Category: Azer News

In line with a presidential decree signed by President Ilham Aliyev on December 25, 2019, December 28 has been officially designated as Lawyer’s Day, Azernews reports.

The occasion serves not only to recognize the dedication of legal professionals but also to highlight the vital role of the legal profession in strengthening the foundations of a rule-of-law state.

The Azerbaijan Bar Association is the unified body representing all lawyers in the country. It functions as an independent, non-governmental, and self-governing institution. While its initial framework was established in 1980 during the Soviet period, the association was fundamentally renewed after Azerbaijan regained independence. The founding congress held in Baku on November 3-4, 2004, led to the creation of a modern Bar Association, marking a significant milestone in the development of an independent legal profession.

The Azerbaijan Bar Association’s primary objective is to safeguard individual rights and freedoms, provide citizens with competent and ethical legal assistance, and protect the reputation of the legal profession. These responsibilities are closely linked to the constitutional principles of justice, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.

Comprehensive judicial reforms launched in 2018 brought a new phase of growth for the legal profession. A key presidential decree issued on February 22, 2018, defined the modernization of legal services and the formation of a strong and reputable bar as state priorities.

As part of these reforms, the material and technical capacity of the Bar Association has been enhanced, compensation for state-funded legal aid has been increased threefold, and access to legal services in the regions has expanded. Conditions have also been improved to encourage young lawyers to join the profession.

In recent years, the number of Bar Association members has grown steadily, while training programs and initiatives aimed at improving professional skills and ethical standards have been intensified. The association has also strengthened transparency, accountability, and cooperation with international partners.

The Azerbaijan Bar Association also actively contributes to public legal awareness, supports socially vulnerable groups, and implements free legal aid initiatives, reinforcing the social responsibility of the legal profession.

The development of a strong and independent bar remains essential to the effective functioning of the justice system, the protection of human rights, and the promotion of democratic governance.

The activities of the Azerbaijan Bar Association are regulated by the Law on Lawyers and Legal Practice and its Statute, ensuring a stable and transparent legal framework.

Afestive “Winter Fairy Tale” fair has opened in Khankandi city in celebration of World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year, Azernews reports.

The fair is organized with the support of the Special representative Office of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Khankandi, Aghdare, and Khojali districts. It is hosted by the Restoration, Construction, and Management Service and is being held for the second time.

The fair is located at the Victory Square in the city of Khankandi.

Around 30 companies are participating in the fair with their products, according to the Public Relations Department of the Restoration, Construction, and Management Service in Khankandi, Aghdara, and Khojali districts.

The fair “Winter Fairy Tale” will continue until January 5.

A conference on “Results of Civil Defense Work in 2025 and Tasks Ahead for 2026” has taken place in the Shamakhi district, Azernews reports.

Hikmat Shikarov, First Deputy Head of the Shamakhi District Executive Authority, spoke about the work carried out in 2025 related to civil defense and emergency situations, highlighting the results achieved. He emphasized the importance of addressing existing shortcomings and ensuring the timely and high-quality implementation of tasks set for 2026.

Hikmat Shikarov also stressed the need to strengthen cooperation among relevant agencies and increase the responsibility of local executive structures.

Following this, Sarvan Asadov, Head of the Civil Defense Preparedness Department of the North-West Regional Center of the Ministry of Emergency Situations, delivered a speech providing detailed information on the preparation and implementation of civil defense documents, improving the population’s level of preparedness for emergencies, and the significance of conducted trainings and exercises. He also shared recommendations on resolving existing issues with the participants.

During the speeches, the importance of strict compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, expanding awareness-raising activities, and improving work with citizens was emphasized.

At the end of the meeting, priority directions for 2026 were determined, and participants were given relevant instructions and recommendations.

Yasin Farhadov, Chief of Staff of the Shamakhi District Executive Authority, was awarded an honorary diploma by the staff of the North-West Regional Center of the Ministry of Emergency Situations for his active participation in the implementation of civil defense documents and the organization of trainings and exercises.

The Azerbaijan Defense Ministry has presented a review of the events of last week, Azernews reports.

Benelux Azerbaijanis Congress (BAK) has organized a ceremony in Rotterdam, Netherlands, to present two books by its First Vice President, renowned public figure and writer Sima Jafarova, titled “Conversations with My Soul” and “What They Call Life”, Azernews reports.

Representatives of the Azerbaijani community living in the Netherlands and Benelux countries, public and political activists, cultural figures, heads of diaspora organizations, as well as literature enthusiasts, attended the event.

BAK Chairman Elsev?r M?mm?dov opened the ceremony with a welcoming speech, highlighting Sima Jafarova’s contributions to diaspora activities, promotion of national and spiritual values, and efforts to introduce Azerbaijani culture in Europe. It was emphasized that the author’s work carries not only literary but also social and spiritual significance.

The book “Conversations with My Soul” reflects the author’s inner world, human self-reflection, and a poetic-philosophical perspective on life, time, love, and spirituality. “What They Call Life” takes readers on a profound spiritual journey through reflections derived from lived experiences, memories, and human destinies. Guests speaking at the event shared their thoughts on the artistic language, sincerity, and spiritual messages conveyed by both books.

Sima Jafarova expressed her gratitude to BAK for organizing the event and to all the guests in attendance. She spoke about the process of writing the books, the feelings and thoughts that inspired them, and emphasized that these works aim to build a spiritual bridge with readers.

At the end of the event, Honored Artist Khayyam Mammadov and Ilham Babayev, residing in the Netherlands, performed national music on the kamancha.

Within the framework of the event, Mehmet Ali Topçu, a journalist for the Netherlands-based “Manset” newspaper, was awarded a certificate of appreciation by the Benelux Azerbaijanis Congress for his continuous support to the Azerbaijani diaspora, for highlighting diaspora activities through the media, and for promoting the truths about Azerbaijan.

A ceremony has been held to honor distinguished youth in sports, public life, and creative fields in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Azernews reports.

The event, organized by the Nakhchivan Ministry of Youth and Sports was dedicated to the “Year of Constitution and Sovereignty” and the “December 31 – World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day.”

According to the press service of the Ministry, talented young people who stood out over the year in the republic’s public, creative, and sports life, as well as athletes who achieved high results, were recognized and awarded at the ceremony.

The event began with a minute of silence in memory of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the country’s martyrs, followed by the performance of the State Anthem.

Majid Seyidov, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, temporarily performing the duties of the Minister, noted in his speech that youth policy in Azerbaijan is successfully implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. He emphasized that this policy creates broad opportunities for young people to develop their potential and actively participate in social, public, and sports life.

It was highlighted that consistent measures in Nakhchivan to develop youth engagement and sports contribute significantly to nurturing healthy, patriotic, and active youth. Over the past year, a total of 425 events were held under the main directions of youth and sports policy, including 269 youth-oriented and 156 sports-focused activities, with nearly 20,000 young people participating.

The report also noted that many young people from Nakhchivan won nationwide grant competitions and successfully implemented projects in the autonomous republic.

With the support of the Ministry, volunteers participated in domestic and international camps and exchange programs, gaining new knowledge and experience. Athletes, meanwhile, achieved notable success in national and international competitions, winning a total of 443 medals: 197 gold, 129 silver, and 117 bronze. Among them, 2 athletes became world champions, 87 won international tournaments, and 106 were crowned Azerbaijani champions.

The speech also highlighted work carried out under the “State Program on the Socio-Economic Development of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic for 2023-2027.”

It was reported that 19 outdoor sports facilities have been opened for public use in Nakhchivan city and other towns and settlements. In addition, the “Healthy Neighborhood” project, jointly implemented with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan, is underway in the cities of Babak, Julfa, and Shahbuz, with plans to create similar sports facilities in other regions.

During the ceremony, 73 young people and athletes were awarded plaques in various categories. The recipients included athletes, active youth, representatives of the media and culture, students with outstanding academic achievements, and young people recognized for their public activities.

Awards were presented by Tukazban Guliyeva, a staff member of the Authorized Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic; Tarverdi Mammadov, Head of the Humanitarian and Social Affairs Department of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic; and Majid Seyidov, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, temporarily performing the duties of the Minister.

The ceremony continued with musical performances by young artists and concluded on a festive and cheerful note.

The Heydar Aliyev Azerbaijan Cultural Center, operating under the Azerbaijan Embassy in Uzbekistan, has hosted a festive event under the slogan “Culture is Our Strength – Solidarity is Our Unity” to celebrate World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year, Azernews reports.

The event opened with the National Anthems of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan.

The Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Huseyn Guliyev, extended his greetings to participants on the occasion of World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year.

He highlighted the vital role of humanitarian and cultural initiatives in fostering mutual understanding between peoples and underscored that the concept of Azerbaijani identity was established by National Leader Heydar Aliyev and is successfully continued by President Ilham Aliyev. Ambassador Guliyev also emphasized the solidarity of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Uzbekistan.

Akif Marifli, Director of the Heydar Aliyev Azerbaijan Cultural Center, described World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day as a powerful symbol of national unity. He noted that the strong cooperation between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, built on mutual respect and trust, has reached the level of strategic partnership and provides a solid foundation for expanding cultural and humanitarian ties.

The concert program featured performances by renowned Azerbaijani singer Ravan Gachayev and young vocalist Ulkar Abdullayeva, who presented songs celebrating the homeland, national identity, friendship, and solidarity.

Theatrical performances were delivered by the Cultural Center’s “Khari Bulbul” theater troupe, showcasing scenes from Azerbaijani classical drama and musical theater, as well as traditional folk songs.

The choreographic segment featured the “Garabagh Victory” dance ensemble, also affiliated with the Cultural Center. Their performances highlighted Azerbaijan’s historical memory, national pride, and spirit of unity.

The event concluded with awards presented to creative teams and public figures who have actively contributed to promoting Azerbaijani culture in Uzbekistan. Honorees represented fields including theater, national dance, visual arts, television, and media.

A festive event dedicated to December 31 – World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year was held at the Gabala State Historical-Artistic Reserve, Azernews reports.

The event, organized at the Gabala Archaeological Center, was attended by the Reserve’s staff, teachers and students of Chukhur Gabala Village Secondary School, and parents.

In his speech, director of the Gabala State Historical-Artistic Reserve Zahir Karimov noted that December 31 – World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day has become a national holiday celebrated with joy every year.

The formal recognition of this date is associated with the name of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev. He stressed the importance of raising the younger generation with a sense of national and patriotic spirit, preserving our national and spiritual values and traditions, strengthening ties with Azerbaijanis around the world, and increasing unity and solidarity with compatriots living abroad.

It was noted that President Ilham Aliyev has successfully continued the political course of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, working tirelessly for Azerbaijan to become one of the world’s highly developed countries. Today, the unity and solidarity of our people further accelerate the country’s development. The Victory in the 44-day Patriotic War, recorded in our history in golden letters, is a clear example of our solidarity and coming together as one.

During the artistic part of the event, students of Chukhur Gabala Village Secondary School named after A. Mammadov performed poems and compositions dedicated to unity, solidarity, the homeland, the people, and the New Year.

A jury was selected from among the Reserve’s staff to evaluate the students’ New Year-themed drawings. Gifts were presented to the winning students as well as to all other participants by the Reserve’s staff.

Afterwards, the children enthusiastically watched an animated film dedicated to the New Year.

China’s Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress has approved a revised version of the Foreign Trade Law, which will come into effect on March 1, 2026, Azernews reports, citing Xinhua.

The updated law aims to safeguard national sovereignty and development interests while expanding legal tools for implementing countermeasures in the trade sector.

Additionally, the legislation emphasizes strengthening the protection of intellectual property rights and aligning Chinese trade regulations more closely with international standards.

Originally enacted in 1994, the Foreign Trade Law now comprises 11 chapters under the new revision.

An exquisite musical and poetic evening took place in the Philharmonic’s Chamber and Organ Music Hall with 15-year-old pianist and international competition laureate Aydan Nuriyeva as the main star, Azernews reports.

From the very first chords, it became clear that this was not just a young performer, but a fully formed artist with rare talent and a deep sense of music. In her interpretation of works by Joseph Haydn, Frédéric Chopin, Robert Schumann, and Gara Garayev, the pieces sounded in a unique way-sincerely, subtly, and profoundly. It seemed as though the piano came to life in Aydan’s hands, and the keys under her fingers transformed into a living stream of emotions that reached each listener without words. The hall would fall into tense silence, only to erupt moments later in bright, prolonged applause.

The musical fabric of the evening was masterfully complemented by poetry. Between pieces, host Samray Aliyeva delicately introduced the audience to the creative nuances of the composers, revealing their inner world and the intent behind their works. Harmoniously integrated with the music, literary readings added a special emotional and philosophical depth: reader Guseynaga Aslanov delivered the poems of Azerbaijani poets Nusret Kesemenli and Nariman Gasanzade with heartfelt expression.

Aydan Nuriyeva’s musical journey began in early childhood. She took her first lessons at the age of four from her grandmother, Nazira Jangirova, an honored education worker of Russia. By the age of six, the young pianist had already confidently begun to make her mark on competition stages. Despite her young age, Aydan has won Grand Prix and numerous prestigious international competitions in Azerbaijan, Russia, the USA, and Italy. The geography of her performances is impressive: Carnegie Hall in the USA, Duomo di San Lorenzo in Italy, Rachmaninov Hall of the Moscow State Conservatory named after P.I. Tchaikovsky, Gradsky Hall Concert Hall, the State Museum ‘Tsarskoye Selo’ hall, the ‘Azerbaijan’ pavilion at VDNKh, and other iconic stages.

Aydan constantly hones her craft by attending masterclasses with leading musicians in Russia, Georgia, Montenegro, and Italy, discovering new facets of her talent. Since 2022, she has been studying at the Bulbul Specialized Secondary Music School, where her artistic development continues to gain professional depth and stage maturity.

This evening once again demonstrated that Aydan Nuriyeva’s path in the world of great art promises new brilliant discoveries and creative heights.

Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.