Category: Azer News

Azerbaijan’s decision to accede to the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-Fouling Systems on Ships represents more than a routine legislative update. It reflects the country’s broader strategy of aligning its maritime sector with international environmental standards while strengthening its position as a responsible actor in global shipping. The law, approved by the Milli Majlis on June 12 and signed by President Ilham Aliyev, demonstrates Azerbaijan’s commitment to protecting the marine environment, modernizing its maritime legislation, and supporting sustainable economic development.

The convention in question was adopted in London on October 5, 2001 under the framework of the International Maritime Organization. Its central purpose is to prevent pollution caused not by oil spills or cargo discharge, but by the anti-fouling systems applied to ship hulls. These coatings are designed to prevent the accumulation of marine organisms such as algae, barnacles, and mollusks, which can reduce a vessel’s efficiency and increase fuel consumption. For decades, some of the chemicals used in these coatings – especially organotin compounds such as tributyltin – were found to be highly toxic to marine ecosystems.

The Convention therefore seeks to eliminate the use of harmful anti-fouling systems while encouraging the development of environmentally safer technologies.

For Azerbaijan, environmental considerations are particularly significant because of the unique characteristics of the Caspian Sea.

Unlike open oceans, the Caspian is an enclosed basin where pollutants tend to remain for extended periods. Toxic substances introduced into its waters can accumulate over decades, affecting fish stocks, marine mammals, coastal habitats, and local communities dependent on marine resources.

By adopting internationally recognized restrictions on hazardous anti-fouling substances, Azerbaijan contributes to reducing one additional source of marine contamination. The Convention complements existing national and regional efforts aimed at improving water quality and preserving marine biodiversity.

Under the Convention, certain categories of ships engaged in international voyages are required to obtain the relevant international certificates and declarations. Compliance of ships with the Convention’s requirements is determined through inspections conducted by the competent authorities of the Contracting Parties or by recognized organizations.

In addition, the Convention establishes scientific and technical mechanisms for assessing harmful substances and provides for relevant procedures and measures for cooperation within the framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Accession to international environmental conventions therefore supports not only ecological objectives but also Azerbaijan’s long-term economic attractiveness.

By adopting internationally accepted standards, Azerbaijan signals that economic modernization and environmental responsibility are mutually reinforcing priorities rather than competing goals.

Equally important will be continued cooperation with regional partners around the Caspian Sea, since marine pollution cannot be effectively addressed by one country acting alone.

Protecting marine ecosystems, improving regulatory quality, strengthening international credibility, and supporting sustainable economic growth are complementary objectives that reinforce Azerbaijan’s long-term development strategy.

Rather than being viewed simply as another international treaty, the Convention should be understood as part of Azerbaijan’s broader integration into the evolving global framework of environmentally responsible maritime governance.

On June 26, presentation ceremonies of a number of projects were held in the territory of the Seaside National Park.

Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Arzu Aliyeva, Head of the Baku Media Center, participated in the ceremonies.

Opening of the “Boulevard Sports Club” sports club

First, the opening of the “Boulevard Sports Club” sports club, which was created after major repair and reconstruction work carried out on the traditional tennis court complex in the Seaside National Park, took place.

Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva got acquainted with the conditions created at the sports club.

It was stated that the new sports club was established within the framework of the work carried out in the direction of promoting a healthy lifestyle, expanding sports infrastructure, and increasing recreation opportunities in the Seaside National Park. Here, a functional fitness gym equipped with modern equipment, padel courts, and dynamic sports opportunities have been created.

Presentation of the “WasteShark” floating water purification device

Then, within the framework of measures implemented in the direction of improving the ecological situation of the part of the Baku Bay falling into the water area of the Seaside National Park and ensuring the cleanliness of the water basin, the presentation of the innovative “WasteShark” floating water purification device took place. During the presentation, the technical capabilities of the device were demonstrated to Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva.

It was stated that against the background of the decrease in the water level in the Caspian Sea in recent years, the device is equipped with advanced technological solutions that allow for the agile collection of floating waste, biomass, and various pollutants in coastal areas, shallow waters, and closed water areas.

The device, which is remotely controlled, equipped with special sensors and cameras, and possesses agile movement capabilities, collects waste, organic residues, and polluting substances on the water surface. Operating efficiently especially in areas with limited accessibility, “WasteShark” is designed to expand the capabilities of ecological monitoring and cleanup measures.

The application of the device in local cleanup works at the initial stage, and its application in a wider water area of the Baku Bay and in various usage formats based on the obtained results is intended.

It should be noted that the project was implemented at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, founder and head of the IDEA Public Union.

Presentation of electric-motor carriages

Later, the presentation of a new project that offers visitors a different recreation and strolling opportunity in the territory of the Baku Boulevard – electric-motor carriages – took place.

First, Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva were informed about the new project. It was stated that these modern vehicles with a historical appearance, inspired by the carriage traditions of the city of Baku, offer environmentally friendly, quiet, and comfortable strolling opportunities along a special route in the boulevard area.

It was noted that the use of electric-motor carriages is one of the steps taken towards promoting modern, ecological, and sustainable urban environment principles. Then, a stroll along the boulevard with the electric-motor carriages was organized for the guests.

During the opening and presentation ceremonies, Leyla Aliyeva and Arzu Aliyeva met with city residents and took pictures with them.

During his annual speech to Parliament, Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said that Georgia had concluded successful negotiations with Azerbaijan, securing more than 2 billion cubic meters of natural gas at an optimal price, AzerNEWS reports.

“We held very important negotiations with Azerbaijan on natural gas supplies and secured guarantees for more than two billion cubic meters of gas at an optimal, reasonable price,” Kobakhidze said.

According to the prime minister, more than 60 settlements, covering approximately 10,000 households, were connected to the country’s gas distribution network during the reporting period as part of Georgia’s gasification program.

Kobakhidze emphasized that the negotiations with Azerbaijan, which he described as a friendly country, were of fundamental importance to Georgia’s energy security.

“We conducted very important negotiations with our friendly country, Azerbaijan, regarding gas supplies, and these talks were concluded with great success. I would like to thank both the Ministry of Economy and our Azerbaijani friends for the negotiations and the results achieved. This is extremely important for the country’s energy security,” he added.

U.S. President Donald Trump said that Iran could become a new market for American agricultural exports amid ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran and a reported agreement, AzerNEWS reports.

Speaking at a dinner with American farmers at the White House, Trump expressed optimism about the potential economic opportunities.

“I think it’s going to be very big,” the U.S. president said.

On Thursday, The New York Post, citing a senior U.S. official, reported that under the agreement, Iranian funds frozen in the United States would be released. However, the funds would not be transferred directly to the Iranian government.

Instead, Washington insists that the money be paid directly to companies supplying Iran with approved goods, including agricultural products, medical equipment, and other authorized items.

According to Iranian media reports, Tehran is expected to receive a total of $12 billion in two installments under the arrangement.

Azerbaijan has dispatched its latest shipment of petroleum products to Armenia, marking another step in ongoing regional trade.

AzerNEWS reports that the cargo departed from the Bilajari railway station on June 26, heading toward Boyuk Kasik. The shipment consists of 18 railcars carrying 971 tons of AI-92 gasoline, alongside 8 railcars transporting 467 tons of diesel fuel.

With this latest delivery, Azerbaijan’s total energy exports to Armenia have surpassed significant milestones. To date, the country has supplied Armenia with more than 14,000 tons of diesel, as well as over 4,000 tons of AI-92 and AI-95 grade gasoline.

In tandem with direct energy sales, Azerbaijan continues to serve as a vital transit corridor for regional logistics. Cumulative transit data reveals that Russia has utilized Azerbaijani territory to transport over 34,000 tons of grain, nearly 8,000 tons of fertilizer, 414 tons of anthracite coal, 133 tons of aluminum, and 68 tons of buckwheat directly to Armenia.

First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva shared a post on her social media accounts dedicated to June 26 – Armed Forces Day, AzerNEWS reports.

The post states: “We are proud of our Army, which has brought the joy of Victory to our people! May Allah have mercy on our martyrs who heroically sacrificed their lives for the Motherland! May the Almighty protect our people and our beloved Azerbaijan!”

The Delegation of the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO hosted an official reception at NATO headquarters to mark the 108th anniversary of the establishment of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan, AzerNEWS reports.

According to the delegation’s press service, the event was attended by Kevin Hamilton, NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia and Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Partnerships, along with ambassadors of Allied and partner countries to NATO, military representatives, members of the Alliance’s International Secretariat, and other senior guests.

Addressing the reception, Head of Azerbaijan’s Delegation to NATO Jafar Huseynzade said the anniversary was an important occasion to honor the service and sacrifices of Azerbaijani military personnel and to reaffirm the country’s commitment to independence, sovereignty, and statehood.

Huseynzade emphasized that Azerbaijan’s independence had been achieved through great sacrifices and that its preservation depends on strong state institutions, national unity, and professional armed forces. He highlighted the role of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in laying the foundations of the modern Azerbaijani Army, noting that the military development policy has been successfully continued under the leadership of President and Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, resulting in the restoration of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He also stressed that Azerbaijan’s objectives extend beyond restoring sovereignty and include achieving lasting peace in the South Caucasus. Huseynzade described the progress made in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process at the Washington Summit as an important step toward regional stability.

The head of the delegation further noted that Azerbaijan’s partnership with NATO has developed for more than three decades on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests. He highlighted the country’s contributions to NATO-led missions, particularly in Kosovo and Afghanistan, as well as its role in strengthening the energy security of NATO allies and partners and serving as a key Eurasian connectivity hub linking Europe, Central Asia, and other regions.

During the event, Azerbaijan’s Military Representative to the NATO Military Committee, Ramil Hasanov, provided an overview of the development of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces and the country’s military cooperation with the Alliance.

In his remarks, Ambassador Kevin Hamilton described Azerbaijan as a reliable and valuable NATO partner. He said the long-standing partnership has made a significant contribution to the professionalization and modernization of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces, which today maintain a high level of interoperability with NATO standards.

Hamilton also praised Azerbaijan’s contributions to NATO operations, particularly its role in Afghanistan, expressing special appreciation for the country’s support during the withdrawal of Allied forces and noting that Azerbaijan was the last partner nation to leave Afghanistan. He additionally commended Azerbaijan’s role in enhancing the energy security of NATO members and partners and welcomed the progress achieved toward de facto peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia, describing it as an important development for regional stability and security.

The reception also featured a photo exhibition highlighting Azerbaijan’s partnership with NATO, the contributions of National Leader Heydar Aliyev to the development of relations with the Alliance, President Ilham Aliyev’s visits to NATO headquarters and meetings with Alliance officials, as well as a banquet showcasing traditional Azerbaijani cuisine.

Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), said that close to 1,000 rescue workers from 16 countries have been deployed to Venezuela in response to this week’s deadly earthquakes, AzerNEWS reports.

According to Laerke, search and rescue teams from Italy, Colombia, Mexico, El Salvador, the United States, Chile, and Switzerland have already arrived in Venezuela. Additional teams from the United Kingdom, Germany, Jordan, Spain, Qatar, the Netherlands, France, the Czech Republic, and Ecuador are expected to arrive in the coming days.

Laerke also said that the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has allocated $15 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund to support relief efforts in Venezuela.

At least 235 people have been killed and more than 4,300 injured in the earthquakes, according to the latest reports. The state of La Guaira, which has been declared a disaster zone, is among the hardest-hit areas.

Search and rescue operations, as well as damage assessments, remain ongoing.

Two nuclear reactors in Switzerland have been taken off the grid after rising river temperatures reduced the effectiveness of their cooling system, according to local media reports on Friday, AzerNEWS reports.

Energy company Axpo said the two Beznau reactor units, cooled by water from the River Aare, are now in a full shutdown state after being progressively reduced earlier in the week, according to SWI.

Axpo said the temperature of the River Aare reached 25C (77F), a level it said does not allow sufficient cooling for the plant’s operations.

Output from the two reactors had already been reduced Tuesday, most recently to 50%. The company said the river reached 25C for the first time Wednesday after cooling water had been fully mixed, adding that if there was no prospect of the river cooling, the reactors would be shut down completely Friday.

The two units, located on the Aare island in Dottingen, had already temporarily suspended electricity production in July 2025.

Europe’s current heatwave, which has brought red alerts to several countries throughout the week, is the “most severe” ever recorded in the region and was made significantly more likely and intense by fossil fuel-driven climate change, according to a report published Friday by World Weather Attribution (WWA).

The study found that the temperatures recorded would have been virtually impossible 50 years ago and far less likely even during previous record-breaking heatwaves.

President Donald Trump on Friday accused Iran of violating a ceasefire agreement with the United States by launching attack drones at ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, including a cargo vessel that was struck off the coast of Oman on Thursday, AzerNEWS reports.

‘The Islamic Republic of Iran shot at least four One Way Attack Drones at Ships transversing the Strait of Hormuz,’ Trump wrote in a Truth Social Post.

‘One of the Drones solidly hit the upper deck of a large and very expensive Cargo Carrying Ship,’ the president wrote.

‘Damage was done, but the Ship was able to proceed on its way. We knocked down three other Drones. Obviously, this is a foolish violation of our Ceasefire Agreement.’

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a phone conversation with United Arab Emirates Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed al-Nahyan on Friday, during which they discussed the current situation in the Middle East and the memorandum of understanding that Tehran signed with Washington.

According to a readout by the Emirati Foreign Ministry, Al-Nahyan underlined the importance of completely abiding by the provisions in the agreement and emphasized that “serious diplomacy and responsible dialogue are the preferred means of addressing regional and international crises.” Meanwhile, the UAE state news agency WAM reported that the two diplomats also discussed the freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.