Category: Azer News

The National Indoor Athletics Championship for 16-17-year-old athletes has been co-organized by the Azerbaijan Athletics Federation and the Azerbaijan Ministry of Youth and Sports, AzerNEWS reports.

Nearly 200 athletes representing various regions of the country competed over the two-day event.

The Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic was represented by the Ordubad team, which included head coach Amrah Nagiyev and seven athletes. The team delivered an impressive performance, winning a total of four medals – two gold, one silver, and one bronze.

Namiq Babayev once again showcased his consistency by securing back-to-back victories and claiming two gold medals. The talented runner crossed the finish line first in both the 800-meter and 1500-meter races, earning top podium finishes in each event.

Aysel Huseynova won the silver medal in the 3000 meters, while Ruqayya Mammadli claimed bronze in the same distance, completing a successful championship campaign for the Ordubad team.

The Azerbaijan Athletics Federation was officially established in 1992, shortly after Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union. Its formation marked a critical step in building the country’s own sports infrastructure and establishing a formal governing body for track and field athletics. Prior to this, Azerbaijani athletes competed under the Soviet athletics system, which limited national-level organization and development specific to Azerbaijan.

The Federation’s responsibilities include organizing national championships, both indoor and outdoor, as well as youth and junior competitions that are essential for identifying and nurturing emerging talent. The Federation also coordinates athlete preparation for international competitions, ranging from regional events to the World Championships and Olympic Games, ensuring that Azerbaijani athletes are trained and equipped to compete on the global stage.

Internationally, the Federation represents Azerbaijan in major athletics organizations, including World Athletics and European Athletics.

A high-level event dedicated to International Mother Language Day was held at the headquarters of UNESCO in Paris, bringing together diplomats, educators, and cultural representatives from around the world, AzerNEWS reports.

The event was organized jointly by the Permanent Delegation of Bangladesh to UNESCO and UNESCO’s Education Sector, with Azerbaijan also represented. The gathering highlighted the importance of linguistic diversity in education, culture, and global development.

As part of the program, a panel discussion was held on the theme “Language for Peace, Education, and Sustainable Development.” Panelists outlined the role of multilingualism in promoting peace, fostering inclusive and quality education, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

They also discussed how education in one’s mother tongue contributes to cognitive and personal development, builds self-confidence, and helps preserve cultural identity.

Following the formal session, the event featured a rich cultural program. Azerbaijani performer Sona Iskandarli presented the songs “Ölk?m” and “Hamidan göz?l m?n?m”, accompanied by a traditional national dance performance.

International Mother Language Day, observed globally on February 21, was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1999 at the initiative of Bangladesh.

The date commemorates the 1952 movement in Dhaka, where students advocating for the recognition of the Bangla language as one of the state languages of then-East Pakistan were tragically killed.

Since then, the day has grown into a worldwide celebration of linguistic and cultural diversity, encouraging communities to preserve their native languages and promote multilingual education.

In Azerbaijan, International Mother Language Day is widely observed in schools, universities, and cultural institutions.

Events include educational programs, literary readings, and cultural performances that celebrate the Azerbaijani language and literature, as well as the country’s rich linguistic heritage.

The day serves to reinforce national identity while promoting respect for all languages spoken within the country and encouraging multilingual education.

UNESCO uses the day each year to raise awareness about the importance of mother languages in fostering tolerance, peace, and social inclusion.

The theme for 2026 is “Youth voices on multilingual education,” placing young people at the heart of global efforts to advance linguistic diversity and inclusive education.

As stated on UNESCO website, “Young people are not only inheritors of linguistic diversity: they are key actors in its future. Ensuring that they can access education, information and digital spaces in their own languages is essential for inclusion, equity and sustainable development.

The 2026 edition also highlights the growing digital dimension of multilingualism. Online content remains heavily concentrated in a limited number of languages, while AI systems rely primarily on dominant-language data. UNESCO continues to advance multilingualism in cyberspace through global policy frameworks, partnerships and initiatives supporting Indigenous and underrepresented languages.”

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz was re-elected on Friday as chairman of the conservative Christian Democratic Union (CDU), securing 91.17 percent of the delegate votes at a party congress held in Stuttgart, AzerNEWS reports citing Xinhua.

The result marked Merz’s first re-election as party leader since becoming the Federal Chancellor in June last year.

Addressing the delegates earlier in the day, Merz called for internal unity to support the government’s work, stating that “when we are united, we can achieve everything together.”

In his speech, Merz stressed his reformist promises and also warned that the world has become rougher and more dangerous.

He also reaffirmed that the CDU would not seek cooperation with the country’s far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD), asserting that the CDU would not allow the AFD to “ruin our country.”

Merz’s previous re-election in 2024 saw him receive 89.8 percent of the vote.

The United States will deploy a hospital ship to the coasts of Greenland to provide medical assistance to local residents, AzerNEWS reports.

This was announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on the social media platform Truth Social.

Donald Trump posted on social media that, working with the “fantastic” Governor of Louisiana, Jeff Landry, they were going to send a hospital ship to Greenland to care for the many sick people who were not being looked after there, and added that the ship was already on its way.

In recent years, Azerbaijan-China relations have experienced notable growth, underscored by high-level exchanges, expanding economic ties, and enhanced collaboration across strategic sectors. This dynamic partnership reflects Azerbaijan’s increasingly deliberate and forward-looking foreign policy as it navigates a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. Amid shifting global power structures and the ongoing reorganization of international supply chains, Azerbaijan’s deepening engagement with China is a strategic choice driven by pragmatic considerations and mutual interests.

A week ago, or more precisely on January 28-29, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov visited China. During his visit, Bayramov engaged in detailed discussions with Chinese officials, advancing the bilateral agenda and bringing substantive momentum to the already burgeoning partnership. This visit, alongside other high-level exchanges, illustrates a commitment to reinforcing political and economic ties between the two nations.

Bayramov expressed Azerbaijan’s view of China as an indispensable partner in a range of strategic areas, emphasizing the depth and multidimensional nature of their cooperation. He described Azerbaijan’s comprehensive strategic partnership with China as a framework based on long-term mutual benefits. According to Bayramov, the partnership rests on several pillars, including robust political dialogue, shared economic goals, and collaboration in multilateral frameworks. He stressed the importance of high-level trust and coordination, especially in the areas of transport infrastructure, renewable energy, green technologies, and sustainable development.

As part of the growing bilateral cooperation, Chinese investment in Azerbaijan has increased, particularly in the green energy sector. This aligns with Azerbaijan’s long-term development strategy, which emphasizes energy transition and sustainability. Chinese companies are actively involved in the construction of solar and wind power plants, as well as in the development of power generation infrastructure and the production of electric buses. These efforts position Azerbaijan as an emerging hub for green energy development in the region. This expanding investment cooperation not only supports China’s broader global strategy of promoting sustainable infrastructure projects but also allows Azerbaijan to diversify its economy, reducing its reliance on hydrocarbons and advancing its broader economic goals.

Azerbaijan’s alignment with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a key component of this partnership, particularly with the Middle Corridor, which connects China to Europe via Azerbaijan and Central Asia. As global supply chains shift and regions reassess their logistical routes, Azerbaijan’s strategic positioning as a bridge between East and West is becoming increasingly critical. This offers both Azerbaijan and China a unique opportunity to enhance regional connectivity, which is of great importance for the broader Eurasian economic framework.

Beyond bilateral engagement, Azerbaijan has consistently emphasized the importance of multilateral diplomacy, using international forums as platforms to advance regional stability and foster dialogue. As a country that has built a reputation as a bridge-builder in global diplomacy, Azerbaijan’s active leadership in various multilateral institutions is instrumental in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development.

Notably, Azerbaijan’s chairmanship of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia (CICA) (2024-2026) is a significant development in this regard. CICA, which aims to create a common security and cooperation space in Asia, aligns with Azerbaijan’s broader diplomatic vision. Azerbaijan’s commitment to fostering dialogue among countries with diverse political and security interests complements China’s growing regional influence, especially in the context of rising geopolitical tensions and the fragmentation of the international system.

Additionally, Azerbaijan’s leadership within the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and its presidency of COP29 demonstrate the country’s proactive approach to multilateralism. These forums enable Azerbaijan to promote dialogue on pressing global issues, such as climate change, security, and regional cooperation, where Azerbaijan and China can work together in fostering a consensus-driven approach.

Azerbaijan’s involvement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) since 2015, when it was granted Dialogue Partner status, further reflects its commitment to building strong ties with China and other SCO members. Azerbaijan’s partnership with the SCO – focused on counterterrorism, regional stability, and economic cooperation – aligns closely with China’s priorities, and facilitates collaboration in areas such as trade, telecommunications, and investment. Azerbaijan’s participation in the SCO’s mechanisms also provides a valuable avenue for promoting regional security, combating extremism, and advancing economic growth through greater connectivity.

In this broader context, Azerbaijan’s growing partnership with China enhances its regional and global standing. By aligning with both bilateral initiatives and multilateral frameworks, Azerbaijan positions itself as a key player in Eurasian and global diplomacy, with a vested interest in fostering stability and cooperation across the continent.

One of the defining features of Azerbaijan-China relations is their shared stance on several key international issues, particularly with respect to territorial integrity and sovereignty. Azerbaijan has consistently supported China’s position on the Taiwan issue, reaffirming its commitment to the “One China” policy. As Foreign Minister Bayramov reiterated, Azerbaijan’s position on Taiwan is grounded in international law and respect for China’s sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and the non-interference in internal affairs.

This shared commitment to safeguarding territorial integrity underpins the broader partnership between the two nations. Azerbaijan’s support for China is not merely symbolic but reflects a broader foreign policy stance rooted in respect for international norms, the sovereignty of states, and the importance of avoiding actions that could destabilize the region. The strong mutual trust in this regard further solidifies the strategic foundation of the partnership.

Moreover, Azerbaijan’s support for China’s stance on Taiwan aligns with its broader foreign policy principles, which emphasize peace, stability, and the maintenance of a rules-based international order. In this sense, Azerbaijan’s foreign policy is shaped not only by bilateral considerations with China but also by a commitment to multilateral diplomacy and adherence to the norms of international law.

A partnership for the future

Azerbaijan’s evolving relationship with China is a testament to the country’s strategic vision and its ability to navigate the complexities of the modern geopolitical landscape. Through its comprehensive strategic partnership with China, Azerbaijan has positioned itself as a vital actor in regional and global diplomacy, one that seeks to balance its ties with both East and West while promoting stability, security, and sustainable development.

Looking ahead, the partnership between Azerbaijan and China is poised to deepen further, with both nations focusing on areas of mutual interest, such as trade, energy, infrastructure, and multilateral cooperation. As global power dynamics continue to shift, Azerbaijan’s engagement with China will undoubtedly play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping the future of Eurasian and global diplomacy.

In conclusion, Azerbaijan’s strategic partnership with China is more than just an economic or diplomatic alliance; it is a forward-looking collaboration that reflects a shared vision for regional stability, multilateralism, and sustainable growth. This partnership, grounded in mutual trust and respect, is set to evolve in ways that will shape the geopolitical landscape of the 21st century.

The Azerbaijan Defense Ministry has released a summary video based on information shared last week (February 15-22).

To optimize internet speed measurements for subscribers, Aztelekom LLC has integrated eight additional Ookla-sponsored servers into its network, AzerNEWS reports.

According to the Information and Communication Technologies Agency (ICTA ), this expansion brings the total number of sponsor servers operated across various regions, including Baku, Khirdalan, Shirvan, Shamakhi, Guba, Masalli, Yevlakh, Khankendi, Ganja, and Zagatala to 12 for the operator.

The increase in sponsor servers is part of ICTA’s 2025 action plan aimed at improving internet measurement results. The plan focuses on strengthening the infrastructure for internet performance testing, increasing regional measurement points, and generating more objective results.

Last year, ICTA experts conducted a review of Ookla Speedtest servers. A total of 38 servers were inspected, with identified issues reported to operators and providers. Currently, the total number of sponsor servers in Azerbaijan has reached 54.

Ookla’s Speedtest Index is one of the world’s most widely used international measurement platforms, evaluating internet performance based on median download, upload, and latency metrics.

The geographic expansion of sponsor servers allows measurements to be conducted closer to users, producing more accurate latency data, precise regional performance evaluations, and more stable statistical results. It also ensures that operators’ real network performance is objectively reflected in international indexes.

Globally, internet service quality is increasingly assessed not just by advertised speeds but by verified real-world results on international measurement platforms.

Azerbaijan is gradually transitioning to this measurable internet model, where service quality is evaluated based on real-time measurements, results are compared, performance trends are monitored, and technical foundations for network optimization are established.

This approach helps consumers make informed choices and promotes healthy, quality-based competition in the internet market.

Two more matches of the 21st round of the Azerbaijan Premier League will take place on February 22, AzerNEWS reports.

The day’s first game will see Imishli host Shamakhi. The match is set to kick off at 14:30 at the Quba Olympic Sports Complex Stadium. Currently, Imishli sits 9th in the standings with 19 points, while Shamakhi is 8th with 24 points.

In the day’s second fixture, Sabah will face Kapaz at home. The match will begin at 17:00 at the Bank Respublika Arena. The Baku-based club leads the league with 49 points, while Kapaz from Ganja occupies 11th place with 13 points.

Earlier in the 21st round, Turan Tovuz defeated Zira 2:0, and Araz-Nakhchivan beat Karvan-Yevlakh 2:0. Meanwhile, the Sumgayit vs Gabala game ended in a goalless draw, 0:0. The highly anticipated fixture between Neftci and Qarabag has been postponed.

The Azerbaijan Premier League was first organized in 2007 and succeeded the Top Division, which existed from 1992 to 2007. FC Qarabag won the title in the 2022-2023 season for the tenth time.

The 2024-25 Azerbaijan Premier League marks the 33rd season of Azerbaijan’s top-tier football competition.

On April 27, 2025, during the 32nd round of the Premier League, Qarabag FC clinched the title with four matches to spare after a 1-1 draw against Sabah.

This victory made them the champions for the 12th time overall and for the fourth consecutive season.

This season is the final one featuring 10 teams, as the league will expand to 12 teams starting from the 2025-26 season.

The U.S. Department of Defense has begun testing 25 prototypes of kamikaze-type unmanned aerial vehicles submitted by private companies for potential mass production, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media.

The trials are taking place at the Fort Benning ground forces base in Georgia and are scheduled to continue until early March. Small, relatively inexpensive drones and their manufacturers are undergoing strict evaluations to determine their reliability and production capacity.

Jeff Thompson, CEO of the Teal Drones division of Red Cat, one of the 25 participants, said the Pentagon’s priority is mass production capability. ‘If the manufacturer cannot deliver the product on time, for example, if it is two weeks late, it will be removed from the program,’ he explained.

Upon completion of the tests, the winning company will secure a contract worth $150 million to supply drones, underscoring the Pentagon’s push to expand its arsenal of cost-effective unmanned systems.

Washington is weighing potential military action against Iran, with senior officials confirming that the Pentagon has presented President Donald Trump with a range of strike options amid escalating regional tensions.

According to AzerNEWS, citing Axios, a senior Trump adviser said the Pentagon had offered ‘a variety of options’, including one scenario that would involve targeting Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, along with his son Mojtaba Khamenei, who is widely viewed as a possible successor, as well as senior clerical figures. The suggestion underscores the gravity of the deliberations now under way inside the White House.

International media outlets, citing two sources familiar with internal planning discussions, reported that a US strike on Iran could take place as soon as this weekend. Trump has also publicly acknowledged he is considering what he described as a ‘limited strike’, a formulation that suggests a more contained military operation rather than a broad campaign.

Israel’s public broadcaster has likewise reported that a US attack is seen as increasingly likely, adding to mounting speculation that Washington may be preparing to intervene more directly in a volatile regional confrontation.

The White House has not confirmed specific operational plans, but Trump has scheduled a high-level meeting with US Air Force Commander General Kenneth Wilsbach in the coming hours. The president also cancelled a planned weekend trip to Florida, opting instead to remain in Washington for consultations in the Oval Office.

Such last-minute schedule changes have often preceded significant national security decisions. While officials caution that planning does not necessarily equate to imminent action, the combination of military briefings, regional alerts and media reports has intensified expectations of a potential escalation.

The prospect of US strikes on Iran raises the risk of wider regional fallout. Tehran has previously warned that any direct attack on its leadership or territory would prompt retaliation against American interests and allies in the Middle East. Analysts note that even a limited strike could trigger responses from Iran-backed groups across the region, potentially widening the conflict.

The deliberations also carry domestic political implications. A decision to launch military action would mark a defining moment in Trump’s foreign policy, testing his administration’s appetite for confrontation at a time of already heightened geopolitical instability.

For now, officials insist that all options remain under consideration. But with reports pointing to accelerated planning and the president remaining in Washington for urgent military consultations, attention is fixed on whether the coming days will bring diplomacy – or escalation.