Category: Azer News

The 12th Summit of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), held in Gabala, Azerbaijan, marks a significant evolution in the bloc’s identity-transforming it from a forum focused on cultural heritage into a growing center of geopolitical and economic influence. With Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev delivering a wide-ranging opening address, the summit underscored the increasing alignment of the Turkic nations in areas such as security, connectivity, energy, and digital transformation.

“Today, the Organization of Turkic States has evolved from merely a platform for cooperation into one of the significant geopolitical centers,” President Aliyev declared, setting the tone for the summit. He emphasized the importance of shared ethnic and cultural roots, pointing out that these are not merely symbolic ties, but strategic assets in unifying member states’ positions on global issues.

Indeed, the summit reaffirmed that common historical legacies-rooted in language, traditions, and a shared Eurasian geography-are being transformed into actionable policies. This transition from cultural kinship to strategic alignment forms the backbone of what many analysts now see as an emerging regional power center with increasing relevance in global geopolitics.

Security cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. President Aliyev pointed to the strategic need for unity amid global instability, noting that “development cannot be achieved without ensuring security.” His proposal to host joint military exercises for OTS members in Azerbaijan in 2026 reflects a growing understanding within the bloc that hard power complements soft power in maintaining sovereignty and ensuring stability.

This follows Azerbaijan’s own recent military developments, including the 2020 victory in the Second Garabagh War and the 2023 counter-terrorism operations, which President Aliyev framed as a restoration of justice and sovereignty. The peace process with Armenia-highlighted by the initialing of a peace agreement in Washington-was portrayed not only as a national victory, but also as a contribution to broader regional peace.

Such developments serve as a model for conflict resolution within the post-Soviet space and underline the increasing importance of indigenous security architectures in regions often shaped by external powers.

The summit also highlighted economic integration as a central pillar of cooperation. President Aliyev described Azerbaijan’s role as a “vital bridge” in the East-West and North-South transport corridors, citing a 90% increase in cargo traffic along the Middle Corridor since 2022. Azerbaijan’s strategic investments in transport-such as the Port of Alat, the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, and nine international airports-position the country as a regional logistics hub and connector between Central Asia and Europe.

The inauguration of the Zangazur Corridor was described as a geopolitical and economic milestone, simultaneously enhancing connectivity and reaffirming sovereignty. President Aliyev also called attention to the country’s growing energy portfolio, noting that Azerbaijan now supplies natural gas to 14 countries, and is prioritizing renewables with the aim of generating 40% of its energy from green sources by 2030.

This aligns closely with broader economic trends in the Turkic world. According to the Turkish Economic Review Q2 2025, prepared by the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication , OTS countries collectively achieved an average GDP growth of 5.4%, significantly outpacing the global average of 2.3%. Countries like Kyrgyzstan (11.7%), Uzbekistan (7.2%), and Turkmenistan (6.3%) posted particularly high growth, reflecting expanding investment in infrastructure, digital transformation, and energy diversification.

Azerbaijan’s economy grew by a modest 1.5%, yet its trade surplus of $920 million and growing investments in digital and green infrastructure underscore its strategic role as a stable and resource-rich partner within the bloc.

The digital and green transformation agenda

The summit reaffirmed the commitment of member states to digital transformation and sustainability. President Aliyev highlighted ongoing efforts in digital governance and smart city development, particularly in the liberated territories of Garabagh and Zangazur. These initiatives reflect a regional pivot toward innovation-driven growth, with OTS countries investing heavily in green energy and digital infrastructure.

Kazakhstan, for instance, has allocated $3.2 billion toward renewables, while Uzbekistan has raised $1 billion through green bonds. Azerbaijan’s integration into a green energy corridor linking Central Asia with Europe demonstrates how energy and digital agendas are being aligned across the region.

Beyond economics and security, institutional consolidation and cultural unity remain core to the OTS’s identity. President Aliyev proposed commemorating the 100th anniversary of the First Turkological Congress in Baku next year-a symbolic gesture that reinforces cultural solidarity while linking it to the modern political project of Turkic unity.

President Aliyev also acknowledged the growing role of informal summits in facilitating strategic dialogue, referencing last year’s summit in Shusha and this year’s gathering in Budapest. These formats allow for more flexible and focused engagement among member states, and could evolve into a model for future regional diplomacy.

The 12th Summit of the OTS confirmed that the Turkic states are no longer content with symbolic alliances-they are building a shared future rooted in tangible cooperation. From joint military exercises to integrated transport corridors and digital economies, the member states are acting with increasing coordination.

President Aliyev’s speech captured the essence of this evolution: “Our common history and ethnic roots, our languages unite us like one family.” But beyond rhetorical unity, the summit demonstrated actionable commitment across security, economic, and cultural domains.

In an era of geopolitical realignment and global uncertainty, the Organization of Turkic States is positioning itself not just as a cultural bloc, but as a strategic coalition with growing influence across Eurasia and beyond.

The state has ensured comprehensive conditions for the free and safe activity of all religious confessions, including Christian communities, in Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

This was stated by Ramin Mammadov, Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Organizations, during his visit to the United States at a meeting with Utah Senate President Adam Stewart.

During the meeting, it was noted that Azerbaijan-US relations have entered a new and promising stage. Confidence was expressed that the Joint Declaration signed by the leaders of Azerbaijan, the United States, and Armenia in Washington on August 8 represents a historic milestone in the peace process, contributing to interfaith harmony and coexistence.

Ramin Mammadov emphasized that promoting an environment of tolerance and ensuring peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths is a key direction of Azerbaijan’s state policy.

‘As a clear example, the official registration of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Azerbaijan demonstrates the state’s commitment to interfaith tolerance and equal treatment,’ he noted.

The Committee Chairman also invited the President of the Utah Senate to visit Azerbaijan, which Adam Stewart gratefully accepted. Stewart praised Azerbaijan’s multicultural values and interfaith harmony, acknowledging President Ilham Aliyev’s contribution to preserving religious tolerance and cultural diversity.

Utah Senators Kirk Collymore and Mike McKell also participated in the meeting, where both sides exchanged views on strengthening cooperation between Azerbaijan and the United States in promoting dialogue among religions and cultures.

Netflix has launched a thought-provoking new documentary series titled The Last Words of a Celebrity, offering some of the world’s most influential figures a final opportunity to share their stories, values, and reflections. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning producer Brad Falchuk, the series features intimate, in-depth interviews filmed under a unique condition: they are only to be released posthumously, Azernews reports.

The debut episode is a powerful tribute to the remarkable life of Dr. Jane Goodall – renowned primatologist, ethologist, environmentalist, and humanitarian – who passed away of natural causes on October 1st this year in Los Angeles at the age of 91. Celebrated globally for her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees, Dr. Goodall was also a passionate advocate for animal welfare and environmental education, inspiring generations to rethink their relationship with nature.

Inspired by the acclaimed Danish TV format ‘Det Sidste Ord’ (The Last Word), the show breaks away from the conventions of traditional documentaries. Each interview is conducted in complete privacy, with only Brad Falchuk and the guest present, captured solely through discreet, remote-controlled cameras. This minimalist setup fosters raw honesty, deep introspection, and emotional vulnerability.

Falchuk describes the project as ‘moving, unconventional, and transcendent,’ adding:

‘It’s unlike any other interview format. It’s not just about legacy – it’s about truth, closure, and having the final say.’

The series also explores how people confront mortality, legacy, and the desire to shape how they are remembered – a theme rarely tackled so candidly in mainstream media.

Falchuk serves as the executive producer of The Last Words of a Celebrity, and the premiere episode featuring Dr. Jane Goodall is now available to stream exclusively on Netflix.

On October 8, 2025, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov received Diego Martinez-Belio, Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain, who was on an official visit to Baku, Azernews reports.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan, the meeting focused on the current state and future prospects of bilateral relations, emphasizing the importance of political dialogue, and cooperation in economic, energy, tourism, transport, humanitarian, and cultural fields, as well as discussions on regional developments.

Minister Bayramov highlighted that ties between Azerbaijan and Spain are based on principles of friendship and mutual respect, and underlined the importance of strengthening dialogue and collaboration within international organizations. He noted the significance of recent meetings between the leaders of both countries – held during COP29 in Baku and later in Tirana – as milestones in expanding cooperation.

Both sides also discussed the outcomes of the first meeting of the Strategic Economic Dialogue, held in Baku in March 2025, describing it as an important platform for boosting economic interaction. The talks additionally touched upon Azerbaijan-EU partnership, energy security, green energy initiatives, and cooperation in transport and communication projects.

Minister Bayramov briefed the Spanish delegation on the new realities in the post-conflict period, the ongoing peace process, the results of the historic Washington meeting, and Azerbaijan’s consistent efforts toward sustainable development and stability in the region.

The meeting concluded with an exchange of views on international and regional issues of mutual interest.

On the same day, the next round of political consultations between the two foreign ministries was held. The Azerbaijani delegation was led by Deputy Foreign Minister Fariz Rzayev, while the Spanish side was represented by State Secretary Diego Martinez-Belio.

The 33rd International Opera Festival, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the renowned world opera figure Maria Bie?u, has taken place in Chi?inau, Moldova, Azernews reports.

The festival brought together stars from prominent opera stages across various countries. It featured 20 special guests from 12 countries, including France, Germany, Ukraine, Greece, Azerbaijan, Chile, Cuba, Poland, Italy, Romania, the Netherlands, and Spain.

Along with these international conductors and singers, the festival also showcased the leading soloists, symphonic orchestra, choir, and ballet troupe of the National Opera Theater of Moldova, making it one of the country’s major cultural events.

The festival opened with Giuseppe Verdi’s “Un ballo in maschera” and also featured renowned stage works such as “Eugene Onegin”, “L’elisir d’amore”, and “Turandot”, as well as the ballets “Don Quixote” and “Romeo and Juliet”, all of which received special attention.

One of the festival’s most anticipated events was the joint performance of four countries’ artists in Giacomo Puccini’s “Turandot”.

The performance, led by Ayyub Guliyev, Principal Conductor of the Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theater, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan, and Associate Professor at the Baku Music Academy, featured soprano Kristel di Marco from France and tenor Diego Godoy from Chile.

Their performances were met with standing ovations. The opera was further enriched by the participation of the singers, choir, and symphonic orchestra of the National Opera Theater of Moldova.

Special guests in the audience included Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Moldova, Ulvi Bakhshaliyev, the Director of the National Opera Theater of Moldova, Nicolae Dohotaru, the Director of the National Philharmonic, Svetlana Bivol, and the Artistic Director of the Moldova Radio Symphonic Orchestra, Georgi Mustya.

The festival concluded on October 5 with a grand gala concert program.

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) continues to support Azerbaijan in its ‘green’ transition and the development of small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, Director of the ADB Office in Azerbaijan, stated at the Halal Business Forum, Azernews reports.

Founded 58 years ago with 69 member states, the ADB promotes SME development across Asia, recognizing them as the backbone of national economies. ‘This is equally true for Azerbaijan. I lead a team of 30 specialists here, working to expand the private sector and support SMEs,’ Durrani-Jamal noted.

She highlighted close cooperation with the Ministry of Economy, the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (SMBDA), and other partners to ensure entrepreneurs have access to resources, innovations, and sustainable development opportunities.

Durrani-Jamal emphasized that the ADB’s role goes beyond financing. ‘Our goal is to develop business potential, promote sustainable practices, and create an environment in which SMEs can flourish. Working with partners, we contribute to job creation, inclusive economic growth, and the long-term well-being of communities,’ she said.

She added that SMEs are essential not only for economic activity but also for environmental sustainability. International and national partners, including Azerbaijani government agencies, are introducing incentive measures, tax breaks, and financing instruments to support the ecological transformation of businesses.

‘One key initiative at COP29 was the Baku Climate Coalition dedicated to the green transition of SMEs. In the adopted declaration, parties agreed on two priorities: strengthening SME potential and stimulating business demand for environmental solutions,’ Durrani-Jamal noted.

A trial has been held on the criminal case initiated by the State Security Service (STS) against Khagani Omarov, Anar Salamzadeh, and Elchin Azizov, who are accused of financing terrorism, Azernews reports.

The hearing took place at the Baku Grave Crimes Court under the chairmanship of Judge Nigar Imanova. During the session, the defense submitted a motion requesting the termination of the criminal case against Khagani Omarov.

The court rejected the motion, deeming it unfounded. Subsequently, witnesses gave testimony, and the statements previously provided to the investigation by four individuals involved in the case were read aloud in their absence.

The trial is set to continue on October 28.

It should be noted that the accused were detained as a result of an operation conducted by the State Security Service. The investigation revealed that they had transferred funds to certain individuals operating abroad to support terrorist activities. They were charged under Article 214-1 (financing of terrorism) of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The second day of the “Halal Business Forum” has officially begun in Baku, Azernews reports.

The forum features a lineup of prominent speakers, including Sunniya Durrani-Jamal, Head of the Asian Development Bank’s Azerbaijan Resident Mission; Dinh Viet Hoa, Founder and Chairperson of the Vietnam National Entrepreneurship Association; Rizvan Huseynov, Director of the Caucasus History Center (Azerbaijan); as well as other government officials and company representatives.

Key topics under discussion at the forum include: Enhancing the role of SMEs in the global green transition discourse; A joint declaration on the Baku Climate Coalition for SMEs’ green transition; The role of historical heritage in the development of halal tourism in the Caucasus and Central Asia; The role of women in the growth of the halal industry.

In accordance with the bilateral military cooperation plan between the Ministries of Defense of Azerbaijan and Georgia for 2025, a delegation from the Georgian Ministry of Defense visited Azerbaijan within the framework of the program ‘Exchange of Experience in the Field of UAVs’, Azernews reports.

According to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense, the Georgian delegation received a detailed briefing on the activities of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the Azerbaijani Army, including their use in combat operations, organization of flight missions, and ongoing development trends in this field.

During the meeting, both sides discussed areas of mutual interest and emphasized the importance of regular experience exchange programs for enhancing cooperation and operational efficiency between the two countries’ defense institutions.c

A Flagship Climate Dialogue entitled ‘Sea Level Fluctuations and Unequal Consequences: Case Studies from the Caspian Sea and Small Island Developing States (SIDS)’ was held at the historic Marlborough Palace in London, UK, Azernews reports.

The event, hosted in partnership with the Commonwealth of Nations, which unites 56 countries, was attended by representatives of the diplomatic corps in London, as well as the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives of the British Foreign Office and other state agencies, small island states, climate organizations and media representatives, employees of the Commonwealth Secretariat, young leaders and other guests.

Addressing the event, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, founder and head of IDEA Public Union, drew the participants’ attention to the decline in the Caspian Sea’s water level. She noted that the loss of water in the world’s largest lakes and pollution with plastic waste over the past 30 years have further aggravated the situation. Recalling that COP29 was successfully hosted by Azerbaijan, Leyla Aliyeva emphasized the importance of taking practical steps rather than ideas on the path to COP30. Leyla Aliyeva also highlighted the activities of IDEA Public Association to protect nature and involve young people in this process. Concluding her speech, Leyla Aliyeva stated that the attitude toward nature indicates the attitude toward humanity, adding that protecting the Caspian Sea creates hope for its vibrant future.

Speaking at the event, Mukhtar Babayev, COP29 President, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues, called on the international community to show solidarity for the Caspian Sea, like the Amazon and other tropical forests. He further noted that for this purpose, Azerbaijan is working together with the UN Environment Program on the development of “Action Plan for the Reduction of the Level of the Caspian Sea” covering the years 2025-2035. He recalled that, at the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, the Caspian littoral states adopted a joint declaration within COP29, thus enhancing cooperation.

The COP29 President emphasized the importance of the IDEA campaign for protecting the biodiversity of the Caspian Sea and affirmed Azerbaijan’s solidarity with small island states by supporting climate change adaptation sustainable development and adaptation projects in these countries. Following his remarks, Mukhtar Babayev noted that fulfilling the promises made at COP29 and increasing climate finance are important for restoring international trust, and Azerbaijan will continue to play an active role in global climate solidarity.

Suddhoo Arjoon, the Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General, highlighted the negative impacts of climate change on the majority of countries that are members of the Commonwealth. He said that it is highly commendable that Azerbaijan’s COP29 Presidency is sensitive to the challenges faced by small island states in particular, and takes concrete steps to address these challenges. In this regard, he pointed out the cooperation project aimed at contributing to climate action in small island states that are members of the Commonwealth of Nations, based on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024 between the COP29 Presidency and the Commonwealth of Nations.

In his remarks, Tim Hemmings, Special Envoy for Small Island States of the British Foreign Office, reviewed the progress achieved by COP29 last year and noted that given the scale of the problems caused by changing sea levels, the British Foreign Office, had implemented a number of projects to support issues in this direction. He said that it is commendable that the COP29 Presidency and the Commonwealth of Nations had organized an event on this topic in London.

Michael Fishbeck, co-founder and executive director of the ‘Whale Guardians’ organization, drew attention to the biodiversity of the Caspian Sea and noting that the Caspian Sea’s falling level is a harbinger of larger-scale processes that may occur in the global oceans. He therefore called for urgent steps to be taken to protect the Caspian.

Fishbeck highly appreciated the leadership shown by Azerbaijan during COP29 under the guidance of the country’s President and its plans for green energy. He added that the goal is not only to protect whales and other marine life, but also to safeguard and help revive vital marine ecosystems like the Caspian Sea.

Speaking at the event, the ambassadors of small island states in London-including the Bahamas, Maldives, Antigua and Barbuda-stated that rising sea levels pose a direct existential threat to their countries, expressing gratitude to the COP29 Presidency for highlighting such an important issue.

The event participants also viewed an exhibition dedicated to the Azerbaijani nature, followed by an official reception.