Category: Azer News

On November 15, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) is holding grand ceremonies in Nicosia, Kyrenia, and other cities to mark the 42nd anniversary of Republic Day, Azernews reports.

An official reception took place at the Presidential Complex in Nicosia, where TRNC’s sixth President, Tufan Erhrman, received numerous congratulations.

From Turkiye, a delegation led by Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz attended the events. He reaffirmed Ankara’s steadfast commitment to supporting the Turkish Cypriot community. Various Turkish state institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense, also extended their congratulations to the TRNC leadership and citizens.

As part of the celebrations, wreaths were laid at the monuments of the TRNC’s first President Rauf Denktas and his deputy Fazil Kçk, as well as memorials dedicated to Turkish Cypriot martyrs who sacrificed their lives for freedom. A festive parade was held on Fazil Kçk Boulevard in Nicosia.

In addition, vessels belonging to the Turkish Naval Forces anchored along the northern coast of Cyprus in honor of the Republic Day celebrations.

From November 13 to 15, the Uzbek capital, Tashkent, is hosting an international congress on ‘Spiritual Heritage and Enlightenment in Central Asia.’ The event brings together representatives from five Central Asian nations: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan.

According to the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijani delegation, led by Culture Minister Adil K?rimli, is participating in the congress. On November 14, a Ministers’ Conference was held as part of the event.

Opening the conference, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Culture, Ozodbek Nazarbekov, highlighted the importance of this international gathering in fostering collaboration among friendly nations and expressed confidence that the congress and the Ministers’ Conference would make a meaningful contribution to the development of cultural cooperation.

In his speech, Minister Adil K?rimli thanked his Uzbek counterpart for inviting Azerbaijan to participate in the prestigious international event. He emphasized President Ilham Aliyev’s special focus on strengthening ties with Central Asian states, noting that relations with the five participating countries have rapidly deepened in recent years.

‘Culturally, our nations are connected by a reliable bridge that grows stronger every year. Last year and this year have been particularly significant for the cultural life of our brotherly countries. Mutual cultural days, participation in international festivals, artistic tours, and expanding cooperation between educational and creative institutions-all of these reflect the high level of our relations. I am confident that through the implementation of the tasks set by our national leaders, we will continue to write new, bright pages in this area,’ K?rimli said.

Following his remarks, speeches were delivered by Kazakhstan’s Minister of Culture and Information, Aida Balayeva; Tajikistan’s Minister of Culture, Matlubaxon Sattoriyen; Turkmenistan’s Minister of Culture, Atageldi Shamiradov; and Kyrgyzstan’s Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy, Mirbek Mambataliyev.

The ministers collectively highlighted the importance of cultural integration among their nations and discussed prospects for deepening cooperation in the years ahead.

China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) on Saturday released draft antitrust compliance guideline for internet platforms, seeking public opinion, comment and setting clearer conduct standards for platform operators, Azernews reports, citing Global Times.

To help operators identify risks tied to monopoly agreements, the draft advises platforms to avoid reaching such agreements, organizing others to do so, or providing material assistance during platform operations or self-operated business activities.

To address risks of abusing market dominance, the draft urges platforms with significant market power should regularly assess whether they hold a dominant position and avoid engaging in abusing such a position while providing platform services or operating their own businesses. It also lists examples of abusive conduct, drawn from enforcement experience and the characteristics of internet platforms, to help firms strengthen compliance.

The draft also outlines eight typical risk scenarios, such as excessive pricing, sales below cost, blocking and shielding, “choose-one-from-two” requirements and “lowest price guarantee across the network.”

SAMR noted that with the aim of reducing uncertainty costs for platform operators, the draft guidelines are non-binding, and is only intended to provide general direction for antitrust compliance.

An official from the SAMR noted China’s platform economy has grown rapidly and now plays a crucial role in resource allocation, innovation, economic development. Because internet platforms have strong network effects and influence a wide range of stakeholders, including platform operators, merchants, consumers, and employees. As platform operators influence the competitive ecosystem through platform rules, data, algorithms, and technical means, conduct that excludes or restricts competition can harm the interests of multiple parties, the official added.

In today’s fast-changing market environment, compliant operation has become a crucial “pass” for companies. Firms that meet international antitrust standards can enter overseas markets more smoothly and expand their global presence.

According to the SAMR official, enforcement experience shows that monopoly risks are common in the platform economy, and platform operators have long called for targeted and practical compliance guidelines.

The official said the draft guidelines marks a concrete measure to implement the decisions and deployments of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the State Council. It helps improve the antitrust regulatory framework for the platform economy, raises compliance standards among operators, and encourages stronger innovation and internal growth.

China issued antitrust guidelines for the platform economy in early 2021. The new draft guidelines will further improve the regulatory system, said Liu Dingding, a veteran tech industry analyst, told the Global Times on Saturday, adding that the draft helps promote the healthy and stable long-term development of the sector, not only faster growth.

Next year is expected to be the most challenging period for Tesla, according to Ashok Ellusvami, the company’s Vice President for Artificial Intelligence software.

Citing foreign media outlets, Azernews reports that Ellusvami made the remarks during a meeting with employees from Tesla’s ‘Optimus’ autopilot and robot development divisions.

Ellusvami emphasized that employees will need to work harder than ever to meet the company’s ambitious goals. Tesla has set strict timelines for the mass production of ‘Optimus’ robots and the expansion of its ‘Robotaxi’ service. CEO Elon Musk considers these two initiatives the company’s top priorities.

By the end of this year, Tesla aims to launch the Robotaxi service in ten major cities. By the end of 2026, the company plans to begin mass production of the Optimus robot.

The Autopilot development division shares office space with the Optimus creators but is distinct from other engineering teams, with its organizational structure remaining confidential. Staff in the division maintain long working hours and attend weekly meetings with Musk.

Ellusvami assumed his leadership role in the Optimus project following the resignation of his predecessor, Milan Kovac. Since then, cameras have become the primary tool for robot navigation.

The Caspian Sea has always been Azerbaijan’s eternal companion, a shimmering mirror of its history and resilience. For centuries, our ships sailed its familiar waters, carrying the lifeblood of trade and the pride of a nation whose destiny was tied to this inland sea. Yet beyond the horizon lay oceans that seemed unreachable, vast blue worlds reserved for others. Azerbaijan, landlocked yet determined, dreamed of the day when its flag would rise not only on the Caspian waves but across the boundless expanses of the Pacific and Atlantic. That dream is now reality.

With the commissioning of modern Handysize cargo vessels, Azerbaijan has broken through the limits of geography and stepped boldly into the global maritime stage. The Khojaly vessel, launched in May 2024 in China, is the symbol of this transformation. With a deadweight capacity of 38,593 tons, a length of 180 meters, and unrestricted navigation capability, it is designed to cross oceans and connect continents. This ship, and others to follow, mark Azerbaijan’s confident entry into world shipping.

Soon after entering service, Khojaly began voyages linking Asia to America and Latin America, transporting steel and industrial cargoes. These routes, once unimaginable for Azerbaijani shipping, became reality thanks to strategic vision and investment in global logistics. The most symbolic milestone came in November 2025, when Khojaly departed Port Kembla in Australia with 24,251 tons of steel bound for Los Angeles. Sailing across the Pacific Ocean under full international safety protocols, the vessel embodied Azerbaijan’s new role in global trade. For the first time, an Azerbaijani ship was not only crossing oceans but also connecting two of the world’s largest economies.

This achievement is more than a commercial success; it is a declaration that Azerbaijan, despite being landlocked, is now a participant in the vast network of maritime commerce. The Caspian remains our home, but the oceans are now our horizon.

Economically, the benefits are profound. Global shipping routes open new opportunities for Azerbaijani companies, diversify trade, and strengthen the nation’s role in international supply chains. By transporting steel, cement, and other industrial goods, Azerbaijan is not only serving foreign markets but also embedding itself in the infrastructure of global commerce. Each voyage enhances the country’s reputation as a reliable partner, builds trust with international clients, and generates valuable foreign currency inflows.

Strategically, Azerbaijan’s entry into ocean shipping elevates its geopolitical importance. The Caspian has always been a crossroads of energy and trade, but now Azerbaijan extends its reach far beyond regional boundaries. By connecting Asia, Australia, and America, Azerbaijani ships contribute to the resilience of global supply chains. This strengthens the country’s position in initiatives like the Middle Corridor, which seeks to link East and West through diversified transport routes.

Socially, this achievement inspires pride. For generations, Azerbaijanis have looked to the Caspian as their maritime horizon. Today, that horizon has expanded to the Pacific, the Atlantic, and beyond. The sight of an Azerbaijani vessel docking in Los Angeles or departing from Australia is more than a logistical success-it is a moment of national identity, a reminder that Azerbaijan’s spirit of exploration and enterprise knows no bounds.

The symbolism of naming the vessel Khojaly is also powerful. It ensures that every voyage carries with it the memory of resilience and the strength of national identity. As the ship sails across oceans, it tells the world that Azerbaijan remembers its past while building its future.

Looking forward, the acquisition of additional Handysize vessels ensures that this is not a one-time achievement but the beginning of a sustained presence in global waters. With each new ship, Azerbaijan strengthens its fleet, expands its routes, and deepens its integration into the world economy. The vision is clear: Azerbaijan will not be limited by geography. It will transform its maritime tradition into a global force, proving that even a landlocked nation can become a player in ocean trade.

In conclusion, Azerbaijan’s Handysize fleet represents more than ships and cargo. It is a symbol of ambition, resilience, and national pride. From the Caspian to the Pacific, Azerbaijan is writing a new chapter in its history-one where its flag waves across oceans, its products reach distant markets, and its people take pride in a nation that refuses to be confined. The journey of Khojaly from Australia to the United States is not just a voyage of steel; it is a voyage of destiny. Azerbaijan has stepped onto the global maritime stage, and its future there is bright.

Evening of chamber music has taken place on the stage of the Chamber and Organ Music Hall, Azernews reports.

The concert program featured two remarkable works of the classical music repertoire, including Beethoven’s String Quartet No. 4 in C minor (Op. 18) and Franck’s String Quartet in D major. The musicians so impressed the audience that they were left in awe.

The Azerbaijan State String Quartet, established in 1998, boasts a rich repertoire that includes classical and contemporary compositions by both Azerbaijani and international composers.

The quartet is composed of esteemed musicians: Nazrin Aslanli (first violin), Khayala Abdullayeva (second violin), Vakhtang Imanov (viola), and Aleksey Miltikh (cello).

The Philharmonic Hall is a unique centre of classical music that perfectly unites seven performing groups, including the State Symphony Orchestra, the State Choir Capella, the State Chamber Orchestra, the State Piano Trio, the State String Quartet, the State Folk Song and Dance Ensemble, as well as the State Orchestra of Folk Instruments.

Numerous international projects, music festivals, and concerts by local and foreign musicians are regularly organised here.

In 2020, Russia’s TurStat listed the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Society among the best philharmonic halls in the CIS countries.

The rating was based on the popularity of philharmonic societies and offers of online concerts.

The list also included the Moscow State Academic Philharmonic Hall, the St. Petersburg Academic Philharmonic Society, the Belarusian State Philharmonic, the Kazakh State Philharmonic, the State Philharmonic of Uzbekistan, and the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic.

Azerbaijan is increasingly proving that its economic significance extends far beyond oil and gas. Historically positioned at the crossroads of East and West, the country has long served as a reliable trade partner and a natural transit hub. Today, Azerbaijan is leveraging this geographic advantage to catalyze the development of the Middle Corridor or the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, a strategic transcontinental transport route connecting Asia and Europe. As global supply chains face disruptions and congestion in traditional corridors, the Middle Corridor is emerging as a viable, faster, and more secure alternative, reflecting both the region’s economic ambition and its capacity for international cooperation.

On October 21, the ‘Middle Corridor Development’ project was presented with the participation of Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev and Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The leaders received detailed briefings on the project, highlighting its current impact and its potential for future growth. Shipments from China to Azerbaijan along the corridor are steadily increasing, with projections suggesting a threefold rise by 2030 compared to today’s levels, underscoring the corridor’s strategic importance for intercontinental trade.

The Middle Corridor is not merely about constructing roads, railways, and ports. According to IRU Secretary General Umberto de Pretto, sustainable development of the corridor requires investment in ‘soft’ infrastructure: digital platforms, harmonized regulations, streamlined customs procedures, and operational transparency.

‘Infrastructure alone is not enough. Efficient cross-border transport requires eliminating bottlenecks at borders, reducing administrative delays, and removing unofficial payments or excessive checks,’ de Pretto noted at the International Transport Forum in Tashkent. ‘Without these measures, the potential of the corridor cannot be fully realized.’

This insight highlights a fundamental analytical point: physical infrastructure drives capacity, but soft infrastructure determines efficiency, reliability, and ultimately the corridor’s competitiveness against maritime and Northern alternatives.

Countries along the corridor are increasingly focusing on digital solutions to optimize transit flows. Kazakhstan’s ‘Smart Cargo’ platform exemplifies this trend, offering a unified system for managing multimodal shipments from Central Asia to Europe. By integrating logistics operators, port authorities, and rail operators onto a single digital platform, the project reduces transit times, increases predictability, and facilitates real-time monitoring.

Simultaneously, Azerbaijan has expanded cooperation with China through the Port of Xi’an, opening a 20,000 TEU container yard and enabling real-time access to port operating systems. This has translated into measurable outcomes: in the first nine months of 2025, Azerbaijan handled 296 block trains, including 113 transit trains, marking a 39% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Container cargo volumes rose 20%, reaching 103,134 TEU, demonstrating the tangible impact of coordinated operational improvements on corridor throughput.

A seminar on “Protection of Children’s Rights in Football” has been held for the players of Azerbaijan’s U-15 national team, Azernews reports.

The event was co-organized by the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA)

The seminar, which took place at the National Teams’ Training Center, was to ensure the safety of children and adolescents in the football environment, prevent cases of violence and abuse, and promote principles of ethical behavior and inclusivity.

The seminar was led by the project’s mentor and project-based learning expert, Ofeliya Gafarova.

She conducted interactive discussions with the players on the protection of children’s rights, a safe sports environment, respect within the team, and responsible behavior.

The event was organized using practical and interactive methods. Participants explored the topic more deeply through situational tasks, group discussions, game-based activities, and an online quiz.

Formed in 1992, the Azerbaijani Association of Football Federations (AFFA) is the governing body of football in Azerbaijan.

The Association is responsible for overseeing all aspects of amateur and professional games in its territory.

It runs numerous competitions, the most famous of which is the Azerbaijan Cup. AFFA is a member of both UEFA and FIFA.

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is one of the six continental governing bodies responsible for overseeing association football.

UEFA was formally established on 15 June 1954 in Basel, Switzerland, following discussions among the football associations of Italy, France, and Belgium.

European teams have enjoyed significant success on the global stage: five UEFA nations, including Germany, Italy, France, England, and Spain, have collectively secured 12 of the 22 FIFA World Cup titles.

These same countries are also home to the continent’s major football leagues, commonly referred to as “Europe’s Big Five”: Spain’s La Liga, England’s Premier League, Germany’s Bundesliga, Italy’s Serie A, and France’s Ligue 1.