National Art Museum presents exhibition dedicated to Mexican artist [PHOTOS]

The Azerbaijan National Art Museum has hosted the opening ceremony of the exhibition “Diego Rivera: The Promise of a Better Future” organized by Mexico’s Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum, Azernews reports.

The exhibition is jointly organized by the Embassy of Mexico in Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, the Anahuacalli Museum, and the Azerbaijan National Art Museum. Dedicated to the world-renowned Mexican artist Diego Rivera (1886-1957), the exhibition marks the Anahuacalli Museum’s first project presented on an international scale.

The exhibition features nearly 100 photographic reproductions covering Rivera’s artistic legacy – including murals, paintings, sketches, as well as archival photographs and documents. These materials provide visitors with the opportunity to closely explore the unique creativity of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century.

At the opening ceremony, Director of the Azerbaijan National Art Museum Shirin Malikova, Ambassador of Mexico to Azerbaijan Victoria Romero, PhD in Arts Telman Ibrahimov, and Director of the Diego Rivera Anahuacalli Museum Teresa Moya delivered speeches highlighting the significance of the exhibition. They emphasized that Diego Rivera’s art reflects universal values and constitutes an integral part of Mexico’s cultural heritage. The speakers also underlined that the exhibition contributes to strengthening cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Mexico, expressing gratitude to the organizers.

The exhibition consists of five main thematic sections that outline Rivera’s key role in Mexico’s social transformation. They cover the artist’s reflections on art, his position in the muralist movement, the synthesis of painting and architecture, and the social role of art in post-revolutionary Mexico. The displays reflect Rivera’s deep engagement in the Mexican Revolution, public education, and the role of art as a tool for civil society. Visitors will witness how Rivera emerged as a leading figure in Mexican muralism, valuing art not only as an aesthetic medium but also as an instrument for education and the formation of public consciousness.

Photographic reproductions of Rivera’s mural “Creation” (1922), painted at the National Preparatory School in Mexico, hold a special place in the exhibition. This monumental work is regarded as the beginning of Mexican muralism and demonstrates a synthesis of Renaissance style with local motifs. His later monumental projects, including murals at Chapingo and the Ministry of Public Education in Mexico, are also represented.

In addition, reproductions of murals at the National Palace in Mexico City and the Palace of Cortés in Cuernavaca showcase Rivera’s ability to present history as a social struggle and highlight the importance he placed on indigenous culture. Rivera’s international activities are also thoroughly represented in the exhibition. His mural “Man at the Crossroads,” created in 1933 at Rockefeller Center in New York, caused great controversy and was destroyed. However, Rivera recreated this work in Mexico at the Palace of Fine Arts under the title “Man, Controller of the Universe.” Documentary footage of this work is among the exhibition’s most notable highlights.

A central section of the exhibition is dedicated to the Anahuacalli Museum, created on Rivera’s own initiative. Designed by the artist himself and located in Mexico city, this unique space was built from volcanic stone. The museum aimed to serve as a bridge between ancient heritage, modernity, and the future. Architectural plans, sketches, and photographs presented in the exhibition vividly demonstrate Rivera’s idea of preserving cultural roots while inspiring future generations.

It should be noted that this exhibition project was realized through the initiative of Ambassador Victoria Romero and the joint efforts of the Embassy of Mexico in Azerbaijan, the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the General Directorate of Cultural Diplomacy, and the Anahuacalli Museum.

This initiative showcases the role of art as an instrument of cultural diplomacy, presenting to the international community Rivera’s artistic vision rooted in the social struggles of the Mexican people.

The exhibition will remain open to visitors until December 30, 2025.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az

President Ilham Aliyev receives delegation headed by OSCE Chairperson-in-Office [PHOTOS/VIDEO]

On October 15, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received a delegation led by Elina Valtonen, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Finland, Azernews reports.

Expressing gratitude for the reception, Elina Valtonen first conveyed the greetings of President of the Republic of Finland Alexander Stubb to the head of state.

President Ilham Aliyev thanked for the greetings and asked that his own greetings be conveyed to Alexander Stubb.

During the conversation, the sides fondly recalled the meetings between the Presidents of Azerbaijan and Finland, as well as Finland’s high-level participation in the COP29 event held in Baku.

Elina Valtonen congratulated President Ilham Aliyev on the progress achieved between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Washington, emphasizing its significance for restoring peace and stability across the OSCE area and for fostering regional cooperation.

She announced that, at the request of Azerbaijan and Armenia, the activities of the OSCE Minsk Process and its related structures would be terminated by December 1, 2025.

The head of state underlined that the agreements reached between Azerbaijan and Armenia, in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington, had created favorable conditions for advancing the peace agenda.

President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the importance of the TRIPP project, for which Armenia assumed responsibility in Washington, noting its benefits for regional cooperation and its positive impact on the wider region.

During the conversation, the sides also discussed cooperation between Azerbaijan and the OSCE and exchanged views on the prospects for Azerbaijan-Finland bilateral relations.

Exhibition ‘Scenes to Remember’ opens at Khatai Arts Center [PHOTOS]

An exhibition titled “Xatir? olacaq s?hn?l?r” (Scenes to Remember) has opened at the Khatai Arts Center, with the aim of promoting collective socialization of children and encouraging parents to visit galleries and museums with their children, Azernews reports.

At the opening, speeches were made by the director of the Khatai Arts Center, Zahid Avazov, the representative of the Khatai District Executive Power, Turan Karimzade, the head of the department at the Azerbaijan State Art Elchin Hussein, and the artistic director of the Khatai Children’s Arts Gallery, artist Gunduz Ghabibov, who shared their thoughts.

The project aims to encourage adults to involve children more actively in the cultural environment, develop their taste, artistic perception, and emotional sensitivity.

Special attention is given to making parents realize the importance of regularly visiting museums, galleries, and other cultural and educational institutions with their children. This not only contributes to the aesthetic and intellectual development of the child but also strengthens the emotional bond within the family, creating shared cultural experiences and memories.

Thus, the exhibition serves not just as a showcase of children’s creativity but also as a tool that encourages society – primarily parents – to have a more conscious approach to the cultural education of the younger generation.

Over 100 works were presented at the exhibition – images that are a product of the imagination of young children. Works in line with the exhibition’s concept will be displayed at the Khatai Children’s Art Gallery for several weeks.

The event continued with the presentation of certificates. An online catalog of the exhibited works is available at the following link.

The project was implemented with the support of the Azerbaijan State Academy of Fine Arts, Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint-Stock Company, Khatai District Executive Power, Azerbaijan Artists’ Union, Azerbaijan State Art Gallery, Khatai Children’s Arts Gallery, and Khatai Arts Center.

Media partners of the event are Azernews,Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.

President Ilham Aliyev addresses participants of 3rd National Urban Forum [PHOTOS]

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev addressed the participants of the 3rd National Urban Development Forum in Khankendi.

Azernews presents the address:

”Dear Forum participants!

I welcome you on the occasion of the opening of the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan. Welcome to the city of Khankendi.

I welcome you to the city of Khankendi for the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan. This event, held in Azerbaijan for the third time and already a growing tradition, brings together national, regional, and international partners in urban planning and serves as a vital platform for exchanging experiences, fostering new initiatives, and enhancing cooperation.

The National Urban Forums, organized in cooperation with UN-Habitat, are another vivid manifestation of Azerbaijan’s successful collaboration with international partners in this field. The participation of more than 200 foreign guests from over 60 countries, a total of about 400 representatives, signifies both the trust and friendship extended toward our country, as well as solidarity in pursuing common goals in urban planning.

Urban planning is a priority area in Azerbaijan’s national development strategy. The approaches adopted in urban planning and urbanization have contributed to economic sustainability, socioeconomic well-being, and adaptation to climate change. The large-scale restoration and construction underway, particularly in the Garabagh and East Zangazur economic regions, demonstrate the government’s strategic vision and capabilities in urban development.

Following three decades of occupation, Azerbaijani territories were left devasted, with historical and cultural heritage destroyed, lands contaminated with mines, and more than a million Azerbaijanis displaced from their homes. The victory in the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020 ushered in a period of restoration, reconstruction, and revival.

Today, Azerbaijan is implementing large-scale construction and reconstruction projects in Garabagh and East Zangazur. The comprehensive regional planning, covering 13,600 square kilometers, guides efforts to resettle more than 1.1 million people to their native cities and villages. Master plans for eight cities and 90 villages – home to more than 300,000 people – have been approved, and people have begun returning to six liberated cities, two settlements, and 20 villages.

By applying advanced urban-planning principles, systematic and coherent measures have been put in place to build sustainable infrastructure, rebuild settlements, and create conditions for the return of the population. Over the past four years, three new international airports have been built, along with modern roads and highways, new railway infrastructure, and ongoing construction of residential buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and other social infrastructure.

Special importance is attached to the reconstruction of energy infrastructure and the strengthening of energy security. Solar and wind energy projects are well underway in Garabagh and East Zangazur, designated as a ‘green energy’ zone, with a capacity of up to 10,000 megawatts. Innovative approaches such as ‘smart city’ and ‘smart village’ are being applied, and ecosystem restoration is in progress.

The establishment of industrial parks and economic zones is underway to promote economic development and employment in the region. This contributes to the sustainable development of settlements by expanding local production opportunities and creating new jobs. With enhanced road connectivity, Garabagh and East Zangazur are now directly linked to Baku and other regions, accelerating their economic and social development. Today, about 60,000 people live, work and study in these areas under the ‘Great Return’ program.

The decision to hold the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan in Khankendi is especially significant. The city that endured occupation for many years is now a symbol of peace, restoration, and revival. The infrastructure projects currently underway in Khankendi support development aligned with the vision of a modern, smart, and innovative city.

The ongoing reconstruction in Garabagh and East Zangazur is important not only for urban and infrastructural development but also for establishing long-term peace and regional cooperation. Targeted projects, new partnerships, and a favorable economic environment are creating sustainable livelihoods for the local population and contributing to regional urban development.

Azerbaijan’s advanced experience in urban planning has attracted tremendous international interest. Our country is viewed as a reliable partner in addressing global challenges in climate change and urban planning, as well as in developing innovative approaches. International cooperation in this area, particularly through initiatives with the UN Human Settlements Programme, is of great importance.

The decision to hold the 13th World Urban Forum in Baku in 2026 stands as clear evidence of Azerbaijan’s contribution to international urbanization processes and the trust it has earned as a reliable partner. This prestigious event will further enhance Azerbaijan’s role in global urbanization and contribute to the achievement of regional and global sustainable development goals.

Today’s Forum marks an important milestone on the path to the 13th World Urban Forum. I am confident that the discussions here will be instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives for urban planning, restoration, and sustainable city development, and will help create a greener, more inclusive, and prosperous living environment for future generations.

Court continues hearings in Ruben Vardanyan’s war crimes case [PHOTOS]

The court proceedings in the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, charged under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious offenses, continued on October 14.

The open court session, held at the Baku Military Court under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with a panel consisting of Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samadova), ensured that the accused was provided with an interpreter in his native language, Russian, as well as defense lawyers of his choice.

Judge Zeynal Agayev introduced the court panel, the prosecutors representing the state, the interpreters, and others to the victims and their legal heirs attending the trial for the first time, while also explaining their rights and obligations as stipulated by law.

The legal heir of victim Khayal Janbakhishov, his father Kheyrulla Janbakhishov, stated that his son was killed in Aghdara due to the explosion of a mortar shell fired by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Responding to questions from state prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, victim Elshad Sheydayev reported sustaining injuries to his arm and leg in Kalbajar as a result of enemy provocations.

Victim Kamiz Ibayev recounted being taken captive in Kalbajar after getting lost in fog, by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Answering questions from Nasir Bayramov, Head of the Department for Defense of State Prosecution at the Prosecutor General’s Office, Ibayev stated that he was blindfolded and taken to an unknown location, subjected to various forms of torture, mistreatment, and beatings during his captivity. In response to questions from Ruben Vardanyan’s lawyer, Avraam Berman, Ibayev clarified that he was held by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups and did not see Vardanyan during his captivity.

Answering questions from the Prosecutor General’s senior assistant Vusal Aliyev, victim Taleh Rzayev reported being wounded in Aghdara due to the explosion of a mortar shell fired by the enemy.

Responding to questions from the Prosecutor General’s special assignments assistant Tugay Rahimli, victim Zaur Alakbarov stated he was injured in Khojavend due to the explosion of an artillery shell fired by the enemy, noting that several others were also injured in the incident.

Victim Gismatpasha Abbaszade, answering questions from state prosecutor Fuad Musayev, reported sustaining injuries in Aghdam as a result of enemy fire, adding that another person was also wounded during the incident.

Victim Telman Adigozalov, responding to questions from state prosecutor Vusal Abdullayev, stated he was injured in Khojavend due to artillery fire from the enemy.

Victim Elvin Mammadov reported receiving severe injuries in Aghdam due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups, stating he was in a coma for 23 days and is currently classified as a second-degree disabled person.

Rovshan Hajibalayev reported sustaining injuries in the Sirkhavand village of Aghdara district due to the explosion of an artillery shell fired by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Teymur Jafarov stated he was wounded in Lachin due to enemy fire, noting that one person was killed and several others injured in the incident.

Agil Guliyev reported being wounded in Aghdam as a result of enemy fire.

Khaqani Guliyev stated in his testimony that he sustained a bullet wound in Aghdam due to enemy fire.

Dayanat Mardani reported being wounded in Aghdam due to enemy provocations.

Victim Sarkhan Rahimov stated that while heading to evacuate wounded individuals in a medical service vehicle in Aghdam, he was injured due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups. He noted that despite the medical vehicle being clearly marked, it was targeted, resulting in injuries to himself and others, while the wounded individuals they were meant to evacuate died due to lack of timely medical assistance.

Anar Seyidov, Turkan Jafarov, and Parviz Adigozalov reported sustaining various injuries in different locations due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Victim Maharram Karimli stated in his testimony that he was wounded in the arm in the Aghdam-Aghdara direction due to sniper fire from the enemy. Responding to a question from Ruben Vardanyan, Karimli said he recognized Vardanyan through social media.

Subsequently, the forensic medical examination reports regarding the victims were presented.

The next court session is scheduled for October 21.

Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan).

Azerbaijan-Belarus business forum highlights new opportunities for cooperation [PHOTOS]

The Azerbaijan-Belarus business forum is being held with the joint organization of the Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO) and the Minsk branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Azernews reports.

Speaking at the event, Belarusian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Dmitry Pinevich underlined the strong partnership between the two nations, noting that the ‘close relations established between Belarus and Azerbaijan create a solid foundation for expanding economic cooperation.’ He emphasized the great potential for collaboration in various sectors and expressed confidence in further strengthening trade and investment ties.

The forum brings together representatives from around 40 companies operating in logistics, construction, the food industry, and other fields, alongside officials and business leaders from both countries. The discussions are focused on exploring new avenues for partnership and promoting mutual investments.

Baku to host Night of Dancing Diamonds dedicated to Tarana Muradova’s anniversary [PHOTOS]

From October 30 to November 2, Baku will become the center of the world dance culture, Azernews reports.

The Azerbaijan Dance Festival 2025 will take place in the Azerbaijani capital. The festival is organized by the Azerbaijan Dance Confederation (AzDC, President – Vice-Rector of the Baku Academy of Choreography, People’s Artist Tarana Muradova) and the International Dance Company SRDS (Smooth and Rhythm Dance Style, President – Olga Krasnyanskaya).

The evenings of the dance celebration will be held at JW Marriott Absheron Baku.

The Night of Dancing Diamonds – October 31

This evening will be a truly special event, dedicated to the anniversary of the People’s Artist of Azerbaijan and President of the Azerbaijan Dance Union – Tarana Muradova.

The program will feature a unique ballroom choreography created and performed by Tarana Muradova, integrating elements of Azerbaijani national dance.

The audience will also enjoy two spectacular show performances by world legends of ballroom dance, as well as the European Professional Championship in Smooth Dance.

It will be an unforgettable night where art, elegance, and inspiration come together in a grand celebration of dance.

November 1 – World Championships in All Age Categories

This evening will host the World Championships in the Smooth division for all age categories – from children to adults – alongside open international competitions in both the Standard and Latin programs.

The night will offer a vibrant fusion of competitive spirit, adrenaline, and pursuit of excellence, intertwined with the aesthetic grace and sophistication of ballroom dance.

Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, live music, and even the opportunity to join the dance floor between competitions.

November 2 – International Pro-Am Competitions

The final day of the festival will be dedicated to the unique format of Pro-Am (Professional-Amateur), where professional dancers perform together with their students and amateur partners.

This is more than a competition – it is a philosophy of unity and inspiration, bringing together people for whom dance is a form of self-expression and a source of inner harmony.

In the world of Pro-Am, age and level of experience do not matter – anyone can begin their dance journey consciously, discovering the beauty of movement and the joy of artistic freedom.

November 2 will become a true celebration of dance for everyone who believes it is never too late to dance.

Live Music and Atmosphere of Inspiration

All three festival evenings will be accompanied by live music performed by a symphony orchestra under the direction of maestro Boris Myagkov.

Famous melodies by Azerbaijani composers, reimagined in ballroom arrangements – waltz, cha-cha-cha, tango, and foxtrot – will create an atmosphere of refined elegance and emotional inspiration.

A Celebration of Taste and Beauty

Guests will be treated to exclusive dinners, gourmet cuisine, and premium beverages, surrounded by a world where sport meets high art.

The Night of Dancing Diamonds is more than a dance event – it is a moment when the stage transforms into a dazzling celebration of beauty, strength, and inspiration.

To purchase tickets, please visit iTicket.Az.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.

3rd National Urban Planning Forum opens in Khankendi

On October 15, the 3rd National Urban Planning Forum officially opened in the city of Khankendi under the theme ‘Towards Climate-Resilient and Healthy Cities: Regional Partnerships and Innovative Solutions,’ Azernews reports.

The event is organized in partnership between Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). It has gathered around 400 participants from over 60 countries, including representatives of public and private institutions, international organizations, academic institutions, and civil society.

The three-day forum serves as a unified platform for local and international experts to discuss current challenges and opportunities in the field of urban planning.

Key topics on the agenda include:Sustainable recovery following conflict and natural disasters; Affordable housing and dignified living conditions;Resilient and healthy urban environments; Best practices in ecological and energy efficiency; Digital transformation and innovative approaches in urban planning; Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda;Strengthening regional and international partnerships.

Within the forum, special attention will be given to the large-scale reconstruction and development efforts in the Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur economic regions, showcasing Azerbaijan’s post-conflict achievements, adoption of modern urban planning standards, and the application of innovative technologies.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn from leading international case studies, while panel discussions featuring prominent scholars in urban planning will promote knowledge exchange and encourage evidence-based, sustainable decision-making.

Men’s chess team shines at European Team Chess Championship [PHOTO]

The Azerbaijani men’s chess team has played their latest match at the European Team Chess Championship, held in Batumi, Georgia, Azernews reports.

In the 8th round, the team faced Ukraine. The national team won 2.5:1.5, bringing their total points to 13 and rising to the top of the standings. The victory for the team was secured by Shakhriyar Mammadyarov.

Rauf Mammadov, Aydin Suleymanli, Mahammad Muradli, and Eltaj Safarli all ended their matches in a draw.

If the Azerbaijani team wins the final round, they will become European champions for the fourth time, regardless of the results in other matches. The Azerbaijani women’s team is currently facing Romania.

The European Team Chess Championship features separate Open and Women’s sections, with each competition consisting of 9 rounds played under a Swiss system.

The chess tournament showcases 75 teams, including 39 in the Open tournament and 36 in the Women’s Championship.

Chess, for centuries, has been a popular game in Azerbaijan with ancient roots closely related to traditions. The country could preserve these traditions as chess remains a crucially popular sport for now.

To popularise this original game, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, who is also the chairman of the National Olympic Committee, signed in 2009 an executive order initiating a state-supported chess development program, covering the years 2009-2014.

The 42nd Chess Olympiad, held in Baku, is indeed an excellent example of great attention paid to the development of chess games in the country.

The large-scale event attracted a total of 1,587 participants, including 894 in the Open category and 693 in the Women’s event, making the Baku Chess Olympiad a significant event.

Similarly, the FIDE World Chess Cup 2023 in Baku captivated chess fans with its high-calibre competition and exhilarating matches.

Featuring a highly competitive lineup, the World Cup provided an exciting venue to display the remarkable skill and strategic finesse of elite chess players.

Approximately 206 competitors participated in the open section, along with 103 players in the women’s competition.

The national chess players have always been taking high places at top-ranked tournaments.

Turkmenistan Culture Days start with spectacular opening ceremony [PHOTOS]

Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan share deep-rooted cultural ties, grounded in their common history, language, and traditions.

Both countries have consistently worked to reinforce these relationships, promoting mutual respect and understanding through a range of cultural initiatives.

Turkmenistan Culture Days stand as a shining example of the robust cultural partnership between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, highlighting their shared heritage and dedication to enhancing mutual understanding through joint cultural efforts.

This event highlights the ongoing partnership between the two nations and their dedication to strengthening cultural ties.

The official opening ceremony of Turkmenistan Culture Days took place at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, Deputy Culture Minister Murad Huseynov expressed his pleasure at hosting Turkmenistan Culture Days in Azerbaijan. He noted that the peoples of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are united by shared history, cultural roots, and unwavering friendship.

Murad Huseynov emphasized that the high level of relations between the two countries creates favorable conditions for the peoples to better understand one another, for the expansion of cultural exchanges, and for the realization of joint projects in the future.

In his address, Nursahat Shirimov, Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan, stressed the significance of developing cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. He stated that the holding of Turkmenistan Culture Days in Azerbaijan contributes to strengthening the friendship and mutual understanding between the two peoples. Nursahat Shirimov also expressed hope that cultural cooperation would continue to grow in the future.

Academician Isa Habibbayli, President of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, remarked that the common history and cultural roots of the two peoples have led to the development of their cultures over millennia, and these cultures continue to be closely interconnected today.

“Our unity and brotherhood are always evident. Our cultures and literatures have developed as a reflection of our shared values. This is the most vivid manifestation of the centuries-old unity between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan in the modern era,” the Academician emphasized.

Following the speeches, the guests were introduced to a photo exhibition showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. In addition, samples of Turkmenistan’s music, national costumes, decorative-applied arts, and museum exhibits were on display.

A concert program was then presented, featuring Turkmen dances and musical performances.

Turkmenistan Culture Days, which will continue until October 15, include events in both Baku and Ganja.