Category: Azer News

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.

TURKPA delegation, headed by Secretary General Ambassador Ramil Hasan, has visited the Presidential Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan as part of their official trip to the country, Azernews reports.

While at the center, the TURKPA delegation explored its extensive museum, which showcases a diverse collection of exhibits. These displays highlight the history of Kazakhstan’s statehood, spanning from ancient times through the Middle Ages, the Soviet era, and both the pre- and post-independence periods.

The museum also covers the role of the presidential institution and the nation’s cultural and historical heritage.

Accompanying the Secretary General during the visit were Deputy Secretary General Talgat Aduov and Chief of Protocol Yadigar Mammadov.

The Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA) was founded through an agreement signed by the Heads of Parliaments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey on November 21, 2008, at the Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul.

The first Plenary Session of the Assembly was held on September 29, 2009, in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. During this session, the Rules of Procedure, the Regulations of the Secretariat, and the Baku Declaration were adopted.

It was also decided that the TURKPA Secretariat would be permanently based in Baku. The Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States upholds the principles of independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, inviolability of state borders, non-interference in domestic affairs, and equality. It is based on the idea of cooperation among its member states and with third parties, adhering to these core principles.

TURKPA plays a key role in strengthening ties among its member states across various fields by promoting parliamentary diplomacy. Its primary goals include enhancing the political, legal, and economic capacities of member states, fostering prosperity through the effective use of natural resources, and advancing social and cultural relations.

One of the key measures aimed at ensuring the social adaptation of individuals released from penitentiary institutions is providing them with employment opportunities, Azernews reports. This initiative plays a vital role in helping former inmates reintegrate into society and become productive members of the workforce.

According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, 1,218 individuals from this category have been covered by active employment measures in the first 11 months of this year. The State Employment Agency, operating under the Ministry, has played a central role in organizing these programs.

Of these 1,218 individuals, 919 have been provided with suitable jobs. This is an important step in helping them rejoin the workforce and gain financial independence. Furthermore, 254 individuals have been included in the self-employment program, which supports them in establishing small family farms.

Additionally, 45 unemployed individuals have been enrolled in vocational training courses. These courses are designed to improve their skills and enhance their employability in various industries.

On December 29, the weather in Baku and the Absheron Peninsula is expected to be partly cloudy, occasionally cloudy, and mostly dry, Azernews reports the National Hydrometeorology Service.

A moderate southwest wind will blow. The air temperature will be 1-3°C at night and 6-9°C during the day. Atmospheric pressure will be 750 mmHg. Relative humidity will be 80-85 percent at night and 60-65 percent during the daytime.

In the regions of Azerbaijan, the weather is expected to be mostly dry. However, during the day, precipitation, including snow, is expected to begin in mountainous areas. In some places, it may be heavy. Fog is expected occasionally in some areas. The west wind will occasionally strengthen in certain locations. Nighttime temperatures will range from -2°C to 3°C, daytime temperatures from 5-9°C. In the mountains, temperatures will be -5°C to -10°C at night, -10°C to -15°C in high mountain areas, and -1°C to -6°C during the day. Some mountain roads may be icy at night and in the morning.

In Nakhchivan city, as well as in Julfa, Ordubad, Sadarak, Shahbuz, and Sharur, mostly dry weather is expected. However, during the day, occasional precipitation, including snow, is expected, with some areas possibly experiencing heavy snowfall. Fog is expected occasionally. A west wind will blow. Nighttime temperatures will range from -2°C to -7°C, daytime temperatures from 0-5°C. Some roads may be icy at night and in the morning.

In Khankandi, Shusha, Khojaly, Khojavend, Fuzuli, Agdam, as well as Dashkasan-Gadabay and Goygol, mostly dry weather is expected. However, during the day, occasional precipitation, including snow, is expected, with some areas possibly experiencing heavy snowfall. Fog is expected occasionally, and a west wind will blow. Nighttime temperatures will range from -3°C to -8°C, daytime temperatures from 0-5°C. Some roads may be icy at night and in the morning.

In Eastern Zangazur-Jabrayil, Kalbajar, Gubadli, Lachin, and Zangilan-mostly dry weather is expected. However, from daytime, precipitation, including snow, is expected in mountainous areas, with some places possibly experiencing heavy snowfall. Fog is expected occasionally, and the west wind will occasionally strengthen in some areas. Nighttime temperatures will range from -5°C to -10°C, daytime temperatures from 0-4°C.

In Gazakh, Ganja, Samukh, Goranboy, Tartar, Shamkir, Tovuz, and Naftalan, mostly dry weather is expected. However, by evening, precipitation, including snow, is expected mainly in mountainous areas, with some places possibly experiencing heavy snowfall. Fog is expected occasionally, and the west wind will occasionally strengthen. Nighttime temperatures will range from -3°C to 2°C, daytime temperatures from 3-7°C.

In Balakan, Zagatala, Gakh, Shaki, Oghuz, Gabala, Ismayilli, Agsu, Shamakhi, Siyazan, Shabran, Khizi, Guba, Khachmaz, and Gusar, mostly dry weather is expected. However, some eastern districts may experience light precipitation at night. Fog is expected occasionally, and the west wind will occasionally strengthen in some areas. Nighttime temperatures will range from -1°C to -6°C, daytime temperatures from 1-6°C. In the mountains, nighttime temperatures will range from -5°C to -10°C, in high mountain areas -10°C to -14°C, and daytime temperatures from 0-5°C. Some mountain roads may be icy at night and in the morning.

In Yevlakh, Agdash, Kurdamir, Imishli, Agjabadi, Barda, Beylagan, Sabirabad, Mingachevir, Bilasuvar, Saatli, Goychay, Ujar, Shirvan, Hajigabul, Zardab, Salyan, and Neftchala, mostly dry weather is expected. Fog is expected occasionally, and the west wind will occasionally strengthen in some areas. Nighttime temperatures will range from -2°C to 3°C, daytime temperatures from 5-9°C.

In Masalli, Yardimli, Lerik, Lankaran, Astara, Bilasuvar, and Jalilabad, mostly dry weather is expected. However, some areas may experience precipitation at night and in the evening, including snow in mountainous areas. Fog is expected occasionally.

A northeast wind will blow. Nighttime temperatures will range from 0-3°C, daytime temperatures from 4-8°C. In the mountains, nighttime temperatures will range from -2°C to -5°C, and daytime temperatures from 0-2°C.