Category: Azer News

A meeting with prominent cultural and art figures has been held at the Presidential Library of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

The event was attended by renowned photojournalist Reza Deghati, Azerbaijan’s prominent composer, People’s Artist, and Professor Siyavush Karimi, Deputy Director of the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater and Honored Artist Ramil Gasimov, and Deputy Chair of the “Culture that Unites Us” Public Union, Riad Guliyev.

The Director of the Presidential Library, Professor Afet Abbasova, acquainted the guests with the library’s activities, rich collections, and ongoing projects. She emphasized that the Presidential Library attaches special importance to cooperation in the fields of science, culture, and the arts, highlighting the promotion of new creative initiatives as one of its priority directions.

During the meeting, the possibilities for joint cooperation in the cultural sphere and the realization of new projects were discussed. Ideas were exchanged regarding mutual initiatives in the fields of photojournalism, music, and exhibition activities.

In a creative atmosphere, Honored Artist Ramil Gasimov and People’s Artist, Professor Siyavush Karimi performed “Alagöz” (lyrics by Zeynal Jabbarsade), one of the favorite songs of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, as well as a new composition by Siyavush Karimi, “Sen Yanimda Ol” (lyrics by Shahnaz Hashimova).

At the end of the sincere dialogue, the Director of the Presidential Library thanked the guests and wished them success in their future creative endeavors.

Additionally, Professor Afet Abbasova, Director of the Presidential Library, and photojournalist Reza Deghati discussed the possibility of organizing exhibitions dedicated to the Khojaly genocide, featuring photographs taken by Deghati, in the run-up to the anniversary of the tragedy.

Through such meetings, the Presidential Library aims to contribute to the promotion of national cultural heritage, strengthen creative connections, and expand cooperation with cultural and scientific figures.

A presentation of the new book by Azerbaijani writer and journalist Alexander Khakimov “Captain of the Camera” has taken place at Maksud Ibrahimbayov Creativity Center, Azernews reports.

The book is dedicated to the memory of the late Azerbaijani photographer and journalist Samir Aliyev.

The event began with a welcoming speech by the director of the Maksud Ibrahimbayov Creativity Center, Anna Ibrahimbayova, who stresssed the importance of photography in preserving historical memory and documenting the past.

The author of the book, Alexander Khakimov, shared the story behind its creation, talked about the project’s concept and development, and also remembered Samir Aliyev, with whom he had not only professional ties but also a close friendship. He discussed their collaborative work on various projects, both completed and unrealized.

The book is illustrated with photographs by Samir Aliyev, a talented photo artist and one of the best photojournalists of his time, who lived a brief (just 42 years), yet bright and fruitful life.

Historian and photographer Rustam Huseynov highlighted the significance of the first book entirely dedicated to the life and work of the Azerbaijani photographer. He discussed some of Samir Aliyev’s most interesting shots, the peculiarities of his creative style, and his approach as a photojournalist.

Rustam Huseynovalso shared information about the “Photographic Heritage” project, launched by the Azerbaijan Photographers Union (AFB) and the IRS magazine, as well as his own research into Samir Aliyev’s creative legacy.

The founder of the Azerbaijan Photographers Union, Mirnaib Hasanoglu, pointed out that Samir Aliyev’s work remains relevant even today, noting that his photographs were included in the book “Eyes of Fire”, published in France.

In subsequent speeches, well-known Azerbaijani photojournalists shared their memories of Samir Aliyev. Photographer Tofig Babayev recalled his colleague’s professionalism and creative approach, while Semyon Shalmeev shared fascinating stories from his life.

The presentation took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere, where friends and colleagues discussed Samir Aliyev’s life and artistic journey, his accomplishments, and bright moments from his biography.

The event concluded with an autograph session.

From October 31 to November 2, Baku will host the “Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW” arts festival, an event that brings together art, culture, and ecology, Azernews reports citing Trend.

The project is organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the IDEA Public Union, in partnership with the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry. The author and initiator of the project is Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder of the IDEA Public Union.

This immersive event will transform Baku into a living stage for contemporary creativity, dialogue, and discovery. Special attention will be devoted to the ecological situation in the oceans and seas, conveyed through the language of art. The festival’s central theme – water – symbolizes life, renewal, and sustainable development. Water, as a symbol of resilience, renewal, and collective memory, has been chosen as the key element of Art Weekend, fostering a meaningful dialogue with the international art world.

One of the festival’s highlights will take place at the Maksud Ibrahimbayov Creativity Centre, where the multidisciplinary project “The Pistachio Tree: Roots of Memory” will be presented.

Based on a story by the prominent Azerbaijani writer, People’s Writer of Azerbaijan and State Prize laureate Maksud Ibrahimbayov (1935-2016), the production tells the story of a man and a tree – a symbol of resilience, memory, and hope. It is a tale about roots, time, and the human ability to preserve one’s inner light. The monodrama will be performed by Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Shovgi Huseynov.

“The project unites three elements – art, tradition, and nature – creating a single artistic space where the past and future meet in the symbol of the pistachio tree – a tree that thrives where water is scarce and sustains life even in harsh conditions. By combining literature, tradition, and ecology, ‘The Pistachio Tree: Roots of Memory’ expresses the idea that ‘By preserving the culture of the past, we are responsible for the nature of the future’,” said Anna Ibrahimbayova, Director of the Maksud Ibrahimbayov Creativity Centre.

A “Pistachio Carpet” woven by masters from Azerkhalcha OJSC will serve as a visual embodiment of cultural roots and national traditions. Its patterns echo the themes of the story, intertwining literature, craftsmanship, and the living fabric of Azerbaijani culture.

In addition, a pistachio tree will be planted in front of the Maksud Ibrahimbayov Creativity Centre in Icherisheher – a living symbol of respect for nature and water. This gesture transforms an artistic concept into action, uniting humanity, art, and nature in a single breath.

The opponents of Azerbaijan women’s handball team at the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games have been confirmed, Azernews reports.

The Azerbaijan’s team will compete in Group B alongside Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and Qatar. Group A will include Turkiye, Iran, Guinea, and the Maldives.

Handball competitions at the Islamic Solidarity Games will be held from November 13 to 21.

The 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games are set to take place on November 7-21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the sixth edition of this multi-sport event for athletes from countries that are members of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

The event is expected to feature a wide array of sports, with athletes from across the Muslim world competing to promote solidarity and cultural exchange through sports?.

Recall that Azerbaijani women’s handball team won a gold medal at the 2017 Games held in Baku and a silver medal at the 2022 Games in Konya, Turkiye.

Azerbaijan hosted Islamic Solidarity Games in 2017. A total of 24 disciplines from 21 sports were contested in this edition of Islamic Solidarity Games.

Some sports also included disabled sport events such as athletics and judo.

The award ceremony for the winners of the third CINEMO International Mobile Film Festival will take place on October 31, Azernews reports citing the festival’s founder and director Ruslan Sabirli.

The festival is organized by SBRLY with the support of the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry and the Azerbaijan Film Agency.

The CINEMO Mobile Film Festival will run from October 29 to 31. Film screenings will be held at the “Nizami” Cinema Center on October 29 and 30 from 11:00 to 14:00, with the winners being announced at the award ceremony on October 31 at 19:00.

The festival features the following categories:

International: “Best Feature Film,” “Best Short Film,” “Best Documentary,” “Best Music Video,” “Best Social Media Video Blog.”

Local (Azerbaijan only): “Best Short Film,” “Best Documentary,” “Best Social Video,” “Best Photography.”

Festival participation conditions, film requirements, the prize fund, and other information can be found on the festival’s website: www.cinemoff.com.

For all inquiries, you can contact the festival’s email and social media accounts:

Azerbaijan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov has delivered a speech at an event celebrating the 80th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), Azernews reports.

In his address, Minister Bayramov highlighted the UN’s crucial role as a cornerstone of multilateral diplomacy and extended his congratulations on the occasion of its 80th anniversary. He reaffirmed Azerbaijan’sactive and responsible membership in the UN, noting the country’s representation in key UN bodies, including its term on the Security Council from 2012-2013 and on the Economic and Social Council three times.

The Minister emphasized that Azerbaijan’sgrowing global influence is reinforced by its contributions to key UN initiatives. He pointed out Azerbaijan’s leadership role during its chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement from 2019 to 2023, its hosting of the 2016 Global Forum of the Alliance of Civilizations, and its upcoming hosting of COP29 in 2024.

Bayramov also mentioned that Azerbaijan will host two significant UN events in 2026 – the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) and World Environment Day. He stressed that these events would highlight the connection between climate action and sustainable urban development, showcasing Azerbaijan’s commitment to green energy and its leading role in global climate diplomacy.

The Minister reiterated Azerbaijan’s full alignment with the UN’s Global Agenda, emphasizing the country’s focus on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, driving digital innovation, advancing the rights of women and youth, and fostering humanitarian and intercultural dialogue. He also noted the successful completion of the Azerbaijan-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2021-2025, adding that the new agreement signed for 2026-2030 will usher in a new phase of partnership.

Bayramov also discussed the ongoing large-scale restoration efforts in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, following the restoration of its territorial integrity, and the country’s consistent work to promote stability and cooperation in the South Caucasus. He underscored the significance of the Joint Declaration signed in Washington on August 8 this year and other agreements, which mark an important milestone in the regional peace process.

In closing, Minister Bayramov called for a strengthened partnership with the UN, emphasizing the need to explore new areas of cooperation and intensify joint efforts toward building a more peaceful, just, and sustainable world.

At the end of the event, Azerbaijan and the UN signed the Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework for 2026-2030.

A seminar for media representatives has been held as part of the second phase of the European Union’s “EU4Energy” project, organized jointly by the Azerbaijan Energy, the Energy Regulatory Agency (EMRA), and the Council of European Energy Regulators (CEER), Azernews reports.

During the media seminar, participants were provided with detailed information on the role of the media in public awareness and increasing transparency in energy policies.

Local and international experts shared their experiences with the participants regarding the key challenges faced by the energy sector and the measures designed to address these challenges.

The seminar covered the most important aspects of energy regulation, including the structure of the energy sector, tariff setting, service quality, energy efficiency studies, as well as a review of the EU’s best practices.

The event also highlighted the necessity of close cooperation between energy specialists, government agencies, and the media to ensure effective communication.

At the end of the seminar, certificates were presented to the media representatives.

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has extended its congratulations to Austria on the occasion of its National Day, Azernews reports.

In a message shared on the ministry’s official X account, it conveyed heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Austrian government and people.

Colonel-General Ali Naghiyev, the Chief of Azerbaijan’s State Security Service, currently visiting Tbilisi, held a meeting with Mamuka Mdinaradze, the Head of Georgia’s State Security Service, Azernews reports.

The discussion focused on the strategic partnership between Georgia and Azerbaijan, as well as plans for enhancing cooperation in the field of security.

Both sides stressed the importance of boosting the exchange of information and expertise, noting that robust collaboration between the two countries’ security services plays a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations and maintaining peace and stability in the region. They also addressed regional developments and the challenges currently facing the area.

Mamuka Mdinaradze thanked Ali Naghiyev for his visit, emphasizing its significance in reinforcing the ties between the two nations’ security institutions.

The meeting, which took place at the Georgian State Security Service, was attended by deputies of the heads of both countries’ security services, along with the heads of various structural departments.

Afterward, Mamuka Mdinaradze and Ali Naghiyev paid their respects by laying wreaths at the monument to Azerbaijan’s National Leader, Heydar Aliyev, as well as at the memorial honoring those who lost their lives defending Georgia’s territorial integrity.

October 26 marked the 30th day of Azerbaijan’s 44-day Patriotic War, a day etched in national memory for its sweeping victories and acts of valor.

In response to Armenia’s large-scale provocations launched on September 27, 2020, the Azerbaijani Army, under the command of President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, initiated a counter-offensive that would ultimately end decades of occupation and restore territorial integrity.

On this day, President Ilham Aliyev addressed the nation to announce the liberation of several strategic villages and the city of Gubadli. The reclaimed territories included Birinji Alibayli, Ikini Alibayli, Raband, and Yenikand in Zangilan district; Govshudlu, Sofulu, Dag Mashanli, Kurdlar, Hovuslu, and Chelebiler in Jabrayil district; and Padar, Efendiler, Yusifbayli, Chaytumas, Khanlig, Sariyataq, Mollaburhan, along with Gubadli city in Gubadli district.

In recognition of their leadership and bravery, President Aliyev personally congratulated military unit commanders Yashar Hasanov and Zaur Guliyev, who played key roles in the liberation of Gubadli and surrounding villages. First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva also commemorated the occasion with a heartfelt post on her official Instagram page, celebrating the liberation of villages in Zangilan, Jabrayil, and Gubadli.

The day was not without continued aggression from Armenian forces. In a blatant violation of the newly established humanitarian ceasefire, Armenian units shelled Azerbaijani positions and civilian settlements across Tartar, Aghdam, Aghjabadi, Fuzuli, Gubadli, and Lachin. Shelling also came from Armenia’s Berd, Chambarak, and Vardenis districts, targeting Tovuz, Gadabay, and Dashkasan. The enemy deployed various firearms, mortars, and artillery, including the “Smerch” multiple rocket launcher system, which struck Tartar city. Over 200 shells were fired at Azerbaijani settlements on October 26 alone.

Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry released video footage showcasing the newly liberated Padar and Khanlig villages, as well as Gubadli city.

The human toll of the conflict remained heavy. According to the Prosecutor General’s Office, from September 27 to October 26 at noon, Armenian shelling had claimed the lives of 65 civilians and injured 297 others. A total of 2,243 homes, 90 apartment buildings, and 402 civilian facilities were rendered unusable.

Among the many acts of heroism, Junior Sergeant Rahib Hashimov distinguished himself by successfully completing a combat mission that resulted in the destruction of several enemy artillery units.

The thirtieth day of the war powerfully reflects Azerbaijan’s steadfast determination, tactical strength, and the profound sacrifices made in the quest for justice and national sovereignty.