http://www.today.az Covering Azerbaijan inside and outside http://www.today.az/images/logo_small.gif http://www.today.az http://www.today.az/news/regions/262903.html World news Tue, 21 Oct 2025 23:25:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaFerrari has unveiled the SC40 supercar — a unique, one-off creation designed exclusively for a private client. The bespoke model was developed as part of Ferrari’s prestigious Special Projects program and is based on the Ferrari 296 GTB platform, Azernews reports.The striking exterior of the SC40 was designed by Ferrari’s legendary Chief Designer, Flavio Manzoni, whose portfolio includes the Ferrari LaFerrari, 12Cilindri, F80 concept, and of course, the 296 GTB. The name SC40 is a tribute to the iconic Ferrari F40, one of Manzoni’s greatest sources of inspiration.Unlike the 296 GTB, the SC40 features an entirely reworked body with bold, angular lines that transition into fluid, sculpted surfaces. Notable design elements include an elongated, low-profile front hood, a short rear overhang, and a prominent fixed rear wing that gives the car an unmistakably aggressive stance. Ferrari engineers revealed that the aerodynamic upgrades result in 10% more downforce compared to the standard 296 GTB, enhancing high-speed stability and cornering performance.Under the hood, the SC40 retains the 296 GTB’s hybrid powertrain — a 610 kW (830 hp) system combining a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 488 kW (663 hp) and an electric motor delivering an additional 123 kW (167 hp). Power is transmitted through an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, enabling blistering performance.Despite the aggressive design and aerodynamic enhancements, the SC40’s performance figures remain identical to the 296 GTB: 0–100 km/h in 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 330 km/h.As is tradition with Ferrari's most exclusive models, both the identity of the client and the car's price remain confidential. However, given its one-of-a-kind status and the craftsmanship involved, the SC40 is likely to be valued well into the multi-million-euro range.Ferrari’s Special Projects program has previously produced legendary one-offs like the P4/5 by Pininfarina and the SP3JC — vehicles that not only celebrate the owner’s unique vision but often become future collectibles of immense historical value. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262902.html World news Tue, 21 Oct 2025 22:20:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaSouth Korean defense company LIG Nex1 unveiled its G-Sword ground-based robotic platform at the ADEX 2025 exhibition held in Seoul, Azernews reports.The combat robot, built on a tracked chassis, is equipped with an automatic cannon and the Raybolt anti-tank guided missile system (ATGM). Designed to engage individual targets and provide autonomous support during military operations, the G-Sword represents a significant advancement in robotic warfare technology.The platform features an AI-powered navigation system and advanced terrain-scanning sensors, enabling it to autonomously plan and navigate complex routes even in challenging environments. Its modular design allows for the integration of a wide range of equipment and weaponry, including communication repeaters and air defense systems. Additionally, the G-Sword can be used to transport various types of cargo, enhancing its versatility on the battlefield.An interesting aspect of the G-Sword is its potential role in reducing human casualties by performing high-risk tasks such as frontline reconnaissance and precision strikes. As robotics and AI continue to evolve, platforms like the G-Sword may become central to future military strategies around the world. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/262901.html Analytics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 20:58:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzWhen I was still a child, I used to hear jokes and sayings from the elders about neighbouring countries. I remember they would say that when a Georgian, an Armenian, and an Azerbaijani reached an agreement, they had to be absolutely certain about it. For example, if an Azerbaijani and a Georgian made a deal, a handshake would be enough. But if an Armenian was involved, then a document or a stamp was necessary. Much like the situation we see today in the peace negotiations.It turns out that the elders’ words carried wisdom after all. I have no intention of telling a joke here, but the Armenian government’s so-called peace initiative has itself become something of a joke; one that everyone is now repeating, in which the country's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan has once again made statements that expose Yerevan’s contradictory stance toward peace with Azerbaijan. In an attempt to appear firm, Mirzoyan declared that Armenia does not accept Azerbaijan’s constitutional condition for signing a peace treaty, claiming that “the Armenian constitution does not contain any territorial claims to any state.”Yet, moments later, he revealed that work on a new constitution is nearing completion, effectively admitting that Baku’s demand has a legal basis.“They [the Azerbaijani side] believe there is a problem with our constitution. This is their opinion. They want us to amend the Constitution. We do not accept this condition. We have an agenda of amending the constitution or adopting a new one. There is nothing in the Armenian Constitution about territorial claims against Azerbaijan. The problem that the Azerbaijani side says simply does not exist. However, we have been talking about amending the Constitution of Armenia or adopting a new one since 2018. The commission is already completing its work, and most likely, we will hold a referendum on this issue after the 2026 parliamentary elections,” Mirzoyan said.This statement alone illustrates Yerevan’s political duality, denial wrapped in confirmation. On the eve of crucial parliamentary elections, the Armenian government is trying to appear uncompromising before its domestic audience. The radical opposition, church structures, and diaspora lobbies are capitalizing on this narrative, portraying Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s administration as one “acting under Baku and Ankara’s pressure.”In truth, there is no “pressure”, only the long-overdue obligation for Armenia to align itself with international law and renounce its adventurist territorial agenda. These are steps Yerevan must take, regardless of who holds power. Otherwise, as the recent past has shown, Armenia’s continued defiance only leads to isolation and self-imposed blockade.Interestingly, just a year ago, Armenian parliamentary speaker Alen Simonyan indicated that certain constitutional amendments were under consideration to remove Azerbaijan’s territorial claims. However, subsequent statements by Pashinyan suggested otherwise. During an international summit in Yerevan, he acknowledged discussions about Azerbaijan’s claims, implying that the Armenian constitution still reflects territorial aspirations. He also cited historical events from 1915–1917, fueling domestic and regional tensions.Before the Abu Dhabi meeting, Pashinyan emphasized that any constitutional amendments depend on the will of the people—meaning that changes require constitutional court approval and potentially a referendum. Currently, his administration maintains that this issue is not immediately on the agenda and that signing a peace agreement without resolving constitutional matters is impossible. At the same time, Pashinyan stresses that an international peace agreement takes precedence over constitutional technicalities.Domestic politics heavily influence this approach. Public dissatisfaction could impact Pashinyan’s approval rating if he moves to amend the constitution in line with Azerbaijan’s legitimate demands. His party, Civil Contract, currently holds 71 seats in parliament, with the opposition holding 29. Any perceived concession could weaken internal support, making Pashinyan cautious.Despite the rhetoric, the facts remain: Armenia’s constitution must change. Its territorial claims extend not only toward Azerbaijan but also toward Türkiye — visible even in its national symbols, such as the Mount Ararat motif on the state emblem. The irony is striking — the mountain, known in reality as A?r? Da?? and located in Türkiye, stands as a permanent reminder of a delusional political doctrine.A small, yet symbolic, development occurred recently: from November 1, the image of Mount Ararat will no longer appear on Armenian border checkpoint stamps. This step, though modest, signals an understanding that constitutional and symbolic reform is inevitable if Armenia truly seeks peaceful coexistence.Prime Minister Pashinyan himself seems aware of this reality. In a recent address, he urged Armenians to “learn from history,” saying:“Our history tells us: do not repeat my mistakes. To prevent this, we must read, learn, and deeply understand our history.”He framed this within the ideology of a “Real Armenia” and the vision of a “Fourth Republic,” suggesting a departure from the destructive nationalism that marked earlier eras.But slogans alone will not suffice. For any “new republic” to survive, it must be grounded in genuine peace and regional cooperation — not in inherited hostility or imagined grandeur. If Yerevan truly wants to build a real Armenia, it must first abandon the illusions of the past. Otherwise, even the so-called “fourth republic” risks becoming the last. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262900.html Sports Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:55:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe U-23 World Wrestling Championships have kicked off in Novi Sad, Serbia.Azerbaijani Greco-Roman wrestlers competed on the opening day of the tournament.Ziya Babashov (63 kg) defeated Miruto Tokuhika (Japan) 7:1, Mohammad Navi (Iran) 3:1, and Dorji Shungurtsikov (Russia) by the criteria rule (1:1) to advance to the semifinals. In this round, he will face Servet Angi of Turkiye.Other Azerbaijani wrestlers, Davud Mammadov (77 kg) and Lachin Valiyev (87 kg), lost their opening bouts.Aykhan Mardanov (130 kg) won his first match by fall against Shuangyu Chen (China) to reach the quarterfinals, but was then defeated 0:9 by Aleksandr Melekhov (UWW).Note that the Azerbaijani team includes Elmir Aliyev (55 kg), Ilkin Gurbanov (60 kg), Ziya Babashov (63 kg), Faraim Mustafayev (67 kg), Ruslan Nurullayev (72 kg), Davud Mammadov (77 kg), Elmin Aliyev (82 kg), Lachin Valiyev (87 kg), Ali Guliyev (97 kg), and Aykhan Mardanov (130 kg).They are competing at the tournament under the leadership of head coach Aleksandr Tarakanov, senior coach Rovshan Bayramov, and coaches Hasan Aliyev and Kamran Mammadov.The female athletes representing Azerbaijan are Asmar Jankurtaran (50 kg), Elnura Mammadova (53 kg), Gultakin Shirinova (55 kg), Nargiz Samadova (57 kg), Gunay Gurbanova (59 kg), Birgul Soltanova (62 kg), and Ruzanna Mammadova (65 kg).Women wrestlers have entered the competition under the leadership of acting head coach Togrul Asgarov, senior coach Aghahuseyn Mustafayev, and coach Solmaz Adilova.Freestyle wrestlers will compete in the final days of the tournament, including Muhammadali Alizade (57 kg), Jeykhun Allahverdiyev (61 kg), Aykhan Abdullazad? (65 kg), Kanan Heybatov (70 kg), Magomed-Bashir Khaniyev (74 kg), Farid Jabbarov (79 kg), Ali Tsokayev (86 kg), Sadig Mustafazade (92 kg), Zafar Aliyev (97 kg), and Khetag Karsanov (125 kg), under the leadership of head coach Khetag Gazyumov, senior coach Jabrayil Hasanov, and coaches Taymuraz Kokoyev and Sharif Sharifov.The World Championship is officiated by Category I referee Asif Shiraliyev, as well as Category I referees Kamran Aliyev and Habib Nurulu.Wrestling remains the most popular sport in the country and is governed by the National Wrestling Federation, established in 1993.The Rio Olympic Games marked a new chapter in Azerbaijan's wrestling history, as the nation became one of only two countries ever to increase its medal count in five consecutive Olympic Games.In 2020, Azerbaijani freestyle wrestlers finished third in the overall medal table of the Individual World Cup in Serbia.National wrestlers won two medals, including silver and bronze. Russia topped the medal table, followed by Turkiye.In 2022, Azerbaijani wrestler Osman Nurmagomedov (92 kg) was crowned the World Champion in Belgrade.Nurmagomedov became the World Champion after defeating the Russian wrestler in the final.At the 2024 Summer Olympics, Greco-Roman wrestler Hasrat Jafarov (67 kg), freestyle wrestlers Giorgi Meshvildishvili (125 kg) and Magomedkhan Magomedov (97 kg) won bronze medals for Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262899.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:32:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzArmenian Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan has welcomed Azerbaijan’s decision to lift all restrictions on transit of goods to Armenia following President Ilham Aliyev's press statement with his Kazakh counterpart, Azernews reports via Armenian media.Asked to comment, Grigoryan, who leads the Armenian governmental commission on border delimitation with Azerbaijan, praised the efforts and work carried out by Azerbaijani and Kazakh colleagues in that direction."I am pleased and I welcome the decision of the President of Azerbaijan to lift the restrictions on cargo transportation to Armenia. This step holds significant importance for the opening of regional connectivity, strengthening mutual trust, and advancing the peace agenda. I highly appreciate the efforts of our partners from Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, as well as the work that has been done in this regard", - Grigoryan stated. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262898.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:17:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe Azerbaijan State Theater of Young Spectators has started rehearsals for the play "The Glass Slipper", based on Charles Perrault's fairy tale "Cinderella", Azernews reports.One-act production is directed by Ayla Osmanova, with set design by Mustafa Mustafayev, musical arrangement by Aghasalim Feyzullayev, and assistant director Nasiba Janaliyeva. The choreography is by Jeyhun Dadashov.The cast includes Honored Artist Gular Nabiyeva, as well as actors Asya Atakishiyeva, Khalida Elmammadova, Rashad Safarov, Hokuma Rahimzada, Khayala Gasimova, Umman Budagov, Adalat Abdulsamad, Ramiq Nasirov, Yusif Dadashov, and Natiq Farzaliyev.The fairy tale tells the story of a young girl who faces hardship and cruelty from her stepmother and stepsisters. Despite the injustice, she remains patient and resilient. When the prince organizes a royal ball, her stepmother and stepsisters refuse to let her attend.However, with the help of a magical woman, Cinderella goes to the ball, where she meets the handsome prince. He falls in love with her and, after the ball, searches for the owner of the lost slipper to reunite with her.With its rich history and experience, Azerbaijan State Theater of Young Spectators has earned immense admiration and affection from art lovers.The Baku Children's Theater officially began its operations on September 20, 1928, following a decree from the Commissariat of Public Enlightenment of Azerbaijan. The first actors and directors of the theater included Aghadadash Gurbanov, Mammadaga Dadashov, Yusif Eminli, Mina Abdullayeva, Yusif Dadashov, Susanna Majidova, Cavahir Iskandarov, Suleyman Alasgarov, Huseynagha Sadikhov, Karim Hasanov, Zafar Nematov, Maharram Hashimov, Alimammad Atayev, and others.The Russian section of the theater was launched on November 6, 1928, with the play Five People by N. Smirnov and S. Serbakov, while the Azerbaijani section opened on January 30, 1930, with Against the Red Tie by N. Ivanter.On July 18, 1936, the Baku Children's Theater was renamed the Azerbaijan State Theater of Young Spectators by a decree of the Commissariat of Public Enlightenment of Azerbaijan.The theater's collective earned widespread recognition, winning the best antique performance award at the XII International Festival of Antique Art in Simferopol, held from June 4-11, 2010, for their performance of G. Figueredo’s Aesop.In February 2011, the theater performed Othello at the 32nd International Festival Fajr in Kurgan, Iran, where they returned home with great success.By decision No. 41 of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated March 19, 2009, the Azerbaijan State Youth Theater, along with the Baku Camera Theater, was merged into the Azerbaijan State Theater of Young Spectators. After significant renovation and modernization in April of the same year, the theater resumed its operations in a newly equipped building with updated technologies and a modern design.The theater actively participates in promoting Azerbaijan's cultural achievements, showcasing its work at numerous prestigious festivals, including the first Shaki International Theater Festival, the 19th Belaya Veja ("White Castle") International Theater Festival, the first International Martin McDonagh Festival, the 17th Black Sea International Theater Festival, and the 5th International Theater Festival Northern Meetings, among others.Throughout its history, the theater has successfully staged a wide range of important productions, such as Sheikh Sanan (Huseyn Javid), Aydin (Jafar Jabbarli), Road to Mekkah (Jalil Mammadguluzadeh), Cherry Garden (Anton Chekhov), Othello (William Shakespeare), Aesop (Guillermo Figueredo), Hekayati Khirs Gouldour Basan (Mirza Fatali Akhundov), Victoria (Hamsun), The Trick of the Witch (Y. Schwartz), Aladdin's Magic Lamp (Arabic Folk Tale), The Last Train or Dogs (I. Fahmi, O. Kazimi), Nutcracker (E.T.A. Hoffmann), and Sleeping Beauty. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262897.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:25:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev made press statements in Astana, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262896.html Sports Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:16:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijan's Olympic judo champions Hidayat Heydarov (73 kg) and Zelym Kotsoiev (100 kg) have moved into the world's top three rankings following their outstanding performances at Guadalajara Grand Prix 2025, Azernews reports.International Judo Federation (IJF) has published updated world rankings based on the tournament results.The Azerbaijani national team took first place in the overall medal standings with nine medals.The gold medalists were Balabay Aghayev (60 kg), Ruslan Pashayev (66 kg), Hidayat Heydarov (73 kg), Vusal Galandarli (81 kg), Zelym Kotsoiev (100 kg), and Ushangi Kokauri (+100 kg). Bronze medals went to Ahmad Yusifov (60 kg), Rashid Mammadaliyev (73 kg), and Murad Fatiyev (90 kg).In the 73 kg category, Hidayat Heydarov advanced three places to third in the world rankings with 4176 points.Shahram Akhadov (Uzbekistan, 4523 points) and Tatsuki Ishihara (Japan, 4500 points) hold first and second places, respectively. In the same category, Rashid Mammadaliyev rose two spots to fifth place with 3917 points.Olympic champion Zelym Kotsoiev (100 kg) also moved up three places and now ranks second with 5118 points. The ranking leader is Matvey Kanikovskiy, representing IJF, with 5550 points.In the 60 kg category, Balabay Aghayev climbed four places to sixth with 3356 points, while Ahmad Yusifov surged 14 spots to 12th with 2360 points.In the 66 kg category, Ruslan Pashayev rose 11 places to fourth with 3171 points. In the 81 kg category, Zelim Tskaev moved up two places to third with 4265 points, and Vusal Galanderli jumped over 145 spots to 52nd with 812 points.In the 90 kg class, Eljan Hajiyev (3651 points) maintained his second place, while Murad Fatiyev (2546 points) climbed 13 spots to seventh.Among heavyweights, Ushangi Kokauri advanced seven places and now ranks seventh with 3436 points.The Guadalajara Grand Prix 2025 took place in Mexico, bringing together 231 judokas from 33 countries.Founded in 1972, the Azerbaijan Judo Federation actively promotes this martial art across the country. The President of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation is Rashad Nabiyev.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, ?rina 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. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262895.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:09:00 +0400 On October 21, a ceremony for the exchange of Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan documents took place in Astana, with the participation of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Azernews reports.First, Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the “Joint Statement of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Heydar oglu Aliyev and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich Tokayev on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on Strategic Partnership and Allied Relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan”, the “Decision No. 1 of the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan on strengthening bilateral cooperation”, and the “Decision No. 2 of the second meeting of the Supreme Interstate Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan on the approval of the Charter of the Council of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Kazakhstan”.Following the signing, the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan documents were exchanged. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262894.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:01:00 +0400 The TRIPP project will definitely be implemented, President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev said during a joint press statement with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Azernews reports.“As you know, one of the achievements of the Washington Summit in August is the TRIPP project (The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity). President Trump has given his name to this project, which naturally indicates that it will definitely be implemented. This opens up yet another route for the Middle Corridor. In addition to the traditional route, a new one through Zangezur will be added, with a cargo turnover of 15 million tons meeting the most modern standards. Thus, the volume of cargo from Asia to Europe and back through our countries’ territories has the potential to grow on its own, but it will also have even greater potential for receiving and dispatching,” the head of state noted. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262893.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:52:00 +0400 The opening of the Zangazur Corridor could take place by the end of 2028, said President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev during a joint press statement with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.“In addition to all that we are currently planning and implementing, the Zangazur Corridor project holds enormous potential. Within Azerbaijan, all work on road and rail infrastructure will be completed by the middle of next year. We hope that in other countries the work will proceed at the same pace, and in that case, the opening of the Zangazur Corridor could occur by the end of 2028,” the President pointed out. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262892.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:26:00 +0400 On October 21, the second meeting of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Supreme Interstate Council was held in Astana with the participation of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262891.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:24:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaThe Republic Children and Youth Development Center has hosted an awarding ceremony for the winners of the 5th Azerbaijan Astronomy Olympiad.The event aimed to increase interest in astronomy in Azerbaijan, promote wider inclusion of this science in the education system, and ensure the international representation of talented students.Gold, silver, and bronze medals, diplomas, and gifts were presented to the winners.Since 2016, the Republic Children and Youth Development Center, together with the Tusi-Bohm Planetarium, the only planetarium in the South Caucasus has initiated astronomy-oriented programs for school students.The preparation for the Olympiad was also carried out under the main sponsorship of the Tusi-Bohm Planetarium.The Olympiad, organized among 9th to 11th-grade students of general education institutions, registered 1,200 participants for the national round. More than 100 students demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the final stage, which consisted of two phases. According to the Organizing Committee's decision, 7 students were awarded first place, 11 students second place, and 10 students third place.The winners of the 5th Azerbaijan Astronomy Olympiad were invited to preparatory courses for the 18th International Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (IOAA 2025). These preparatory lessons were organized at the Center by experts from Baku State University and the Republic Children and Youth Development Center.As part of the preparation, a special training camp was also held at the Nasreddin Tusi Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory.The winning team of the Olympiad successfully participated in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (IOAA 2025), held from August 11 to 21 in Mumbai, India. The team won a total of 2 bronze medals and 2 honorable mentions in the Olympiad, which included both theoretical and practical rounds.The bronze medals were awarded to Ogtay Latifli, an 11th-grade student of the Physics, Mathematics, and Informatics Lyceum in Baku, and Mahammad Jafarli, a 10th-grade student of the Technical Humanitarian Lyceum in Baku. The honorable mentions were given to Raiq Babazade, a 10th-grade student of the Physics, Mathematics, and Informatics Lyceum, and Aqil Guleliyev, an 11th-grade student of the same lyceum.The team's participation in the International Olympiad was supported by the Institute of Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan.The organizers of the Olympiad were Baku State University, the Institute of Education, the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory, the Republic Children and Youth Development Center, and the Amateur Astronomy Society Public Association. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262890.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:14:00 +0400 Azerbaijan has lifted all restrictions on the transit of goods to Armenia, said President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev in a joint press statement with President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in Astana, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262889.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 13:10:00 +0400 “A new era of peace has begun between Azerbaijan and Armenia,” said President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev at the second meeting of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Supreme Interstate Council, Azernews reports.“Today marks, or I would even say, a new stage - the stage of peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Reaching the initialing of a peace agreement less than two years after the last military clashes demonstrates that both countries have shown a high level of political will,” the President stated.President Ilham Aliyev also underscored that the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in facilitating the normalization of relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia deserves the highest recognition. http://www.today.az/news/business/262888.html Business Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:53:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulA ceremony was held to celebrate the production of 1 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity at the Garadagh Solar Power Plant, which has a capacity of 230 megawatts (MW).The event was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan, Azerenerji JSC, and the UAE-based renewable energy company Masdar.Commissioned in 2023, the Garadagh Solar Power Plant is Azerbaijan’s first large-scale international renewable energy investment project. It plays a key role in supporting the country’s transition to green energy.Over the past two years, the plant has generated 1 billion kWh of electricity - an achievement that has allowed the country to save approximately 220 million cubic meters of natural gas and prevent the emission of 400,000 tons of CO? into the atmosphere.As part of the event, a symbolic certificate was signed by Javid Abdullayev, Director of the State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources under the Ministry of Energy, and Rustam Gasimov, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Azerenerji. The certificate was then presented to Abdulaziz Alobaidli, Chief Operating Officer of Masdar.Notably, the Garadagh Solar Power Plant generates around 500 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, providing clean energy to approximately 110,000 households. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262887.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:48:00 +0400 President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev highlighted the contribution of Ilham Aliyev to the development of bilateral relations, Azernews reports.Speaking at the second meeting of the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Supreme Interstate Council, the Kazakh leader emphasized: “Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, the current high-level Kazakh-Azerbaijani relations have been achieved, first and foremost, thanks to your personal contribution. I deeply and highly value your unwavering support and attention to this matter.”Kassym-Jomart Tokayev also noted that all the outstanding achievements of modern Azerbaijan are inseparably linked to the constructive and strong leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262886.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:36:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaWriter and playwright, Honored Art Worker, author of more than thirty plays and nearly twenty books, Ali Amirli has presented his latest work to readers, a text intended for a multi-episode television film.This new work, titled "Gates of Heaven", consists of 24 episodes.Although it is based on the motifs of Amirli's famous comedy "The Rich Woman", which has been staged in more than twenty theaters (including twelve abroad) and has received awards at international theater festivals the new piece is presented as a dramatic TV series script enriched with elements of comedy, dark comedy, melodrama, and unexpected intense events.Note that the presentation of a TV series script in book format is the first experience of its kind in the country.Ali Amirli has been engaged in literary work since 1971. Over the years, dozens of his short stories, novellas, and novels have been published in periodicals, including the magazines "Azerbaijan", "Ulduz", and "Literary Azerbaijan". He is the author of more than twenty short stories.Since 1990, he has been active in playwriting. His plays have been staged in most theaters across Azerbaijan, including the Azerbaijan State Academic National Drama Theater, the State Theater of Musical Comedy, the State Theater for Young Audiences, the State Youth Theater, and others.His works have been translated into Russian, Turkish, Tajik, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and other languages.The television play "Bala-bashabyala" (1995), based on his comedy, was repeatedly broadcast on AzTV and other national TV channels and gained wide popularity.In 2000, he was awarded the Humay Award for his literary achievements.On December 30, 2015, Ali Amirli was granted the honorary title of Honored Art Worker of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262885.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:33:00 +0400 With the support of Azerbaijani scholars, the book “Grammar of the Iraqi-Turkmen Language” has been published for the first time in Iraq’s history.Initiated and organized by the Eurasian International Development Association (EIDA), based in Azerbaijan, and co-authored by Ph.D on philosophy, associate professor Elnur Mustafayev, head of department at the Institute of Oriental Studies of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), and professor Mahmud Khalil Chayirli of Baghdad University, the book was developed through a comparative analysis with the Azerbaijani language. It was published with the partnership of ANAS’s Institute of Oriental Studies and the Baghdad Philosophy Academy.Although numerous studies, books, and research articles have been written about the Iraqi-Turkmen language and literature in Iraq, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, until now no book had fully covered the grammar of the Iraqi-Turkmen language. Previous efforts only addressed parts of its grammar.This current research-book analyzes the phonetic, morphological, and syntactic grammatical rules of the Iraqi-Turkmen language in comparison with Azerbaijani grammar, identifies full compatibility, and presents the foundational basis for an independent grammar of the Turkmen language.According to Elchin Asgarov, the chairman of EIDA’s Board of Directors, “This publication is just the first and modest initiative in this direction. Its main goal is to contribute to the preservation of the Turkmen language in Iraqi society, where nearly 4 million Turkmen citizens live, and to support the formation of an academic grammatical foundation and a unified literary language for Iraqi-Turkmen. We hope this step will inspire new initiatives in Iraq’s Turkmen academic circles and lead to more comprehensive books and research. Especially considering that, the Iraqi government also supports local initiatives aimed at preserving the language and culture of the Turkmen people.”The book has already been published in Azerbaijani and Arabic (including Turkmen language rules written in Arabic script), and presentations are planned in both countries in the near future.It’s worth noting that for several years now, EIDA has successfully implemented various projects aimed at preserving the identity of Turkmens in Iraq. http://www.today.az/news/business/262884.html Business Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:24:00 +0400 On October 21, the “Middle Corridor Development” (Trans-Caspian International Transport Route) joint project was presented with the participation of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Azernews reports.The heads of state received detailed information about the project.The Middle Corridor, as the main transport-logistics route connecting China and Central Asian countries with European states, plays a strategic role in strengthening regional and intercontinental trade. It was noted that shipments from China to Azerbaijan are steadily increasing and are projected to triple by 2030 compared to current levels, further underscoring the project’s importance.The heads of state were also informed about specific steps and initiatives aimed at increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of the Middle Corridor. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262883.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:08:00 +0400 “Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are not only friendly states but also brotherly peoples and nations. Therefore, for us, this represents a major priority — I am referring to the development of multifaceted cooperation with your country,” said President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev during a one-on-one meeting with President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.“Moreover, Azerbaijan, under your strong leadership, has noticeably bolstered its positions, reinforced its authority on the international stage, and plays a very important role as a regional power in your part of the world,” President Tokayev added. http://www.today.az/news/business/262882.html Business Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:54:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulThe price of Azerbaijan’s Azeri Light crude oil at Italy’s Augusta port (CIF basis) fell by $0.34, or 0.55%, to $61.83 per barrel, compared to the previous rate.At Turkiye’s Ceyhan port (FOB basis), Azeri Light also declined by $0.34, or 0.56%, settling at $59.91 per barrel.Meanwhile, the price of Urals crude dropped by $0.37 (0.75%) to $48.70 per barrel, and Dated Brent, produced in the North Sea, decreased by $0.34 (0.56%) to $60.57 per barrel.Azerbaijan’s 2025 state budget is based on an assumed average oil price of $70 per barrel. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262881.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:46:00 +0400 On October 21, Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, held a one-on-one meeting with Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, in Astana.Welcoming President Ilham Aliyev, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said:- Dear Ilham Heydar oglu, it is a great honor and pleasure for me to welcome you on an official state visit to the Republic of Kazakhstan. This is a very important event from the perspective of further strengthening the strategic partnership and allied relations between our countries. Without any exaggeration, it can be confidently stated that Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are not only friendly states but also brotherly peoples and nations. Therefore, for us, this represents a major priority — I am referring to the development of multifaceted cooperation with your country. Moreover, Azerbaijan, under your strong leadership, has noticeably bolstered its positions, reinforced its authority on the international stage, and plays a very important role as a regional power in your part of the world. For us, fostering both economic and trade-economic cooperation — not to mention advancing our political partnership — is an urgent and highly important task.I welcome you to our country.President Ilham Aliyev said:- Thank you, dear Kassym-Jomart Kemelevich.First and foremost, I would like to thank you for the invitation to visit fraternal Kazakhstan on a state visit, as well as for your hospitality. Thank you for your kind words about Azerbaijan. We share the same sentiments toward the fraternal people of Kazakhstan.We also rejoice in the successes of the fraternal country under your leadership, both in socio-economic development and in strengthening its international positions. Today, Kazakhstan demonstrates a high level of development. The country ensures socio-political stability, and its economy is self-sufficient. We observe with great interest the reforms you are implementing and fully support your course toward modernizing the country and enhancing its potential.Regarding our bilateral relations, you noted their strategic and allied nature. We are focused on strengthening interaction across all areas.Today, as part of our negotiations, as well as during the session of the Supreme Interstate Council, we will once again review the extensive agenda and, naturally, outline further steps to strengthen our partnership.Thank you once again.President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev: Thank you. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262880.html Sports Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:43:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe 10th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNESCO International Convention Against Doping in Sport (COP10) has begun at UNESCO's headquarters in Paris, France.Azerbaijan Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov delivered a speech during the opening session of the event.During the session, elections were held for the chairmanship of COP10.As a result of the vote, Farid Gayibov emerged victorious with a majority of votes, defeating his Senegalese counterpart, Khadi Dien Guya, and was elected Chair of the 10th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNESCO International Convention Against Doping in Sport.Farid Gayibov was elected Chair of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee for Physical Education and Sport (CIGEPS) in 2022. In 2023, he was selected as Vice Chair of the 9th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UNESCO International Convention Against Doping in Sport (COP9). http://www.today.az/news/politics/262879.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:28:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreHikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Department of Foreign Policy Affairs of the Presidential Administration, shared a post on the social network “X” regarding President Ilham Aliyev’s visit to Kazakhstan, Azernews reports.Hajiyev highlighted in his post that President Ilham Aliyev has visited the Central Asian region three times in recent months — Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan.He noted that Azerbaijan–Central Asian relations, once symbolized by the “5+1” formula — representing Azerbaijan as a separate partner alongside the five Central Asian states — have now evolved into a deeper political and historical reality. http://www.today.az/news/business/262878.html Business Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:25:00 +0400 Nazrin AbdulAzerbaijan is set to begin domestic satellite manufacturing in the near future, with the first major steps already underway. Despite challenging geopolitical conditions, a dedicated Research and Development team from Azerbaijan has been undergoing intensive satellite production training in Israel for the past 18 months under the Azersky-2 project.Azernews reports that this announcement was made by Dunay B?dirxanov, Acting Chairman of the Board of the Azerbaijan Space Agency (Azercosmos), during the event titled "Opportunities from Space: 10 Years of Contributions of Earth Observation to Socio-Economic Development."B?dirxanov stated that the design and planning work for a new Spacecraft Development Center - including a satellite production plant and training facilities for future engineers - has been completed. "We have already selected the construction site, and building will begin in the coming months. For satellite launch services, we have chosen SpaceX as our preferred partner," he added.In a historic move for the country's space sector, Azercosmos has also established its first subsidiary: the Spacecraft Development and Production LLC. “This new company will facilitate the implementation of our satellite manufacturing projects and serve as a critical step toward developing Azerbaijan’s independent space industry,” B?dirxanov emphasized. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262877.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:11:00 +0400 Security and defense issues have been important to humanity at all times. Today, when military technologies have reached a new level of development, this topic is no longer individual for countries and requires a collective approach. In the modern world, even the powers alone are not capable of ensuring their security and integrity. Cooperation, partnership, and bilateral and multilateral agreements can serve as a fairly reliable guarantee that external stakeholders will think ten times before taking unfriendly steps.    Speaking at the 12th Summit of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev proposed to hold joint military exercises within the framework of the OTS. "Taking into account the broad cooperation between our countries in the military, defense and security spheres, we propose to hold joint military exercises of the Organization of Turkic States member states in Azerbaijan in 2026," he said.   The President of Azerbaijan stated the need for cooperation in the security and defense spheres in the space of the OTS at the 10th anniversary summit of the organization in Astana in November 2023. Last September, at a meeting of the heads of Central Asian and Azerbaijani countries in Kazakhstan, the Azerbaijani leader said that the growing threats and challenges in the world require greater strengthening of cooperation between our countries in the field of defense and security. In this context, he emphasized the importance of joint military exercises.   The intentions of the OTS countries to continue joint activities in the field of the military-industrial complex were also reflected in the declaration of the informal summit of the Organization of Turkic States, held in July 2024 in Shusha.   In Gabala, the President of Azerbaijan once again raised the issue of joint exercises within the framework of the Organization of Turkic States. This proposal received a warm response in the Turkish media. It was called historical, and Turkish journalists have already come up with a name for the exercises themselves - the Turan exercises.   Exercises between member countries are conducted on a bilateral basis, and members of the TS participate in multilateral exercises with other countries. But so far there have been no military maneuvers that would be conducted under the auspices of the Organization of Turkic States.   Azerbaijan's OTS partners in Central Asia have numerous and fairly modern armies. In the ranking of the world's armies for 2025, the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are even ahead of our country. Nevertheless, Azerbaijan has something that none of the fraternal Turkic countries has - the experience of a victorious war. Even the second NATO army, Turkiye, has no such experience. This experience is very expensive, and God forbid any of our brothers get it in reality. Strengthening defense cooperation and institutionalizing this cooperation within the framework of the TS is the best way to avoid facing serious threats to our sovereignty and integrity.       According to experts, military maneuvers under the auspices of the TS should become regular and be conducted, including in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan. Such exercises will not only contain a powerful geopolitical message, but will also allow us to learn from the experience of the Azerbaijani Army in recent battles.   Although the "Turan exercises" are still under discussion, the member countries have been cooperating for more than a year in terms of joint exercises.   In June of this year, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan conducted military exercises "Caspian Breeze-2025" in the Caspian Sea off the coast of Aktau port. In July, the Azerbaijan-Kazakhstan Tarlan-2025 tactical flight exercises were held, the main theme of which was the use of unmanned aerial vehicles. In September, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Turkiye participated in the Unlimited Brotherhood-IV joint exercises with Pakistan. Armored vehicles, army aircraft and UAVs were involved in the maneuvers.   On October 15, the opening ceremony of the joint regional exercises "Unity - 2025" with the participation of military personnel from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan took place in the Samarkand region of Uzbekistan.   In 2024, the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan conducted joint tactical and special exercises "Altyn Kyran - 2024" ("Golden Eagle - 2024"). The two countries also participated in the Birlestik-2024 command and staff exercises together with units of the armed forces of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as well as in joint naval exercises of the Caspian littoral states (Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia).   Now it's time to move the joint maneuvers directly to the site of the Organization of Turkic States.   A WORD TO THE EXPERT   Military expert, former corps commander, recipient of the Order of the Azerbaijani Banner, Reserve Colonel Shair Ramaldanov:   "Given the geopolitical situation and the ongoing processes in the world, the Organization of Turkic States should have a structure that will allow member countries to join forces to ensure their security and sovereignty. Unfortunately, international organizations that are called upon to protect the interests of countries suffering from such threats are failing to meet their obligations. Azerbaijan, part of whose territory was occupied by Armenia for thirty years, despite 4 UN resolutions, was forced to do it on its own. He himself restored his territorial integrity, paying a high price for it. I am sure that if there had been an organization uniting the Turkic states at that time, the history of the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict could have been completely different.   Any organization is only worth something if it knows how to defend itself. If there are no guarantees for the security of the countries located in its territory, this organization is worthless. It is no coincidence that President Ilham Aliyev raised the issue of security and cooperation in the fields of defense and security, as well as the holding of joint exercises at the 12th AH summit.   The issue of strengthening cooperation in the field of security and defense of the member countries of the Organization of Turkic States is a matter of time.   Azerbaijan conducted 25 exercises with Turkiye alone in 2025. Now it is necessary to make the exercises of the Turkic countries multilateral. The time has come for the Turkic countries to present a united front in matters of security in the Trans-Pacific Region. There are forces for this. In total, if we take only the number of armed forces of the CIS countries, then this is more than a million personnel. This is a very big force.   The main role, of course, is played by Turkiye, whose army is the second most powerful in NATO and the strongest in Europe. But other Turkic countries, based on today's geopolitical realities, are beginning to realize the need to strengthen the armed forces and increase the military budget. As national leader Heydar Aliyev said, it is much more difficult to preserve independence and make it eternal than to win it.      In terms of military cooperation, the Turkic countries and the OTS as an organization as a whole have very good prospects. With the establishment of the OTS+ format, the organization will begin to expand beyond the borders of the Turkic space, which is important from the point of view of strengthening security in our region and neighboring regions.   Azerbaijan conducted exercises with the Armed Forces of Kazakhstan and other CIS countries. But so far there have been no exercises under the auspices of the OTS. Such exercises are likely to take place in 2026. The issues of cooperation in the fields of security and defense of the Turkic countries are an issue that takes time to resolve. It takes time for the headquarters and armies of the member countries to learn how to interact and perform their tasks together. Over time, I think, appropriate OT structures will be created with the participation of representatives of the armed forces of the organization's members.   Azerbaijan has chosen the Turkish model for the development of the army. Perhaps other countries will use this model as a basis. This will make it possible in the future to better and reliably organize and coordinate interaction between the armies of the Turkic countries to fulfill a particular task. In the future, I also do not rule out the creation of the Turan army, which will serve to ensure the security of this region.   I would especially like to mention military-technical cooperation. The military-industrial complex of Azerbaijan attracts the attention of the members of the TS, and negotiations on joint negotiations are underway. The Azerbaijani military-industrial complex meets the most modern requirements, our personnel are highly qualified, constantly replenish their knowledge, and improve their professionalism at various events for the exchange of experience with partners with developed military-industrial complexes. These are Turkiye, Pakistan, and Israel. The products of the Azerbaijani military-industrial complex are in demand. As President Ilham Aliyev said, Azerbaijan exports military-industrial complex products to dozens of countries and the geography of supplies is expanding from year to year. This industry is profitable for Azerbaijan.   I am sure that the Turkic countries have great prospects in the military-technical sphere.   In short, unification and integration are relevant in today's world. One is not a warrior in the field, and in our turbulent times it is problematic to get out of difficult situations alone. The problems that the Turkic countries have are similar, and together we will figure them out." http://www.today.az/news/society/262876.html Society Tue, 21 Oct 2025 11:02:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovAzerbaijan’s Minister of Science and Education, Emin Amrullayev, met with nearly 90 Azerbaijani students studying in the United States during his official visit last week, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Science and Education.The meeting, held at George Washington University, focused on recent reforms in Azerbaijan’s science and higher education systems, as well as ongoing joint degree programs with American universities. Minister Amrullayev also spoke about the development of scientific institutions and other pressing issues in the education sector.During the event, the minister answered questions from students and discussed their academic and research prospects. He emphasized the importance of young Azerbaijanis contributing to the country’s labor market, scientific progress, and higher education landscape upon completing their studies abroad.Amrullayev’s visit underlines Azerbaijan’s commitment to building stronger educational and scientific links with leading U.S. institutions, expanding academic exchange, and encouraging the return of talented Azerbaijani graduates to drive national innovation and development. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262875.html World news Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:37:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzA court in Armenia has ordered the seizure of assets worth more than $3 million from the relatives and close associates of late war criminal and looter Manvel Grigoryan, former Deputy Minister of Defence of Armenia, Azernews reports via Armenian media.The court’s decision partially upheld a claim filed by Armenia’s Prosecutor General’s Office, which has announced plans to appeal the sections of the claim that were rejected.Grigoryan, a figure long associated with war crimes and corruption, had previously had his and his wife’s assets frozen by authorities in November 2023. His notorious record includes direct involvement in atrocities committed during the Garabagh conflict, where he admitted in an interview to bringing back hundreds of Azerbaijani captives from the occupied territories. The captives were held in his private residence and forced into labour, while Grigoryan also confessed to participating in the occupation of Azerbaijani territories and in acts of kidnapping, intimidation, and violence against civilians to prevent their return.During a court session on September 25, 2025, his recorded confessions were submitted as evidence in the ongoing trial of Armenian political and military leaders charged with crimes against peace and humanity, genocide, war crimes, and terrorism connected to Armenia’s aggression against Azerbaijan.The seizure of Grigoryan’s family assets marks a notable step in Armenia’s belated process of addressing wartime crimes and corruption, although it continues to face criticism for partial and selective justice regarding atrocities committed during the decades-long occupation of Azerbaijani lands. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262874.html Politics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:09:00 +0400 On October 21, an official welcome ceremony was held for President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev at the Akorda Presidential Palace in Astana, Kazakhstan, Azernews reports.A guard of honor was lined up for President Ilham Aliyev at the Akorda Presidential Palace.President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev welcomed President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.Members of the Kazakhstani delegation were introduced to President Ilham Aliyev, while members of the Azerbaijani delegation were introduced to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.The chief of the guard of honor reported to the Azerbaijani President.The national anthems of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan were performed.The presidents reviewed the guard of honor.The heads of state posed together for photographs. http://www.today.az/news/society/262873.html Society Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:00:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovAzerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rashad Nabiyev, held a series of meetings with representatives of the Kazakh government in Astana to discuss prospects for cooperation in innovation, digitalization, and information and communication technologies (ICT).Azernews reports that Minister Nabiyev shared details of the meetings on his official X (formerly Twitter) page.“In Astana, I met with Kazakhstan’s Minister of Transport, Nurkan Sauranbayev, and Presidential Advisor Asel Zhanassova to discuss the prospects of cooperation in innovation, digitalization, and ICT. During the visit, we also familiarized ourselves with the activities of the Astana Hub innovation center. We received detailed information about projects focused on training ICT professionals, supporting startups, and strengthening the digital ecosystem. We also exchanged views on opportunities for experience-sharing in digital development,” Nabiyev wrote.The minister added that during his meeting with Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Development and Artificial Intelligence, Zhaslan Madiev, the discussions focused on expanding cooperation in digital government solutions, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space technologies.The meetings underscored the growing partnership between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan in the fields of technology and digital transformation — areas increasingly seen as key drivers of economic diversification and regional innovation. Both countries are aiming to build stronger institutional and human capital capacity to foster innovation ecosystems and boost competitiveness in the digital era. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262872.html World news Tue, 21 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaAs air quality in the Indian capital region worsened to the "very poor" category, the federal government implemented restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Stage-II in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) on Sunday, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.The decision came following an emergency review meeting triggered by a continuous rise in pollution levels throughout the day. Authorities warned that urgent action was necessary to protect public health.Delhi-NCR is a vast metropolitan area encompassing the entire National Capital Territory of Delhi, along with neighboring districts from the states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.The Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi showed a steady upward trend, reaching 296 at 4 p.m. and worsening to 302 by 7 p.m. local time, indicating very poor air quality. According to forecasts from the India Meteorological Department and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, pollution levels are expected to deteriorate further over the coming days, as stated in the official order from the Commission for Air Quality Management.“The Sub-Committee has decided to invoke all measures under Stage-II (Very Poor Air Quality) of the current GRAP across the entire NCR immediately, in addition to the Stage-I actions already in place,” the order read.Among the measures under Stage-II are restrictions on construction activities, closure of schools for vulnerable groups, bans on diesel generator usage except for essential services, and stricter controls on vehicular emissions.Experts warn that the combination of seasonal weather conditions, crop residue burning in nearby states, and increased vehicular emissions is contributing to this sharp decline in air quality, raising urgent concerns for millions of residents in the region. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/262871.html Analytics Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:30:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulIn an era where the global energy landscape is defined by decarbonization, supply diversification, and geopolitical rebalancing, Azerbaijan is emerging as a key player, not only because of its abundant energy resources but also due to its strategic geography and expanding portfolio of clean energy partnerships. In the aftermath of hosting COP29 in Baku in 2024, Azerbaijan has accelerated its transformation from a traditional fossil fuel exporter to an emerging regional clean energy powerhouse. With sweeping renewable energy projects, high-level international partnerships, and strategic infrastructure development, Baku is positioning itself as a key connector in the evolving green energy architecture stretching from Central Asia to Europe.At the center of Azerbaijan’s green transformation is a state-led strategy driven by infrastructure development, regional diplomacy, and long-term energy integration. As the country’s Energy Minister, Parviz Shahbazov has articulated the operational roadmap behind this transition, emphasizing the importance of cooperation, planning, and global partnerships in delivering on national goals.“Having energy resources alone is not enough,” Shahbazov noted. “You need to build strong and reliable relations with your neighbors... Without cooperation, none of the energy security projects would be possible.”Despite record-high investments in renewables globally, the pace of deployment remains insufficient. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), 582 GW of new renewable capacity was added globally in 2024, yet this falls short of the 16.6% annual growth rate needed to triple renewable energy generation by 2030.Minister Shahbazov emphasized that Azerbaijan is not only developing renewable energy capacity but doing so through a systematic and grid-conscious approach.“The rapid development of renewable energy requires a parallel strengthening of transmission networks, energy storage, and system readiness. Azerbaijan is pursuing this integration from the very first stage,” he noted.The flagship AZURE project, supported by the World Bank, reflects this vision. It includes 2 GW of renewable generation, 250 MW of battery storage, and the construction of high-voltage transmission lines and the Navahi 500/300 kV substation, enhancing the resilience of the national grid and facilitating future exports.Azerbaijan aims to increase the share of renewables in its installed power generation capacity to 38% by 2030. To meet this goal, the government is working on an additional 700 MW of onshore and offshore renewable projects, developed in collaboration with key international partners.Cooperation with China’s EPPEI (Electric Power Planning and Engineering Institute) is already underway to assess the technological and economic capacity of the national grid to absorb increasing volumes of renewables.“This phased and responsible approach ensures not only production but also sustainable integration into the national energy system,” said Parviz Shahbazov.Azerbaijan has cultivated a multi-layered ecosystem of green energy partnerships, featuring major global players such as: Masdar (UAE); ACWA Power (Saudi Arabia); bp; TotalEnergies (France); China Datang, PowerChina, China Energy; SOCAR Green, Nobel Energy, and others. These partnerships have already materialized into concrete projects and strategic agreements.In April 2025, Azerbaijan and China signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement, covering wind, solar, battery storage, hydro-accumulation, and grid infrastructure. A minimum of 1,000 MW of renewable energy projects with Chinese companies is expected to be commissioned by 2032. Meanwhile, a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Washington in August 2025 emphasized renewable infrastructure and regional grid interconnections as key focus areas under the US-Azerbaijan Strategic Partnership Charter.One of the most consequential components of Azerbaijan’s green energy agenda is the development of the Zangezur Corridor, which restores uninterrupted land connectivity between mainland Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan. But beyond logistics, this corridor is evolving into a green energy bridge. According to Minister Shahbazov, the corridor will be essential in transmitting renewable electricity from Garabagh and Eastern Zangazur to Turkiye and European markets, either directly or through Armenia.The government is currently constructing:- A 400/330/110/35/10 kV converter substation in Nakhchivan- A 330 kV Jabrail–Nakhchivan line- A 400 kV Nakhchivan– Turkiye lineThis infrastructure not only integrates Nakhchivan into Azerbaijan’s grid but also positions the region as a key node in the “Azerbaijan–Turkiye–Europe Energy Hub”.Azerbaijan is also tapping into its massive offshore wind potential in the Caspian Sea. According to Shahbazov, 6 GW of offshore wind is planned, with 4 GW earmarked for export by 2032 via the Caspian–Black Sea–Europe Green Energy Corridor. This project is backed by the Caspian Breeze Consortium (Masdar, ACWA Power, SOCAR Green) and several Chinese partners. A feasibility study is expected by early 2026. A joint venture, GECO Green Energy Company, has already submitted the project for inclusion in the ENTSO-E Ten-Year Network Development Plan (TYNDP), a critical step toward obtaining PCI/PMI status in the EU.At COP29 in Baku, the presidents of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan signed a historic agreement launching the Trans-Caspian Green Energy Corridor. This marks the first attempt to link the electricity systems of Central Asia and the South Caucasus. A joint venture—the Green Corridor Alliance, headquartered in Baku—was formed to lead the project. With financial support from the Asian Development Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, feasibility studies are set to begin in November 2025.“This corridor is consistent with our policy of developing the Central Asia–South Caucasus–Caspian region as an integrated geopolitical space,” Shahbazov said.Hydrogen also features prominently in Azerbaijan’s long-term strategy. A National Strategic Overview and Action Plan on hydrogen production, consumption, and export is currently being finalized. “Hydrogen is an integral part of Azerbaijan’s green development and energy supply agenda,” noted Shahbazov.Simultaneously, geothermal energy - often overlooked - has been identified as a viable source of clean power. Azerbaijan’s geothermal heat potential is estimated at 571.2 MW, with pilot projects already underway in Bibiheybet, Kurdamir, and Masalli, some of which creatively repurpose decommissioned oil wells for clean energy generation.Energy efficiency is the “silent enabler” of Azerbaijan’s green agenda. The government is rolling out the Energy Efficiency Information System (EEIS) - a digital platform for monitoring and managing consumption across public and private sectors. To support financing, the Energy Efficiency Fund has been launched to provide: Preferential loans; Subsidies for efficient technologies; Piot project support. Seventeen technical regulations have been developed to guide eco-design and energy labeling, particularly for energy-intensive products.From its resource-rich past to its decarbonized future, Azerbaijan is undergoing a profound transformation. The country is laying the physical and diplomatic groundwork to become not just an energy producer - but a transit, export, and policy leader in the clean energy age. With its integration of Garabagh, Eastern Zangazur, and offshore Caspian resources into global markets, Azerbaijan is redefining the geography of green energy. And in doing so, it is creating a model for how fossil-fuel-rich nations can reorient themselves in the era of net-zero. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262870.html World news Tue, 21 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaAccording to a recent blog post by Marshall Miller of the Wikimedia Foundation, Wikipedia’s page views have declined by 8 percent compared to the previous year. This drop became apparent after an update to Wikipedia’s bot detection system revealed that much of the unusually high traffic between May and June was generated by sophisticated bots designed to evade detection.Miller attributes this decline partly to the growing influence of generative AI and changes in how people seek information online. Search engines are increasingly using AI-powered tools to provide direct answers to users, reducing the need to click through to external websites like Wikipedia. Additionally, younger audiences are turning more to social video platforms such as TikTok and YouTube for quick information, rather than browsing the open web.Despite these trends, Miller emphasized that the Wikimedia Foundation welcomes new ways for people to access knowledge and believes that Wikipedia’s role remains crucial. Even if users don’t visit the site directly, the encyclopedia’s content still reaches millions through AI summaries, voice assistants, and other integrations.Wikipedia itself experimented with generating AI-based article summaries to enhance accessibility but paused this initiative following concerns raised by its community of volunteer editors. This highlights the delicate balance Wikipedia strives to maintain between innovation and its core principles of accuracy and editorial control. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262869.html World news Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:23:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaGenesis, the luxury brand under Hyundai Motor Group, on Monday launched an upgraded version of its mid-sized GV70 sport utility vehicle (SUV), featuring enhanced comfort, advanced technology, and more flexible package options, Azernews reports, citing Yonhap agency.The new GV70 boasts improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control, achieved through additional sound-absorbing materials throughout the cabin. The 2.5 Turbo variant is equipped with an engine support damper, significantly reducing engine vibrations for a smoother and quieter ride.Customers can now choose from a broader range of new package offerings, allowing for more personalized configurations tailored to different preferences and lifestyles.The upgraded model also introduces a striking new color option, Bering Blue, designed to emphasize the vehicle’s premium and dynamic design language.“We refined the GV70’s product appeal to meet the tastes of customers seeking a premium and trendy SUV,” said a Genesis spokesperson. “By enhancing standard features and reorganizing optional packages, we aim to provide a more satisfying and refined mobility experience.”The updated GV70 reinforces Genesis’s commitment to blending luxury with cutting-edge engineering, positioning the SUV as a strong contender in the competitive luxury mid-size segment. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/262868.html Analytics Mon, 20 Oct 2025 20:17:00 +0400 The global financial media is buzzing with speculation. In recent months, some analysts, particularly in media outlets of Global South countries, have highlighted rising gold prices and reported that several central banks, including India’s, are exploring the creation of gold-backed digital currencies. These narratives often suggest that BRICS+ countries might one day introduce a currency capable of dethroning the US dollar.The reality, however, is far more complex. While gold-backed digital tokens exist in the private sector, for example, Pax Gold and Tether Gold, these are niche financial instruments, not national currencies. No BRICS+ country has issued, or is close to issuing, a state-backed digital currency tied to gold or any other element that could compete with the dollar at the global level.The allure of a gold-backed digital currency created by BRICS is understandable: gold is historically perceived as a safe-haven asset, and the idea of tying a new currency to a tangible commodity appeals to investors wary of fiat money. However, creating a new currency that rivals the dollar is not a matter of physics or metallurgy, it is a matter of trust. The dollar’s dominance is not based on gold or any intrinsic value; it rests entirely on the collective confidence of governments, banks, and markets worldwide. Even countries historically hostile to the United States have consistently held dollars in their reserves. Saddam Hussein, Muammar Gaddafi, and the Assad family all stored significant amounts of US dollars in their accounts, vaults, and safes; a testimony to the enduring trust in the dollar.The BRICS+ bloc, including Russia, China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and potential affiliates, has certainly grown economically and industrially. Yet, economic might alone cannot replace the dollar. For instance, China is the world’s second-largest economy, and the European Union ranks third, but how many countries actually hold the yuan as a reserve currency compared to the euro? The answer: very few. Even among nations seeking to challenge the “Global North,” the yuan has yet to surpass the euro in reserve currency status.Furthermore, the notion that a currency’s value depends on the commodity backing it, whether gold, uranium, or any other resource, is a misunderstanding of modern monetary systems. Money functions because people collectively believe in its value. A new BRICS+ currency, even if backed by gold or another element, would fail without widespread trust. In other words, you can back it with the most precious metals on Earth, but if the global market does not recognize it as reliable, it will remain ineffective.This perspective is reinforced when considering cultural and historical patterns. Economies and societies evolve through what social scientists call “cultural evolution,” the gradual accumulation of shared knowledge, institutions, and behaviors. Fiat currency, despite its flaws, represents one of humanity’s most successful innovations in economic evolution. Attempting to revert to a gold-based system is analogous to abandoning tractors for hand plows: it is not just impractical, it is regressive. History offers no examples of societies improving by discarding modern innovations in favor of older methods.Overall, while speculation about BRICS+ creating a dollar-challenging currency may dominate headlines, it remains just that—speculation. The structural, psychological, and historical foundations that sustain the dollar cannot be easily replicated or replaced. Gold-backed digital tokens may grow in niche markets, but the idea that they, or any BRICS+ initiative, could dethrone the dollar is, at present, unrealistic.It doesn’t mean that the dollar is permanently unassailable, and it cannot be dethroned by a challenger that fails to replicate the foundational elements of its trust. The current model pursued by some BRICS+ nations, achieving economic might without concomitant advances in political transparency, institutional stability, and the guaranteed rule of law, is insufficient. A currency's global status is a reflection of the system it represents. Therefore, a future challenger will not succeed by simply offering a gold-backed alternative or by rallying geopolitical dissent. It will only emerge from a system that is perceived as more democratic, more stable, and more reliably governed than the current order. The dollar's true successor, should it ever appear, will be built on a superior form of institutional trust, not merely on industrial capacity or a shared desire to break from the West. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262867.html Politics Mon, 20 Oct 2025 19:20:00 +0400 by Peter Marko TaseIn 1991 the Governments of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay established MERCOSUR with the signing of the Treaty of Asuncion, making it South America’s largest multilateral agreement assigned to tackle the commercial, economic and political matters in the continent. With the Treaty of Asuncion, the four nations agreed to ensure a “free movement of goods, services, and factors of production between countries.”According to a publication of the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR): the four nations reached an agreement to “eliminate customs duties, implement a common external tariff of 35 percent on certain imports from outside the bloc, and adopt a common trade policy toward outside countries and blocs.”For Shannon K. O’Neil, Ph. D. a Senior Vice President at CFR and Latin America Expert: “’MERCOSUR had grand ambitions, it was going to be a customs union with a political side’.” The Mercosur stamp is emblazoned on member countries’ passports, and license plates display the Mercosur symbol. Residents of the bloc are authorized to live and work anywhere within it. In 1994, the group signed the Protocol of Ouro Preto, formalizing its status as a customs union.”Although Argentina and Brazil aspired to mend ties and establish a greater level of regional cooperation in the fields of commerce, economy and political dialogue; the integration of the Republic of Paraguay within MERCOSUR has been highly partial, with a total lack of coherence shown in the alarming levels of poverty across the nation. Moreover, Asuncion has suffered from rampant domestic corruption at the highest levels of government, and its current economic stagnation (above-neutral growth) is the result of political bickering and disagreements that have taken shape between Argentina and Brazil. In the early 1990s, when the two South American Giants were keen to promote their bilateral dialogue and synchronize their commercial partnership, trade and commercial relations among the four countries experienced a significant growth. On the other hand, since the beginning of the XXI Century until today, MERCOSUR has lost its relevance and simply became a platform of empty talk were the Nation of Paraguay was always discriminated by the Leftist Governments of Argentina and Brazil, it has become clearly evident that the only landlocked country of the bloc is treated as a junior partner (Speronews, 2012). The recent implementation, enforcement of external tariffs – applied outside of MERCOSUR – to the Paraguayan automotive industry that is exporting auto parts in Brazil, is a typical example of Brasilia’s brash and arrogant attitude towards the Paraguayan products that are crossing the border (ABC Color, 2019).Despite these political hurdles and geographical disadvantages, the Republic of Paraguay has always shown a political support, reflected a great sense of responsibility and complied with all multilateral agreements signed within the framework of MERCOSUR. The Paraguayan six-months long Presidency of MERCOSUR in the first half of 2018, marked an important milestone in the overall history of the organization and particularly reached concrete results on its ongoing negotiations with the European Union. Furthermore, Paraguay has provided a constant political support for MERCOSUR to establish close cooperation agreements with the Governments of the Republic of Korea, Republic of Singapore, Republic of China (Taiwan), and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. This chapter presents a broad range of opportunities and challenges in Paraguay’s Foreign Policy; promotes the efforts of the current Paraguayan Government to further strengthen economic globalization thereby fostering international circulation of goods, services, technologies and capital.Paraguay, MERCOSUR and the European UnionOn July 17th, 2019, in Santa Fe - Argentina, President Mario Abdo Benítez celebrated the historic agreement signed between MERCOSUR and the European Union. The Paraguayan head of state stated that the latest strategic alliance will change the history of integration within MERCOSUR and generate great opportunities for the development of nations. In this context Mr. Abdo Benítez stressed that cooperation with European Union must go beyond commerce and trade partnership, it should incorporate new models of regional integration so that the MERCOSUR Bloc can be consolidated as a competitive platform of production (PY-MFA, 2019). In the plenary session of MERCOSUR Summit, the ongoing projects in information technology and lowering the costs of internet connection in the region were also discussed (PY-MFA, 2019).Before his counterparts of MERCOSUR, the President of Paraguay H. E. Mr. Mario Abdo Benítez, expressed his satisfaction on the current agreement that was signed between the Southern Common Market and the European Union; an important pillar for the integration and development of South American Nations.The Paraguayan Head of State emphasized the relevance of this Alliance and the opportunities that European markets represent for the agricultural products of Paraguay and the other member nations of MERCOSUR. In his statement, President Abdo Benítez added: “this agreement will change the history of integration of our people in MERCOSUR, it opens opportunities for our products and companies to reach new markets with zero tariffs, in a market with more than 500 million consumers and inhabitants of 28 countries, with a GDP of over US$ 34 Billion, a market with a consolidated flow of capital that will open huge opportunities to our people while engaging in the highest standards of competition at the global level (PY-MFA, 2019).”In 2015-2017, Paraguay and the European Union have enjoyed a fairly mild level of trade and investment cooperation; E.U. imports from Paraguay registered a minor increase, from €1.006bn to 1.153bn. At the same time, Paraguay’s imports from E.U. recorded a moderate increase in the same period, from €610 million in 2015 to €682 million in 2017 (EC, 2019). In 2017, the European Union was Paraguay's third most important trading partner (after Brazil and Argentina); accounting for 10 percent of Paraguay’s total trade; in 2017, E.U.-Paraguay trade amounted for €1.798 billion (EC, 2019).It must be emphasized that E.U. imports from Paraguay are dominated by agricultural products (87.2 percent of total imports from Paraguay into the E.U. in 2017). In the same period, E.U. exports to Paraguay are dominated by manufactured goods, particularly 42.9 percent in machinery and transport equipment and 22.7 percent in chemical products (EC, 2019). The E.U. is an important investor in Paraguay; between 2014 and 2016, E.U. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) stocks in Paraguay increased from €863 million to €1.2 billion (EC, 2019).On October 21st, 2016, the Vice Minister for Regional Economic Integration of Paraguay, Ambassador Rigoberto Gauto Vielman was interviewed by the national media to report on the status of negotiations between MERCOSUR and the European Union. The Paraguayan Chief negotiator stressed the importance of reaching an agreement on the Intellectual Property, Public Contracts and Customs and Border Inspection legislation (PY-MFA, 2019).In 2015 - 2016, Ambassador Gauto was engaged in extensive negotiations with his counterparts in Brussels; the Paraguayan delegation addressed a number of issues that are related to fair trade and fulfilment of treaties signed within the framework of World Trade Organization, that guarantee free trade and open markets as well as expressed Paraguay’s commitment to follow the requirements that enable parties to reach a better flow and development of commerce (PY-MFA, 2016).Conclusion and Policy RecommendationsThe Republic of Paraguay, as a dynamic member of MERCOSUR, has vigorously promoted the relations of South America’s trade bloc with European Union and the countries of Southeast Asia, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). In this regard the bilateral dialogue of Paraguay with Singapore, Vietnam and other countries, has further developed Asuncion’s commercial and trade cooperation with this part of the world.On May 23-24 2025, President of Paraguay Santiago Peña made a State Visit to Singapore accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Rubén Ramírez Lezcano, Minister of Public Works and Communications Claudia Centurión, Minister of Industry and Commerce Francisco Javier Giménez García, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development Rolando de Barros Barreto. This was the first State Visit by a Paraguayan Head of State to Singapore. President Peña’s visit affirms the warm relations between Singapore and Paraguay and provided a unique opportunity for both nations to pursue a path of greater economic and political cooperation, including the ratification of the MERCOSUR-Singapore Free Trade Agreement that was signed in December 2023.In addition, Paraguayan bilateral diplomacy has, simultaneously, forged a trusted partnership between MERCOSUR and the Southeast Asian Economic Tigers that have established an admirable leadership in terms of strengthening global trade and are emerging as pioneers of global development principles in South America. In this context, at a slower speed paired with a greater level of bureaucracy, the European Union aims to further explore the trade advantages with MERCOSUR countries. Nevertheless, over the next decade, the nations of South America will have an opportunity to experience the positive impact of ever growing trade partnership with European Union countries.In the contrary to the aspirations, spirit of harmonious partnership, and information included above, the Government of Paraguay decided in September 2018 to close its embassy in Jerusalem (State of Israel), in 2014 closed its embassy in Jakarta, Republic of Indonesia, and continues to maintain frozen relations with one of the most important countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). As the only landlocked country in South America, a founding member of MERCOSUR; the Republic of Paraguay is poised to defend its national interests and continues to forge, with the assistance of Washington, practical initiatives in economic diplomacy so that Itapúa’s agricultural commodities and organically grown food products nationwide, can reach new markets and new consumers. In the same vein, Paraguayan Government must take firm actions towards establishing medium size logistical parks in the deep-water ports of Chile and Peru, both countries may very well serve as lasting natural bridge heads connecting Paraguayan agricultural and food industry products with Southeast Asian markets. According to Distinguished Professor Blerim Olluri, Chancellor of AAB College (Kolegji AAB) – Prishtina in Kosova: “The development of an expanded intermodal rail shipping network and modern highway transportation system connecting the cargo shipyards on the shores of Paraguay and Parana Rivers with the two South American countries, Chile and Peru (crossing through Argentina), would be a strategic advantage to Paraguay and all countries involved, including Argentina and Bolivia. In the same context MERCOSUR would earn a reputation for its advanced transportation infrastructure and secure a greater leverage when negotiating with countries on the other sides of the Pacific and Atlantic.” Establishing air shipment routes through Paraguay’s regional airports is another strategic necessity for Asuncion to secure a better presence in international commercial platforms as well as increase its leverage on negotiations conducted within MERCOSUR or independently reaching Free Trade Agreements with ASEAN and other regional trade blocs.At the moment Paraguay has only one international airport, six regional airports only suitable for landing of small passenger planes and a large, unfinished, military airport in the Chaco-Paraguay. In the next three years, the Government of Santiago Peña Palacios must establish a strong partnership with Washington to secure a geopolitical support so that new trade routes and shipping harbors can be established in the territories of Chile and Peru, provided that Argentina’s Government allows Paraguayan trucks to use its road infrastructure. The geopolitical pressure from the north is also imperative to preserve Paraguay’s energy sovereignty and establish new airline routes that could further help mitigate the country’s surging need to satisfy an ever-growing demand for its organic products in many parts of the world, including Europe and Central Asia Nations that maintain friendly ties with North America. The National Economy of Paraguay is deeply connected to International Trade and Economic Diplomacy. The primary task of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is to further strengthen the national presence in international markets and rapidly, consistently improve Paraguay’s national image abroad.The views and opinions expressed by guest columnists in their articles may differ from those of the editorial board and do not necessarily reflect its views. http://www.today.az/news/society/262866.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 15:41:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovOn the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the Patriotic War, Military Prosecutor Bahruz Ahmadov met with the Special Forces of the Defense Ministry.According to the Military Prosecutor’s Office, the meeting began with a moment of silence to honor the memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan’s independence and territorial integrity.During the event, participants reflected on the unity of the Azerbaijani people and Armed Forces under the leadership of the Victorious Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev, which led to the historic triumph in the Patriotic War.The Special Forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to carrying out the Commander-in-Chief’s orders and protecting Azerbaijan’s sovereign territories.The event also featured demonstrations of exemplary combat maneuvers by the Special Forces, showcasing their professionalism, discipline, and readiness to fulfill any mission assigned to them.At the conclusion of the meeting, service members who distinguished themselves in their duties were presented with gifts and certificates of appreciation. Military Prosecutor Bahruz Ahmadov praised their courage and dedication, expressing confidence that the personnel of the Special Forces would continue to contribute to the country’s defense and security with the same spirit of patriotism and devotion. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262865.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:33:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaOn October 20, Azerbaijan celebrates Zangilan City Day.On the occasion of this historic day, a virtual exhibition titled "October 20 - Zangilan City Day" and a traditional book exhibition of the same name were presented to users at the Azerbaijan National Library.The virtual exhibition showcases official documents, photographs, materials about the city of Zangilan, as well as the ongoing restoration and reconstruction efforts, the high-level organization of the Great Return to Zangilan, and the 44-day Patriotic War and the Great Victory.Books, articles, and other materials preserved in the collection of the National Library are presented in both Azerbaijani and foreign languages.Those who wish to familiarize themselves with the virtual exhibition can use the link.The traditional exhibition features books in Azerbaijani and various languages ??about the history of the city of Zangilan, its toponyms, ancient material and cultural monuments of historical importance, the 44-Patriotic War, the glorious victory, the heroes who wrote history, and the path of soldiers, officers, and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity of our country. http://www.today.az/news/society/262864.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 14:03:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzA new landmine incident has once again underscored the ongoing threat posed by Armenian-laid mines in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories.According to the Azerbaijan Mine Action Agency (ANAMA), a mine explosion occurred today in the village of Tagaverd in the Khojavend region. The explosion injured Ilgar Veli oglu Shirinov, a 1967-born ANAMA employee working as an excavator operator. The agency reported that Shirinov triggered an anti-personnel mine while carrying out his official duties. He was immediately evacuated to a regional hospital, where doctors were forced to amputate his right leg at the ankle. His condition is reported as stable.The tragic incident highlights the enduring consequences of Armenia’s decades-long military occupation, during which hundreds of thousands of mines were planted across Azerbaijani territories, including residential areas, agricultural lands, and roads. Since the end of the 2020 Patriotic War, over 350 Azerbaijani civilians and personnel have fallen victim to landmines, with many killed or severely injured while supporting reconstruction or returning to their native lands.Despite continuous demining efforts led by ANAMA, the process remains difficult due to Armenia’s refusal to provide full and accurate maps of mined areas. Azerbaijan continues to call on the international community to hold Armenia accountable for the use of landmines as a tool of terror, which continues to endanger human life and delay the safe restoration and resettlement of liberated regions. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262863.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:17:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaOn October 31, the Heydar Aliyev Center will host the opening of the exhibition "My Seas, My Oceans", which carries a strong message about the protection of water resources, Azernews reports. The exhibition aims to emphasize the importance of preserving one of the most vital resources of our planet — water sources — in an era marked by climate change, global warming, and vulnerable ecosystems.Organized at the initiative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the IDEA (International Dialogue for Environmental Action) Public Union, the exhibition is part of the "Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW" project.Following its debut in Geneva in 2022, which laid the foundation for a global dialogue on the protection of aquatic ecosystems, this project is being presented in Baku for the first time.The exhibition will feature works by contemporary artists that reflect a range of global challenges from pollution and overfishing to the loss of biodiversity. In these works, water is depicted as a source of life, renewal, and imagination.Painters, sculptors, multimedia and interdisciplinary artists address topics such as water, climate change, sustainability, and marine biodiversity. Through their artistic creations, they call for the protection of our seas, oceans, and shared future.The exhibition aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including "Clean Water and Sanitation," "Responsible Consumption," "Climate Action," and "Life Below Water.""My Seas, My Oceans" demonstrates that art not only reflects reality but also has the power to help ensure the cleanliness of seas and oceans for future generations.As more than 70 percent of the Earth's surface is covered by water, the ecological systems of seas and oceans are increasingly being subjected to harmful impacts. Through art, the exhibition conveys a message to the world about reducing and preventing these impacts, as well as increasing awareness of global issues. http://www.today.az/news/society/262862.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:42:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovAs of September 30, 2025, more than 6,000 subscribers—including households, businesses, and farms—are now using the services of AzTelekom LLC in the territories recently liberated from occupation, Azernews reports, citing AzTelekom.The company emphasized that the ongoing restoration and reconstruction efforts in these areas include the deployment of GPON (Gigabit Passive Optical Network) technology. This upgrade allows residents and businesses to access high-speed internet alongside bundled services such as “internet + telephony,” “internet + television,” and “internet + telephony + television.”According to AzTelekom, the expansion of telecommunications services not only brings convenience to daily life for local residents but also provides critical support for the implementation of socio-economic development projects in the region.The initiative represents a significant step in integrating the liberated territories into Azerbaijan’s national infrastructure, ensuring that communities benefit from modern connectivity and digital services as reconstruction progresses. http://www.today.az/news/society/262861.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:23:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovBetween October 13 and 19, humanitarian demining operations in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories resulted in the discovery and neutralization of 69 anti-tank mines, 61 anti-personnel mines, and 2 unexploded ordnance (UXO) items.The weekly report from the Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action (ANAMA) provides details of these operations, highlighting ongoing efforts to make the areas safe for residents and reconstruction activities.According to ANAMA, a total of 1,587.8 hectares of land have been cleared of mines during this period.The demining operations have been conducted jointly by ANAMA, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES), the State Border Service, and four private companies. The work covers several districts, including Tartar, Aghdara, Kalbajar, Aghdam, Khojaly, Khankendi, Shusha, Khojavend, Lachin, Fuzuli, Jabrayil, Gubadli, and Zangilan, as well as the recently liberated villages of Baghanis Ayrim, Ashagi Askipara, Kheyrimli, and Gyzylhacili in the Gazakh district.These operations are part of a broader effort to restore security, facilitate resettlement, and support socio-economic reconstruction in the formerly occupied regions of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262860.html Politics Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:13:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, has awarded a group of Azerbaijani statisticians for their outstanding contributions to the country’s data and statistical system, Azernews reports.The Order "For Service to the Fatherland" of the 3rd degreeVahab MammadovThe Taraggi Medal.Huseyn BaghirovThe Medal "For Distinction in Civil Service"Abdulkerim AshurovNazim BabayevToghrul AjalovRauf AliyevHeydar GafarovEyyub GahramanovSabina GuliyevaFarnad Tahirov http://www.today.az/news/sports/262859.html Sports Mon, 20 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijani paralympians have secured 51 medals in international competitions in 2025, Azernews reports, citing the National Paralympic Committee.This impressive tally includes 14 gold, 17 silver, and 20 bronze medals, showcasing the athletes' outstanding performances in a range of sports.Azerbaijan made its Paralympic Games debut at the 1996 Summer Paralympics in Atlanta, competing in track and field and power lifting. In the same year, the National Paralympic Committee was established.Since 1996, national paralympians have taken part in many international competitions and six Paralympic Games. They enriched the country's medal haul with multiple awards.The Azerbaijani Paralympic team has made significant progress since the Tokyo 2020 Games, where they won 14 medals, including 4 gold, 4 silver, and 6 bronze.Notable athletes, including Olympic gold medalists Lamiya Valiyeva and Said Najafzade, proudly represented their country by waving its national flag during the official country parade at the closing ceremony of the Summer Paralympic Games.The Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games brought together 4,000 athletes from around the world.The event marked the first time Paris hosted the Summer Paralympics and the second time that France has hosted the Paralympic Games, after Tignes and Albertville jointly hosted the 1992 Winter Paralympics. http://www.today.az/news/society/262858.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:38:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovA multinational military exercise, Unity-2025, involving troops from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, is continuing in Uzbekistan’s Samarkand region, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Defence.The exercise is conducted in three stages, focusing on strengthening border security, defending state frontiers, and locating, containing, and neutralising illegal armed groups.Officials noted that the primary goal of the drills is to enhance interoperability among the participating countries’ military contingents, improving coordination in joint operations and developing collective operational capabilities. Troops are practising strategies for rapid deployment, coordinated manoeuvres, and combined defensive actions, with emphasis on both tactical efficiency and communication between units from different nations.The exercise reflects a regional effort to boost military readiness and cooperation in Central Asia, demonstrating the participating states’ commitment to shared security challenges. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262857.html Sports Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:19:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe Azerbaijani judo team has finished the Guadalajara Grand Prix 2025 with six gold and three bronze medals.Balabay Aghayev (60 kg), Ruslan Pashayev (66 kilograms), Hidayat Heydarov (73 kg), Vusal Galanderzade (81 kg), Zelym Kotsoiev (81 kg) and Ushangi Kokauri (+100 kg) rose to the highest step of the podium.Ahmad Yusifov (60 kg), Rashid Mammadaliyev (73 kg) and Murad Fatiyev (90 kilograms) were awarded bronze medals.The Azerbaijani national team took first place in the overall medal standings with nine medals.The Guadalajara Grand Prix 2025 took place in Mexico, bringing together 231 judokas from 33 countries.Founded in 1972, the Azerbaijan Judo Federation actively promotes this martial art across the country. President of Azerbaijan Judo Federation is Rashad Nabiyev.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, ?rina 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. http://www.today.az/news/business/262856.html Business Mon, 20 Oct 2025 11:03:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulThe feasibility study for the Central Asia–Azerbaijan Green Energy Corridor project is set to begin this November, according to Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov.As reported by Azernews, the announcement was made in Minister Shahbazov’s article titled “Azerbaijan is Becoming a Regional Energy Hub”, published in the Azerbaijan newspaper on the occasion of Energy Workers' Day, marked on October 20.The groundwork for the green energy corridor was laid last year during COP29, when the Presidents of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan signed an intergovernmental agreement on strategic partnership in the development and transmission of green energy. This initiative aims to strengthen regional cooperation in renewable energy.The Minister emphasized that the Trans-Caspian Energy Corridor—aligned with President Ilham Aliyev’s vision to develop Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and the Caspian region as a unified geopolitical space—marks the first time the electricity networks of these countries will be interconnected.To support this initiative, a joint venture named the “Green Corridor Alliance” has been established, headquartered in Baku. Once the company selection process is complete, the feasibility study will commence in November with financial backing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). http://www.today.az/news/sports/262855.html Sports Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:42:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe final stage of the Beach Wrestling World Series has taken place in Alexandria, Egypt.Three Azerbaijani wrestlers participated in the competition under the leadership of head coach Oyan Nazariani.In the 80 kg category, Sahib Dadashov defeated Egyptian Adham Abdelzaher (4:1), and Vusal Aliyev defeated Georgian Diego Makharadze (3:2) to qualify for the group stage.In Group A, Sahib defeated Georgian Ramaz Zoidze (2:2) and Moldovan Vasile Diako (1:1) on the last-minute points principle, but gave Serbian Milyan Rajic no chance – 3:0. Vusal, who was placed in Group B, lost to Ukrainian Vasil Mikhailov with a score of 1:3 in the first round, but won a technical victory over the injured Frenchman Hugo Cuenot in the next round. In the last round, he defeated Greek Christos Christoforidis with a score of 4:0. Dadashov advanced to the semifinals as the group leader, while Aliyev as the second place holder.On the verge of the final, our representatives faced each other and defeated Vusal Sahibi with a score of 3:2. Dadashov won a bronze medal by defeating Zoidze with a score of 4:2. Aliyev lost to Mikhailov with a score of 2:3 in the final and finished the competition with a silver medal. In the 90 kg category, Ibrahim Yusubov defeated American Jacob Bumgardner (3:0), Greek Mikhail Akritidis (3:1) and Georgian Davit Khutsishvili (3:2) in Group A.The national wrestler, who qualified for the semifinals as the group leader, also showed his strength against American Jabari Irons - 4:1.Yusubov won the final against Ukrainian Oleksiy Yakovchuk with a score of 2:1 and became the champion. After the final stage of the World Series, the points earned by the wrestlers in all 5 stages were calculated and the final three were determined in each weight category.As a result, Vusal Aliyev, who made his debut in beach wrestling this year, became the world champion in the 80 kg category. Ibrahim Yusubov achieved the same result in the 90 kg category.Thus, the Azerbaijani wrestler became a four-time world champion.For the first time in one season, two of the national athletes won the title of world champion in beach wrestling among adults. http://www.today.az/news/society/262854.html Society Mon, 20 Oct 2025 10:20:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovAzerbaijan’s total electricity generation capacity has reached 9,732.5 MW, reflecting an increase of 1,317 MW, or 15.6 percent compared to the same period last year, following the commissioning of several new power plants, Azernews reports, citing an article by Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov published in the Azerbaijan newspaper on October 20 for Energy Workers’ Day.Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov highlighted the role of the 1,880 MW 8 November Power Plant—the largest energy facility in the South Caucasus—in driving this significant growth. The plant, which commemorates Azerbaijan’s historic victory, strengthens Mingachevir’s position as the region’s energy center and exemplifies successful international collaboration with Chinese and Italian companies.Currently, Azerbaijan operates 24 thermal power plants with a total capacity of 7,903 MW, 65 hydroelectric plants generating 1,443.5 MW, 9 solar power plants with 278.2 MW, 5 wind farms totaling 63.5 MW, a 37 MW waste-to-energy facility, and 3 hybrid plants with a combined 7.3 MW. Renewable energy sources, including hydropower, account for 1,829.6 MW, or approximately 18.8 percent of total installed capacity. The national grid’s capacity has also risen to 29,714 MVA.The Minister noted that the foundations of two new 50 MW solar power plants, Shams and Ufuq, are set to be laid in Jabrayil. Additionally, the country has launched its first renewable energy auction project: the 100 MW Gobustan Solar Power Plant, alongside an additional 100 MW solar energy initiative. By 2027, renewable energy’s share of installed capacity is projected to reach 33.7 percent, providing an estimated 5 billion kWh of electricity annually, saving over 1 billion cubic meters of natural gas, and reducing emissions by up to 2.3 million tons. Plans aim to raise the renewable share to 38 percent by 2030.Shahbazov emphasized that new projects—both onshore and offshore, totaling an additional 700 MW—are being developed with careful integration into the energy system to ensure stability. Collaboration with China’s Electric Power Planning and Engineering Institute (EPPEI) is underway to identify technologically and economically optimal solutions for grid integration and renewable energy demand management.The long-term green energy agenda advances through partnerships with leading international energy companies, including Masdar, ACWA Power, BP, SOCAR Green, Nobel Energy, AGEC, Baltech, Universal International, China Datang, China Energy, Power China, TotalEnergies, Elecnor, and ROX. These collaborations have positioned Azerbaijan as a regional hub for sustainable energy, fostering a robust ecosystem for large-scale green development