Category: Azer News

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev addressed the participants of the 3rd National Urban Development Forum in Khankendi.

Azernews presents the address:

”Dear Forum participants!

I welcome you on the occasion of the opening of the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan. Welcome to the city of Khankendi.

I welcome you to the city of Khankendi for the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan. This event, held in Azerbaijan for the third time and already a growing tradition, brings together national, regional, and international partners in urban planning and serves as a vital platform for exchanging experiences, fostering new initiatives, and enhancing cooperation.

The National Urban Forums, organized in cooperation with UN-Habitat, are another vivid manifestation of Azerbaijan’s successful collaboration with international partners in this field. The participation of more than 200 foreign guests from over 60 countries, a total of about 400 representatives, signifies both the trust and friendship extended toward our country, as well as solidarity in pursuing common goals in urban planning.

Urban planning is a priority area in Azerbaijan’s national development strategy. The approaches adopted in urban planning and urbanization have contributed to economic sustainability, socioeconomic well-being, and adaptation to climate change. The large-scale restoration and construction underway, particularly in the Garabagh and East Zangazur economic regions, demonstrate the government’s strategic vision and capabilities in urban development.

Following three decades of occupation, Azerbaijani territories were left devasted, with historical and cultural heritage destroyed, lands contaminated with mines, and more than a million Azerbaijanis displaced from their homes. The victory in the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020 ushered in a period of restoration, reconstruction, and revival.

Today, Azerbaijan is implementing large-scale construction and reconstruction projects in Garabagh and East Zangazur. The comprehensive regional planning, covering 13,600 square kilometers, guides efforts to resettle more than 1.1 million people to their native cities and villages. Master plans for eight cities and 90 villages – home to more than 300,000 people – have been approved, and people have begun returning to six liberated cities, two settlements, and 20 villages.

By applying advanced urban-planning principles, systematic and coherent measures have been put in place to build sustainable infrastructure, rebuild settlements, and create conditions for the return of the population. Over the past four years, three new international airports have been built, along with modern roads and highways, new railway infrastructure, and ongoing construction of residential buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and other social infrastructure.

Special importance is attached to the reconstruction of energy infrastructure and the strengthening of energy security. Solar and wind energy projects are well underway in Garabagh and East Zangazur, designated as a ‘green energy’ zone, with a capacity of up to 10,000 megawatts. Innovative approaches such as ‘smart city’ and ‘smart village’ are being applied, and ecosystem restoration is in progress.

The establishment of industrial parks and economic zones is underway to promote economic development and employment in the region. This contributes to the sustainable development of settlements by expanding local production opportunities and creating new jobs. With enhanced road connectivity, Garabagh and East Zangazur are now directly linked to Baku and other regions, accelerating their economic and social development. Today, about 60,000 people live, work and study in these areas under the ‘Great Return’ program.

The decision to hold the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan in Khankendi is especially significant. The city that endured occupation for many years is now a symbol of peace, restoration, and revival. The infrastructure projects currently underway in Khankendi support development aligned with the vision of a modern, smart, and innovative city.

The ongoing reconstruction in Garabagh and East Zangazur is important not only for urban and infrastructural development but also for establishing long-term peace and regional cooperation. Targeted projects, new partnerships, and a favorable economic environment are creating sustainable livelihoods for the local population and contributing to regional urban development.

Azerbaijan’s advanced experience in urban planning has attracted tremendous international interest. Our country is viewed as a reliable partner in addressing global challenges in climate change and urban planning, as well as in developing innovative approaches. International cooperation in this area, particularly through initiatives with the UN Human Settlements Programme, is of great importance.

The decision to hold the 13th World Urban Forum in Baku in 2026 stands as clear evidence of Azerbaijan’s contribution to international urbanization processes and the trust it has earned as a reliable partner. This prestigious event will further enhance Azerbaijan’s role in global urbanization and contribute to the achievement of regional and global sustainable development goals.

Today’s Forum marks an important milestone on the path to the 13th World Urban Forum. I am confident that the discussions here will be instrumental in implementing strategic initiatives for urban planning, restoration, and sustainable city development, and will help create a greener, more inclusive, and prosperous living environment for future generations.

The court proceedings in the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, charged under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious offenses, continued on October 14.

The open court session, held at the Baku Military Court under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with a panel consisting of Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov (reserve judge Gunel Samadova), ensured that the accused was provided with an interpreter in his native language, Russian, as well as defense lawyers of his choice.

Judge Zeynal Agayev introduced the court panel, the prosecutors representing the state, the interpreters, and others to the victims and their legal heirs attending the trial for the first time, while also explaining their rights and obligations as stipulated by law.

The legal heir of victim Khayal Janbakhishov, his father Kheyrulla Janbakhishov, stated that his son was killed in Aghdara due to the explosion of a mortar shell fired by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Responding to questions from state prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, victim Elshad Sheydayev reported sustaining injuries to his arm and leg in Kalbajar as a result of enemy provocations.

Victim Kamiz Ibayev recounted being taken captive in Kalbajar after getting lost in fog, by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Answering questions from Nasir Bayramov, Head of the Department for Defense of State Prosecution at the Prosecutor General’s Office, Ibayev stated that he was blindfolded and taken to an unknown location, subjected to various forms of torture, mistreatment, and beatings during his captivity. In response to questions from Ruben Vardanyan’s lawyer, Avraam Berman, Ibayev clarified that he was held by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups and did not see Vardanyan during his captivity.

Answering questions from the Prosecutor General’s senior assistant Vusal Aliyev, victim Taleh Rzayev reported being wounded in Aghdara due to the explosion of a mortar shell fired by the enemy.

Responding to questions from the Prosecutor General’s special assignments assistant Tugay Rahimli, victim Zaur Alakbarov stated he was injured in Khojavend due to the explosion of an artillery shell fired by the enemy, noting that several others were also injured in the incident.

Victim Gismatpasha Abbaszade, answering questions from state prosecutor Fuad Musayev, reported sustaining injuries in Aghdam as a result of enemy fire, adding that another person was also wounded during the incident.

Victim Telman Adigozalov, responding to questions from state prosecutor Vusal Abdullayev, stated he was injured in Khojavend due to artillery fire from the enemy.

Victim Elvin Mammadov reported receiving severe injuries in Aghdam due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups, stating he was in a coma for 23 days and is currently classified as a second-degree disabled person.

Rovshan Hajibalayev reported sustaining injuries in the Sirkhavand village of Aghdara district due to the explosion of an artillery shell fired by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Teymur Jafarov stated he was wounded in Lachin due to enemy fire, noting that one person was killed and several others injured in the incident.

Agil Guliyev reported being wounded in Aghdam as a result of enemy fire.

Khaqani Guliyev stated in his testimony that he sustained a bullet wound in Aghdam due to enemy fire.

Dayanat Mardani reported being wounded in Aghdam due to enemy provocations.

Victim Sarkhan Rahimov stated that while heading to evacuate wounded individuals in a medical service vehicle in Aghdam, he was injured due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups. He noted that despite the medical vehicle being clearly marked, it was targeted, resulting in injuries to himself and others, while the wounded individuals they were meant to evacuate died due to lack of timely medical assistance.

Anar Seyidov, Turkan Jafarov, and Parviz Adigozalov reported sustaining various injuries in different locations due to fire opened by remnants of the Armenian army and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Victim Maharram Karimli stated in his testimony that he was wounded in the arm in the Aghdam-Aghdara direction due to sniper fire from the enemy. Responding to a question from Ruben Vardanyan, Karimli said he recognized Vardanyan through social media.

Subsequently, the forensic medical examination reports regarding the victims were presented.

The next court session is scheduled for October 21.

Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan).

The Azerbaijan-Belarus business forum is being held with the joint organization of the Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO) and the Minsk branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Azernews reports.

Speaking at the event, Belarusian Ambassador to Azerbaijan Dmitry Pinevich underlined the strong partnership between the two nations, noting that the ‘close relations established between Belarus and Azerbaijan create a solid foundation for expanding economic cooperation.’ He emphasized the great potential for collaboration in various sectors and expressed confidence in further strengthening trade and investment ties.

The forum brings together representatives from around 40 companies operating in logistics, construction, the food industry, and other fields, alongside officials and business leaders from both countries. The discussions are focused on exploring new avenues for partnership and promoting mutual investments.

From October 30 to November 2, Baku will become the center of the world dance culture, Azernews reports.

The Azerbaijan Dance Festival 2025 will take place in the Azerbaijani capital. The festival is organized by the Azerbaijan Dance Confederation (AzDC, President – Vice-Rector of the Baku Academy of Choreography, People’s Artist Tarana Muradova) and the International Dance Company SRDS (Smooth and Rhythm Dance Style, President – Olga Krasnyanskaya).

The evenings of the dance celebration will be held at JW Marriott Absheron Baku.

The Night of Dancing Diamonds – October 31

This evening will be a truly special event, dedicated to the anniversary of the People’s Artist of Azerbaijan and President of the Azerbaijan Dance Union – Tarana Muradova.

The program will feature a unique ballroom choreography created and performed by Tarana Muradova, integrating elements of Azerbaijani national dance.

The audience will also enjoy two spectacular show performances by world legends of ballroom dance, as well as the European Professional Championship in Smooth Dance.

It will be an unforgettable night where art, elegance, and inspiration come together in a grand celebration of dance.

November 1 – World Championships in All Age Categories

This evening will host the World Championships in the Smooth division for all age categories – from children to adults – alongside open international competitions in both the Standard and Latin programs.

The night will offer a vibrant fusion of competitive spirit, adrenaline, and pursuit of excellence, intertwined with the aesthetic grace and sophistication of ballroom dance.

Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner, live music, and even the opportunity to join the dance floor between competitions.

November 2 – International Pro-Am Competitions

The final day of the festival will be dedicated to the unique format of Pro-Am (Professional-Amateur), where professional dancers perform together with their students and amateur partners.

This is more than a competition – it is a philosophy of unity and inspiration, bringing together people for whom dance is a form of self-expression and a source of inner harmony.

In the world of Pro-Am, age and level of experience do not matter – anyone can begin their dance journey consciously, discovering the beauty of movement and the joy of artistic freedom.

November 2 will become a true celebration of dance for everyone who believes it is never too late to dance.

Live Music and Atmosphere of Inspiration

All three festival evenings will be accompanied by live music performed by a symphony orchestra under the direction of maestro Boris Myagkov.

Famous melodies by Azerbaijani composers, reimagined in ballroom arrangements – waltz, cha-cha-cha, tango, and foxtrot – will create an atmosphere of refined elegance and emotional inspiration.

A Celebration of Taste and Beauty

Guests will be treated to exclusive dinners, gourmet cuisine, and premium beverages, surrounded by a world where sport meets high art.

The Night of Dancing Diamonds is more than a dance event – it is a moment when the stage transforms into a dazzling celebration of beauty, strength, and inspiration.

To purchase tickets, please visit iTicket.Az.

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

On October 15, the 3rd National Urban Planning Forum officially opened in the city of Khankendi under the theme ‘Towards Climate-Resilient and Healthy Cities: Regional Partnerships and Innovative Solutions,’ Azernews reports.

The event is organized in partnership between Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat). It has gathered around 400 participants from over 60 countries, including representatives of public and private institutions, international organizations, academic institutions, and civil society.

The three-day forum serves as a unified platform for local and international experts to discuss current challenges and opportunities in the field of urban planning.

Key topics on the agenda include:Sustainable recovery following conflict and natural disasters; Affordable housing and dignified living conditions;Resilient and healthy urban environments; Best practices in ecological and energy efficiency; Digital transformation and innovative approaches in urban planning; Implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the New Urban Agenda;Strengthening regional and international partnerships.

Within the forum, special attention will be given to the large-scale reconstruction and development efforts in the Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur economic regions, showcasing Azerbaijan’s post-conflict achievements, adoption of modern urban planning standards, and the application of innovative technologies.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn from leading international case studies, while panel discussions featuring prominent scholars in urban planning will promote knowledge exchange and encourage evidence-based, sustainable decision-making.

The Azerbaijani men’s chess team has played their latest match at the European Team Chess Championship, held in Batumi, Georgia, Azernews reports.

In the 8th round, the team faced Ukraine. The national team won 2.5:1.5, bringing their total points to 13 and rising to the top of the standings. The victory for the team was secured by Shakhriyar Mammadyarov.

Rauf Mammadov, Aydin Suleymanli, Mahammad Muradli, and Eltaj Safarli all ended their matches in a draw.

If the Azerbaijani team wins the final round, they will become European champions for the fourth time, regardless of the results in other matches. The Azerbaijani women’s team is currently facing Romania.

The European Team Chess Championship features separate Open and Women’s sections, with each competition consisting of 9 rounds played under a Swiss system.

The chess tournament showcases 75 teams, including 39 in the Open tournament and 36 in the Women’s Championship.

Chess, for centuries, has been a popular game in Azerbaijan with ancient roots closely related to traditions. The country could preserve these traditions as chess remains a crucially popular sport for now.

To popularise this original game, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, who is also the chairman of the National Olympic Committee, signed in 2009 an executive order initiating a state-supported chess development program, covering the years 2009-2014.

The 42nd Chess Olympiad, held in Baku, is indeed an excellent example of great attention paid to the development of chess games in the country.

The large-scale event attracted a total of 1,587 participants, including 894 in the Open category and 693 in the Women’s event, making the Baku Chess Olympiad a significant event.

Similarly, the FIDE World Chess Cup 2023 in Baku captivated chess fans with its high-calibre competition and exhilarating matches.

Featuring a highly competitive lineup, the World Cup provided an exciting venue to display the remarkable skill and strategic finesse of elite chess players.

Approximately 206 competitors participated in the open section, along with 103 players in the women’s competition.

The national chess players have always been taking high places at top-ranked tournaments.

Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan share deep-rooted cultural ties, grounded in their common history, language, and traditions.

Both countries have consistently worked to reinforce these relationships, promoting mutual respect and understanding through a range of cultural initiatives.

Turkmenistan Culture Days stand as a shining example of the robust cultural partnership between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan, highlighting their shared heritage and dedication to enhancing mutual understanding through joint cultural efforts.

This event highlights the ongoing partnership between the two nations and their dedication to strengthening cultural ties.

The official opening ceremony of Turkmenistan Culture Days took place at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku, organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry.

In his speech at the opening ceremony, Deputy Culture Minister Murad Huseynov expressed his pleasure at hosting Turkmenistan Culture Days in Azerbaijan. He noted that the peoples of Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan are united by shared history, cultural roots, and unwavering friendship.

Murad Huseynov emphasized that the high level of relations between the two countries creates favorable conditions for the peoples to better understand one another, for the expansion of cultural exchanges, and for the realization of joint projects in the future.

In his address, Nursahat Shirimov, Deputy Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan, stressed the significance of developing cultural ties between Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. He stated that the holding of Turkmenistan Culture Days in Azerbaijan contributes to strengthening the friendship and mutual understanding between the two peoples. Nursahat Shirimov also expressed hope that cultural cooperation would continue to grow in the future.

Academician Isa Habibbayli, President of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, remarked that the common history and cultural roots of the two peoples have led to the development of their cultures over millennia, and these cultures continue to be closely interconnected today.

“Our unity and brotherhood are always evident. Our cultures and literatures have developed as a reflection of our shared values. This is the most vivid manifestation of the centuries-old unity between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan in the modern era,” the Academician emphasized.

Following the speeches, the guests were introduced to a photo exhibition showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Turkmen people. In addition, samples of Turkmenistan’s music, national costumes, decorative-applied arts, and museum exhibits were on display.

A concert program was then presented, featuring Turkmen dances and musical performances.

Turkmenistan Culture Days, which will continue until October 15, include events in both Baku and Ganja.

A trilateral meeting between Azerbaijan, Iran, and Russia was held in Baku on October 13, 2025, bringing together Deputy Prime Minister of Azerbaijan Shahin Mustafayev, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk, and Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development Mehrdad Bazrpash, Azernews reports.

The sides discussed prospects for expanding cooperation in the fields of transport, energy, and customs. The meeting concluded with the adoption of a joint Communiqué outlining key directions for strengthening regional connectivity and advancing shared infrastructure projects.

The communiqué reaffirmed satisfaction with ongoing trilateral cooperation and highlighted the guiding role of the 2016 Declaration and the 2017 Joint Statement of the presidents of the three countries in promoting mutually beneficial economic, trade, and transport ties. The sides emphasized the importance of enhancing the region’s transit potential, accelerating infrastructure projects, and coordinating efforts to expand the ‘North-South’ international transport corridor.

The participants underscored the goal of increasing freight volumes along the corridor to 15 million tons and agreed to establish a Working Group to prepare an Action Plan for implementation within three months. Additionally, a special Working Group on automobile transportation, including representatives of customs, border, and transport agencies, will be formed.

The signing of the charter of the trilateral working group on customs cooperation was also welcomed, aimed at facilitating transit transportation between Azerbaijan, Iran, and Russia. The sides stressed the importance of completing major infrastructure components of the corridor, such as the Rasht-Astara railway line, the Agband-Kalala highway bridge over the Araz River, and new border checkpoints.

Efforts to simplify border crossing procedures and digitalize customs and transport operations were also discussed. Furthermore, the parties agreed to continue technical consultations on the project to interconnect their electricity networks and to conduct a joint on-site inspection of key infrastructure projects of the North-South corridor on October 14, 2025.

The Communiqué was formally adopted in Baku on October 13, 2025.

As part of Azerbaijan’s national priority titled ‘The Great Return to the Liberated Territories’, outlined in the country’s 2022-2026 Social and Economic Development Strategy, the resettlement of 28 residential areas has already been achieved. Currently, around 55,000 people are living in the territories liberated after the 2020 Second Garabagh War.

Azernews reports that this was stated by Vusal Gasimli, Executive Director of the Center for Analysis of Economic Reforms and Communication (CAECR), during the 30th Anniversary Caspian Construction Week.

He noted that approximately 20,000 of the returnees are former internally displaced persons (IDPs). ‘The remaining population consists of those employed in local government institutions, construction, and private companies operating in the region. By the end of next year, we expect this number to surpass 100,000, marking a significant milestone in the return process,’ Gasimli said.

He also highlighted major progress in infrastructure development in the liberated regions. ‘In a short period, over 500 kilometers of roads have been constructed, along with 120-130 kilometers of new railway lines. About 75% of the Horadiz-Aghbend railway project has been completed,’ he added.

The ‘Great Return’ initiative is a cornerstone of Azerbaijan’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts, aiming to restore normal life in the territories and facilitate the safe and dignified return of displaced citizens.

President Ilham Aliyev addressed participants at the 5th Azerbaijan International Exhibition on the Restoration, Reconstruction, and Development of Garabagh- ‘ Rebuild Garabagh.’

Azernews presents address:

”Dear exhibition participants,

It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to the opening of the 5th Azerbaijan International Exhibition on the Restoration, Reconstruction, and Development of Garabagh- ‘Rebuild Garabagh.’

This year, within the framework of Caspian Construction Week, we are proud to host both the 5th ‘Rebuild Garabagh’ and the 30th Azerbaijan International Construction Exhibition ‘BakuBuild’ anniversary events.

The 5th ‘Rebuild Garabagh’ exhibition coincides with a landmark period in the history of statehood of the Republic of Azerbaijan, marking key anniversaries that embody our sovereignty and national unity. We proudly commemorate the 30th anniversary of the adoption of our Constitution and the fifth anniversary of our historic Victory in the Patriotic War. All these achievements not only attest to the unwavering will and solidarity of our people and their commitment to advancing toward strategic goals, but also mobilize us around a new mission – the restoration of Garabagh and East Zangezur.

Currently, within the framework of the ‘Great Return’ program, large-scale reconstruction and development projects are being successfully carried out in the liberated territories, fundamentally transforming the region’s landscape. Cities are being built in accordance with modern urban planning concepts; new schools and hospitals are being constructed; road, transport, and communications infrastructure is being developed; jobs are being created; and green energy zones and industrial parks are being established. Garabagh is evolving not only as a symbol of our national pride, but also as a 21st-century area of sustainable development.

It is gratifying to see the growing significance of the ‘Rebuild Garabagh’ exhibition for both local and international participants. The exhibition showcases cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions, facilitates discussions on joint projects and partnership opportunities, and creates new prospects for the socio-economic development of the region. Held for the fifth time, this event not only demonstrates Azerbaijan’s achievements to the world but also strengthens our country’s position as a global hub for investment, technology, and innovation.

Held annually, this prestigious exhibition embodies the reality of sustainable construction, progress, and peace, while remaining a forward-looking, high-impact event. Partnerships forged here strengthen mutual trust among people and nations, build new bridges of cooperation, and place Garabagh at the heart of a sustainable development agenda.

I am confident that this exhibition will continue to play a crucial role in fostering partnerships among participants, identifying modern development and investment initiatives, and advancing the reconstruction of Garabagh and the entire region.

On this auspicious occasion, I once again warmly congratulate all organizers and participants on the 5th anniversary of the exhibition and wish ‘Rebuild Garabagh’ continued success and new achievements in the years to come.”