Category: Azer News

As part of its publication series, the International Mugham Center (IMC) has released a new book, greeting readers with a significant scholarly gift for 2026, Azernews reports.

The newly published volume is “Muqaddimat al-Adab” by the great Uzbek scholar and thinker Zamakhshari (Abu al-Qasim Mahmud ibn Umar ibn Muhammad al-Khwarizmi az-Zamakhshari).

Holding a special place in Turkology, this monumental work represents an important contribution to the International Mugham Center’s expanding cultural and academic ties with brotherly Uzbekistan.

The book has been prepared through the transliteration of the text from the old script into the modern alphabet by Doctor of Philological Sciences, Professor Tarlan Guliyev. The work was developed at the Manuscripts Institute of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), with Academician Teymur Karimli serving as scientific editor.

Zamakhshari’s “Muqaddimat al-Adab” (1074-1144) occupies a prominent position in the world of Turkology, second only to Mahmud Kashgari’s “Divan Lughat at-Turk.”

Although the monument is primarily an Arabic-Persian-Turkic (Khwarezm Turkic) dictionary, it contains hundreds of Turkic words and expressions. This edition marks the first time the work has been presented to Azerbaijani readers.

The development of international cooperation is one of the priority directions of the IMC’s strategic vision.

In this context, agreements signed between the International Mugham Center and higher education institutions of Uzbekistan, as well as the Makom Center, envisage the expansion of mutual scientific and cultural exchange, joint research projects, collaborative concerts and cultural initiatives, and master classes.

In July 2025, the Director of the International Mugham Center, Honored Artist Sahib Pashazadeh,who was awarded the title of Cultural Ambassador of Uzbekistan, initiated the publication of Zamakhshari’s work by the Center. This step is widely regarded as a commendable contribution to strengthening cultural relations. To date, the IMC has signed nearly seven cooperation documents with Uzbekistan.

This partnership aims to enhance the exchange of experience, strengthen mutually beneficial cultural ties between institutions, promote national music and literary heritage on a wider scale, and pave the way for a range of promising future projects.

Among the upcoming initiatives is a mugham evening featuring ghazals by Alisher Navoi, to be performed by soloists of the International Mugham Center.

Founded on the initiative of the First Vice-President of Azerbaijan and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mehriban Aliyeva, the Mugham Center was established in accordance with a presidential decree dated April 6, 2005.

Construction of the center began the same year, and the building, recognized today as one of Baku’s most distinctive architectural landmarks, officially opened in 2008.

Since then, the Mugham Center has consistently hosted large-scale music festivals and concerts featuring prominent and internationally renowned cultural figures. Alongside its concert activities, the center actively works to strengthen cultural cooperation with countries such as Turkiye, Poland, Brazil, Uzbekistan, Morocco, and others.

Committed to the preservation and global promotion of Azerbaijani musical heritage, the International Mugham Center continues to expand its activities. Numerous projects are underway aimed at researching, safeguarding, and popularizing the art of mugham.

A landmark achievement was reached in 2025, when the Mugham Center became the first cultural institution in Azerbaijan to receive international status through legislation. This designation has also played a significant role in improving the social and financial conditions of the center’s staff, reinforcing its position as one of Baku’s leading concert venues.

In recent years, and particularly over the past year, the International Mugham Center has experienced a noticeable increase in interest, especially among tourists attending mugham and ethno-music concerts. During the 9th Mugham Television Contest, the center hosted numerous performances that attracted a wide and diverse audience.

Regular monthly events appeal to both professional musicians and general music lovers. Promotional banners placed around the venue help draw the attention of tourists, many of whom stop during the day to admire the center’s impressive architecture while anticipating evening performances.

This growing international appeal was especially evident during the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, when numerous racing fans and visitors to Baku also took part in the International Mugham Center’s rich musical program.

Bizi Birl?sdir?n M?d?niyy?t (United by Culture) Public Association has announced the launch of its new initiative, “Art Without Borders”, set to become a landmark event in Azerbaijan’s cultural calendar, Azernews reports.

The project aims to create a vibrant platform for direct dialogue between renowned artists and the younger generation.

The first event of the project featured celebrated conductor and Honoured Artist Ayyub Guliyev. Titled “Dialogue with the Maestro”, the meeting was held at the Cultural Centre of the Azerbaijan State Security Service.

During the event, participants explored how the universal language of music can bridge cultures and countries, the role of classical art in today’s world, and the path an artist takes to achieve international recognition.

Maestro Guliyev shared his extensive artistic and life experiences, highlighted key moments of his career, and answered numerous questions from the audience.

Attendees noted that such encounters broaden young people’s horizons, inspire creative growth, and foster a deeper understanding of art as an essential component of social life.

Ramil Gasimov, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan and chair of “Bizi Birl?sdir?n M?d?niyy?t”, emphasised that “Art Without Borders” will encompass a variety of artistic disciplines, fulfilling an important mission of cultural education and strengthening intergenerational dialogue.

Iranian authorities have bolstered security in the northeastern city of Mashhad by deploying military equipment and additional troops as the country grapples with an intensifying wave of protests and unrest, Azernews reports.

Witnesses reported that armored vehicles and armed personnel were stationed at key entry and exit points of the city, with checkpoints and security controls tightened across several districts. The heightened presence of security forces appears aimed at containing simmering discontent before it escalates further.

The deployment comes against the backdrop of widespread demonstrations across Iran that have persisted for more than two weeks. Protesters have taken to the streets in multiple cities, including Mashhad, chanting slogans against the government and urging systemic change. In Mashhad, large crowds were reported on major boulevards, disabling surveillance cameras and confronting security units, according to local sources.

The protests began in late December and quickly spread nationwide, fueled by a deepening economic crisis, rising inflation and long-standing grievances over political repression. Demonstrations have at times been met with force, with rights groups reporting thousands of fatalities and tens of thousands of arrests as security forces conduct crackdowns in major urban centers.

Iran has also faced criticism for adopting sweeping security measures such as shutting down internet and communications services to control information flow and inhibit coordination among demonstrators.

Analysts suggest the Mashhad deployment may be driven not only by fears of expanding protests but also by concern over possible clashes between demonstrators and paramilitary units, as well as isolated militant activity amid the unrest. Tehran’s authorities have in recent days reportedly relied on a variety of internal and external security forces to suppress dissent, heightening concerns about escalation.

Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city and an influential religious and economic hub, has been a focal point of protests in recent days, and officials appear determined to maintain tight control ahead of any further demonstrations. The situation continues to develop as Iranians nationwide persist in voicing their demands.

The premiere of the short historical documentary film “The Captain and the Caspian Sea” will take place on January 19 at the Nizami Cinema Center, Azernews reports citing the Culture Ministry.

The film is one of the winning projects of the “Film Project Support Competition for Films Produced by State Order and Support,” held in 2023 by the Azerbaijan Cinema Agency under the Culture Ministry.

The film was produced by Rental Azerbaijan LLC. The screenplay and direction are by Turkan Huseyn, and the producer is Emil Najafov.

Created through a hybrid use of animation and archival materials, the film is dedicated to the nationwide tragedy that occurred on the night of January 20, 1990.

It tells the story of the heroism, professionalism, and civic courage demonstrated by captains of the Caspian Sea Oil Fleet, as well as journalists and cameramen who risked their lives to document those historic events.

Based on historical facts, the film carries special significance in preserving collective memory and passing on the truth of that tragic night to future generations.

The animation segments of the film were produced by the “Harmony of Chaos” studio.

“Current Time” TV, Public Television (ITV), and the Azerbaijan Filmmakers Union also provided support for the project.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will not attend the upcoming no-confidence vote against her and her cabinet, a European Parliament spokesperson, Delphine Colard, told Politico on Friday, Azernews reports.

The debate, scheduled for January 19 in Strasbourg, will instead see Trade Commissioner Maros Sevcovic represent von der Leyen. Colard noted that no other commissioners will be present.

The motion of no-confidence was tabled in response to von der Leyen’s handling of the EU-Mercosur trade agreement, which has faced criticism over environmental, labor, and market access concerns. The debate and vote were initiated by the right-wing Patriots for Europe group, led by Jordan Bardella, who called for von der Leyen’s removal from office.

Observers say von der Leyen’s absence signals confidence that the vote will not succeed, as the motion requires an absolute majority in the European Parliament to pass. The proceedings will focus on scrutinizing her administration’s decisions regarding the trade deal, including commitments on deforestation, human rights, and the protection of EU producers.

For 2026, Goranboy district has been officially named Azerbaijan’s Youth Capital, and its new logo and mascot have been unveiled, Azernews reports.

The central element of the logo, the letter “G,” symbolises 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.

Note 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.

The designation reflects the government’s aim to promote youth development, engagement, and empowerment in different regions of the country, highlighting Goranboy as a focal point for youth activities and initiatives throughout this year.

Since the start of the year, China has completely stopped importing electricity from Russia and has refused even the minimum contracted volumes of around 12 megawatts, according to reports citing foreign media. The suspension reflects deeper shifts in Beijing’s energy strategy and the evolving dynamics of China-Russia trade, Azernews reports.

The decision comes as electricity imports from Russia have already been falling sharply. Data from Russian energy operators indicate that supplies to China plunged significantly in 2025, driven by capacity constraints within Russia’s grid and rising domestic demand in the Russian Far East that limited available exports.

Industry observers say the probability of resuming electricity exports to China in 2026 appears extremely low, largely because the export price has exceeded China’s domestic electricity tariffs, making imports economically unattractive for Chinese utilities.

The developments also occur amid a broader contraction in China-Russia trade. Recent data show that bilateral trade posted its first annual decline in five years in 2025, with a notable drop in the value of Chinese imports from Russia, including energy products.

Analysts suggest several factors behind the shift:

Russia’s own energy constraints, including grid bottlenecks and resource limitations in its eastern regions, have made it harder to sustain large electricity exports to China.

Changing market economics in China, where domestic electricity prices have remained comparatively low, reducing the incentive to buy higher-cost imported power.

Strategic recalibrations in Beijing’s energy portfolio, as China balances diversified energy sources, rising domestic production, and expanding trade with other partners.

Energy experts note that while electricity is just one piece of the complex Sino-Russian energy relationship, the dramatic drop in power imports underscores growing economic friction in sectors once seen as cooperative. China remains a major buyer of Russian crude oil, but overall bilateral trade figures have softened, suggesting shifts in demand and pricing pressures that could influence future energy and economic ties between the two countries.

The situation highlights how energy markets and geopolitical strategy intersect, as both countries navigate post-pandemic demand patterns, commodity price swings, and competition in regional energy supply chains. If the trend continues, it could signal a reshaping of China’s energy import mix and force Moscow to seek alternative export markets or adapt its pricing models.

More than 6 kilograms of narcotic substances have been discovered in Azerbaijan’s Tovuz district.

Azernews reports, citing the Ganja regional group of the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, that officers of the Tovuz District Police Department detained 25-year-old Eshgin Alakbarov, a previously convicted drug courier, along with his peer Seymur Zeynalov.

During a search at Alakbarov’s address, police found 3 kilograms 200 grams of marijuana and 3 kilograms 350 grams of hashish.

The investigation established that the suspects illegally brought the drugs into the country with the intent to sell them and had hidden the narcotics in the Tovuz district.

A criminal case has been initiated, and both individuals have been placed in preventive detention.

The Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation (AKAF) recently held a board meeting to review the outcomes and accomplishments of the last year, Azernews reports.

The session began with Secretary General Farhad Aliyev presenting the financial report and summarizing the projects undertaken by the federation over the past year, highlighting the results achieved.

The meeting also addressed other agenda items, resulting in several key decisions.

Judges’ Panel was established, with Ilgar Taghiyev elected as its chair. Aleksandr Zhukovskiy was confirmed as head coach of the national canoe team, while Volodymyr Morozov will continue as head coach of the academic rowing team for the upcoming Olympic cycle.

The federation also welcomed new members, strengthening its structure and preparing for future development in Azerbaijani canoeing and rowing.

The Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation (AKAF) serves as the official authority for canoeing and rowing sports in Azerbaijan. Its responsibilities include organizing national championships and fostering the growth of these sports, such as canoe slalom.

AKAF works in partnership with the International Canoe Federation (ICF) and operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

The Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation regularly organizes national championships for academic rowing, kayak, and canoe to identify talented athletes.

By the end of last year, Time magazine compiled a list of the most promising innovations for 2025, Azernews reports.

Among them are vegan, often tangy, gluten-free candies from the Bubs brand, originally invented in the 1990s by the Swedish Lindstrom family. This example demonstrates that even seemingly simple ideas can eventually become global phenomena.

When we use everyday items – listening to music, opening a package, or driving a car – we rarely stop to think about who invented them and where they came from. Yet, many important and transformative inventions originated in Sweden. These include the refrigerator and the milking machine, the pacemaker and lidocaine, dynamite, the ship’s propeller, lightweight concrete, as well as groundbreaking digital technologies like Bluetooth, Skype, and GPS.

Sweden has a long tradition of innovation that continues today: it is home to over 8,000 active startups and invests heavily in sustainable and high-tech solutions. From practical tools to digital breakthroughs, Swedish inventions have profoundly shaped the way we live.

This report will explore some of the most fascinating Swedish inventions and reveal how they have quietly become part of our daily lives.