Category: Azer News

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on the occasion of the country’s Independence Day, AzerNEWS reports.

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Mr. President,

On behalf of myself and the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my sincerest congratulations and best wishes to you and all your people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Maldives – Independence Day.

The current dynamics of development of relations between Azerbaijan and the Maldives, the expansion of our mutually beneficial cooperation are gratifying. The implementation of direct flights between the two countries, as well as the recent mutual exemption from visas for citizens holding ordinary passports, have provided a significant impetus to the development of people-to-people contacts, particularly tourism.

I am confident that we will continue to make joint efforts to strengthen friendly ties between our countries, which celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year, and enrich mutually beneficial cooperation with new content.

On this remarkable day, I wish you robust health, happiness, success in your endeavors, and everlasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of the Maldives.

Sincerely,

Ilham Aliyev

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Baku, 23 July 2026

A broad collegium meeting of the prosecution bodies of the Republic of Azerbaijan has been held via videoconference under the chairmanship of Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev, AzerNEWS reports.

The meeting focused on reviewing the work carried out during the first half of 2026, assessing the results achieved, and discussing upcoming priorities.

The Press Service of the Prosecutor General’s Office stated that, in his opening remarks, Kamran Aliyev highlighted key developments in Azerbaijan’s political, economic, legal, and international relations landscape during the reporting period.

He noted that the declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture”, coinciding with the 103rd anniversary of the birth of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, represents one of the important directions of reforms and the sustainable development strategy implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. The successful organization of the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum in Baku in May, which brought together more than 58,000 participants, was described as further evidence of Azerbaijan’s active role in global urban development and its reputation as a reliable international partner.

The Prosecutor General stated that despite complex geopolitical tensions in the region and globally, Azerbaijan continued to achieve progress in economic development, energy security, and green energy, while further expanding partnerships in these areas.

He also stressed that large-scale reconstruction, restoration, and resettlement efforts in the liberated territories of Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur continued throughout the first half of 2026. The socio-economic development of these territories and the successful implementation of the Great Return Programme remained among the government’s key priorities.

As a result of state policies aimed at strengthening public order, ensuring the rule of law, and combating crime, a decline was recorded in the number of crimes committed during the reporting period.

According to the statistics presented at the meeting, 15,420 crimes were registered across Azerbaijan in the first half of 2026, with 90.7 percent of them solved. A total of 7,893 criminal cases were completed nationwide, including 470 cases investigated by prosecution bodies. Prosecutor’s offices completed preliminary investigations into 269 criminal cases, while together with other investigative bodies, a total of 5,511 criminal cases were finalized and submitted to courts.

The meeting noted that investigative measures ensured the recovery of 27.152 million manats in material damages identified in completed criminal cases and investigations. Property worth 3.485 million manats was placed under arrest, with further measures continuing to ensure full compensation.

It was also reported that the “Electronic Prosecution” information system was further improved during the reporting period. Relevant modules were adapted for electronic pre-trial proceedings, new functions were introduced, and integration capabilities were expanded. Several artificial intelligence models with high efficiency indicators were developed and made available to prosecution employees to support the use of modern technologies.

The Prosecutor General stressed that Azerbaijan’s policy of combating corruption and bribery continued consistently during the first half of 2026. The Anti-Corruption General Directorate under the Prosecutor General identified areas of public administration and services where corruption-related offenses were more widespread, and officials involved in such violations were exposed and brought to justice.

Kamran Aliyev also reported that six previously unresolved intentional murder cases committed in previous years were solved during the reporting period. Two of these cases were uncovered by the Investigation Department of the Prosecutor General’s Office, while four were solved by district and city prosecutor’s offices. He highlighted the effective cooperation between prosecution and internal affairs bodies in solving these crimes.

During the first half of 2026, prosecution bodies submitted 563 appeals protests and 155 cassation protests. As a result, 355 appeals protests and 55 cassation protests were upheld, eliminating legal inconsistencies in court decisions.

The meeting also highlighted the successful implementation of the amnesty act adopted by the Azerbaijani Parliament in connection with the “Year of Constitution and Sovereignty.” The amnesty decision applied to 22,935 people, contributing to humanitarian principles in criminal policy and supporting the rehabilitation of convicted individuals.

The meeting addressed the continued threat posed by landmines and unexploded ordnance. It was reported that during the first half of 2026, mine and unexploded ordnance explosions resulted in two deaths and 11 injuries. Since November 2020, a total of 430 people have become victims of mine incidents, including 73 fatalities and 357 people injured to varying degrees.

During the reporting period, measures were also taken to improve prosecutorial oversight over investigations, inquiries, and operational-search activities. As a result, 355 decisions to terminate criminal proceedings were found to be unjustified or unlawful and were overturned.

The Prosecutor General’s Office continued improving its work with citizens’ appeals. During the first half of 2026, the “961 Call Center” provided legal explanations to 13,305 citizens, while 2,576 reports containing information of a criminal nature were registered and referred to relevant structural units for investigation.

As part of personnel management efforts, 110 prosecution employees were recognized for exemplary performance. At the same time, a recruitment competition was announced for 30 positions for candidates seeking employment in prosecution bodies. Following internal inspections, eight prosecution employees were subjected to disciplinary action, with six receiving reprimands or severe reprimands and two dismissed from their positions.

The meeting also highlighted the expansion of international legal cooperation. As a result of measures carried out by the International Legal Cooperation Department of the Prosecutor General’s Office, 33 accused persons were extradited to Azerbaijan from foreign countries, while 13 individuals wanted internationally by foreign states were transferred based on relevant court decisions.

During the first half of 2026, Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev also held public receptions in 14 cities and districts of Azerbaijan, receiving more than 400 citizens in line with President Ilham Aliyev’s instructions to ensure direct engagement with the population.

The collegium meeting discussed both positive results achieved and shortcomings identified during the reporting period. Relevant instructions were issued to improve prosecutorial supervision, strengthen cooperation with law enforcement agencies in solving previously unresolved crimes, ensure compensation for material damages, and further improve the handling of citizens’ appeals.

The meeting also noted that Baku will host the third high-level meeting of heads of anti-corruption law enforcement bodies of the member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in October 2026, and preparations for the event will continue at an intensified pace.

Concluding the meeting, Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev expressed confidence that Azerbaijan’s prosecution bodies and employees would continue to fulfill their duties with professionalism and dedication, serving the interests of the state and citizens and contributing to the successful implementation of state policies under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.

Two alpinists have died on Mount Elbrus, while rescue teams have been searching for four other members of their climbing group for more than five hours, AzerNEWS reports.

According to initial information, the group consisted of seven climbers. At an altitude of approximately 5,100 meters, two of the alpinists became seriously ill. One member of the group descended the mountain to alert emergency services and request assistance.

Authorities have confirmed that the two deceased climbers were citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Search-and-rescue operations are ongoing as emergency teams continue efforts to locate the remaining four climbers. No further details about their condition have been released.

The transition to clean energy has become one of the key elements of sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and long-term energy security, Azerbaijan’s representative to the United Nations has said, AzerNEWS reports.

Speaking at an informal interactive dialogue titled “Accelerating the Global Energy Transition: Advancing Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency and International Cooperation,” Third Secretary of Azerbaijan’s Permanent Mission to the UN Gamar Safarova emphasized the importance of expanding renewable energy use and improving energy efficiency worldwide.

She noted that while significant progress has been achieved in increasing the share of renewable energy and enhancing energy efficiency, major challenges remain. Safarova stressed that investment gaps must be addressed, electricity grid infrastructure modernized, energy storage systems expanded, and access to financing and technologies ensured so that all countries, particularly developing nations, can benefit from opportunities created by the energy transition.

She underlined that international cooperation and effective partnerships are essential for achieving these goals. Gamar Safarova, Azerbaijan believes that cross-border cooperation and multilateral partnerships can play a crucial role in strengthening energy security while advancing global climate objectives.

The Azerbaijani diplomat also highlighted the country’s activities during its COP29 presidency, noting that Azerbaijan worked to strengthen international cooperation and promote initiatives addressing key climate priorities. She pointed to several outcomes achieved during the process, including progress toward the launch of high-integrity carbon markets under the Baku Climate Coalition Pact, the agreement on a new collective quantified goal on climate finance – the first such agreement in the history of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the full operationalization of the Loss and Damage Fund.

Safarova also drew attention to Azerbaijan’s “COP29 Global Energy Storage and Grids Pledge Initiative,” which aims to encourage greater investment in electricity grids and energy storage systems as essential components of a secure, reliable, and sustainable clean energy transition. She emphasized that the rapid expansion of renewable energy must be supported by modern and resilient electricity systems.

At the national level, Azerbaijan is implementing a large-scale energy diversification programme based on the “Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities for Socio-Economic Development” strategy. The creation of a clean environment and the development of a “green growth” economy are identified as one of the country’s five key national priorities.

Within this framework, Azerbaijan continues to expand renewable energy production through major solar, wind, and hydropower projects across different regions of the country, including territories that were previously affected by conflict.

Safarova also highlighted Azerbaijan’s post-conflict reconstruction and development efforts as an example of the country’s commitment to sustainable development and green growth principles. These initiatives include modern urban planning approaches, renewable energy solutions, sustainable infrastructure development, and the implementation of “smart city” and “smart village” concepts based on environmental protection and climate resilience.

Concluding her remarks, Gamar Safarova said that accelerating the global energy transition requires practical action, stronger partnerships, and sustained investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency, electricity networks, and related infrastructure.

She reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to promoting a clean environment and green growth through investments in renewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and international cooperation, while working with global partners to build an inclusive, resilient, and reliable energy future for all.

LEGO has revealed the first images of its new LEGO Icons SpongeBob SquarePants: Bikini Bottom set, bringing the popular Nickelodeon franchise back to its lineup after more than a decade, AzerNEWS reports.

Aimed at adult collectors, the 1,794-piece set recreates SpongeBob’s neighborhood in Bikini Bottom. It includes SpongeBob’s pineapple house, Patrick Star’s rock, Squidward’s Moai-inspired home, and Jellyfish Fields, along with minifigures of SpongeBob, Patrick, Squidward, and Gary the Snail.

The set is priced at $219.99 (around $220) and is available for pre-order before its September 1, 2026, release. LEGO will also release a separate SpongeBob BrickHeadz figure.

SpongeBob SquarePants is an American animated television series created by marine science educator and animator Stephen Hillenburg. The show first premiered on Nickelodeon in 1999 and has since become one of the most popular and recognizable animated franchises in the world.

The series follows the adventures of SpongeBob SquarePants, an optimistic and energetic sea sponge who lives in a pineapple-shaped house in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom. Alongside his best friend Patrick Star, a starfish, and his other friends and neighbors, SpongeBob works at the Krusty Krab restaurant, where he prepares the famous Krabby Patty burgers.

Known for its colorful animation, memorable characters, and unique humor, SpongeBob SquarePants remains one of the most successful animated series in television history.

Neftchi’s women’s football team has played in the final match of the first qualifying round of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, AzerNEWS reports.

The team coached by Siyasat Asgarov faced Greece’s PAOK in the decisive match of Group 1.

The match, held in the Greek city of Veria, ended with a 3-0 victory for PAOK. As a result, the hosts advanced to the second qualifying round, while the Baku-based club ended its campaign in the tournament.

Note that Neftchi had defeated Montenegro’s Buducnost in the semi-final of the qualifying round.

The UEFA Women’s European Championship (UEFA Women’s EURO) is the premier international football competition for women’s national teams in Europe, founded in 1984.

Held every four years, it is currently won by England (2022, 2025), while Germany holds the record for most titles. The next tournament is hosted by Switzerland in 2025

As part of the Agreement on educational cooperation between Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Science and Education and China’s Ministry of Education, 20 Azerbaijani citizens have been awarded the opportunity to pursue studies at prestigious Chinese universities during the 2026-2027 academic year, AzerNEWS reports.

According to the final decision of the Chinese side, the selected candidates will pursue their studies at leading higher education institutions, including Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai University, Zhejiang University, China University of Petroleum, Beijing Institute of Technology, Peking University, and other renowned universities.

The students will study various fields, including law, oil and gas engineering, cybersecurity, economics and management, international business, applied chemistry, international law, and other disciplines.

Within the framework of the scholarship program, 18 of the selected candidates have been awarded the right to study at the master’s level, while 2 candidates will pursue doctoral studies.

Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement said on Saturday that it had launched missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia in response to Saudi airstrikes on the strategic Red Sea port city of Hodeida.

AzerNEWS reports, citing The latest escalation comes amid growing tensions over vital maritime shipping routes in the Middle East, as the United States and Iran remain locked in a wider confrontation over control and security in the Strait of Hormuz.

Houthi military spokesman Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree said in a prerecorded statement that the group’s attack targeted Aramco facilities in the Red Sea cities of Yanbu and Jizan.

The Houthis said the strikes were carried out in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on Hodeida, a strategically important port city on Yemen’s Red Sea coast.

The developments mark a further escalation in tensions surrounding regional maritime security, with the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz facing growing risks to commercial shipping and energy supplies.

Azerbaijan has unveiled a new international technical assistance initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to protect and promote their cultural and natural heritage, AzerNEWS reports.

The initiative was announced during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea.

According to Azerbaijan’s Permanent Delegation to UNESCO, the initiative was announced at a high-level event titled “World Heritage Strategy for Small Island Developing States (SIDS),” organized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Named the “International Technical Assistance Initiative of the Republic of Azerbaijan for Capacity Building Towards World Heritage for Small Island Developing States (SIDS),” the program is designed to enhance institutional capacity and professional expertise in SIDS. It will provide technical and expert support to help these countries prepare nominations for inclusion of their unique cultural and natural sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The initiative is being developed by the Institute for Certification in Culture and Education, which will oversee its implementation with the involvement of internationally experienced heritage experts.

Speaking at the event, Elman Abdullayev, Azerbaijan’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, said the program is intended to complement UNESCO’s ongoing efforts in supporting vulnerable nations. He noted that the initiative has been tailored to address the specific needs of SIDS, with a particular focus on strengthening practical capacities to tackle the growing challenges that climate change poses to World Heritage conservation.

Abdullayev emphasized that the project will deliver targeted support mechanisms while drawing on international expertise to help safeguard irreplaceable heritage sites across small island nations.

In his remarks, Lazare Eloundou, Director of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre, welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for Azerbaijan’s commitment to supporting SIDS in their heritage conservation efforts.

Participants at the event highlighted that Azerbaijan’s new program represents an important step toward strengthening international solidarity, encouraging the exchange of expertise in the protection of cultural and natural heritage, and building the capacities of Small Island Developing States and other vulnerable countries to preserve their unique heritage for future generations.

The 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, currently underway in Busan, Republic of Korea, runs from 19 to 29 July and marks the first time South Korea has hosted the Committee’s annual meeting.

Over the course of the session, delegates are considering nominations for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List, reviewing the conservation status of existing World Heritage properties, examining sites on the List of World Heritage in Danger, and discussing international strategies to strengthen heritage protection, disaster risk preparedness, climate resilience and capacity-building under the 1972 World Heritage Convention.

Azerbaijan actively participates in the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, contributing to discussions on the protection and preservation of global cultural and natural heritage. The Azerbaijani delegation takes part in the session’s activities, highlighting the importance of international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building in addressing current challenges in heritage conservation.

Azerbaijan actively participates in the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Busan, South Korea, contributing to discussions on the protection and preservation of global cultural and natural heritage.

Earlier, Azerbaijan presented the SECURE Model for Post-Conflict Cultural Recovery during the panel session titled “Sustainable and Empowering Cultural Revitalization (SECURE) Model: Best Practices for Post-Conflict Cultural Recovery.”

During the panel, Azerbaijan introduced the SECURE model to an international audience of heritage experts, highlighting the country’s approach to the protection, restoration, and revitalization of cultural heritage in the post-conflict period.

The presentation of the model on one of UNESCO’s leading platforms reflects international interest in approaches aimed at supporting cultural recovery and heritage preservation in post-conflict settings.

Officials from Azerbaijan’s State Social Protection Fund (SSPF) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population has participated in the Pension and Social Insurance Conference held in Tunisia, AzerNEWS reports.

The conference was organized by the Arab Social Security Association and the international organization MenaMoney, with the support of the World Bank, the International Social Security Association (ISSA), and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The event brought together representatives from various countries to discuss experiences in pension and social insurance systems, current challenges, and future development priorities.

During the session titled “Presentation of National Experiences in Social Insurance Systems in Other Regions,” Chairman of the SSPF Board Zeka Mirzayev presented Azerbaijan’s reforms in the field of pension provision and social insurance.

In his address, Mirzayev highlighted Azerbaijan’s efforts to modernize social protection services through digital transformation, introduce citizen-oriented proactive services, expand pension system coverage, and strengthen the financial sustainability of the pension system.

The conference also featured presentations on pension and social insurance models from countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Ghana, and others. Representatives of the World Bank, ISSA, OECD, and other international organizations discussed global challenges facing pension systems and explored future development prospects.

As part of the event, Elshad Khanalibeyli, Head of the SSPF’s International Relations Department, moderated a session titled “Global Outlook on Pension Systems and Future Trends.”

During the visit, SSPF Chairman Zeka Mirzayev held meetings with Majid Ouni, Director General of Tunisia’s National Pension and Social Insurance Fund, as well as the Chief Executive Officer of MenaMoney.

The meetings focused on opportunities for cooperation in the pension and social insurance sectors, the implementation of joint projects, and expanding the exchange of expertise between institutions.