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Euronews has recently published a report on the success of the Baku Security Forum, underlining Azerbaijan’s growing role as a hub for international dialogue on global security issues, Azernews reports.

The third edition of the forum brought together representatives from more than 80 countries to exchange views on countering terrorism, cybercrime, disinformation, and humanitarian crises.

The report notes that the forum served as an important platform for global cooperation, emphasizing that modern security challenges require joint responses. ‘The speakers emphasized that global terrorist networks can only be effectively confronted through unified strategies of governments. The participation of the UN in the forum for the first time demonstrates the importance of the event in terms of developing real security measures. The delegates concluded that international cooperation is vital today to protect citizens, strengthen the resilience of states and develop trust between countries in a rapidly changing security environment,’ Euronews stated.

The Baku Security Forum has steadily gained international recognition in recent years, with experts pointing out that its agenda reflects the pressing challenges of global security architecture and highlights Azerbaijan’s mediating role in fostering trust and collaboration.

The 11th Baku International Book Fair has opened its doors at Baku Expo Center, Azernews reports.

Organized by the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, the event was attended by members of the Azerbaijani Parliament, government officials, as well as representatives of literature and foreign guests.

During the opening ceremony Chairman of the Culture Committee of the Azerbaijani Parliament, People’s Artist Polad Bulbuloglu stated that this international exhibition demonstrates Azerbaijan’s cultural potential, the development of the publishing industry, and the strengthening of ties with world literature. He expressed confidence that such projects will expand even further in the future.

In his speech, President of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), Academician Isa Habibbayli stressed that the book fairs are significant events in the cultural life of society.

According to him, such events not only present new books but also create extensive opportunities for the development of reading culture, the strengthening of reading habits, and the exchange of scientific and literary ideas. The academician emphasized that these exhibitions serve to promote the national and spiritual values, to familiarize the public with world literature, and to introduce Azerbaijan’s rich scientific and cultural heritage.

The Azerbaijan’s Commissioner for Human Rights (Ombudsman) Sabina Aliyeva emphasized that such international exhibitions are of great importance not only for culture but also for education, particularly in expanding legal knowledge.

She outlined that the events like these, aimed at raising awareness about human rights, contribute to the development of legal thinking and legal culture in society, help citizens better understand their rights and duties, and create a foundation for increasing transparency and accountability in the activities of government institutions.

Other speakers at the event, including People’s Writer and First Secretary of the Azerbaijan Writers’ Union, Chingiz Abdullayev, Deputy Culture Minister Farid Jafarov, and Chairman of the Azerbaijan Publishers Association, Shamil Sadik, all highlighted the significance of the exhibition in the development of book culture in the country.

They stated that the exhibition serves as a bridge between writers and readers, contributing to the increasing interest of the new generation in literature and promoting national literary heritage.

In line with the contemporary challenges of the world, this year’s Baku International Book Fair, dedicated to the theme “Techno-Human: Yesterday’s Legend, Today’s Reality,” features 68 foreign organizations from 23 countries (Turkiye, Italy, the USA, Argentina, the UK, Lithuania, Qatar, Indonesia, Spain, China, South Korea, etc.) and 123 local publishing houses, printing, and book-related enterprises.

The 11th Baku International Book Fair will be recorded in history as the one with the highest number of foreign participants. Spain, Kuwait, and Indonesia are participating for the first time.

Over the course of seven days, more than 220 events are planned to take place in presentation zones, booths, and conference rooms.

The exhibition will feature masterclasses for children and adults, book presentations on inclusivity and other relevant topics, book signings, conferences, symposia, competitions, reading and music hours, as well as cooperation platforms for the participants of the book industry.

This year, the State of Qatar is the honorary guest country. Qatar is represented at the fair by a large delegation consisting of government officials, renowned scientists, literary figures, and artists.

The International Pavilion of the exhibition showcases Qatar’s unique cultural heritage, contemporary literature, and artistic treasures. Additionally, in the special zone for children, interactive presentations, examples of children’s literature, and cultural programs will be organized for young visitors.

Azerbaijan’s People’s Writers, poets, well-known young authors, as well as famous foreign writers are participating in the exhibition.

For the first time this year, the exhibition halls have been organized in accordance with international standards.

Two halls have been opened at the Baku Expo Center this year, with foreign participants being represented in the International Hall.

Given the intensification of commercial relations between local and foreign entities in the book industry sector, a “Networking Zone,” “Illustrators Wall,” and “Signature Zone” (for book signing ceremonies after authors’ presentations) have been created for the first time at the exhibition.

As in previous years, the exhibition will host a specially designed “Children’s World,” story hours, performances, and other activities for young readers. In other words, opportunities for reading are provided for every member of the family at the exhibition.

During the book fair, visitors will be able to use special buses from the “Elml?r Akademiyasi,” “28 May,” and “Koroglu” metro stations to the Baku Expo Center throughout the daytime.

Entrance to the exhibition is free of charge.

Hyundai Motor Co., South Korea’s largest automaker, announced on Wednesday that its sales rose by 8.3% in September compared to the same month last year, driven primarily by strong demand for high-end and sport utility vehicle (SUV) models, Azernews reports, citing Yonhap agency.

The company sold 372,298 vehicles in September, up from 336,140 units in September 2024, according to an official statement.

Domestic sales surged 18.3% to 66,001 units, compared to 55,805 a year earlier, while overseas sales increased 6.4% to 306,297 units from 287,872.

The top-selling model in the domestic market was the Avante sedan with 7,657 units sold, followed by the Santa Fe SUV with 5,763 units, and the Grandeur sedan at 5,398 units.

From January to September, Hyundai’s total sales increased by 1.1%, reaching 3,110,909 vehicles, up from 3,075,720 in the same period last year.

‘Strong sales of our flagship models have continued to drive year-on-year global growth,’ said a Hyundai Motor spokesperson. ‘We will continue to expand our market share steadily by launching new vehicles with exceptional product appeal.’

Hyundai has been aggressively investing in electric and hybrid SUVs, positioning itself as a major player in the growing eco-friendly vehicle market, which is expected to be a key driver of future growth worldwide.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan has extended congratulations to China on the occasion of its National Day, Azernews reports.

The post was shared on the ministry’s official social media account, stating:

Azerbaijan Chess Federation has organized a master class for national chess players, Azernews reports.

Chess players between the ages of 14, 16, and 18, who will participate in the World Chess Championship, had a session with Rauf Mammadyarov, a three-time European champion and member of the national team.

Discussing preparation for prestigious tournaments, Rauf Mammadyarov analyzed various games and answered questions from the chess players.

Azerbaijani men’s chess team will participate in the European Team Championship. Rauf Mammadyarov is included in the national team roster.

The European Team Chess Championship will take place in Batumi, Georgia, from October 4 to 15.

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

The 2025 European Team Chess Championship will showcase 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.

On October 1, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva participated in the opening ceremony of a new park established in Baku’s Narimanov district, Azernews reports.

Eldar Azizov, Head of the Baku City Executive Authority, informed the head of state and the First Lady about the park.

The new recreational area is located at the intersection of Ahmad bey Aghaoglu, Tabriz, and Talat Shixaliyev streets, near the Italy-Azerbaijan University. Covering an area of 3.5 hectares, the park features gazebos, an amphitheater, a tennis court, entertainment zones for children, and a modern lighting system. All necessary facilities have been created for both quiet relaxation and sports activities.

The United States has imposed a 10 percent tariff on most softwood lumber and timber imports from New Zealand, a move industry groups say will negatively impact the country’s forestry and wood-processing sectors, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.

Industry leaders warned Wednesday that the new duty will reduce New Zealand’s competitiveness, squeeze profit margins, and ultimately increase costs for American consumers.

‘These tariffs are highly disruptive to New Zealand’s forestry sector, especially at a time when confidence and stability are crucial,’ said Elizabeth Heeg, chief executive of the New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA).

Heeg emphasized that the tariffs pose immediate challenges for both forest growers and wood processors, but noted the industry’s commitment to diversifying and expanding into new markets.

‘This adds uncertainty and risk for exporters who have been working hard to develop long-term, sustainable supply chains that benefit both countries,’ she said.

The tariff, announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump following a Section 232 investigation into national security concerns related to timber imports, will come into effect on October 14. Initially, Washington considered tariffs as high as 50 percent but eventually settled on 10 percent.

In 2024, New Zealand exported approximately 370 million NZD (around 215 million USD) worth of radiata pine products to the United States, making the U.S. the third-largest market for New Zealand’s value-added forest products, according to the NZFOA.

Mark Ross, chief executive of the New Zealand Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association, noted that the increased costs might either be absorbed by exporters or passed on to U.S. buyers, potentially impacting prices and supply chains.

New Zealand’s forestry industry is one of the country’s largest export sectors and a significant contributor to its economy, employing over 50,000 people and supplying sustainable wood products to more than 130 countries worldwide.

Trampoline gymnastics competitions have started Shaki as part of third CIS Games in Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

Around 45 athletes from 7 countries, including Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkiye, Uzbekistan) are competing at the event, which is being held at the Shaki Olympic Sports Complex.

The qualification round for the women’s individual event has already concluded.

Some 22 female gymnasts competed for a spot in the finals. Three female athletes from Azerbaijan – Seljan Mahsudova, Shafiqa Humbatova, and Vafa Alisultanova, represented the country in the qualification phase.

For the first time in the history of the CIS Games, competitions are being held across seven cities in Azerbaijan: Ganja, Mingachevir, Gabala, Shaki, Goygol, Yevlakh, and Khankandi.

Each city hosts events in different sports, with the second-largest city, Ganja, serving as the main hub and officially designated the CIS Sports Capital for 2025.

Around 23 sports are being contested across 12 venues, highlighting a broad and inclusive athletic program.

A total of 1,624 athletes from 13 countries had confirmed participation. Event mascots Babir and Leyla are helping to generate enthusiasm among young fans.

Azerbaijan is preparing a comprehensive ‘National Strategy for the Efficient Use of Water Resources’ aimed at establishing modern water management and water sustainability systems across the country. The primary goal of this strategy is to ensure the efficient, sustainable management, monitoring, and protection of Azerbaijan’s water resources.

Azernews reports that this was announced by Aliaga Azizov, Deputy Head of the Strategy, International Cooperation and Research Department and Head of the Science and Innovation Sector at the State Agency for Water Resources of Azerbaijan (SAWR), during his speech at Baku Climate Action Week (BCAW2025).

Azizov outlined the key principles and objectives of the strategy, emphasizing that effective water resource management begins with accurate assessment. ‘This involves conducting hydrological and hydrogeological research, collecting data from studies, and implementing sensors and automated technologies to gather real-time information,’ he stated.

The official further explained the next step as adopting an efficient water management model: ‘This means integrated management of all Azerbaijan’s water basins, including both trans-boundary and internal rivers. Basin-based planning and management are core principles, especially critical for the proper allocation of water to agriculture, which remains the country’s largest water consumer.’

Azizov also highlighted efforts to improve water use efficiency and reduce losses: ‘Currently, there are water losses and leakages in drinking and irrigation systems in Azerbaijan. One of the strategy’s goals is to minimize these losses by 2040. Additionally, 100% installation of water meters in drinking water systems will be ensured.’

Addressing regional water potential, he noted, ‘The efficient use of water resources in the Garabagh and Eastern Zangezur regions holds strategic importance. Numerous projects are underway to ensure water security in these areas.’

All principles and targets of the strategy are long-term, with implementation planned through 2040.

Azerbaijani athletes have achieved impressive results at Prague European Open 2025, Azernews reports.

Mehram Imamverdiyev (81 kg) won a gold medal, while Konul Aliyeva (48 kg) and Gultaj Mammadaliyeva (52 kg) secured bronze medals.

Earlier, Islam Rahimov (66 kg) won a gold medal, Nazir Talibov (66 kg) took silver, and Hseyn Allahyarov and Murad Muradli (both 60 kg) earned bronze medals.

In total, Azerbaijan achieved 2 gold, 1 silver, and 4 bronze medals, securing second place in the overall team ranking and first place in the men’s competition.

The Prague European Open 2025 is a professional judo competition, part of the European Judo Union’s continental tour.

Some 405 judokas from 35 countries participated in Prague European Open 2025.

Founded in 1972, the Azerbaijan Judo Federation actively promotes this martial art across the country. Since 2015, the Federation has been led by Rovnag Abdullayev.

The country’s modern judo history was laid by Mehman Azizov, who won a silver medal at the Old World Championship in 1998.

A year later, the winner of the World Youth Games in Moscow, Rasul Salimov, grabbed the bronze medal at the European Championship in Slovakia. Another national judoka, Elchin Ismayilov, became the European champion in 2000 in Wroclaw.

However, the achievements of Azerbaijani judo fighters did not stop there. Elnur Mammadli was named the best at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in the 73 kg division.

The list of the country’s top judo fighters includes Rustam Orujov, Irina Kindzerskaya, Mammadali Mehdiyev, Elmar Gasimov, Hidayat Heydarov, Zelym Kotsoiev, Ushangi Kokauri, and Nijat Shikhalizada.

At the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, judokas Hidayat Heydarov (73 kg) and Zelym Kotsoiev (100 kg) earned gold medals for Azerbaijan.