establishment of independent Azerbaijan, as well as other countries of the former USSR.

Suleymanov said that Mikhail Gorbachev's inability to govern the country led to frequent use of force against the civilian population of Azerbaijan and other republics. In its turn, this aggravated the problems related to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

In January 1990, Azerbaijani citizens, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation, showed an unprecedented unity and willingness to self-sacrifice. The January events have once again demonstrated tolerance and openness.

The Soviet Army commenced military operations against Azerbaijan early morning Jan. 20, 1990. The tragedy claimed the lives of 137 people, some 744 people were severely injured and about 841 people were illegally arrested. The Soviet troops destroyed 200 apartments and houses, including ambulances, personal and state property.

Even after 20 years, Azerbaijani people remember that terrible night. The country pays tribute to the memory of the tragedy victims every year.

January 20 is a Day of National Mourning.