Category: Azer News

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The trial is set to continue on October 28.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Azerbaijani boxers have reached the finals of the European Boxing U19 Championship in Ostrava, Czech Republic, Azernews reports.

On the first day of the semi-finals, two Azerbaijani athletes advanced to the final.

Banuchichak Nasirli (48 kg) defeated Amelja Sula(Italy) in the semi-final with a score of 5:0 (29:26, 29:27, 29:27, 30:25, 30:25). She will face Mathilda Fragnieres (France) in the final.

Bilalhabasi Nazarov (50 kg) tested Razvan Ionut Panaite (Romania).

The Azerbaijani boxer won all three rounds, securing a 5:0 victory (30:27, 30:26, 30:25, 30:25, 30:26). He will meet Tommaso Orlando (Italy) in the final.

Another Azerbaijani boxer, Subkhan Babayev (60 kg), faced Luka Chkhikvadze (Georgia).

As his opponent advanced to the next stage, Subkhan Babayev earned the bronze medal.

The final bouts of the European Championship will take place on October 10.

Approximately 105 female and 189 male boxers from 33 countries are participating in the tournament.

Boxing is recognized as one of the oldest sports in human history, with the earliest records of the sport dating back to ancient Egypt around 3,000 BC.

The Greeks introduced boxing to the ancient Olympic Games in the late 7th century BC.

In 1924, the International Amateur Boxing Federation (FIBA) was founded, and in 1946, it was renamed the International Boxing Association (AIBA). Boxing made its Olympic debut at the 1904 Games in St. Louis.

Azerbaijan hosted its first boxing championship in 1926, with national boxers claiming first place. Since 1992, the Azerbaijani Boxing Federation has been a full member of AIBA.

Azerbaijani boxers have earned numerous prestigious accolades in international competitions. Aghasi Mammadov made history by becoming Azerbaijan’s first gold medalist at the World Championships. Fuad Asadov also earned a spot on the podium at the 2004 Summer Olympics.

Azerbaijan has been selected several times to host major boxing events.

The country previously hosted the 2011 AIBA World Boxing Championships, which served as the main qualification tournament for the London 2012 Olympics.

In 2019, Baku hosted the AIBA Youth World Championships, marking the first youth competition to act as a qualifier for the 2010 Singapore Olympics.

The 11th Baku International Book Fair, organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, has officially wrapped up, Azernews reports.

The large-scale event, held at the Baku Expo Center, was organized under the theme “Techno-human: A Legend of Yesterday, A Phenomenon of Today.”

The book fair drew a diverse crowd, featuring over 41 international organizations from 18 countries, as well as more than 100 local publishing houses, printing companies, and other industry-related institutions.

The event offered a great platform for writers, publishers, and readers to engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of books in an increasingly digital age.

Over the span of seven days, the 11th Baku International Book Fair hosted more than 250 events, including master classes aimed at both children and adults, presentations on inclusive literature, book signings, conferences, symposiums, and competitions.

There were also special sessions devoted to reading and music, adding a rich cultural layer to the event. Industry professionals had the opportunity to exchange ideas, discuss trends, and collaborate on future projects.

One of the highlights of the fair was the opportunity for visitors to explore the latest publications in the book market and engage directly with authors and publishers.

From books on inclusion to the latest works of fiction, attendees were able to immerse themselves in a wealth of literary experiences. In addition, the fair served as an important space for networking and collaboration, providing a valuable platform for the international book industry.

Among the participants were not only Azerbaijan’s prominent writers and poets, including several People’s Writers, but also esteemed foreign authors from countries such as Turkiye, Argentina, the United Kingdom, Lithuania, and Qatar.

The event featured a mix of well-known literary figures and emerging voices, offering something for every type of reader.

A particularly poignant moment came during the awards ceremony, where several individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions to the book industry.

The Most Creative Stand Award was given to the Mayak Publishing House, while Chingiz Abdullayev received the Most Read Writer Award. The Honorary Writer Award was bestowed upon Rustam Behrudi, in recognition of his outstanding work in literature.

Reflecting the book fair’s broader theme, “Techno-human: A Legend of Yesterday, A Phenomenon of Today,” many discussions centered around how technology has transformed the way we read, write, and engage with stories.

As literature continues to adapt to the digital age, the book fair provided a valuable opportunity for creators and audiences alike to consider the intersection of technology and culture.

The 11th Baku International Book Fair, with its diverse events, global representation, and stimulating discussions, has reaffirmed its status as a premier cultural event in Azerbaijan.

On October 7, 2025, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Jordan, in collaboration with the Azerbaijan National Commission for UNESCO and under the patronage of Princess Dana Firas, President of the Petra National Trust and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, hosted the opening of the exhibition “Echoes of the Centuries: Azerbaijani Musical Instruments” in Amman, the capital of Jordan, Azernews reports.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from Jordan’s governmental and cultural institutions, members of the diplomatic corps accredited in the Kingdom, as well as notable figures from the academic and artistic communities, and local public representatives.

In his speech at the opening, Eldar Salimov, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, emphasized that the exhibition was not only an art display but also a reflection of the Azerbaijani people’s spirit, their centuries-old history, and rich cultural heritage. He noted that Azerbaijan’s musical traditions date back to ancient times, including the musical and dance scenes depicted in the rock carvings of Gobustan and Gamygaya.

The Ambassador Salimov further pointed out that Azerbaijani music has always held an important place in the spiritual life of the people, and it is widely reflected in the works of great classical poets such as Nizami Ganjavi and Mohammad Fuzuli, as well as in “Book of Dede Qorqud” epic

He also mentioned prominent figures like Uzeyir Hajibayli, Fikrat Amirov, Gara Garayev, Muslum Magomayev, and other distinguished artists, whose work has played a key role in bridging Eastern and Western cultures.

The Ambassador said that each musical instrument on display-tar, kamancha, nagara, saz, qaval, qanun, oud, tutak, and zurna serves as a living carrier of national memory and is a manifestation of Azerbaijan’s historical and spiritual identity.

Ambassador Salimov also noted that under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijani music culture has entered a new phase of development. He highlighted the restoration of the Kharibulbul Festival in the city of Shusha as a prime example of national cultural revival.

In conclusion, the Ambassador presented the musical instruments and Azerbaijani carpets, which represent the country’s ancient craftsmanship, to the Petra National Trust as an official gift on behalf of the Azerbaijan National Commission for UNESCO.

He described this symbolic gesture as a reflection of Azerbaijan’s contribution to the preservation and promotion of humanity’s shared cultural heritage.

During the event, participants were treated to a performance by Jordan’s “Duroob” group, featuring classical Azerbaijani musical pieces.

Azerbaijan’s Defense Ministry hosted the First Staff Talks between the defense ministries of Azerbaijan and Bosnia and Herzegovina, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.

The meeting, held at the International Military Cooperation Department of the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry, brought together representatives from various divisions of both countries’ defense institutions.

During the talks, the two sides reviewed the current state of bilateral military relations and identified new areas of cooperation. As a result, a draft plan for bilateral military cooperation for 2026 was prepared.

Both delegations delivered presentations outlining the organizational structures of their respective defense ministries and the ongoing reforms being implemented within them.

The sides expressed confidence that continued military collaboration between Azerbaijan and Bosnia and Herzegovina will serve the mutual interests of both countries and contribute to the further strengthening of their partnership.

The Draconid meteor shower will be active on October 8-9, Azernews reports.

Department of Astrophysics at Baku State University (BSU) informs that the source of this meteor shower is the 21P/Giacobini-Zinner comet.

Discovered in 1900 by French astronomer Michel Giacobini and re-observed in 1913 by German astronomer Ernst Zinner, this comet orbits the Sun every 6.6 years.

As the comet releases dust and gas during each orbit, which intersects Earth’s orbit, we observe it as a meteor shower.

Unlike other meteor showers, Draconids move very slowly and leave bright, long-lasting trails across the sky. Typically, their activity is low, with around five meteors visible per hour.

The speed of Draconid meteors is quite slow, approximately 20 kilometers per hour.

However, throughout history, the Draconids have occasionally been marked by surprise bursts: for instance, observers recorded thousands of meteors per hour in 1926, 1933, 1946, and 2011.

This year, the peak activity of the Draconid meteor shower is expected to occur on the evening of October 8-9, particularly between 19:30 and 23:00.