Ordubad city included in ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage Tentative List [PHOTOS]

A significant decision has been reached in Central Asia: the historic city of Ordubad has been formally included in ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage Tentative List, AzerNEWS reports.

The decision was announced at the 13th session of the Islamic World Heritage Committee of ICESCO held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Within the framework of the session, a decision was adopted to include the Ordubad Historical-Architectural Reserve in ICESCO’s Islamic World Heritage Tentative List.

The city of Ordubad, declared a historical-architectural reserve in 1977, had already been included in the Tentative List of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2001, highlighting its long-standing cultural value.

In a move aimed at ensuring more effective preservation, promotion, and management of the city’s historic monuments, President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on February 21, 2024, establishing the Ordubad State Historical and Cultural Reserve.

Ordubad is a city steeped in history. First mentioned in written sources dating back to the 5th century, the city was later described as the pearl of Azerbaijan by National Leader Heydar Aliyev.

The early 17th century marked a flourishing era for the city, with the construction of key architectural landmarks such as the Juma Mosque, madrasa, ice house, qaysariyya (covered market), bathhouses, and caravanserais.

During this period, historic quarters including Anbaras, Kurdatal, Uchturlangi, Mingis, and Sarsheher were formed, alongside the Arazat Square ensemble and a covered market complex built around three squares.

The city’s ancient kahriz water supply system also dates back to this era. Ordubad’s street network radiates from the central square surrounding the Juma Mosque, shaping the layout of its neighborhoods. Mosques built in the 17th-18th centuries, including Juma, Anbaras, Sarsheher, Dilbar, and Tekeshiyi continue to preserve their historical and cultural significance to this day.

Ordubad’s inclusion in ICESCO’s Tentative List is seen as a significant contribution to Azerbaijan’s “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture 2026”.

Looking ahead, the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry will continue its work to advance the nomination toward inclusion in ICESCO’s Main List, bringing the city one step closer to full recognition as a jewel of Islamic heritage.

Azerbaijan, with its deep cultural heritage, became a member of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (ICESCO) in 1991.

Since joining, the country has been actively engaged in safeguarding its Islamic cultural legacy. Azerbaijan has also developed strong partnerships with several key institutions, such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the Islamic Development Bank, the Islamic Conference of Parliamentary Union, and the Islamic Conference of Youth Forum.

Hyundai Palisade and Kia EV9 win Canadian Car of the Year

Hyundai Motor Co. announced on Thursday that its Palisade SUV, along with affiliate Kia Corp.’s EV9 electric SUV, has been named among the four winners at the 2026 Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY), presented by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), AzerNEWS reports, citing Yonhap agency.

A panel of 53 AJAC automotive journalists evaluated vehicles across multiple categories, citing build quality, interior ergonomics, and broad consumer appeal as key factors in their selections.

The Hyundai Palisade earned the title of Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year, marking Hyundai’s second consecutive win in this category after the Hyundai Santa Fe took the honor in 2025. Judges praised the Palisade’s next-generation hybrid powertrain, advanced safety technologies, and overall refinement.

Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 was named Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year, after having reached the finalist stage in both 2024 and 2025. The all-electric SUV was recognized for its striking exterior design, intuitive infotainment system, and competitive pricing, making it a strong contender in the growing electric vehicle market.

‘These awards demonstrate that Hyundai Motor Group vehicles continue to earn recognition in Canada for innovation, performance, and design excellence,’ a company spokesperson said.

The other two category winners were the Honda Civic, named Canadian Car of the Year, and the Porsche Taycan, which took home the Canadian Electric Car of the Year award.

Adding to its accolades, the Hyundai Palisade also claimed the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award last month, presented by the North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) jury. The Palisade beat strong competitors including the Nissan Leaf sedan and Lucid Motors’ Gravity SUV, cementing its position as one of the most versatile and acclaimed utility vehicles on the continent.

Industry experts note that the dual recognition of the Palisade and EV9 highlights Hyundai Motor Group’s growing strength in both conventional and electric SUV markets, underscoring the company’s strategy of blending innovation, style, and affordability to appeal to a wide range of consumers.

SOCAR discusses joint energy projects with US companies and Israeli cooperation

President of the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), Rovshan Najaf, has met with a delegation led by Betsy Burns Korn, Chairwoman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations in the United States, AzerNEWS reports.

During the meeting, the sides expressed satisfaction with the successful cooperation between Azerbaijan and both the United States and Israel across various sectors, including energy. It was emphasized that the signing of the Strategic Partnership Charter between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the United States of America is expected to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the energy sphere. In this context, views were exchanged on projects implemented by SOCAR in partnership with U.S. companies.

The discussions also highlighted Israel’s role as one of the main export markets for Azerbaijani oil. SOCAR’s activities in Israel were reviewed, including its acquisition of a 10 percent stake in the Tamar gas field in 2025, as well as SOCAR’s participation-together with BP and the Israeli company NewMed Energy-in obtaining licenses for drilling operations in a new area of the Leviathan gas field.

SOCAR representatives also provided information on the company’s transformation from a traditional oil and gas producer into an international energy company. Particular attention was drawn to its decarbonization targets, sustainability agenda, and commitment to social responsibility in upstream projects. The importance of existing energy routes along the Middle Corridor was underscored, with it noted that Azerbaijani gas is currently supplied to 16 countries, including 10 members of the European Union.

The meeting concluded with discussions on energy transition, digitalization, human capital development, and other areas of mutual interest.

FC Qarabag secures millions from UEFA Champions League

UEFA has announced the revenues earned by clubs in the 2024/2025 UEFA Champions League season, AzerNEWS reports.

The earnings of FC Qarabag, which was eliminated in the playoff stage of the tournament, have also been disclosed. The report states that the Azerbaijani club earned pound 4.29 million.

This amount was awarded to the club for participation and performance in the qualifying stage.

The UEFA Nations League is an international football competition played by the senior men’s national teams of the member associations of UEFA, the sport’s European governing body.

The first tournament began in September 2018. The competition replaces the international friendly matches previously played on the FIFA International Match Calendar, with European national teams engaging in more frequent competitive matches against other European national teams of comparable level

The 2026-27 UEFA Nations League will be the fifth season of the UEFA Nations League.

The competition will run from September to November 2026 (league phase), March 2027 (League A quarter-finals, and League A/B and B/C play-offs), June 2027 (Nations League Finals) and March 2028 (League C/D play-offs).

Recall that Portugal is the defending champion, having won the 2025 finals.

AI could replace most office workers within two years, Microsoft executive predicts

Artificial intelligence (AI) could replace the majority of office workers over the next two years, according to Mustafa Suleyman, Microsoft’s Chief AI Officer, Azernews reports, citing an interview with the Financial Times.

Suleyman noted that so-called ‘professional AI’ will soon be capable of performing routine tasks for programmers, lawyers, accountants, managers, and marketing specialists. He emphasized that the automation of office functions is likely to happen faster than many anticipate, with algorithms handling a significant portion of intellectual work within 12 to 18 months.

The executive also highlighted that AI development and customization will become widespread and accessible. He believes creating new AI models will become as easy as producing a podcast or maintaining a blog, enabling both companies and individuals to develop solutions tailored to their specific needs.

Looking further ahead, Suleyman predicts that within two to three years, intelligent agents will be able to manage workflows in large organizations, independently analyze data, and make decisions. He also revealed Microsoft’s plans to actively advance its own AI technologies and gradually reduce reliance on OpenAI, aiming for greater independence in model development following contract renegotiations with other companies. The first results of this strategy are expected to emerge by early 2026.

Valentine’s Day in Baku: where love meets city’s most romantic spots

Baku in February is a city of contrasts: the Caspian’s cold breath mixes with the warm glow of street lamps, and the historic stone walls of the Old City stand beside modern towers of glass and steel.

For couples, this contrast creates a uniquely romantic setting, one where a Valentine’s dinner can be as intimate as a candlelit table and as dramatic as a night overlooking the sea.

The city’s leading hotels and restaurants get ready to present exclusive Valentine’s Day experiences, while Baku’s public spaces create the perfect setting for a romantic evening stroll.

Below are the most reliable and meaningful ways to celebrate love in Baku, based on confirmed events, hotel Valentine’s programs, and well-known dining venues:

Concert “For Lovers” at Heydar Aliyev Palace:

On Valentine’s Day evening, Azerbaijani singer Abbas Baghirov returns to one of Baku’s grandest stages with a special concert titled “For Lovers”.

The event will take place at Heydar Aliyev Palace after more than a decade since his last major solo show in Baku.

Baghirov is recognized as an Honored Artist of Azerbaijan and has a long career rooted in both popular and romantic repertoire.

For this event, his set list is expected to reflect the theme of love, with selections likely drawn from both classic and contemporary Azerbaijani songs that resonate with the holiday’s spirit

Valentine’s Special at Hayal Kahvesi

Also on 14 February, Baku’s popular night music venue Hayal Kahvesi will host Miri Yusif for a dedicated Valentine’s Day concert. This is a contemporary live music event aimed at a younger, passionate audience wanting a festive, high-energy celebration

Miri Yusif is a celebrated Azerbaijani artist known for blending genres like pop, soul, and folk into performances that engage audiences with both lyrical depth and dynamic stage presence.

His concerts often create an atmosphere that is simultaneously joyful and reflective, fitting for a celebration of love.

Candlelight Concert at Chamber and Organ Music Hall

One Baku’s most atmospheric musical experiences returns with its Valentine’s edition at the Chamber and Organ Music Hall. This performance is part of the internationally celebrated Candlelight concert series, a concept that brings live music to life under soft, warm candle-like lighting in intimate historic venues.

The concert program for the evening weaves together a selection of well-known local and international film melodies and romantic classical pieces, delivered by a live ensemble typically featuring strings and piano in delicate harmony.

The full performance runs for about 60 minutes, and on Valentine’s Day, there are two identical sessions you can choose from – the first around 18:30 – 19:30 and the second around 20:30 – 21:30, allowing visitors to plan their evening around the show.

The candle-lit setting creates an intimate atmosphere that enhances the emotional resonance of each piece played, making the event especially suited for couples seeking a refined Valentine’s experience.

Fuad Akhundov: Baku in Love Stories

Baku Music Academy’s Opera Studio will host a special creative musical evening by Fuah Akhundov, titled “Baku in Love Stories”. This show is scheduled as part of the city’s cultural program for Valentine’s Day and promises a unique blend of music and storytelling that centers on the theme of love as experienced through the city of Baku itself.

Unlike a traditional pop or classical concert that focuses on performance alone, Fuah Akhundov’s program is formatted as a thematic creative evening. The central idea of the event is to explore and express love through musical expression, personal narratives, and cultural reflections that are tied to the city, its history, people, and romantic motifs.

The creative evening is designed to include both musical segments and narrative elements, with live singing and thematic interludes that connect each piece to the idea of Baku’s historic and everyday love stories.

Valentine’s Day Festival in UNESCO Site

The Old City (Icherisheher) became the site of a special Valentine’s celebration that stretches from 7 February through 14 February with activities and public attractions dedicated to couples and visitors interested in marking Day of Love.

The central gathering point for this festival is Gosha Gala Square, one of the most picturesque public spaces inside the ancient citadel, surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, fortification walls, and centuries-old architecture.

The square and parts of the Old City are adorned with Valentine’s motifs – heart-shaped lights, ornamental banners, and romantic design elements, creating a warm, visually memorable environment for couples and visitors.

Specially designed areas for photographs are set up throughout the festival zone, inviting couples to capture moments in thematic frames and against bespoke backdrops that celebrate love and the historic charm of Icherisheher.

Local artisans and vendors participate in small markets or pop-up stands, where visitors can find romantic souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and themed keepsakes to commemorate the occasion.

Baku in February is a city of contrasts: the Caspian’s cold breath mixes with the warm glow of street lamps, and the historic stone walls of the Old City stand beside modern towers of glass and steel.

For couples, this contrast creates a uniquely romantic setting, one where a Valentine’s dinner can be as intimate as a candlelit table and as dramatic as a night overlooking the sea.

The city’s leading hotels and restaurants get ready to present exclusive Valentine’s Day experiences, while Baku’s public spaces create the perfect setting for a romantic evening stroll.

Below are the most reliable and meaningful ways to celebrate love in Baku, based on confirmed events, hotel Valentine’s programs, and well-known dining venues:

Concert “For Lovers” at Heydar Aliyev Palace:

On Valentine’s Day evening, Azerbaijani singer Abbas Baghirov returns to one of Baku’s grandest stages with a special concert titled “For Lovers”.

The event will take place at Heydar Aliyev Palace after more than a decade since his last major solo show in Baku.

Baghirov is recognized as an Honored Artist of Azerbaijan and has a long career rooted in both popular and romantic repertoire.

For this event, his set list is expected to reflect the theme of love, with selections likely drawn from both classic and contemporary Azerbaijani songs that resonate with the holiday’s spirit

Valentine’s Special at Hayal Kahvesi

Also on 14 February, Baku’s popular night music venue Hayal Kahvesi will host Miri Yusif for a dedicated Valentine’s Day concert. This is a contemporary live music event aimed at a younger, passionate audience wanting a festive, high-energy celebration

Miri Yusif is a celebrated Azerbaijani artist known for blending genres like pop, soul, and folk into performances that engage audiences with both lyrical depth and dynamic stage presence.

His concerts often create an atmosphere that is simultaneously joyful and reflective, fitting for a celebration of love.

Candlelight Concert at Chamber and Organ Music Hall

One of Baku’s most atmospheric musical experiences returns with its Valentine’s edition at the Chamber and Organ Music Hall. This performance is part of the internationally celebrated Candlelight concert series, a concept that brings live music to life under soft, warm candle-like lighting in intimate historic venues.

The concert program for the evening weaves together a selection of well-known local and international film melodies and romantic classical pieces, delivered by a live ensemble typically featuring strings and piano in delicate harmony.

The full performance runs for about 60 minutes, and on Valentine’s Day, there are two identical sessions you can choose from – the first around 18:30 – 19:30 and the second around 20:30 – 21:30, allowing visitors to plan their evening around the show.

The candle-lit setting creates an intimate atmosphere that enhances the emotional resonance of each piece played, making the event especially suited for couples seeking a refined Valentine’s experience.

Fuad Akhundov: Baku in Love Stories

Baku Music Academy’s Opera Studio will host a special creative musical evening by Fuah Akhundov, titled “Baku in Love Stories”. This show is scheduled as part of the city’s cultural program for Valentine’s Day and promises a unique blend of music and storytelling that centers on the theme of love as experienced through the city of Baku itself.

Unlike a traditional pop or classical concert that focuses on performance alone, Fuah Akhundov’s program is formatted as a thematic creative evening. The central idea of the event is to explore and express love through musical expression, personal narratives, and cultural reflections that are tied to the city, its history, people, and romantic motifs.

The creative evening is designed to include both musical segments and narrative elements, with live singing and thematic interludes that connect each piece to the idea of Baku’s historic and everyday love stories.

Valentine’s Day Festival in UNESCO Site

The Old City (Icherisheher) became the site of a special Valentine’s celebration that stretches from 7 February through 14 February with activities and public attractions dedicated to couples and visitors interested in marking the Day of Love.

The central gathering point for this festival is Gosha Gala Square, one of the most picturesque public spaces inside the ancient citadel, surrounded by narrow cobblestone streets, fortification walls, and centuries-old architecture.

The square and parts of the Old City are adorned with Valentine’s motifs – heart-shaped lights, ornamental banners, and romantic design elements, creating a warm, visually memorable environment for couples and visitors.

Specially designed areas for photographs are set up throughout the festival zone, inviting couples to capture moments in thematic frames and against bespoke backdrops that celebrate love and the historic charm of Icherisheher.

Local artisans and vendors participate in small markets or pop-up stands, where visitors can find romantic souvenirs, handcrafted gifts, and themed keepsakes to commemorate the occasion.

Moulin Rouge: Musical Tale of Passion and Drama

On 14 February 2026, audiences in Baku will have the opportunity to witness a passionate theatrical production titled “Moulin Rouge Musical Show”, staged for Valentine’s Day at the JAM SS Theatre.

The performance presents anintense and emotionally charged narrative built around the themes of love, jealousy, passion, and betrayal. It draws inspiration from the legendary world of “Moulin Rouge”, the famed Parisian cabaret that has captured imaginations for over a century as a symbol of romance, glamour, and dramatic intensity.

Rather than being a simple revue or light entertainment, this musical production is described as a dramatic and immersive stage story: behind the glittering surface of luxury and spectacle lie shattered fates, dangerous desires, and love that can destroy as much as it enchants. The narrative explores how passion can both illuminate and devastate the human heart.

In this “Moulin Rouge” adaptation, audiences can expect vivid staging, emotive musical numbers, and scenes that capture both the allure and the darker edges of passionate love, making it a compelling choice for couples and theatre lovers, marking Valentine’s Day.

bp and TPAO sign MoU to explore new opportunities in Trkiye and beyond

bp and TPAO have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly evaluate new opportunities in the oil and gas sector, reinforcing energy cooperation between the two companies, AzerNEWS reports, citing a LinkedIn post by Bakhtiyar Aslanbayli, bp’s Vice President for the Caspian Region.

The agreement was signed in Istanbul and outlines the parties’ intention to collaborate both in Trkiye and internationally. Under the MoU, bp and TPAO will assess potential cooperation in areas including the development of discovered hydrocarbon resources, evaluation of exploration prospects, strengthening oil export capacity and expanding gas transportation infrastructure.

The move signals a strategic step toward deeper upstream and midstream collaboration, as both companies seek to enhance regional energy development and explore international growth opportunities. The partnership may also contribute to strengthening Trkiye’s role in regional energy transit and supply diversification.

Further details regarding specific projects or timelines have not yet been disclosed.

US to cut steel and aluminum tariffs

The White House is currently reviewing the list of goods subject to import duties and is considering reducing tariffs on certain products, particularly in the metals sector, AzerNEWS reports.

Last summer, US President Donald Trump signed a decree that doubled tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, raising them from 25% to 50%. According to reports, some government officials believe that these high duties have been negatively affecting consumers by driving up prices on a wide range of products, including packaged foods and beverages.

Officials also note that the current tariff system has become overly complex and difficult to manage, prompting calls for simplification. The proposed easing of tariffs could have significant implications for key US trading partners, including the United Kingdom, Mexico, Canada, and the European Union.

Trade analysts suggest that reducing tariffs could not only ease consumer costs but also strengthen economic and diplomatic ties with allies. At the same time, critics warn that lowering duties may impact domestic metal producers who have benefited from protectionist measures, highlighting the delicate balance policymakers must navigate. Some experts also note that this potential adjustment could be an early sign of a broader shift toward more pragmatic trade policies in response to global economic pressures.

Russian forces suffer heavy losses as Ukraine updates battlefield toll [PHOTO]

Ukraine’s Armed Forces have released updated figures on Russian military losses since the start of the full-scale invasion, reporting continued heavy attrition across personnel, equipment, and weapons systems, AzerNEWS reports.

According to data published by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, from February 24, 2022, to February 13, 2026, Russian forces have suffered approximately 1,250,950 personnel losses, including about 800 over the past day.

The cumulative losses also include:

435 aircraft

347 helicopters

11,667 tanks

24,028 armored combat vehicles

37,254 artillery systems

1,642 multiple launch rocket systems

1,300 air defense systems

133,392 operational-tactical unmanned aerial vehicles

4,286 cruise missiles

28 ships and boats

2 submarines

78,268 vehicles and fuel tanks

4,070 units of special equipment

In addition, the Ukrainian military reported significant Russian equipment losses over the past 24 hours alone. According to the General Staff, Ukrainian forces destroyed:

5 tanks

3 armored combat vehicles

41 artillery systems

1 air defense missile system

1 heavy machine gun system

1,239 unmanned aerial vehicles

16 cruise missiles

127 trucks and fuel vehicles

The General Staff noted that the figures are being (clarified) as combat operations continue and stressed that the data reflects confirmed losses based on operational reports from the battlefield.

The latest update underscores the sustained intensity of fighting and the growing toll on Russian military capabilities as the war enters its fourth year.