Category: Azer News

Xiaomi Corp. on Thursday unveiled the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, the latest addition to its Xiaomi 17 lineup, which already includes the standard Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max models, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

At the launch event, the company announced that the Xiaomi 17 Ultra will be available in four color options: Starry Green, Classic Black, Classic White, and Cool Purple. The smartphone features a 2D flat display paired with a refined, miniaturized DECO camera design, giving the device a cleaner and more modern appearance.

Xiaomi emphasized that the updated DECO design not only improves aesthetics but also helps reduce camera bump size, making the phone more comfortable to hold. The company positioned the 17 Ultra as a premium device aimed at users who value both high-end performance and minimalist design.

The Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre, extensively renovated and reconstructed under the presidential decree, has been officially inaugurated in Baku with a grand opening ceremony, Azernews reports.

First, the theatre’s team, cultural figures, representatives of the Western Azerbaijan Community, and members of the Azerbaijani Parliament became acquainted with the conditions created in the building. Acting director of the theatre, Ziver Abbasova, informed the guests about the major renovation works, the modern infrastructure, and the opportunities provided.

Within the framework of the reconstruction project of the 3,000-square-meter theatre building, the main stage was fully adapted to modern standards, and a new small stage was created. Stage mechanisms, lighting, and sound systems were renewed, and the technical infrastructure was built in line with international theatre practice.

The auditorium was acoustically improved, while the seats and interior design were restructured based on principles of functionality and aesthetic harmony. For the efficient work of the theatre troupe, rehearsal halls, dressing rooms, decoration and two new technical service areas were created, and all necessary conditions were ensured for the comfortable work of the administrative and creative staff.

Renovation and reconstruction works were not only about updating the physical infrastructure but also about strengthening the creative potential of the Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre and ensuring its full integration into the modern theatre process. This renewal expands the theatre’s repertoire opportunities and gives impetus to the development of national theatre art.

Later, a meeting was held with the theatre troupe.

Minister of Culture Adil Karimli stated that one of today’s important events is the resumption of the Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre after major renovation and reconstruction. The Minister noted that this building is not only a space for the creative collective’s activities but also a symbolic address that preserves Azerbaijani theatre traditions, the memory of Western Azerbaijan, and our cultural heritage.

Looking back at the theatre’s historical path, the Minister emphasized that the fate of this cultural institution has been closely linked with the complex historical and political processes of the region. Events of different periods, including resettlements and pressures against the Azerbaijani population, also affected the theatre’s activities.

The Minister added that studying and not forgetting this historical period is especially important for the younger generation: ‘This theatre has preserved, safeguarded, and promoted both artistic traditions and national consciousness. Over the years, it has staged works written by prominent Azerbaijani authors, serving the preservation of national literary and artistic heritage.’

Chairman of the Union of Azerbaijani Theatre Workers, People’s Artist Haji Ismayil, in his speech, said that the opening of the new building is a significant event for our culture. He noted that this day has been long-awaited and desired, and it carries special spiritual value for him. The People’s Artist evaluated the created conditions as a sign of respect for the historical traditions of Azerbaijani theatre, stressing that the establishment of professional theatre in Azerbaijan in 1873 was an important event confirming the high spirituality and intellectual potential of our people. He recalled that the Irevan State Azerbaijan Theatre was founded on February 2, 1882, and occupies a special place in the history of Azerbaijani stage art.

Chairman of the Western Azerbaijan Community and Member of Parliament Aziz Alakbarli stressed that the Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre is not just an ordinary cultural institution for them: founded in 1882, this theatre is a living memory of the historical trials faced by our compatriots from Western Azerbaijan. He noted that the tragedies of 1918-1920, the deportations of 1948-1953, and the displacement that began in 1988 and continues to this day are all part of that fate.

Aziz Alakbarli added that the Irevan Theatre experienced its period of rise during the years of National Leader Heydar Aliyev’s leadership. He pointed out that although the theatre operated in the territory of another state, in 1978 Heydar Aliyev invited the Irevan Theatre on a tour to Baku, where performances were staged, and as a result of the tour, the creative staff of the theatre were awarded honorary titles of Azerbaijan.

Acting director of the Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre, Zivar Abbasova, stated that the commissioning of the new building was welcomed with appreciation, satisfaction, and gratitude by the entire Azerbaijani public. She emphasized that the stage of the Irevan Theatre will be a place where both Azerbaijani national dramaturgy and world dramaturgy will be presented with dignity, and where young talents will be nurtured. The acting director also noted that Irevan is not just the name of a city, it is a symbol of a people’s memory, spirit, literature, and roots.

In the speeches, gratitude was expressed to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President, Head of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva for the high attention and care shown to the conditions created in the building and to the development of the Azerbaijani culture.

At the end of the meeting, a congratulatory and gratitude message on behalf of the collective of the Irevan State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre was read to President Ilham Aliyev.

It should be noted that the theatre, which began operating in 1882 in the Irevan region, historically known as one of the important centers of science, education, and culture where Azerbaijanis lived, later gave special place in its rich repertoire to the achievements of national literary and artistic thought, winning the admiration of audiences and writing memorable pages in our cultural chronicle.

The creative destiny of many prominent Azerbaijani stage masters has been closely connected with this venerable cultural institution, which has become an integral part of our professional national theatre.

This year, Japan is expected to record its lowest birth rate in the past 127 years, Azernews reports.

According to estimates cited by the publication, around 667,500 children are expected to be born in the country in 2025. Last year, the number of births in Japan fell below 700,000 for the first time ever, marking the lowest level since records began in 1899.

This new projection is significantly lower than the forecast issued by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, which had predicted that 749,000 children would be born in 2025.

The article warns that if Japan’s declining birth rate continues, it will further shrink the working-age population and intensify labor shortages across key sectors of the economy. Analysts note that this trend could also accelerate automation and increase reliance on foreign labor, reshaping Japan’s economic and social landscape in the coming decades.

The large-scale reconstruction and revitalization underway in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories vividly demonstrate the country’s growing state capacity, long-term strategic planning, and effective governance. What is unfolding in Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur today is not merely a construction campaign, but a comprehensive state-building process aimed at ensuring irreversible sovereignty, sustainable development, and social reintegration.

Following the full restoration of its territorial integrity, Azerbaijan rapidly transitioned from military victory to civilian reconstruction. Based on the direct instructions of President Ilham Aliyev, the revival of the liberated territories was designated a top national priority. The government has mobilized financial, institutional, and human resources to rebuild these regions according to the most modern urban, economic, and social standards. This approach reflects a clear political message: the liberated lands are not only restored, but transformed into zones of innovation, growth, and stability.

At present, extensive infrastructure projects are being implemented across the region. New highways and railways, airports, power lines, water supply systems, and digital infrastructure are being created in parallel with investments in education, healthcare, public services, and cultural heritage restoration. The integrated nature of these efforts illustrates a shift from ad hoc reconstruction to a holistic development model grounded in long-term sustainability.

On December 24, President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva visited several liberated areas, a visit that carried both practical and symbolic significance. The opening of the Victory Park in Khankendi and the second residential complex in Aghdam marked another milestone in the normalization of civilian life in areas that for decades were deprived of lawful governance and development.

In Khankendi, Elchin Yusubov, the President’s Special Representative in the city and the Aghdara and Khojaly regions, briefed the head of state and the First Lady on the conditions created in Victory Park. The park, covering a total area of 9 hectares, was founded in February this year by President Aliyev himself, with progress reviewed during a previous visit in July. The continuity of presidential oversight underscores the leadership’s hands-on approach to post-conflict reconstruction.

The Victory Park is rich in symbolism. The 44-meter-high Victory Arch, representing the 44 days of the Patriotic War, and the 44 steps leading to it, reflect the historic struggle for territorial integrity. The informational signs along the path document the liberation of settlements and the outcomes of the 2023 anti-terrorist operation, embedding recent history into the urban landscape. The ten-floor structure, terrace, and ‘Victory Gallery’ exhibition hall further transform the park into a living memorial that connects memory, identity, and public space.

Beyond symbolism, the park serves a practical social function. Extensive landscaping, fountains, lighting, and music systems have turned it into a modern recreational area. The preservation of existing trees and the planting of more than 500 trees, over 11,000 bushes, and flowers demonstrate a conscious effort to balance development with environmental responsibility.

Parallel to symbolic projects, Azerbaijan has accelerated the restoration of essential social infrastructure. By mid-2024, repair and construction works were completed at a secondary school and kindergarten in the Karkijahan settlement of Khankendi. Medical centers were commissioned in several villages, including Ballica, Hasanriz, Talish, and Sugovushan, significantly improving access to healthcare in rural areas.

A particularly important institutional step was taken with the establishment of the ‘Garabagh University Clinic’ by presidential decree on February 7, 2025. The transfer of the Khankendi hospital to the clinic’s balance and the completion of renovation works signal a strategic focus on building a regional healthcare and education hub. This move reinforces the idea that human capital development is central to the long-term reintegration of the liberated territories.

Transport infrastructure development further supports economic and social revival. Major highway reconstruction projects, such as the Sarsang reservoir-Umudlu road, the Sugovushan-Kalbajar routes, and the Askeran-Khojaly-Khankendi-Shusha corridor, are gradually reconnecting the region internally and with the rest of the country. Urban infrastructure in Khankendi has also improved, with temporary asphalt laid on inner-city roads and dozens of residential and non-residential buildings renovated.

A critical pillar of Azerbaijan’s post-conflict strategy is economic activation through strong state incentives. The government has introduced one of the most generous support packages in the region for entrepreneurs operating in the liberated territories.

Tax exemptions on income, property, land, and simplified taxes for ten years, full state subsidies for social insurance contributions, and utility cost compensation are designed to reduce risk and attract private investment. These mechanisms are already producing tangible results. As of July this year, 474 facilities were offered for lease, with 299 already operational. Investments totaling approximately 45.5 million manat have been made, creating around 1,900 jobs. With additional facilities expected to open, employment is projected to exceed 5,000 jobs. Moreover, housing solutions have been provided for over 13,000 people, including state employees, private sector workers, and returning residents.

An important component of President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva’s December 24 visit was their participation in the opening of the second residential complex in Aghdam city and their meeting with residents who have begun returning to their native lands. This event once again highlighted that the reconstruction policy in the liberated territories is centered not only on infrastructure, but first and foremost on people.

Emin Huseynov, the President’s Special Representative in the Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend regions, briefed the head of state on the conditions created in the new complex. Spanning more than 13 hectares, the residential area consists of 11 neighborhoods and 60 newly constructed apartment buildings. In total, the complex includes 1,268 modern apartments of various layouts, designed to meet the diverse needs of returning families.

The phased resettlement plan itself reflects a carefully calibrated approach. In December, 104 families comprising 426 people are scheduled to move into the complex, while another 1,164 families – nearly 4,800 people – are expected to relocate in January-February 2026. This gradual process allows for the smooth integration of residents into the urban environment and ensures that public services operate effectively from the first day.

From an analytical perspective, the technical and social infrastructure of the complex illustrates Azerbaijan’s broader reconstruction philosophy. All buildings are supplied with uninterrupted water and electricity, high-speed internet, heating, and hot water – standards that correspond to contemporary urban living. At the same time, extensive landscaping and urban planning have been carried out: nearly five kilometers of internal roads have been laid, sports and children’s playgrounds built, bicycle lanes established, and both underground and surface parking facilities created. This shows a deliberate shift away from temporary housing solutions toward permanent, high-quality urban settlements.

It is also significant that President Ilham Aliyev personally laid the foundation stone of this residential complex in 2023 and, together with First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, reviewed construction progress earlier this year. Such continuity underscores the political importance attached to the resettlement process and reinforces public confidence in the state’s long-term commitments.

More broadly, the Aghdam project exemplifies the core principle guiding the restoration of Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur: ensuring a comfortable, dignified, and sustainable life for former internally displaced persons. Housing construction is being pursued in parallel with the creation of social and economic infrastructure. Modern schools, kindergartens, healthcare institutions, industrial parks, production facilities, and service centers are being established to guarantee employment opportunities and social stability.

This integrated model reveals that Azerbaijan’s post-conflict strategy is not limited to physical reconstruction. Instead, it aims to create self-sufficient urban and rural communities capable of supporting long-term population growth and economic activity. In this sense, the opening of the Aghdam residential complex is not merely a housing event – it is a tangible indicator of the transition from post-war recovery to sustainable regional development.

Collectively, these developments confirm that the state’s policy in the liberated territories is built on foresight, inclusivity, and strategic patience. By aligning infrastructure development with human needs, Azerbaijan is laying the foundations for the irreversible revival of Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur and transforming former zones of conflict into spaces of normalcy, productivity, and hope.

The recent visit of President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva to the liberated areas once again demonstrated that Azerbaijan’s post-war policy is guided by consistency, strategic depth, and a clear vision of irreversibility. Reconstruction is not treated as a short-term response to conflict, but as a nation-building process that integrates memory, development, social justice, and economic resilience.

Through coordinated infrastructure development, symbolic state presence, and powerful economic incentives, Azerbaijan is reshaping the liberated territories into fully functional and vibrant regions. This model not only consolidates sovereignty on the ground but also sets a precedent for post-conflict recovery driven by strong political will and institutional capacity.

On December 24, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, Leyla Aliyeva, along with Arzu Aliyeva and Alena Aliyeva, visited Special Boarding General Education School No. 5 in Baku.

They participated in a New Year’s event organized at the school.

Leyla Aliyeva, Arzu Aliyeva, and Alena Aliyeva met with the pupils studying there, congratulated them on December 31 – World Azerbaijanis Solidarity Day and the New Year, and presented them with gifts.

They watched the pupils’ performances and dances and listened to poems and musical pieces performed by the children. Leyla Aliyeva, Arzu Aliyeva, and Alena Aliyeva then spoke with the pupils and took photos with them.

The boarding school for visually impaired children was built in 1961. In 2006, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation carried out a comprehensive renovation of the school, creating new classrooms and a computer room and equipping the facility with modern equipment.

Cashless fare payments using NFC-enabled local bank cards, as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay, have been fully activated across all bus routes operated by BakuBus LLC in Baku, Azernews reports, citing the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency.

One of the key innovations under the new system is the expansion of consecutive payment options. Under the initial phase of the NFC project, the number of consecutive payment transactions available to passengers has been increased from one to two. Based on the results of this phase, authorities plan to further expand the number of consecutive payments in the future.

The new system offers significant convenience for passengers. There is no longer a need to carry cash or a physical BakiKart – fares can now be paid within seconds using a smartphone, smartwatch, bank card, or any other NFC-enabled device. Passengers simply tap their device on the validator, and the payment is instantly processed.

When paying fares on buses, passengers are required to use NFC-supported local bank cards, either physical cards or those stored on smartphones.

The pilot phase of the project was launched on December 20 on Route No. 500. The NFC payment technology is expected to be gradually expanded to routes operated by other transport providers in the coming stages.

The state program on the development of official statistics in Azerbaijan for 2026-2030 has been approved, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed the relevant decree.

The Cabinet of Ministers shall resolve the issues arising from this decree, the State Statistical Committee shall coordinate the implementation of the measures envisaged in the above program, and must inform the President of Azerbaijan once a year about the implementation status of the measures.

The Ministry of Finance should take necessary steps to ensure the availability of the required financial resources in the state budget preparation process each year to finance the measures outlined in the program.

The Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication should monitor and evaluate the implementation of the measures envisaged in the State program upon the request of the State Statistical Committee.

The US Embassy in Azerbaijan shared a message on social media marking the anniversary of the crash involving an Embraer 190 aircraft operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), Azernews reports. On December 25, 2024, an Embraer 190-100 IGW passenger aircraft, registered in the state register under number 4K-AZ65 and owned by Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL), crashed in the Republic of Kazakhstan near Aktau Airport while performing regular flight J2-8243 from Baku (Republic of Azerbaijan) to Grozny (Russian Federation). Two crew members (the captain and co-pilot), the senior flight attendant, and 35 passengers were lost in the crash.

The preliminary report published by the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan confirms the following facts:

1. The Embraer 190-100 IGW passenger aircraft, registered under the number 4K-AZ65 and owned by Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL), operating a regular flight J2-8243 from Baku, Republic of Azerbaijan to Grozny, Russian Federation, has been in a fully operational condition since the start of the flight on the route to Grozny. in good condition for flights. These data on the airworthiness of the aircraft, including the operation of its control systems, were confirmed using FDR data;

2. Both engines of the aircraft were operating without technical problems until the moment of the accident. This information is also confirmed by FDR data;

3. During the flight in the airspace of the Russian Federation, including over Grozny Airport, the aircraft lost GPS signals;

4. Due to adverse weather conditions over Grozny, the aircraft was unable to make a second approach for landing, after which the captain decided to return to Baku. After this decision was made over Grozny, two external sounds were recorded on the CVR at 24-second intervals;

5. A comparison of CVR and FDR data showed that 4 seconds after the first external sound, the third hydraulic system failed, 6 seconds later the first hydraulic system failed, and 21 seconds later the second hydraulic system failed;

6. Numerous blunt and penetrating damages to the fuselage were found and recorded in photographs and video recordings. This damage was found in the rear of the fuselage, the vast majority of which was on the vertical and horizontal stabilizers, as well as the left wing and left engine.

7. Information was provided that the damage found in the aircraft fuselage was caused by external objects. The preliminary report does not contain any information indicating that the aircraft collided with birds.

8. Foreign objects not belonging to the aircraft, found in the blind damage to the fuselage, were removed; their photographs are presented to the public in the preliminary report. To accurately determine the origin of the foreign objects found, additional examinations are planned in the future.

9. At 05:13:32, the aircraft’s main control systems failed; at 05:21:42, the liaison officer reported to Grozny that Operation Carpet was underway.

10. No information indicating an oxygen cylinder explosion has been provided.

Under the requirements of the ICAO Chicago Convention, a final report on the causes of the crash must be prepared within one year of the incident, following the preliminary report.

International rating agency S and P Global Ratings has upgraded the credit rating outlook for the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) from ‘stable’ to ‘positive’ and affirmed the company’s rating at BB, Azernews reports, citing S and P.

According to the agency, the decision reflects a very high likelihood of state support for SOCAR and follows a similar improvement in Azerbaijan’s sovereign rating outlook.

S and P notes that the positive outlook is supported by several factors. Tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia have significantly eased amid progress toward a peace settlement, with both countries reducing defense spending in their 2026 budgets. These developments lower the risk of renewed conflict and, if current trends continue, could bolster investor confidence and contribute to more sustainable medium-term economic growth by improving regional trade and transport links in the South Caucasus.

Additionally, SOCAR benefits from strong fiscal and external buffers backed by significant assets of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ). The report highlights that sustained positive balances in the public sector and low government debt provide substantial resilience against shocks, helping to maintain macroeconomic stability and mitigating the impact of volatile hydrocarbon prices.

S and P expects that Azerbaijan’s credit metrics could improve further in the medium term if geopolitical risks continue to decline and fiscal buffers are preserved.

‘While a formal peace agreement has yet to be signed, recent commitments and the initial steps toward their implementation represent the most constructive phase in bilateral relations in decades, which could enhance the investment environment and support economic growth potential,’ S and P stated.

For context, on November 12, 2025, S and P upgraded SOCAR’s rating from BB- to BB.

The chair of the appeals court, the chair of the court of first instance, and judges of several courts of first instance have been appointed, Azernews reports.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has signed the relevant decree.