Category: Azer News

The official opening ceremony of the “Youth Capital 2026” project has taken place in Goranboy, marking the district’s designation as Azerbaijan’s Youth Capital for the coming year, Azernews reports.

The event took place at Secondary School No. 1 in Goranboy and began with a minute of silence in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan’s sovereignty, followed by the performance of the National Anthem.

Speaking at the ceremony, Maharram Guliyev, Head of the Goranboy District Executive Authority, described the title as both a great honor and a significant responsibility. He underlined that all necessary conditions would be created to unlock the potential of young people and noted that numerous projects and events planned throughout the year would justify the trust placed in the district.

Farid Gayibov, Azerbaijan Minister of Youth and Sports said that Goranboy will serve as the center of Azerbaijani youth life in 2026. He expressed confidence that the district’s young people would demonstrate high levels of activity and achieve strong results during the year.

Teymur Samadov, First Deputy Head of the Sumgayit City Executive Authority, recalled that Sumgayit, which held the Youth Capital title last year, carried out this role with great success. During the ceremony, Minister Farid Gayibov presented a certificate of appreciation to Teymur Samadov, while Maharram Guliyev was symbolically handed the Youth Capital key.

The event continued with an award ceremony honoring talented and creative young people for their achievements.

Member of the Azerbaijani Parliament, Mushfig Jafarov noted that youth policy in Azerbaijan remains one of the priority directions of the state’s strategic agenda.

Following the screening of a video dedicated to Azerbaijan Youth Day, the official logo and mascot of Youth Capital 2026 were unveiled to the public.

The logo of the “Youth Capital” features the letter “G,” symbolising both Goranboy and youth itself. At the top, a flame reflects the origin of the name Goranboy-gor (qor) meaning fire or land of fires, while conveying energy and dynamism.

The lower part incorporates a river and natural elements, representing the region’s rich natural heritage and its commitment to sustainable development. Together, these elements form a youthful image within the “G” itself.

The mascot for 2026 embodies the water element, chosen to reflect the importance of rivers and water resources in Goranboy’s natural, social, and cultural life.

Beyond symbolising life, purity, and sustainability, the water mascot represents the constantly renewing, dynamic energy of youth and their forward-looking drive toward the future.

The launch event marked the beginning of a year-long series of initiatives, projects, and activities aimed at empowering young people and strengthening their role in the social and cultural life of the country.

Recall that Goranboy was officially designated as Azerbaijan’s Youth Capital for 2026 by the Azerbaijan Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The decision was made at the Ministry’s board (collegium) meeting on December 16, 2024, where several regional titles for 2026 and beyond were assigned.

At that meeting, Goranboy was chosen specifically for the Youth Capital status, while Gazakh was named the Sports Capital for 2026, and Ismayilli was selected as Youth Capital for 2027.

President Ilham Aliyev has recently signed a decree approving the “Azerbaijani Culture – 2040” Concept, setting a long-term vision for the country’s cultural development, Azernews reports.

The concept outlines the general framework for the development of the country’s cultural sector up to 2040, defining priority directions for its activities.

For the first time, the new concept identifies six main areas of culture, some of which have now been officially recognized as separate cultural fields in state documents. One of these areas is the Azerbaijani language, whose purity and richness have been consistently emphasized by the President. Another focus is the development of Azerbaijani literature. In addition, the concept highlights the importance of the arts, behavioral culture, knowledge culture, and the development of creative industries.

This was highlighted by Deputy Culture Minister Farid Jafarov in an interview with AZERTAG.

According to the concept, separate state programs will be developed for each of these areas.

“These programs will include concrete steps and projects,” said Jafarov.

He added that the concept also defines eight priority directions for cultural activities. These directions will facilitate the systematic implementation of the new cultural model, with three key tools playing a special role: the development of creative industries, cultural diplomacy, and management mechanisms.

Asia’s largest aviation industry exhibition opened in Singapore on Tuesday, showcasing ambitious regional growth goals and innovations in both civil and defense aviation, Azernews reports.

The 10th Singapore Airshow, held every two years, attracts more than 1,000 companies, including industry giants such as Airbus, Boeing, and ST Engineering, as well as emerging drone and defense technology firms.

The Asia-Pacific region continues to be the fastest-growing market for air travel, driven largely by China and India, with passenger traffic projected to grow by 7.3% annually through 2026. Despite this boom, aircraft and engine manufacturers are struggling to keep up with demand for fleet expansion.

Boeing recently announced a deal with Air Cambodia for the delivery of 10 737 MAX aircraft, while Chinese manufacturer COMAC is gaining attention with its C919 passenger jet, making its second appearance at the exhibition.

According to analysts at Jefferies, since 2012, the Singapore Airshow has accounted for only about 5% of total orders placed at global airshows-far less than in Paris, Farnborough, or Dubai. Nevertheless, the event remains a key meeting point for regional airline executives and manufacturers aiming to address the rapid growth in Asia-Pacific air travel, which now accounts for roughly 35% of global air traffic.

A recent report by Alton Aviation Consultancy projects that India, China, and Southeast Asia will represent eight of the ten fastest-growing air transport markets worldwide between 2024 and 2044.

As part of the exhibition’s highlights, demonstration flights were performed by air force pilots from Singapore, Indonesia, India, China, Malaysia, and Australia, showcasing both advanced fighter jets and emerging drone technologies.

In addition, Singapore announced on Monday the creation of its National Space Agency (NSAS), which will begin full operations on April 1. The agency aims to consolidate Singapore’s position in the global space economy, projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035, fueled by cheaper and more accessible orbital launches. Interestingly, NSAS plans to collaborate with local universities and startups to develop small satellites capable of monitoring climate change, maritime activity, and urban development in real time.

Elon Musk has become the first person in history to amass a fortune exceeding $800 billion, following a landmark deal in which SpaceX acquired his artificial intelligence and social media company xAI, dramatically reshaping his business empire, Azernews reports via Forbes.

According to Forbes, the transaction values the combined entity at $1.25 trillion and has boosted Musk’s net worth by $84 billion, taking it to a record $852 billion. The merger values SpaceX at $1 trillion and xAI at $250 billion, consolidating Musk’s most powerful assets under a single corporate umbrella.

Prior to the deal, Musk owned an estimated 42% stake in SpaceX, worth around $336 billion, based on a December tender offer that valued the privately held rocket maker at $800 billion. He also held approximately 49% of xAI, valued at $122 billion, following a recent private fundraising round that pegged the AI company at $250 billion. After the merger, Forbes estimates Musk now controls a 43% stake in the combined company, worth roughly $542 billion.

The transaction cements SpaceX as Musk’s most valuable asset by a wide margin, eclipsing even his holdings in Tesla. Musk currently owns about 12% of Tesla, valued at $178 billion, alongside Tesla stock options worth an additional $124 billion. These figures do not include the record-breaking compensation package approved by Tesla shareholders in November, which could grant Musk up to $1 trillion in additional Tesla stock-before taxes and vesting costs-if the company meets ambitious long-term performance targets, including an eightfold increase in market capitalization over the next decade.

This is the second major consolidation of Musk-owned companies in less than a year. In March last year, Musk merged xAI with his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), valuing xAI at $80 billion and X at $33 billion, roughly in line with what Musk paid for Twitter in 2022, excluding debt.

Musk’s dual role as both buyer and seller in these internal mergers has prompted questions from analysts and investors about valuation transparency, particularly given the private nature of the companies involved. However, those concerns may soon face a real test. SpaceX is widely expected to pursue an initial public offering later this year, a move that would subject the entire conglomerate-including xAI and X-to the scrutiny of public markets for the first time.

If realized, the IPO could mark a turning point not only for Musk’s empire, but for how investors value the intersection of space technology, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms under a single corporate structure.

Nestlé has announced a recall of a batch of Guigoz baby milk following recent changes in the standards for cereulide content in infant formulas in France, Azernews reports.

According to the company, Nestlé was aware of the potential presence of the toxin in its products for nearly two weeks before initiating the recall across several countries.

‘The European and French authorities recently updated the methods for analyzing cereulide content based on new scientific findings. Our quality standard is built on the industry’s strictest cereulide detection threshold: we aim for complete absence of cereulide in our baby milk. This commitment, which guides all our decisions, has prompted an additional recall of a single batch of Guigoz,’ the company said.

The recall concerns Guigoz Optipro Relais 1 milk for infants aged 0 to 6 months. Nestlé plans to withdraw 800-gram packages from circulation, with an expiration date of December 2027. The company emphasized that the recall affects only this specific batch and that other Guigoz products remain safe for consumption.

Interestingly, Nestlé is one of the few global infant formula producers to adopt a zero-tolerance policy for cereulide, a toxin produced by certain bacteria that can cause foodborne illness, reflecting the growing global emphasis on ultra-strict safety standards in baby nutrition.

The awarding ceremony of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity was held in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, on February 4.

According to AzerNEWS, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev attended the event.

The ceremony began with the playing of the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates.

A video dedicated to the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity was then screened.

Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, delivered an address.

Congratulatory video messages to the laureates of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity were presented by President of the Republic of Trkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov, President of the Republic of Lebanon Joseph Aoun, First Lady of Trkiye Emine Erdogan, and King Abdullah II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan:

– Distinguished guests,

My dear friends from various countries participating in this event,

I greet you with my most sincere feelings of respect and love.

I sincerely hope that the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity will be beneficial for all of us, especially the awardees.

I am very pleased to convey to you the greetings of your 86 million brothers and sisters in Trkiye.

I also hope that the awards presented since 2019 will directly contribute to peace and stability throughout the world in the times we live in.

I sincerely congratulate the President of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, and the Prime Minister of Armenia, Mr. Nikol Pashinyan, who have been decorated with this year’s awards. I would like to emphasize that I consider both the courageous steps taken by my brother Ilham Aliyev and the resolute approach demonstrated by Mr. Pashinyan to be extremely important for the establishment of lasting peace.

I firmly believe that a new page will be opened in the future of the Caucasus with the entry into force of the agreement, the purpose, scope, content, and spirit of which both sides have agreed upon.

As Trkiye, we sincerely support all initiatives aimed at peace, security, prosperity, and stability in our region and around the world. We will continue, Inshallah, to do whatever we can to establish lasting peace in the Caucasus and to work diligently to build bridges of friendship based on justice.

With these thoughts, I once again congratulate both the President of Azerbaijan, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, and the Prime Minister of Armenia, Mr. Nikol Pashinyan.

I sincerely hope that the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity will be beneficial for all humanity. I greet you all with love and respect.

Thank you. Be well, and stay safe!

x x x

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev:

– Your Highnesses, Excellencies, distinguished guests,

I sincerely congratulate President Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on receiving the Sheikh Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. It recognizes wise leadership that chose peace over the logic of confrontation, responsibility over resentment, and the future over the past. At a time when the world is increasingly divided, such a policy carries exceptional moral and political significance.

The progress made by Azerbaijan and Armenia toward a peace agreement marks a turning point of historic importance. It demonstrates that even long-standing conflicts can be resolved through dialogue, responsibility, and restraint. In an era marked by confrontation and rigid lines of division, this experience shows that reconciliation is not weakness, but strength, as Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Armenia are close, friendly, and brotherly nations.

We highly value the trust shown to our country, including the decision to hold a critical stage of the peace negotiations in Almaty. This reflects our shared belief that dialogue remains the only sustainable path forward. Kazakhstan consistently supports initiatives that strengthen peace, trust, and cooperation across Eurasia and beyond.

The Sheikh Zayed Award carries a powerful moral message. It affirms fraternity as a universal principle and a practical foundation for security, development, and human dignity. It embodies the enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, grounded in tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

In this regard, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, for his consistent commitment to upholding these values. These principles are most clearly reflected in concrete political outcomes. Peace and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Armenia have given renewed substance to this legacy and demonstrated its relevance far beyond the region. They have also strengthened confidence in diplomacy as a viable instrument of international relations.

Dear President Aliyev, dear Prime Minister Pashinyan, your strong commitment to peace has given hope to millions and sent a clear signal to the global community that good-neighborly relations and stability are among the highest values in global affairs. You both have shown wisdom and insight.

I am convinced that through diplomacy, anchored in balance and common sense, we can all shape a more stable and predictable future.

Thank you.

x x x

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev:

– The distinguished President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,

Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev,

Your Excellency, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan,

Ladies and gentlemen,

In today’s volatile world, there is a great need for responsible leaders, unwavering political determination, and the solution of problems through dialogue. In the current complex international situation, decisions made in such a way can create a foundation of stability and strong trust between states and peoples. However, the priceless blessing of peace does not come on its own. Peace requires the courage to listen to others, find ways to compromise even in the most difficult circumstances, and take responsibility for the decisions made.

History shows that long-term and sustainable growth can only be achieved through compromise and an atmosphere of mutual respect and esteem. It is a great honor for me to sincerely congratulate the laureates of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, His Excellency President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and His Excellency Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan. It is beyond doubt that the joint efforts of these political leaders for the sake of a reasonable resolution of the protracted conflict and the achievement of peace are well worth such a prestigious award. The agreement reached is a vivid example of a responsible approach to solving the problem and a historic step taken toward ensuring stability in our entire region.

In this respect, the fact that such a high award is being presented to statesmen is also a clear confirmation of the spirit of friendship, solidarity, and new cooperation that has emerged in one of the important regions of the world. We are in favor of resolving any dispute or conflict solely through political and diplomatic means, on the basis of international law and good-neighborliness. Today, we can ensure common peace and well-being for our people only through unity, mutual support, and partnership. The fact that this award, named after the great Sheikh Zayed, is being presented to such worthy candidates once again proves this eternal truth.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the leadership of the United Arab Emirates for its invaluable contribution to the active promotion of humanitarian initiatives in the international arena, the consistent strengthening of dialogue, and the transformation of Abu Dhabi into a global center of peace. I am confident that such noble and benevolent deeds will give new impetus to the common efforts of the international community to ensure peace and security. I wish you good health, happiness, and great success in your honorable activities.

Thank you for your attention.

x x x

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif:

– Bismillahirrahmanirrahim,

Your Highnesses, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen,

It gives me immense pleasure to extend my heartiest congratulations to my very dear brother, His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, on being conferred with the prestigious Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. This momentous recognition, honoring the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his timeless vision of peace and coexistence, reflects the UAE’s visionary leadership and its emergence as a leading center of global diplomacy.

Ladies and gentlemen, in a world marred by division and conflict, President Aliyev’s bold and courageous leadership has always stood out. This vision and foresight were evident when he set aside long-standing differences, embraced peace, and fostered harmony through the historic peace agreement with Armenia. This landmark agreement, which ended a conflict of nearly four decades, exemplifies the very essence of human fraternity, solidarity, compassion, and shared humanity that the Zayed Award so profoundly celebrates.

Ladies and gentlemen, Pakistan and Azerbaijan are woven together in an abiding bond of deep-rooted brotherhood and unwavering mutual respect, etched in the shared aspirations of our peoples for global peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

We are proud of Azerbaijan’s remarkable achievements under President Ilham Aliyev’s wise and dynamic leadership. As a steadfast advocate for peace and stability in the Caucasus and beyond, Pakistan has welcomed this agreement as the harbinger of a new era of prosperity and enduring peace, not only for Azerbaijan and Armenia, but for the entire region.

Ladies and gentlemen, I once again congratulate my very dear brother, President Ilham Aliyev, on receiving this prestigious award, and I hope and pray that the brotherly people of Azerbaijan, guided by his visionary leadership, continue their march toward lasting peace, prosperity, and progress.

Thank you.

x x x

President Sadyr Zhaparov:

– Dear Ilham Heydar oglu Aliyev,

Dear Nikol Vovayevich Pashinyan,

I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to you on being awarded the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity for 2026. The Kyrgyz Republic welcomes with special satisfaction the signing of the Joint Declaration on the results of the meeting held between you in Washington on August 8, 2025. This is not merely a political and diplomatic step, but a truly historic achievement that serves to strengthen lasting peace, security, and mutual confidence in the South Caucasus.

I would also like to emphasize that Distinguished Ilham Heydar oglu and Distinguished Nikol Vovayevich have demonstrated the highest level of statesmanship, far-sighted leadership, and political responsibility. The Kyrgyz Republic is firmly convinced that the full restoration of relations between your countries primarily serves the interests of both peoples and creates a strong foundation for lasting peace. In this sense, we fully support the recent efforts of Baku and Yerevan to sign a peace agreement as soon as possible. We are ready to provide full support for this process, which strengthens mutual trust between the two countries and contributes to the creation of a sustainable peace architecture.

The Kyrgyz Republic attaches special importance to its historical experience in this area. I would also like to note that the Bishkek Protocol, signed in 1994 to stop the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh and save people’s lives, became an important example of diplomatic pragmatism and responsibility.

As you may know, the Kyrgyz Republic has gradually resolved border issues with neighboring states. In 2025, an agreement was signed on the section of the border between Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan that connects the three countries. For many years, we have consistently sought to resolve challenges related to border issues. As a result, all issues have been resolved in the spirit of friendship, good-neighborliness, mutual support, and mutual trust. I firmly believe that Azerbaijan and Armenia will achieve peaceful relations in the same manner, laying a solid foundation for long-term cooperation in the interests of harmony, friendship, and prosperity between the two peoples.

Dear members of the Jury of the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, I would like to express my deep gratitude to you for your continuous advancement of this important mission and for working toward such a noble cause. I sincerely hope that your important work contributing to peace and mutual understanding will be sustainable. I also hope that your efforts will mobilize the international community around the values of solidarity, mutual support, and respect for human dignity.

x x x

President Joseph Aoun:

– Distinguished guests,

On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Lebanon, I sincerely congratulate the Palestinian Welfare Organization on being awarded the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity. This organization, an example of responsible development and humanitarian action, has made an unparalleled contribution to improving the living conditions of thousands of Palestinians in both Palestine and the refugee camps in Lebanon through its various programs and outstanding efforts in the fields of development and assistance. I applaud the determination and steadfastness of the Palestinian people, who have remained committed to their land and national identity in the face of the ongoing crises and challenges they confront. Let me reiterate that Lebanon, which supports the Palestinian cause and has made great sacrifices in this regard, sees no alternative to a fair, comprehensive, and lasting solution to the Middle East problem within the framework of the ‘Arab Peace Initiative’ adopted at the Beirut Summit in 2002.

Ladies and gentlemen, I am also honored to congratulate the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan, and the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, on being awarded the same prize in recognition of the peace initiative between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This award is a high appreciation of the historic peace agreement that ended the long-standing conflict between the two countries and opened a new chapter of stability for a safer future for the peoples of the region. This achievement proves yet again that when political courage is combined with sincere will, it is possible to turn conflict into opportunity and peace into a permanent choice.

Distinguished guests, the selection of winners by the leadership of the independent Zayed International Award, which operates with the blessings of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV and Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, is a sign of high international recognition. It confirms the profound human value of activities that serve peace and human dignity.

In conclusion, I would like to congratulate all the winners again and express my hope that human fraternity will remain a bridge leading our world to a more just and peaceful future.

x x x

First Lady Emine Erdogan:

– By honoring those who courageously shoulder this responsibility, we send a message to the world that humanity’s conscience remains united and that a prosperous future can only be achieved through the spirit of brotherhood.

x x x

King Abdullah II:

– My friends,

Please allow me to convey the warm greetings of the people of Jordan to the distinguished recipients and participants of this important event, the presentation of the 2026 Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, which embodies humanity’s commitment to upholding our universal values.

I am deeply honored to join you all in recognizing and celebrating the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, as well as the people who made that agreement possible and the tremendous efforts they undertook.

Your Excellencies, my dear friends, I congratulate you on this historic achievement. I congratulate you on your courageous choice of peace. This achievement is the result of your incredible courage and leadership.

Your success is an example of how peace can prevail despite decades of conflict.

It gives people around the world, especially those living in the region, hope that they can live, raise their children, work, and prosper in peace, security, and stability in the future.

Your Excellencies, I know that we share the same belief in the importance of continuous dialogue to promote mutual understanding and achieve lasting peace. We all firmly believe in the power of human fraternity, in the strength of living side by side, and in the profound importance of showing respect to the peoples of all nations, cultures, and religions as part of the shared fabric of humanity.

I am grateful to you for demonstrating these principles in action. I would like to thank you very much for giving the world hope that peace may be within our lifetimes.

Thank you.

x x x

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev delivered a speech at the ceremony.

Speech by President Ilham Aliyev

– We need to agree on who will be speaking first.

Your Highness, Mr. President of the United Arab Emirates, my dear brother Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, members of the judging committee, ladies and gentlemen,

First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to the judging committee for this award. It is a great honor for me to receive an award that bears the name of the founder of the UAE, the late Sheikh Zayed – the great leader whose vision and actions transformed the UAE into one of the most prosperous and successful countries in the world.

My dear brother Sheikh Mohamed continues the policy of his father in development, progress, and continued modernization. Today, the UAE is really an example for many countries on how to build a society that lives in peace and harmony, deeply connected to its historical roots while also looking to the future.

I would like to express my gratitude to His Eminence, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and His Holiness Pope Leo for their contribution to interreligious dialogue and their efforts to bring civilizations closer to each other. I also express my gratitude to all the colleagues who addressed their kind messages to the ceremony, once again underlining the importance of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia not only for our two countries but for the broader region. We were at war for more than 30 years. Now we have lived in peace for six months.

As I have said many times, we are learning to live in peace. I can tell you, it is a special feeling. We have never lived in peace since we became independent, and we are learning quickly. The last six months, since the historic summit in Washington hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump, have been months of partnership, cooperation, and movement toward long-lasting and enduring peace.

I would also like to express my gratitude to President of the United States Donald Trump for his contribution to peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He hosted a trilateral summit on 8 August 2025, which resulted in the initialing of a peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan and the signing of the Joint Declaration. President Trump also signed it as a witness, thus putting an end to a long-lasting, three-decade-plus, bloody and deadly conflict.

These six months, as I said, have been very important for the development of our relations. We not only lifted the restrictions on cargo transportation through Azerbaijan to Armenia, but also started exporting oil products to Armenia. In other words, during these six months, we have started cooperation. We are now increasing our trade relationship. This morning, I met my Armenian colleague, and we discussed how to move forward.

Today’s award ceremony and the appreciation of our efforts by this distinguished judging committee and all our friends is very encouraging. I think that our example should be learned and taken as a roadmap for those who are still at war. Our example demonstrates that peace is possible despite long-lasting conflict, suffering, and mutual distrust. Peace is possible when there is strong political will from both sides and when this process is supported by friendly countries and the international community.

My final point about this award ceremony here in Abu Dhabi is that I think it is symbolic, because the last round of negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan took place here last July, just a month before the historic summit in Washington. Here in Abu Dhabi, with the support of our brother Sheikh Mohamed, we came to a final agreement to establish peace, which was then formalized in Washington.

This symbolism today is in the air, and once again, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who decided to award us this distinguished and prestigious prize, and to all those who helped us achieve peace.

Thank you very much.

x x x

Addressing the event, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan emphasized that in the past it would have been unthinkable for such a prestigious award to be presented simultaneously to the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia. He stated that the presentation of this award also confirms that both Armenia and Azerbaijan have turned the page on the conflict.

The Armenian Prime Minister described the award as an expression of support from the international community for both countries. He noted that the decision of the judging committee, which includes highly respected members from around the world, would give further impetus to strengthening peace in the region. He stressed that efforts would continue to ensure peace and trust between the two peoples.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan also expressed special gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his contribution to achieving the peace agreement and for his efforts in this direction. He also conveyed his sincere thanks to the President of the United Arab Emirates for the award and expressed appreciation to all participants in this important event.

x x x

Afterwards, other laureates of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity – Afghan women’s rights activist and researcher Zarqa Yaftali, and Nabil Qaddumi on behalf of the Palestinian organization Taawon – delivered speeches.

President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity to President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and the other laureates.

The ceremony concluded with a group photo.

x x x

Pope Leo XIV and Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, sent congratulatory letters to the laureates of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity.

In his letter, Pope Leo XIV stated:

‘Dear brothers and sisters,

With great joy and a heart filled with hope, I address you for the first time on the occasion of the World Day of Human Fraternity and the 7th anniversary of the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity by Pope Francis and the Grand Imam Ahmad Al-Tayeb. On this occasion, you celebrate what is most precious and universal in our humanity: our fraternity, that unbreakable bond which unites every human being, created in the image of God.

Today, the need for this fraternity is not a distant ideal but an urgent necessity. We cannot ignore the fact that too many of our brothers and sisters are currently suffering the horrors of violence and war. We must remember that ‘the first victim of every war is ‘the human family’s innate vocation to fraternity” (Francis, Encyclical Letter Fratelli Tutti, 3 October 2020, 26). At a time when the dream of building peace together is often dismissed as an ‘outdated utopia’ (ibid., 30), we must proclaim with conviction that human fraternity is a lived reality, stronger than all conflicts, differences and tensions. It is a potential that must be realized through a daily, concrete commitment to respect, sharing and compassion.

In this regard, as I recently emphasized in my Address to the members of the Zayed Award Committee, ‘words are not enough’ (11 December 2025). Our deepest convictions require constant cultivation through tangible effort. Indeed, ‘remaining in the realm of ideas and theories, while failing to give them expression through frequent and practical acts of charity, will eventually cause even our most cherished hopes and aspirations to weaken and fade away’ (Apostolic Exhortation Dilexi Te, 4 October 2025, 119). As brothers and sisters, we are all called to move beyond the periphery and converge in a greater sense of mutual belonging (cf. Fratelli Tutti, 95).

Through the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity, we pay tribute today to those who have translated these values into ‘authentic testimonies of human kindness and charity’ (Address to Members of the Committee for the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026, 11 December 2025). Our laureates – His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, His Excellency Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and Ms Zarqa Yaftali – are sowers of hope in a world that too often builds walls instead of bridges. By choosing the demanding path of solidarity over the easy path of indifference, they have demonstrated that even the most deep-seated divisions can be healed through concrete action. Their work bears witness to the conviction that the light of fraternity can prevail over the darkness of fratricide.

Finally, I express my gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, for his steadfast support of this initiative, as well as to the Zayed Committee for its vision and moral conviction. Let us continue to work together so that the dynamic of fraternal love may become the common path of all, and that the ‘other’ may no longer be seen as a stranger or a threat, but recognized as a brother or a sister.

May God, our Father of all, bless each one of you, and may he bless all humanity.’

x x x

In his letter, Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, said:

‘In the Name of Allah, the Merciful, the Most Compassionate

All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon our master, the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad, and upon his family, his Companions, and all who follow his guidance.

Dear brothers and sisters,

May Allah’s peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you!

It gives me great pleasure to join you today in celebrating the International Day of Human Fraternity-an occasion on which values converge with responsibility and hope meets reality. It is a day designated by the United Nations as an annual observance of human fraternity, and an opportunity to honor the recipients of the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity 2026. Today, this award transcends the notion of symbolic recognition to become a moral beacon, reminding the world that humanity-no matter how burdened by crises or surrounded by mounting challenges-remains capable of realigning its moral compass when hearts are sincere, intentions are true, and wills converge.

Seven years ago, humanity witnessed in the United Arab Emirates a decisive and historic moment. In that moment, I shared with my late brother, His Holiness Pope Francis, profound concerns about the state of the contemporary world, alongside a sincere hope for a better tomorrow for future generations. It was a moment in which time itself seemed to pause, bearing witness to the signing of Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi by the Pontiff of the Catholic Church and the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. It is a document that set out as a call to the human conscience everywhere, and as a clear message affirming that religions, in their authentic essence, have never been a cause of conflict or bloodshed; rather, they have been-and will remain-a source of compassion, a bridge for encounter, and a safeguard for human dignity.

Human fraternity is neither a slogan to be raised on ceremonial occasions nor a speech recited at celebratory gatherings. Rather, it is a sustained safeguard of moral commitment, a civilizational responsibility, and a conscious choice-one that upholds the logic of construction instead of destruction, and a culture of life in place of nihilism and extinction. In a world where conflicts multiply, wounds deepen, and the voices of hatred and exclusion grow ever louder, human fraternity becomes an existential necessity and a fundamental condition for human life to endure with dignity, respect, and honor.

Today-together with all those who cherish peace-I am pleased to express my appreciation for and recognition of the historic peace agreement between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Armenia, which is being honored by this award. On this occasion, I congratulate His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and His Excellency Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, and I say to them: You have proven that humane dialogue and sincere intentions are capable of turning long pages of conflict, opening new horizons for coexistence, and presenting an inspiring model for peacebuilding at a time when the world is in urgent need of such examples.

I also extend my congratulations to the honorable lady, Ms. Zarqa Yaftali, the Afghan advocate for women’s education, who has embodied-through her determination-the truth that women’s empowerment is not a group-specific demand, but a foundational pillar for the advancement of societies and the safeguarding of their future.

This year, I further extend my congratulations, with deep appreciation and pride, to the Palestinian organization Taawon, in recognition of its exceptional humanitarian and development efforts that touch the lives of more than one million people annually in Palestine. This organization has presented a model to be emulated in responsible humanitarian action-one that does not stop at alleviating pain, but seeks to preserve dignity, sustain resilience, and empower people to remain steadfast on their land, holding firmly to their right to life and hope, despite the harsh conditions and complex challenges they endure. On this occasion, I call upon all those who love goodness and peace to support the defenseless Palestinian people, and the people of Gaza in particular, in light of the severe circumstances they continue to face.

The coming together of these three exemplary models at a single ceremony of recognition, celebrated here today at the Founders’ Memorial in Abu Dhabi, carries a profound message to the entire world: that human fraternity recognizes no geographical or historical boundaries, yields to no narrow calculations, and stands solely with the human being-regardless of race, religion, or color.

On this occasion of deep human significance, I am pleased to express my profound appreciation to my dear brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, for his sincere patronage, steadfast support, and deep belief in the principles of human fraternity-affirming that peace can only be safeguarded by moral values, and can only be built through wisdom, tolerance, and coexistence. I also extend my sincere thanks to the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity Judging Committee, which has devoted its time and efforts to selecting those who embody these lofty human values and represent a message of hope to the peoples of the world. I wish to single out Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Award, as well as the prize’s dedicated team, for their sincere efforts and tireless work, which have transformed this prize into a global platform for the human conscience.

In closing, our message today does not just mean enjoying a fleeting celebration, but it is a sincere call to humanity at large: to reflect anew on the state of our world-clear for all to see-and to make human fraternity a shared path where peoples come together while preserving their identities; to believe that the future of the world will not be built by force, but by understanding, will not be preserved by hatred, but by love and compassion, and will not be set aright until man comes to see in his fellow man a partner in destiny, not a rival in existence.

Thank you for your kind attention, and may Allah’s peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you all.’

A musical and poetic evening dedicated to Egyptian and Azerbaijani poetry has taken place at the Egyptian Cultural and Educational Center in Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

The event was officially opened by Professor Mohamed Tarek, Director of the Egyptian Cultural and Educational Center and Doctor of Sciences.

In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of poetry as a bridge between peoples and expressed his appreciation for efforts aimed at developing cultural dialogue between the two countries.

Ulviya Huseynova, Director of the Saudi Arabian Center and PhD in Philology, stressed the significance of international cultural and literary initiatives, noting their vital role in strengthening humanitarian ties.

Baba Vaziroglu, Honored Art Worker of Azerbaijan, and Sevda Rzayeva, Vice-Rector for International Relations at Baku Eurasian University, stressed the importance of cultural and academic cooperation in expanding international literary dialogue.

As part of the event, works by prominent Azerbaijani and Arab poets were recited. The concert program featured poems by Mikayil Mushfig, Samad Vurgun, Bakhtiyar Vahabzadeh, Ahmad Shawqi, Ibrahim Hafiz, as well as other classical and contemporary authors.

The concert combined poetic recitations with vocal and musical performances, creating a rich artistic atmosphere.

The event was organized by the “Modern Poems” literary project, the Egyptian Cultural and Educational Center, and the Saudi Arabian Center.

Prime Video has officially announced the release date for “Elle”, the prequel series to the iconic comedy “Legally Blonde”, Azernews reports. The show is set to premiere on July 1, 2026.

The announcement came alongside the release of the first poster for the series. The platform also confirmed that a second season is already in production. The new show will focus on Elle Woods’ teenage years, long before she enrolled at Harvard and began her legal career. Actress Lexi Mindry will portray the young Elle.

The prequel’s storyline centers on the development of Elle’s character, showcasing how her ambitions, confidence, and life goals began to take shape. The series is being developed by Laura Kittrell (White Bird) and Caroline Dries (The Vampire Diaries). Reese Witherspoon, who played Elle in the original films, is serving as an executive producer on the series.

Originally released in 2001, Legally Blonde is an American comedy film that premiered on July 13, 2001. Directed by Robert Luketic and based on the novel by Amanda Brown, the movie became a cultural phenomenon, blending humor with an empowering message about challenging stereotypes.

The film became an inspirational story for many viewers, particularly women, encouraging them to pursue their dreams despite stereotypes and challenges.

Reese Witherspoon received a Golden Globe nomination for her role as Elle Woods and became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable and sought-after actresses.

The success of Legally Blonde led to a sequel, Legally Blonde 2: Red, White and Blonde (2003), a direct-to-DVD spin-off, Legally Blondes (2009), and a Broadway adaptation, Legally Blonde: The Musical, which premiered in 2007.

The franchise’s long-lasting appeal continues today, with new projects like the upcoming prequel series Elle set to premiere in 2026.

The Chamber and Organ Music Hall hosted an emotionally charged and lyrically rich concert performed by the Baku State Chamber Orchestra, led by its chief conductor, Honored Artist Fuad Ibrahimov, Azernews reports.

The concert program featured P. Tchaikovsky’s Elegy, Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings, Edward Elgar’s Serenade for Strings (Op. 20), Carl Nielsen’s Little Suite (Op. 1, in three movements), as well as Richard Strauss’s Morning (Op. 27) for voice and string orchestra, performed with the participation of the talented vocalist Islama Abdullayeva.

During the concert, the conductor addressed the audience, noting that the works included in the program belong to the mature creative periods of their respective composers.

He stressed that, despite the young age of the orchestra’s musicians, they demonstrated remarkable mastery and a high level of professionalism in conveying the profound emotional depth of such a demanding repertoire.

The event was met with great interest and enthusiastic applause from the audience, leaving a deep artistic and aesthetic impression on those gathered in the concert hall.

The Baku State Chamber Orchestra, officially known as the Azerbaijan State Chamber Orchestra named after Gara Garayev, is one of Azerbaijan’s leading classical music ensembles and an important institution in the country’s cultural history.

The orchestra was founded in 1964 on the initiative of prominent Azerbaijani composers Fikrat Amirov and Gara Garayev, with the goal of establishing a professional chamber orchestra capable of performing both world classical repertoire and works by Azerbaijani composers.

The orchestra’s first artistic director and chief conductor was People’s Artist Nazim Rzayev, who led the ensemble for nearly three decades. Under his leadership, the orchestra gained wide recognition for its high performance standards and actively participated in concerts, festivals, and cultural events both within the former Soviet Union and abroad.

Over the years, the Baku State Chamber Orchestra has collaborated with many renowned conductors, soloists, and composers. Its repertoire includes works by Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and contemporary composers, with special emphasis on promoting Azerbaijani music.

The orchestra has premiered numerous compositions by national composers, contributing significantly to the preservation and development of Azerbaijan’s musical heritage.

The ensemble has toured extensively in Europe, Asia, and other regions, representing Azerbaijani culture on international stages and strengthening cultural exchange through music.

In recognition of its artistic achievements and cultural contribution, the orchestra has received several honors, including the Humay National Award.

The quarterfinal stage of the Azerbaijan Cup gets underway today, Azernews reports.

Two matches are scheduled for the opening day of the quarterfinals. In the first encounter, Sumgayit will face Zira.

The match will be played at the Mehdi Huseynzade Sumgayit City Stadium and is set to kick off at 17:00 local time.

Later in the evening, Sabah will host Gabala at the Bank Respublika Arena. That match is scheduled to begin at 19:30.

The remaining quarterfinal fixtures, Shamakhi vs. Qarabag and Turan Tovuz vs. Kapaz will be held on February 5.

The second legs of the quarterfinal round are expected to take place in early March, when the teams will battle for a place in the semifinals.