Gabala welcomes young gymnasts for Grace of Nature tournament [PHOTOS]

The Grace of Nature Rhythmic Gymnastics Tournament has taken place in Gabala, organized by the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation, Azernews reports.

The event saw participation from gymnasts representing 20 different sports clubs across various regions of the country, such as Ocaq Sport, Grasiya Sports Club, BGM, RKIM, SIS, Sarhadchi Olympic Sports Center, and Dinamo Sports Society, along with athletes from cities like Goranboy, Shirvan, Zira, Nakhchivan, Mingachevir-Kur, Absheron OSC, Ganja OSC, Shagan, Hovsan, Ganja, Goychay, Sabirabad, and Agdash.

A total of 203 individual gymnasts and 8 group teams competed. On the first day, athletes born between 2019 and 2016 showcased their skills, followed by competitors born between 2016 and 2013 on the second day, and those born between 2013 and 2010 on the final day.

The gymnasts performed in both all-around and apparatus programs, with the top performers receiving medals.

This tournament plays a crucial role in providing young gymnasts with the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities, gain valuable competition experience, and grow in a supportive and motivating environment.

Founded in 1956, the Azerbaijani Gymnastics Federation comprises seven gymnastics disciplines recognised by the International Federation of Gymnastics (FIG).

The federation has been experiencing a revival since 2002. The restructured federation has brought gymnastics to a completely new level. The high-level organisation of the gymnastics events did not go unnoticed.

The International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) has included the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation (AGF) in the list of meritorious federations.

For many years, the AGF has been included in the FIG list of the Top 10 gymnastics federations.

Azerbaijan, China discuss cooperation on green energy production [PHOTOS]

Discussions have been held between Azerbaijan and China on the production and export of wind – both onshore and offshore – as well as solar energy.

As reported by Azernews, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy Parviz Shahbazov shared the information on his official X account.

The minister said that the discussions took place during a meeting with Lu Xu, Vice President of China Energy Engineering Corporation Limited.

According to Shahbazov, the meeting focused on the implementation of priority projects within the framework of the comprehensive strategic partnership in the energy sector.

‘We discussed the current state and next steps of cooperation in the production and export of offshore and onshore wind and solar energy, the development of transmission networks, the establishment of a Joint Research Center for Green Energy Development, as well as the supply of equipment for solar power plants with a total capacity of 760 MW,’ the minister said.

Audit confirms transparent and efficient financial management in COP29 Organization

According to the 2025 Work Plan of the Chamber of Accounts of the Republic of Azerbaijan, an audit of revenues and expenditures was carried out during the preparation and implementation stages of the COP29 international event. As a result of the audit, a positive opinion was issued on the financial statements prepared by COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, Azernews reports.

The audit was conducted using a methodology based on the international principles of the INTOSAI Framework of Professional Pronouncements (IFPP). The audit process included the analysis of financial documents, verification of the accuracy of income and expenditure reports, assessment of compliance with the legal framework, and evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control system.

Of the total funds for the event, 92.5% came from the state budget and 7.5% from other sources. The funds were used to cover the operational, construction, service, transportation, equipment, marketing, and other necessary expenses of the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, as well as payments under international commitments. The main share of operational expenses was spent on conference venues (65.4%) and content development activities (10.2%). After the event, long-term assets acquired (such as vehicles and equipment) were duly transferred for use by relevant state institutions.

During the preparation and implementation stages, the main contractors under service agreements were non-resident companies operating in Turkiye, Germany, Israel, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates.

The audit report noted not only the positive aspects of financial management but also areas that could be improved. No significant violations of procurement legislation were identified.

Within the framework of the event, all acquired assets and incurred liabilities were inventoried, the reusability of long-term assets was assessed, the completeness of handover documents was checked, and the importance of reconciling data with contractors was emphasized.

The positive outcome of the audit demonstrates that the organization of COP29 was conducted in accordance with the principles of transparency, accountability, and efficient financial management.

State Academic Drama Theater marks anniversary of prominent statesman [PHOTOS]

The 85th anniversary of Azerbaijan’s prominent statesman and Doctor of Historical Sciences, Hasan Hasanov, has been celebrated at the Azerbaijan State Academic Drama Theater, Azernews reports.

The event was attended by Farah Aliyeva, Head of the Department of Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora, Multiculturalism, and Religious Affairs of the Presidential Administration, Azerbaijan Culture Minister Adil Karimli, as well as other state and public figures.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Speaker of the Azerbaijan National Assembly and Director of the National Museum of Azerbaijani Literature, Academician Rafael Huseyn, highlighted Hasan Hasanov’s multifaceted contributions to statehood, science, and culture.

As part of the event, the play “Letters from Exile”, authored by the celebrant himself, was presented. The work, dedicated to the life of the founder of Azerbaijani dramaturgy Mirza Fatali Akhundzade and his son Rashid, brings enlightenment ideas and national thought to the stage.

The play was staged by People’s Artist Marahim Farzalibayov, with set design by Honored Cultural Worker Ilham Elkhanoglu, and music arrangement by Hamid Kazimzade.

Performances were given by People’s Artists Ali Nur, Lalezar Mustafayeva, Haji Ismayilov, Kazim Abdullayev, Honored Artists Elshan Jabrayilov, Vafa Rzayeva, and actors Rustam Rustamov and Elchin Efendi.

Defence Ministry launches ammunition disposal operations to enhance safety standards

The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan has announced that the destruction of expired and unserviceable ammunition will be carried out between October 27 and 31 in line with strict safety protocols, Azernews reports.

According to the ministry, the disposal operations will take place at a designated training ground near Pir?k?skl settlement and at a military training center in the Aghdara district.

The measure aims to ensure the safe handling and elimination of outdated munitions that are no longer suitable for use, thereby minimizing potential risks to both military personnel and nearby civilian areas. The ministry noted that such disposal activities are conducted regularly as part of ongoing efforts to maintain safety standards and modernize the country’s defense infrastructure.

During this period, residents in the surrounding areas may hear loud explosion sounds resulting from the controlled detonations. The Defense Ministry has urged the public to remain calm, stressing that there is no reason for alarm.

‘The explosions are part of scheduled safety procedures and pose no threat to the population,’ the ministry’s statement said, calling on citizens to avoid unnecessary concern and to trust the precautions in place.

Youth boxers claim bunch of medals in Montenegro

Azerbaijan’s U-15 boxing team has returned from the European Championship in Budva, Montenegro, with an impressive total of eight medals, including two historic golds, Azernews reports.

Competing against 369 athletes from 32 countries, Azerbaijan’s team secured 2 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals, finishing 6th in the overall standings.

Khumar Jafarli (75 kg) made history as the first Azerbaijani female boxer to win a U-15 European title. She triumphed over Turkey’s Yagmur Eryurt in the final, winning unanimously 5-0 with consistent 30:27 scores from all five judges.

Mehran Rasulov (80 kg) claimed Azerbaijan’s second gold medal, defeating Ukraine’s Serhiy Kotovskyi 5-0 (30:27, 29:28, 29:28, 30:27, 30:27). This victory marks Rasulov’s third European medal, adding to his previous two bronze medals.

Silver medals were won by Nasrin Abdullazade (40 kg), Nurlan Museyibli (66 kg), and Yusif Agakishiyev (75 kg). Bronze medals went to Onur Gurbanov (42 kg), Eljan Musazade (50 kg), and Erdem Tekin (90 kg).

A total of 369 boxers from 32 countries participated in the European U15 Boxing Championships.

Boxing is recognized as one of the oldest sports in human history, with the earliest records of the sport dating back to ancient Egypt around 3,000 BC.

The Greeks introduced boxing to the ancient Olympic Games in the late 7th century BC.

In 1924, the International Amateur Boxing Federation (FIBA) was founded, and in 1946, it was renamed the International Boxing Association (AIBA). Boxing made its Olympic debut at the 1904 Games in St. Louis.

Azerbaijan hosted its first boxing championship in 1926, with national boxers claiming first place. Since 1992, the Azerbaijani Boxing Federation has been a full member of AIBA.

Azerbaijani boxers have earned numerous prestigious accolades in international competitions. Aghasi Mammadov made history by becoming Azerbaijan’s first gold medalist at the World Championships. Fuad Asadov also earned a spot on the podium at the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Azerbaijan has been selected several times to host major boxing events.

The country previously hosted the 2011 AIBA World Boxing Championships, which served as the main qualification tournament for the London 2012 Olympics.

In 2019, Baku hosted the AIBA Youth World Championships, marking the first youth competition to act as a qualifier for the 2010 Singapore Olympics.

Azerbaijan appoints new ambassador to Jordan – decree

Shahin Abdullayev has been appointed Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Jordan, Azernews reports.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

According to the decree, Abdullayev was recalled from his posts as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Saudi Arabia, as well as to Bahrain, and as Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Azercell-supported students continue their international success!

Azerbaijani team wins medals and an honorable mention at the ‘Stars of Informatics’

Azerbaijani students have once again achieved remarkable results on the international stage. At the ‘Stars of Informatics’ international programming competition, organized by the Republic of Romania on 18-19 October 2025, the team secured four bronze medals and an encouragement award.

Competing against 120 participants from 10 countries, the students showcased their talent and problem-solving skills. Bronze medals were awarded to 10th-grade students Atilla Mustafa and Omer Alimammadzada from Baku Turkish Lyceum, Fateh Ahmadzada from the Lyceum named after Academician Zarifa Aliyeva, and Akbar Ahmadov from the Physics, Mathematics, and Informatics Lyceum. Elay Verdiyev, also a 10th-grade student from the Physics, Mathematics, and Informatics Lyceum, received an honorable mention.

The competition, held virtually, challenged participants’ analytical thinking, algorithmic problem solving, programming, and time management skills across two demanding stages.

Since 2017, Azercell Telecom has supported the preparation of students for informatics Olympiads in partnership with the Ministry of Science and Education and the Institute of Education. Through this initiative, young talents across different age groups have participated in various international programming competitions, earning a total of 108 medals to date.

Azercell congratulates the talented students and wishes them continued success in future competitions!

National musicians thrill audience in China [PHOTOS]

The Azerbaijani musicians have mesmerized the audience at the 24th Shanghai International Arts Festival in China, Azernews reports.

The Ensemble of Azerbaijan State Academic Philharmonic Hall, Baku State Chamber Orchestra under the direction of artistic director and chief conductor, Honored Artist Fuad Ibrahimov, as well as soloists People’s Artist of Azerbaijan, pianist Yegana Akhundova, and international competition laureate Nazrin Aslanli (violin), left the audience speechless with their magnificent performances.

The concert program featured masterpieces of Azerbaijani and world classical music, including works by Uzeyir Hajibayli, Gara Garayev, Fikrat Amirov, Farhad Badalbayli, Tofig Guliyev, Mozart, Benjamin Britten, Antonio Vivaldi, Johann Sebastian Bach, Astor Piazzolla, and Felix Mendelssohn.

The gala concert became a true celebration of Azerbaijani music and culture, blending tradition with modernity, Eastern refinement with European classical music.

The 24th China Shanghai International Arts Festival (CSIAF) is taking place in Shanghai from October 17 to November 27, 2025.

The event features over 1,200 performances and exhibitions across music, dance, theater, and visual arts, with participants from more than 80 countries and regions.