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/business/239681.html Business Tue, 03 Oct 2023 18:21:00 +0400 A regular meeting of the Supervisory Board of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency (KOBIA) under the Ministry of Economy was held, Azernews reports, citing KOBIA.As the ministry reported, at the meeting chaired by the chairman of the Supervisory Board, Minister of Economy Mikail Jabbarov, information was presented on the activities of KOBIA in the first half of 2022 and 2023, as well as priority areas of development planned for 2024. Measures aimed at developing and supporting small and medium-sized businesses and other issues on the agenda were discussed.KOBIA Board Chairman Orkhan Mammadov made a presentation on the activities of the agency for the relevant period and reported on the work done in the direction of development of small and medium-sized businesses, increasing their knowledge and skills, expanding access to financial resources and markets, as well as protecting the interests of KOB.It was noted that during the reporting period, 22 KOB development centers held more than 1,000 trainings for almost 12,000 KOB subjects and persons willing to start their own business, provided consulting services to more than 2200 KOB subjects, and trained more than 500 business specialists. With the issuance of 51 "Startup" certificates, which provide tax incentives for innovation activities to micro and small entrepreneurs, the number of KOB subjects who received this document reached 105.40 KOBs in the sphere of education, and science, AZN 747.000 were allocated for research and support of projects. At the request of entrepreneurs and on the initiative of COBIA 18 internal market researches were conducted.Participation of 1133 SMEs in 23 exhibitions was supported. During the reporting period, 25 KOBs utilized the support mechanism for access to trade networks. With the opening of 20 KOB-friendly offices that provide on-site support and services to KOBs, the number of existing offices reached 45.In 2023, the number of KOB houses increased to 3 with the commissioning of "Baku KOB House", which provides services to entrepreneurs in a single space by public and private institutions. From year to year, there is a positive dynamic of growth in the number of entrepreneurs using the services of KOB houses.In 2022, KOB Houses will provide more than 73 thousand services to entrepreneurs. In the first half of 2023, more than 197 thousand services were provided. During the reporting period, 14 surveys were conducted with the participation of more than 3,300 SMEs.Applications were received from 6 KOB subjects under the KOB cluster mechanism, which was implemented this year, and relevant work is being done in this direction.At the meeting the opinions of the members of the Supervisory Board were heard, discussions were held and relevant decisions were made on the mentioned directions and other issues.Within the framework of the meeting, Minister of Economy Mikail Jabbarov and members of the Supervisory Board familiarised themselves with the activities of "KOB Baku House" and met with the staff of KOBIA. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239680.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 17:46:00 +0400 Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has shared a post on the anniversary of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), Azernews reports."On this day 14 years ago, the Nakhchivan Agreement was signed becoming the basis of what later emerged as the Organization of Turkic States. We sincerely congratulate the brotherly Turkic world on the occasion of the Turkic States Cooperation Day!" the Azerbaijani ministry said in a post on X. http://www.today.az/news/sports/239684.html Sports Tue, 03 Oct 2023 17:45:00 +0400 By AzernewsLaman IsmayilovaKnown for its historical and cultural wonders, Shaki city has hosted Gurama marathon.The event was organized by Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Department, Shaki City Executive Power and the State Tourism Agency, Azernews reports.The event started with the Gurama procession, followed by exhibition, master classes and demonstration of decorative applied art examples and sales fair.As part of the event, artisans demonstrated the process of making their own handicrafts to the guests, answered their questions, and held master classes on gurama products, an ancient type of embroidery. Handicrafts of inclusive people, ihandicrafts of minority peoples, were also displayed at the exhibition.Gurama is a type of arts and crafts, which takes a special place in Azerbaijan's culture.For many decades, gurama has been widely spread in Azerbaijan. The patchwork was very common until the beginning of the 20th century.Now simple and original geometric patterns are replaced by more complex combinations of colors and shapes.Work on the revival of Azerbaijan's ancient gurama art is currently underway.Note that the first National Gurama Festival was held for the first time in 2022.Large patchwork was presented as part of the festival. Four and a half meters wide and 25 meters long gurama left everyone astonished.A giant patchwork was created in Icherisheher and Gala State Historical and Ethnographic Reserve. The presentation took place in front of the Maiden's Tower.A number of events were held within the festival, including a scientific and practical conference, an exhibition of arts and crafts and a fair and sale, master classes, art therapy, book presentation, etc.The Second Gurama Festival is co-organized by Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Department, the Culture Ministry and the Ministry of Science and Education. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239679.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 17:20:00 +0400 By Azernews Abbas GanbayAzerbaijani Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov received the British Ambassador to Azerbaijan Fergus Auld and the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, Azernews reports, citing a post on X by the British Ambassador.The British Ambassador noted that the sides changed opinions on important issues. He also added that the meeting discussed ongoing humanitarian aid and the protection of the rights of all residents of Garabagh. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239678.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0400 President Ilham Aliyev signed an order on the allocation of 15.8 million manat ($9.3 million) for the construction of the Aghsu–Kurdamir–Bahramtepe (71 km)–Mammadli–Aghamalilar–Alyetmazli–Allahmadatli–Telishli highway in Imishli district.The full text of the order can be found at the link. http://www.today.az/news/society/239677.html Society Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:55:00 +0400 By AzernewsLaman IsmayilovaAzerbaijan's Honored Artist Inna Kostina has demonstrated her batik art works in Latvia city of Liepaja.Co-organized by the Azerbaijani Embassy in Latvia and Liepaja Museum, the exhibition "Silk Universe" brought together the Liepaja municipality representatives, cultural figures, journalists, as well as art connoisseurs, Azernews reports.Speaking at the event, Liepaja Museum director Dace Karkla expressed satisfaction that the institution she heads is hosting an exhibition of renowned Azerbaijani artist.She underlined that the current exhibition is an excellent opportunity for a deeper understanding of the Azerbaijani and Latvian cultures.Liepaja Museum director expressed confidence that the exhibition will contribute to the further strengthening of cultural ties between Latvia and Azerbaijan.The First Secretary of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Latvia Bakhtiyar Musayev, poke about Inna Kostina's art, noting that the artist's art works on the themes of Absheron and the Simurg bird, as well as kelagayi, unite major elements of Azerbaijani culture and identity.He recalled that Traditional art and symbolism of kelagayi was included in the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on November 26, 2014.Artist Inna Kostina informed the guests of the event about the exhibition. She stressed that the ideas expressed in the works presented at the exhibition reflect the spirit, customs and traditions, and spiritual values of the Azerbaijani people.Over the past years, Inna Kostina has taken part in more than 250 various exhibitions. Inna Kostina is famous as an original painter as well as one of the best silk painting specialists on the batik technique.Since 1987, her works have been represented at the museums and galleries in countries like Azerbaijan, Russia, Georgia, Italy and many others.The artist also spoke about the kelagayi, which she worked on for 30 years.Batik art works with the image of the Simurgh bird, kelagayi collection and beautiful landscapes aroused great public interest. The exhibition was widely covered by local media in Latvia.On the same day, Inna Kostina gave a lecture to students of the Liepaja School of Music, Art and Design, where she shared her experience, spoke about Azerbaijan's rich cultural heritage and batik art.The exhibition will last until November 26. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239676.html World news Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:40:00 +0400 By Parvin MirzazadehVardan Oskanyan, the ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, and now a man without a specific type of activity, decided that it was time to return to the Armenian political Olympus, from where he fled miserably in 2008, after the change of power in the country. At the beginning of the 2000s, as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vardan Minasovich presented himself as a man of the West in the leadership of Armenia, which was then focused on a close alliance with the CSTO and the EAEU.In those days, Oskanyan literally did not leave the capitals of Western states, where on the sidelines he assured his colleagues that the then president, the militant R. Kocharyan, was determined to change the country’s foreign policy orientation as soon as the Garabagh issue was resolved in favor Armenia. It was then that Vardan Jan, who had a mind-boggling diplomatic career, was appointed to the post of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia, only because he always boasted of his connections with Western politicians and the influential foreign diaspora, and had a good command of English, which distinguished him favorably from other members of Kocharyan’s team, who were mainly representatives of the “Karabakh” clan, militant bandits coming a long way through the First Garabagh War.As the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Armenia for 10 years (from 1998 to 2008), Oskanian “distinguished himself” by blatantly lying to the international community, speaking about the “readiness” of the Armenian side to come to a peace agreement with Azerbaijan. At the same time, he took an irreconcilable position at the negotiations under the auspices of the co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, where he demanded that the occupation of Azerbaijani territories be recognized as the “legitimate” right of the “winner” Armenia.Everyone already knows how it all ended. The unlucky diplomat V. Oskanyan lost his lucrative sinecure - the post of head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2008, falling out of favor with the third President of Armenia Serzhik Sargsyan, who himself preferred to control the cash flows coming from the foreign diaspora, without the need for such intermediaries, who put the lion's share of the proceeds money in his pocket for a bad day. Left out of work after resigning from the post of minister, Vardan Minasovich tried his luck in the domestic political field and even at some point took part in parliamentary elections as an opposition candidate. But alas, luck turned away from him and for many years Oskanian vegetated in the margins, only occasionally appearing in public.The Velvet Revolution of May 2018 and the coming to power of pro-Western forces led by N. Pashinyan gave Oskanyan hope of returning to the Armenian political establishment, but the new Armenian authorities did not need the old seasoned liar with suspicious connections in the North and West and Vardan Minasovich went to the bottom again. Thus, Vardan jan remained silent until November 2020, when he decided to get down to business in order to return to power again on the wave of dissatisfaction with Nikol for the defeat of Armenia in the Second Garabagh War. And Oskanian suffered.... Over the past three years, he has not left the front pages of the Armenian media, where he wholeheartedly throws mud at the current Armenian authorities for “capitulation,” inability to “conduct diplomacy” and the loss of “national identity,”Vardan Minasovich seemed to have perked up after a long lethargic sleep. He began to speak on all possible media platforms on occasion and without occasion, harshly criticizing the current Armenian authorities and promoting himself as the new “savior” of the illusory dream of “Miatsum-Artsakh”, which has already rotted in the dustbin of history. Either V. Oskanyan assured the Armenian society that he knows how to “return” the lost Azerbaijani territories, then he said that it is necessary to change the “philosophy” of the negotiation process, where Armenia should take a “tough” position that will bring “success”. The incorrigible liar V. Oskanian lies just to arouse interest in his person, whose reputation is already greatly damaged by the criminal acts of his unlucky son.Having grown a beard for greater “respect,” V. Oskanian has adopted new technologies and widely uses social networks, hoping that influential representatives of the Armenian diaspora will notice him and open their wallets to him again so that he can regain his former, lost luster for years of forced vegetation in the shadows. All his speeches and tweets are sharp criticism of Nikol Vovaevich, whom he still cannot forgive for rejecting the hand extended by Vardan Minasovich. It’s no secret that he was so hoping to return to the comfortable chair of the head of the Armenian Foreign Ministry, and N. Pashinyan chose and preferred the former unlucky speaker, an art critic by profession, Ararat Mirzoyan.The latest events of September 19-20, 2023, which buried all the hopes of the world Armenians for a possible revenge, leading to the final end of the conflict and the elimination of the remnants of the separatist regime on the territory of Azerbaijan, inspired Oskanian to a number of new opuses on social networks (since the Armenian masses The media have already stopped publishing the former minister), full of malice, Turkish phobia and ignorance of the basic norms of international law.To begin with, someone who has grown old in the field of “lobbying the interests” of the world’s Armenians stood up to “defend” Rubik (R. Vardanyan), who was arrested in Azerbaijan for supporting terrorism, who still has to while away long days in prison and whom he clearly always disliked for possible competition in domestic politics front.However, money does not smell. Oskanyan rushed into the attack, demanding the immediate release of Rubik’s Cube, citing the fact that the Azerbaijani authorities allegedly “do not have the right” to detain an Armenian citizen who was “defending” his people. Of course, such zealous act of Vardan Minasovich, generously paid for by members of the Rubik’s family, was enthusiastically greeted by fans of the arrested R. Vardanyan, but did not find a response at all among ordinary Armenian citizens, for whom the fate of the fugitive Moscow billionaire oligarch is far from interests. Apparently, the “beacon” of Armenian diplomacy, who was constantly proud of his “deep knowledge” in the field of international law, forgot that any citizen of Armenia, before visiting Azerbaijan, must first obtain a visa, R. Vardanyan illegally entered the territory of the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan, without the consent of the relevant Azerbaijani authorities with a Russian passport, later renouncing his citizenship. For a long time, Ruben financed the separatist regime under the pretext of providing humanitarian assistance, carried out the illegal construction of military infrastructure in the occupied Azerbaijani territories and facilitated the resettlement of citizens of third countries there, was engaged in the theft of the region’s natural resources, and much more. It was R. Vardanyan, being a citizen of Russia, who sent his over-aged son to serve in the Armenian army in the occupied Azerbaijani territories, which he always showed off to the leaders of the foreign Armenian diaspora as an example of his “hyperpatriotism” and taught them to do the same.This is only a short list of the crimes committed by Vardanyan, and for all these acts the client of the “free” lawyer V. Oskanian will have to answer to the court and then spend many years in Azerbaijani correctional institutions.Realizing that you can’t make money especially on a failed map of Ruben Vardanyan, especially since the diaspora in the West doesn’t care about it, Vardan Minasovich made a “sensational” statement that can be qualified as his new know-how.A short quote from his speech: “I often hear the opinion that for 30 years we have been told that “artsakh” cannot be part of Armenia. I am now throwing down the gauntlet to these people: if these people, someone from 1998 to 2020 will show me a statement from the head of any serious country, which says that “artsakh” (meaning the former occupied territories of the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan) is part of Azerbaijan, or the issue of “artsakh” should be resolved within the framework of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, I will ask for forgiveness all of you".Well, what can I say after that? Apparently, the hapless liar needs to be reminded of 4 UN Security Council resolutions, and the decisions of the Budapest and Lisbon OSCE Summits, the resolutions of PACE, OIC, NATO, the Non-Aligned Movement and many other respected international and regional organizations, statements of dozens of individual countries, including Italy, Egypt, Turkiye, Iran, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Romania, Hungary, China, the USA, Russia and many others, which clearly and specifically expressed support for the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, including the Garabagh region, without any exceptions or reservations. So it’s time for Mr. V. Oskanian to shave his beard and apologize for his lies and misinformation, so that the citizens of Armenia deceived by him can spit in his face for the fact that he led them by the nose for many years and called for them to fight to the “victorious end”.Continuing to lie, V. Oskanyan, in his next slanderous speech, again accused the current Armenian authorities of saying that if they had followed the “essence and context” of the Tripartite Statement of November 10, 2020, “Garabagh and the Lachin corridor would have been Armenian.” Well, the former minister could not have come up with more nonsense, since judging by his speech, he cannot forgive N. Pashinyan for being left without a job at a time when he could have earned good money and at the same time raised his rating in the eyes of rich sponsors.Well, first of all, the reading and interpretation of the Tripartite Statement in the distorted version of Oskanian is fundamentally different from what is written there. In reality, the Armenian side did everything possible to not fulfill these promises. As for the former minister’s complaints that the Armenian leadership was rushing in different directions, looking for support on the side, for the first time he told the truth, but distorted the meaning of these rushing. After all, attempts by official Yerevan not to fulfill its obligations under the Tripartite Statement and the search for new mediators who could influence Azerbaijan were the main reasons for the Armenian side’s deviations from fulfilling the points of this document.Well, in order to exalt himself in the eyes of the audience, Vardan Minasovich stated that when he was the head of the Armenian Foreign Ministry, the “Madrid Principles” were adopted as the basis for negotiations within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group, which would ultimately “lead to a referendum on independence” of the Armenian population . Having puffed out his cheeks with importance after this sensation, Oskanyan “forgot” to add that at the same time, Armenia had to ensure the liberation of all occupied Azerbaijani territories, withdraw its troops, ensure the return of refugees and displaced persons, and then the future of the Armenian population had to be decided on referendum, which was to be held on the territory of the entire Azerbaijan, and not, as proposed by the Armenian side, only on the territory of the former Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous surrounding.What a short memory this former chief Armenian diplomat has. Surely, he still thinks that no one will refute his lies and no one will bring him to light.And at the end of his spacious speech, Oskanian said his main “smart thought”. They say that for him, in spite of everything, the Garabagh issue is not closed, which finally put an end to himself as a more or less serious diplomat. If for Vardan Minasovich the conflict is not over, then for the whole world this issue is closed once and for all. Probably, this incorrigible liar and rabid revanchist, who still lives in the past, wants to shed rivers of blood again, placing new victims on the altar of “artsakh-miatsum”, without soiling his sleek hands, which from birth held nothing except a spoon and fork. But all this will not change the course of history.As President Ilham Aliyev stated, speaking on September 29, 2023 in Zangilan at the second Azerbaijan National Urban Planning Forum: “I advise both the leadership of Armenia, and those who stand behind them, and those who may be thinking about some unacceptable plans regarding Azerbaijan "not to test our patience once again. We are patient, but firm, and we can prove that we are right. Not because we have power, but because the truth is on our side." So Mr. “incorrigible liar” should not try Azerbaijan’s patience again, because the truth and international law are on the Azerbaijani side and the entire world community knows about this. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239675.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:26:00 +0400 The Working Group of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan on Azerbaijan-France inter-parliamentary relations has stopped its activity, Azernews reports, citing the Group.The Working Group of the Milli Mejlis of Azerbaijan on inter-parliamentary relations between Azerbaijan and France accepts with regret the information about the suspension of the activities of the France-Azerbaijani friendship group and the working group in the National Assembly of the Republic of France.Taking into account the mentioned information, the Azerbaijan-France inter-parliamentary relations working group temporarily suspends its activities and relations with the France-Azerbaijan friendship group until appropriate steps are taken by France. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239674.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:18:00 +0400 By Azernews Rena MurshudThe participation of the Mexican delegation in events dedicated to World Habitat Day will help strengthen cooperation with Azerbaijan in the field of urban planning, Azernews reports.Mexican Ambassador to Azerbaijan Maria Victoria Romero Caballero said this at a press conference.“As part of the trip to Azerbaijan, the Mexican delegation visited Zangilan, where Mr. President spoke at the opening of the forum, who spoke about the process of restoring the liberated territories. I believe that the participation of the Mexican delegation in such an event will help us strengthen our cooperation in the field of urban development,” the ambassador said, noting that it is a great pleasure for the Mexican Embassy to host representatives of the state of Queretaro in Azerbaijan.She added that Azerbaijan is passing the baton of hosting this event to Mexico.It should be noted that representatives of government agencies of the Mexican state of Queretaro arrived in Baku to participate in the forum “Urban Planning Week 2023”, held in cooperation with the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-HABITAT) and the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239673.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 15:50:00 +0400 Mashhur Mammadov was awarded the "Shohrat" Order.The President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.According to the decree, Mammadov was awarded the "Shohrat" Order for his productive activities in the socio-political life of Azerbaijan.Mammadov is an MP for the 6th convocation of the Parliament of Azerbaijan and a member of the Parliament's Disciplinary Commission. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239672.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 15:30:00 +0400 The War Games Centre of the Institute of Military Administration of the National Defence University is holding a computer-assisted command-staff exercise "Eternity-2023" with the participation of servicemen from Azerbaijan, Turkiye and Georgia, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.The exercise, consisting of theoretical and practical parts, with the participation of servicemen from the three countries and representatives of the relevant state structures, will fulfil the tasks of organising the protection of strategically important and regional economic projects.The main objective of the exercise, which will last until 6 October, is to strengthen mutual cooperation and ensure coherence between the armed forces of the three countries. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239671.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 15:17:00 +0400 By AzernewsRena MurshudAssistant to the President of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmet Hajiyev published statistics on humanitarian assistance provided by the central authorities of Azerbaijan to the Armenian residents of Garabagh as of October 3, Azernews reports.At the moment, more than 40 tons of food and hygiene products, 40 tons of flour, more than 200 tons of fuel, and more than 22 tons of drinking water have been delivered to the Armenian residents of Garabagh, along with other essential items.It should be noted that the Republic of Azerbaijan has begun practical activities for the reintegration of Armenian residents living in the Garabagh region. In this regard, Ramin Mamedov, appointed responsible for contacts with the Armenian residents of Garabagh, met with representatives of the Armenian residents in the cities of Yevlakh and Khojaly on September 21, 25, and 29, 2023.During the meetings, plans of the Republic of Azerbaijan for reintegration were presented and discussions were held around this.It was noted that reintegration is carried out within the framework of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the basis of the Constitution, laws, and international obligations of the Republic of Azerbaijan.Regardless of ethnic, religious, or linguistic affiliation, equal rights and freedoms of everyone are guaranteed, including the safety of everyone. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239670.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:43:00 +0400 By Azernews Abbas Ganbay"Civil and public infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, residential buildings, and cultural and religious sites, were not damaged in Khankendi," said in a statement, Azernews reports.The mission has not received complaints about incidents of violence against civilians since the last ceasefire.The report also notes that up to 1,000 Armenians currently live in the Garabagh region.The mission was headed by the UN Resident Coordinator in Azerbaijan Vladanka Andreeva. The UN Office in Azerbaijan plans to continue regular visits to the region.Armenian Ambassador-at-Large Edmond Marukyan said that the UN mission that visited Garabagh and denied the existence of any ethnic cleansing in the region appeared to discredit the UN as an institution. According to Marukyan, "the so-called UN mission has done everything to legitimize ethnic cleansing" and he "looks forward to the UN investigation into the activities of these representatives".Apparently, Edmond Marukyan, on special assignment, has not realized that the UN is not a branch of the Armenian National Committee of America, and if there is no ethnic cleansing, the UN mission cannot confirm it.Moreover, a new disappointment is in store for Armenian diplomacy: as it has already been reported, the US State Department was forced to admit that there is no evidence of "ethnic cleansing" in Garabagh. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239668.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:26:00 +0400 "On the occasion of the 14th anniversary of the signing of the Nakhchivan Agreement, which laid the foundations of the Organisation of Turkic States, we warmly congratulate on the Day of Cooperation of Turkic States," the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement, Azernews reported.Started in 1992 as "Summits of Heads of State of Turkic-speaking countries", this process has now turned into a full-fledged international organization thanks to the strong will and joint efforts of the participating countries.The Organisation of Turkic States aims to rapidly expand and deepen cooperation among member States, harmonize national capacities, and promote peace and stability as a responsible and responsive regional player on the world stage.Turkiye will continue its tireless efforts to further strengthen Turkic cooperation and make the Turkic world "stronger together," the statement said. http://www.today.az/news/society/239667.html Society Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:05:00 +0400 By Azernews Laman IsmayilovaAs part of her visit to Kyrgyzstan, President of the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation Gunay Afandiyeva has visited the Kyrgyz National University Kyrgyz National University named after Jusup Balasagyn.Gunay Afandiyeva met with the university professors, lecturers (faculty) and students, Azernews reports.At the meeting, the foundation president was awarded the title of "Honorary Professor of the Kyrgyz National University" for contribution to the preservation of the material and spiritual heritage of the Turkic peoples, as well as strengthening cultural exchange between them.The decision to award the honorary title to Gunay Afandiyeva was made by the Academic Council of the University on June 29, 2023.The Rector of the Kyrgyz National University Tolobek Abdyrakhmanov presented Gunay Afandiyeva with a diploma and expressed gratitude to her on behalf of the university for extensive activities aimed at developing the integration process in the Turkic world.Gunay Afandiyeva thanked the rector and the teaching staff of the university and expressed satisfaction with the stay in the homeland of ancient Manas, the outstanding writer of Chingiz Aitmatov.She spoke about the ongoing cooperation between the International Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation and Kyrgyzstan.Gunay Afandiyeva stressed the importance of preserving the common Turkic culture, noting that supporting initiatives in the field of education and promoting cultural exchange between different peoples is among the foundation's multifaceted activities.She also presented the Kyrgyz National University with a book of Azerbaijani scientist Adil Jamil "Manas Epic and Turkic Epic Tradition", prepared by the foundation and dedicated to the study and analysis of the epic "Manas" in Kyrgyz and Azerbaijani languages, as well as the book " Sagymbaydyn Manas", published by the organization jointly with the Turkic Academy.Initiated in 2012, the foundation provides assistance in the protection, study, and promotion of Turkic culture and heritage through supporting and funding various activities, projects, and programs.The organization carries out its activities in cooperation with TURKSOY and the Turkic Academy. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239662.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 13:40:00 +0400 By AzernewsElnur EnverogluIn Armenia, young children are brought up in the spirit of revanchist, terrorist and bloodthirsty. In recent days, the videos shared on social media networks have been widely showing minors using weapons, getting involved in military training and similar activities.A group of Armenian terrorists, who could not get rid of the illusions they formed in their brains for many years, became more aggressive after the fiasco of separatism in Garabagh and allegedly spread loud opinions about returning to Garabagh in the future.Currently, the most active supporter of Armenian terrorism is the non-governmental organization VoMa of Armenia. The terrorist organization, where Gucci model Armine Harutyunyan received armed training, has not given up despite Azerbaijan's decisive victory.The gang, founded by so-called professional soldiers and a group of "veterans" in 2014, is engaged in gathering financial support to implement anti-Turkish and anti-Islamic principles. Although it may not sound unusual, we must note that currently, young children are included in the military exercises organized by VoMa. By providing real weapons and explosive devices to minors in the age group of 13-16 years and indoctrinating them in savagery, the organization is clearly violating the law in a serious way.Although VoMa does not have a special financial base, today financial assistance is provided to the organization from the account of the Armenian diaspora, lobbyists and a number of foreign organizations and companies pursuing anti-Azerbaijani and anti-Islamic pronciples. VoMa, which has developed its own website, allegedly wants to organize a complete defense system and says that it needs 100,000 US dollars per month for making a tough military structure.It should be noted that the VoMa terrorist organization is not the first in the Middle East and the Caucasus. Before that, a large number of organizations with different names were established for the spread of terrorism in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and other countries, and all of them were destroyed during anti-terrorist operations.Armenian separatists show the same attitude towards children as they treated Armenians in Garabagh. The enemies of humanity, who can no longer brainwash adults, use children as tools as a last resort. The absence of patriotic feelings in Armenia is inevitable. Because the one who does not have a homeland does not have a sense of homeland. Many people in Yerevan also understand this and knew in advance that the latest situation in Garabagh would happen at some point. As they saying goes, You shouldn't take what doesn't belong to you. Armenia wanted to take the Azerbaijani lands by force, but time prevailed again.VoMa doesn't want to back downThe 'Threats' section on the website of the terrorist organization, into which an official investigation was opened by Azerbaijan after the Second Garabagh War, is particularly striking.Describing Armenia as an 'outpost' against the Turks for 1000 years, VoMa reminds that with the collapse of Byzantium, the Turks were waiting at the walls of Vienna. Claiming that Armenians fought alone against the Ottomans, the organization particularly emphasizes its Christian identity.Besides, claiming that Armenia is not only a wedge in the Islamic or Turkish world, but also a wedge in the body of ailing Eurasia, VoMa writes that if this does not happen, 'aggressive' Turkiye will reach the borders of Russia and Iran, and even the Great Wall of China. Arguing that any conflict with Turkiye would mean a 'world war', the illegal armed organization concludes its fantasies by claiming that a 'strong' Armenia will prevent the outbreak of a world war.Armenian mercenary groups who are wanted internationally by AzerbaijanDuring the First and Second Garabagh War, various information was obtained about the use of mercenary soldiers by Armenia. Facts about the recruitment of Armenians from Syria, Lebanon and Palestine into the army were also revealed during the Second Garabagh War. Any party that does not belong to the Armenian army and participates in the war against the Azerbaijani army based on certain interests from outside is considered to have grossly violated Azerbaijani legislation as well as international laws. For this reason, the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan appealed to the Interpol regarding the above-mentioned facts and started an international search for the war criminals.Despite this, currently more than 300 war criminals have not been arrested. Some of them live in Yerevan, and some live in foreign countries. No initiative is taken to surrender criminals. On the contrary, all diaspora and lobby organizations, including the Armenian authorities, are forming financial resources with the claim and desire to gather military forces again against Azerbaijan. It is a fact that Anna Hagopyan, the wife of the Prime Minister of Armenia, participated in military exercises during the Patriotic War, which spread only a negative impression to armenian community.Today, the Armenian side is trying to send a 'message' to Azerbaijan by involving minors and persons who do not have the right to military service in armed training. However, on September 20, after the last anti-terrorist measures carried out by the Azerbaijani Army, the world witnessed that thousands of illegal armed groups surrendered by raising a white flag. Therefore, neither Armenia nor Armenian lobbyists abroad can achieve anything with such dramatic scenes. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239663.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 13:18:00 +0400 By AzernewsRena MurshudSecretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Kubanychbek Omuraliev congratulated the Turkic world on the occasion of the anniversary of the adoption of the Nakhchivan Declaration, Azernews reports with reference to the OTS press service.“I sincerely congratulate the Turkic world on October 3, which is celebrated as the Day of Cooperation of Turkic States... The centuries-old fraternal ties between the Turkic countries strengthened on the basis of a common language, history, and cultural heritage, have become seriously institutionalized within our organization since 2009. Having voluntarily united under the auspices of the UTC, the Turkic states are decisively stepping into the future, promoting comprehensive cooperation in the political, economic, cultural, and social spheres,” the document says.The Secretary-General emphasized that the date of October 3 “represents the deep ties” between the member countries of the organization.“Today we celebrate our rise and achievements together,” he emphasized.Kubanychbek Omuraliev noted that the activities of the UTG include more than 20 areas of cooperation.“[The organization] draws its strength from the Turkic World Vision 2040 document,” the document says.The Secretary-General believes that the “unyielding determination” of heads of state and foreign ministers “is clearly manifested in dynamic activities and strategic alliances” between countries.Kubanychbek Omuraliev said that the X OTG Summit, planned in Kazakhstan in November, will be “the stage at which vital decisions will be made and agreements will be signed that will form the organization’s program of activities in the coming period.”In conclusion, the head of the organization expressed gratitude to country leaders, as well as the private sector and NGOs “for their unwavering support.”“With wishes of peace, unity, and solidarity, congratulations on the holiday of October 3, which is proof of the strength of our common spirit! Together we are stronger,” concluded the Secretary-General. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239664.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:59:00 +0400 Today marks three years since the liberation of Sugovushan and Talish villages of Azerbaijan's Tartar region from the occupation by Armenian armed forces, Azernews reports.On 3 October 2020, the Azerbaijani army cleared both villages of Armenian occupants.On that day, the tricolour State Flag of Azerbaijan was raised in Sugovushan and Talish.In 1992, Aghdara district was abolished and its territory was divided between the neighbouring Agdam, Tartar and Kalbajar districts. The village with the ancient name Sugovushan, which was called Madagiz during the Soviet era, is one of the settlements included in the Tartar district.Sugovushan was first liberated from occupation by the Azerbaijani army in 1991-1992. However, in April 1994 the village was again occupied by Armenia.Sugovushan reservoir and "Sugovushan-1" hydroelectric power station are located on the territory of the village. After the occupation of Sugovushan, Armenians established military units here. Military unit No. 49971 was considered one of the best in the Armenian army in Garabagh. In addition, military unit No. 33651, which the Armenian army designated as the "6th Defence Region", also occupied positions in Sugovushan.President of Azerbaijan, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev announced the liberation of Sugovushan from Armenian occupation on 3 October 2020. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief then congratulated Major General Hikmet Hasanov, who at that time commanded the 1st Army Corps, on the liberation of Sugovushan from occupation. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239665.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:20:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Korea Yoon Suk Yeol, Azernews reports.The letter reads:"Dear Mr. President,On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I sincerely congratulate you and all your people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Korea.Relations of friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Korea have good traditions. We are pleased with the development dynamics of our intergovernmental relations and the expansion of our mutually beneficial cooperation.The Korean companies have been operating very successfully in Azerbaijan for many years. The companies representing your country can contribute to the restoration and reconstruction works carried out in our liberated territories through the use of advanced and modern technologies. By taking advantage of the existing opportunities, I believe that through our joint efforts we will continue to deepen our relations and effective cooperation, which have great potential.On this festive day, I wish you good health, happiness, and the friendly Republic of Korea everlasting peace and prosperity.Sincerely,Ilham AliyevPresident of the Republic of AzerbaijanBaku, 30 September 2023" http://www.today.az/news/politics/239666.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:07:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Iraq Abdul Latif Rashid, Azernews reports.The letter reads:"Dear Mr. President,On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I cordially congratulate you and all your people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Iraq and extend my best wishes.I believe that through our joint efforts, Azerbaijan-Iraq relations will continue to develop and strengthen in an atmosphere of friendship and cooperation.On this festive day, I wish you good health, success in your activities, and the friendly people of Iraq everlasting peace and prosperity.Sincerely,Ilham AliyevPresident of the Republic of AzerbaijanBaku, 2 October 2023" http://www.today.az/news/politics/239661.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:56:00 +0400 By Azernews Abbas GanbayHead of the Press Service Department of the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry Aykhan Hajizada responded to the statements of the Finnish Ambassador to Azerbaijan with residence in Ankara, who is also the Ambassador to other countries of the South Caucasus Kirsti Narinen, Azernews reports.The relevant publication was posted on the Azerbaijani diplomat's page on social network X (formerly Twitter).</div><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-size: 1.2rem; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Roboto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"Armenia has committed numerous atrocities against Azerbaijanis, while Azerbaijan has never attacked civilians of Armenian origin, on the contrary, it has provided a safe environment for their reintegration. Turning a blind eye to the statements of the United Nations, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees that Azerbaijan does not evict Armenians by force is nothing but hypocrisy," the statement reads.</p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-size: 1.2rem; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Roboto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">It should be noted that the Finnish diplomat said that the Armenian residents of the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan allegedly left the region not voluntarily, but faced "fear of violence".</p></div></body> </html> http://www.today.az/news/politics/239660.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:40:00 +0400 On October 2, starting from 17:20 to 18:00, the Armenian armed forces units from the positions in the direction of Azizli settlement of the Basarkechar district using small arms subjected to fire the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the direction of Yukhari Ayrim settlement of the Kalbajar district, Azernews reports.Moreover, improvised explosive devices were also dropped on the Azerbaijan Army positions stationed in the mentioned direction by means of a combat quadracopter.The Azerbaijan Army Units did not suffer any losses, adequate retaliatory measures were taken in the mentioned direction. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239657.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:31:00 +0400 The US State Department has not confirmed Armenia's allegations of "ethnic cleansing" in Garabagh, spokesman Matthew Miller said at a press briefing, Azernews reports.According to Miller, the US takes allegations of ethnic cleansing, genocide, or other atrocities seriously, Miller said: "But as always, the decision on genocide or ethnic cleansing is based on a thoughtful, fact-based process. It's not something I can talk about with any degree of finality from this podium."Miller also said the US welcomes the UN team's mission to Garabagh. He added that the US would urge Azerbaijan and Armenia to return to peace talks. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239658.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:07:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier.Dear Mr. President,On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my most sincere congratulations to you and all your people on the occasion of October 3 - German Unity Day.We attach great importance to the development of relations of friendship and cooperation between Azerbaijan and Germany. It is gratifying that our countries enjoy the active and fruitful cooperation in the political, economic and humanitarian areas.Azerbaijan is determined to strengthen relations with Germany and continue mutually beneficial cooperation. I am sure that both our intergovernmental relations and our mutually beneficial interaction within the European Union will continue to develop and strengthen.On this remarkable day, I extend my best regards to you, and wish the friendly people of Germany everlasting peace and prosperity.Sincerely,Ilham AliyevPresident of the Republic of AzerbaijanBaku, 30 September 2023 http://www.today.az/news/society/239659.html Society Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:51:00 +0400 By AzernewsLaman IsmayilovaThe third Korkut Ata Turkic World Film Festival will be held on October 8-11 in Baku and Shusha.The festival will be organized with the assistance of the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, Heydar Aliyev Center, TURKSOY, the Film Agency and the Baku Media Center, Azernews reports.The Korkut Ata festival has been held annually since 2021. One of the goals of the festival is to develop cultural cooperation among Turkic states.The festival, organized since 2021, was first held in Istanbul, Turkiye and last year was organized in the Turkish city of Bursa.Over 100 guests are expected to attend the festival this year, including the Turkish Deputy Culture Minister Batuhan Mumcu, Director of the Cinematography Agency under the Uzbekistan Culture Ministry Firdavs Abdukhalikov, chairman of the Uzbekistan Union of Cinematographers Matyakub Matchanov, chairman of the Board of the State Center for Support of National Cinema of Kazakhstan Kurmanbek Zhumagali, President of Kazakhfilm Azamat Satybaldy and others.Around 40 feature, documentary and animated films from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, as well as Gagauzia (Moldova), Tatarstan, Altai and Bashkortostan (Russia) and representatives of small Turkic peoples, will be shown at the Nizami Cinema Center as part of the festival.As part of the festival, it is planned to organize a study tour of famous filmmakers from Turkic countries to the city of Shusha, declared by TURKSOY as the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World 2023, as well as hold meetings in Baku.The festival's opening and closing ceremonies will take place at Heydar Aliyev Center in Baku. http://www.today.az/news/society/239650.html Society Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:44:00 +0400 The military units of the Azerbaijan Army hold activities with regard to the discharge of a group of servicemen whose term of active military service has ended, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry.First, the memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev, and Shehids (Martyrs), who sacrificed their lives for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of the Motherland, was honored with observing a minute of silence. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was performed.The speakers congratulated the active military servicemen who were sent to the reserve of the Azerbaijan Armed Forces and wished them success in their future activities.The soldiers who completed their military service expressed great honor and pride for serving in the victorious Azerbaijan Army and noted that the positive qualities acquired during military service will contribute to their role as worthy citizens in society.At the events, a group of servicemen who distinguished themselves in combat tasks fulfilled during military service, in particular in local anti-terror measures held in the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan, were awarded.In the end, photos were taken with discharged servicemen and they were sent to their places of residence.</p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-size: 1.2rem; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Roboto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><br /></p></body> </html> http://www.today.az/news/business/239651.html Business Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:25:00 +0400 The price of Azeri LT CIF Augusta decreased by $2.34 amounting to $97.77 per barrel on October 2, Azernews reports.Moreover, the price of Azeri LT FOB Ceyhan dropped by $2.33, as compared to the previous price, and amounted to $96.78 per barrel. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239652.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:00:00 +0400 Chairman of the State Committee for Work with Religious Institutions (SCC) Mubariz Gurbanli met with a delegation headed by the religious leader of the Anglican Church, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, Azernews reports.According to the report, the chairman of the committee informed the guest in detail about the religious situation in our country, the model of coexistence based on respect and trust, and the activity of DQIDK. Noting that the majority of Azerbaijan's population is Muslim, the Committee Chairman said all religions are treated equally in Azerbaijan. Freedom of religion is fully ensured in our country, there is an ideal balance between secularism and religious values.M. Gurbanli noted that 995 religious institutions are registered with the state, 37 of which are non-Islamic, and financial aid is regularly allocated to support the activity of religious confessions existing in the country.The chairman of the National Institute of Religious Education in Azerbaijan informed about the state of religious education in Azerbaijan and noted that the Azerbaijan Institute of Theology, established by the decree of President Ilham Aliyev, is a specialized educational institution in this field and attached great importance to the contribution to the training of professional theologians and theologians.Noting that Azerbaijan demonstrates an exemplary model of inter-religious dialogue and coexistence, Justin Welbin positively assessed Azerbaijan's secular approach to religion. The guest emphasized the importance of creating all necessary conditions for equal activity of non-Islamic religious communities in the republic and the activity of the National Council for Religious Affairs in this direction.At the end of the meeting, attended by British Ambassador to Azerbaijan Fergus Auld and Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK Elin Suleymanov, the guests were presented books published by the State Committee in English, which talks about the climate of religious tolerance in our country. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239654.html World news Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:00:00 +0400 The head of the Republican Center for Organization of Sanitary Cleaning under the Ministry of Ecology, Sharif Khasanov, met with the Ambassador of Sweden to Uzbekistan, Thomas Danestad, and Senior Advisor to the Swedish Association for Waste Management and Recycling, Vern Vikvist, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.At the meeting, the issue of waste management and accelerating the introduction of best practices into the system between Uzbekistan and Sweden was discussed.An exchange of views took place regarding the study and analysis of the waste situation in the country, including short-term and long-term needs in this area.The Swedish waste management model was mainly focused on recycling waste as well as producing energy from it.Particular attention was paid to the development, sustainable design and implementation of innovative waste-to-energy technologies. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239655.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:30:00 +0400 By Azernews Qabil AshirovIt won't be wrong if some claim that the biased stance of the West paved the road for the bloody Garabagh War that lasted over 30 years and cost the lives of thousands. It is crystal clear that Armenia, devoid of any resources, could not dare to start any military aggression against Azerbaijan in the 1990s. The West pampered and spoiled Armenia to such an extent that Yerevan was sure that all its atrocities and crimes would be unpunished. Western NGOs, politicians, and especially media outlets had done their best to force Azerbaijanis to accept then-realities. To justify their heinous claims, they used to exemplify the German-French relations and say that the two countries had fought in WWII, but today they had a good relationship. They did not hesitate to travel to the invaded territories, prepare the programs, and participate in the events. However, they prepared to turn a blind eye to the massacres committed by Armenians such as Khojaly, Meshali, and so on.Even, nobody remembered the four UN resolutions that demanded immediate withdrawal from the Armenian side. However, the 44-day War in 2020 and the anti-terror activities in 2023, totally changed everything. By force, Azerbaijan pushed Armenia to fulfill the before-said resolutions. Following these two events, the rhetoric of Western mass media, NGOs, and politicians changed instantly. They promptly remembered ethnic cleansing. As if taking instructions from one center, all Western media outlets commenced speaking about the so-called ethnic cleansing conducted by "Azerbaijan against Armenians in Garabagh".Some Western politicians ardently speak and note that they will not allow any 'ethnic cleansing' (that actually does not exist). They have gone the extra mile to require imposing sanctions on Azerbaijan. However, for some reason, they did not denounce ethnic cleansing conducted by Armenia in the 1990s. They did not hurry to impose sanctions upon Armenia when Yerevan expelled over one million people of different origins from their hometowns and leveled down cities, towns, and villages. It is obvious that the Western media, jointly with other international organizations, have been trying simultaneously to demonize Azerbaijanis and create an image of innocent civilian peaceful Armenians. As if the victims are not one million Azerbaijanis who were forced to leave all his/her savings, property, and hometowns, but Armenians who illegally tried to appropriate all belonging to the Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees. As if we, Azerbaijanis, are all bloodthirsty who crave for a war, but Armenians are poor peace-loving civilians who try their best to evade a war.For this purpose, i.e. creating an innocent and civilian Armenian image, the Western media resort to all kind of impudence. Take the Economist, for example. The article "What We Have We (Mostly) Hold" in 1996, starts with the sentence "Nowhere have the Armenians been as energetic and tough as in Nagorno-Karabagh".The article praises the Armenian invasion and speaks wholeheartedly about economic development in 'Azeri-free' lands. However, the same Economist shamelessly calls the anti-terror activities conducted by Azerbaijan in 2023 genocide and ethnic cleansing. It reminds me of the motto some people are more equal.It should be mentioned that the Economist is not the only Western media that manipulates realities. For example, German DW has taken an interview with an "innocent, peace-loving" Armenian old woman. In the interview, the woman says in Russian:“No, I will never return there because the Azerbaijanis will not give [Karabakh to us]... artsakh will not be given to us, if we don't fight again if the Armenians don’t rebel, take it.”However, DW translates it as:In Deutsche: “Nein, ich glaube Azerbaijan nicht. Ich glaube das nicht, wie sie sagen wir tun es nicht. Ich weiße es noch nicht. Das ist einfach nicht wahr,” which translated into English as “No, I don’t believe Azerbaijan, I don’t believe what they say, that they won’t do anything. I don't know that yet. It's simply not true."It seems DW does not know that all Azerbaijanis are bilingual and most of them are fluent in Russian and English.In a nutshell, I would like to conclude that such games have not worked so far, and it will not further. The West cannot save Armenia with such games. As for reconciling and forgetting everything like the Germans and French, we Azerbaijanis are ready. But we want that reconciliation with Armenia to be the same as Germany and France. For example, Germany paid good compensation to France and some parts of former Germany came under the control of France. Even, as is known, Germany divided into two parts after WWII. So, we will be very happy if Armenia pays good compensation, some parts of Armenia, such as Zangazur, come under the control of Azerbaijan, and Armenia is divided into two parts. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239653.html Politics Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:30:00 +0400 By AzernewsQabil Ashirov It won't be wrong if some claim that the biased stance of the West paved the road for the bloody Garabagh War that lasted over 30 years and cost the lives of thousands. It is crystal clear that Armenia, devoid of any resources, could not dare to start any military aggression against Azerbaijan in the 1990s. The West pampered and spoiled Armenia to such an extent that Yerevan was sure that all its atrocities and crimes would be unpunished. Western NGOs, politicians, and especially media outlets had done their best to force Azerbaijanis to accept then-realities. To justify their heinous claims, they used to exemplify the German-French relations and say that the two countries had fought in WWII, but today they had a good relationship. They did not hesitate to travel to the invaded territories, prepare the programs, and participate in the events. However, they prepared to turn a blind eye to the massacres committed by Armenians such as Khojaly, Meshali, and so on.Even, nobody remembered the four UN resolutions that demanded immediate withdrawal from the Armenian side. However, the 44-day War in 2020 and the anti-terror activities in 2023, totally changed everything. By force, Azerbaijan pushed Armenia to fulfill the before-said resolutions. Following these two events, the rhetoric of Western mass media, NGOs, and politicians changed instantly. They promptly remembered ethnic cleansing. As if taking instructions from one center, all Western media outlets commenced speaking about the so-called ethnic cleansing conducted by "Azerbaijan against Armenians in Garabagh".Some Western politicians ardently speak and note that they will not allow any 'ethnic cleansing' (that actually does not exist). They have gone the extra mile to require imposing sanctions on Azerbaijan. However, for some reason, they did not denounce ethnic cleansing conducted by Armenia in the 1990s. They did not hurry to impose sanctions upon Armenia when Yerevan expelled over one million people of different origins from their hometowns and leveled down cities, towns, and villages. It is obvious that the Western media, jointly with other international organizations, have been trying simultaneously to demonize Azerbaijanis and create an image of innocent civilian peaceful Armenians. As if the victims are not one million Azerbaijanis who were forced to leave all his/her savings, property, and hometowns, but Armenians who illegally tried to appropriate all belonging to the Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees. As if we, Azerbaijanis, are all bloodthirsty who crave for a war, but Armenians are poor peace-loving civilians who try their best to evade a war.For this purpose, i.e. creating an innocent and civilian Armenian image, the Western media resort to all kind of impudence. Take the Economist, for example. The article "What We Have We (Mostly) Hold" in 1996, starts with the sentence "Nowhere have the Armenians been as energetic and tough as in Nagorno-Karabagh".The article praises the Armenian invasion and speaks wholeheartedly about economic development in 'Azeri-free' lands. However, the same Economist shamelessly calls the anti-terror activities conducted by Azerbaijan in 2023 genocide and ethnic cleansing. It reminds me of the motto some people are more equal.It should be mentioned that the Economist is not the only Western media that manipulates realities. For example, German DW has taken an interview with an "innocent, peace-loving" Armenian old woman. In the interview, the woman says in Russian:“No, I will never return there because the Azerbaijanis will not give [Karabakh to us]... artsakh will not be given to us, if we don't fight again if the Armenians don’t rebel, take it.”However, DW translates it as:In Deutsche: “Nein, ich glaube Azerbaijan nicht. Ich glaube das nicht, wie sie sagen wir tun es nicht. Ich weiße es noch nicht. Das ist einfach nicht wahr,” which translated into English as “No, I don’t believe Azerbaijan, I don’t believe what they say, that they won’t do anything. I don't know that yet. It's simply not true."</div><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-size: 1.2rem; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Roboto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">It seems DW does not know that all Azerbaijanis are bilingual and most of them are fluent in Russian and English.</p><p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; font-size: 1.2rem; line-height: 1.5; font-family: Roboto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">In a nutshell, I would like to conclude that such games have not worked so far, and it will not further. The West cannot save Armenia with such games. As for reconciling and forgetting everything like the Germans and French, we Azerbaijanis are ready. But we want that reconciliation with Armenia to be the same as Germany and France. For example, Germany paid good compensation to France and some parts of former Germany came under the control of France. Even, as is known, Germany divided into two parts after WWII. So, we will be very happy if Armenia pays good compensation, some parts of Armenia, such as Zangazur, come under the control of Azerbaijan, and Armenia is divided into two parts.</p></div></body> </html> http://www.today.az/news/regions/239656.html World news Tue, 03 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0400 The World Bank on Sunday projected a 5.1 percent growth for the Chinese economy in 2023, according to its newly released East Asia and Pacific Economic Update, Azernews reports, citing Kabar."China has remarkable strengths," Aaditya Mattoo, chief economist for the World Bank's East Asia and Pacific, told a press briefing in response to a question from Xinhua."It has shown its great depth in manufacturing, but not just in basic manufacturing, (also) the kind of innovative manufacturing to which China is breaking in, the kind of human capacity that's being created in China," said the economist.Mattoo noted that China plans to assure a better quality of growth and does not just think of how growth can be accelerated in the short term."How much China is going to grow is a less interesting question than how China chooses to grow," he said.According to the outlook, growth in the East Asia and Pacific region this year is higher than the average projected for all other emerging markets and developing economies.It is expected to remain strong at 5 percent in 2023 but will ease in the second half of 2023 and is forecast to be 4.5 percent during 2024, the report showed, adding that China's economy is projected to be 4.4 percent in 2024."The East Asia and Pacific region remains one of the fastest growing and most dynamic regions in the world, even if growth is moderating," said World Bank East Asia and Pacific Vice-President Manuela V. Ferro."Over the medium term, sustaining high growth will require reforms to maintain industrial competitiveness, diversify trading partners, and unleash the productivity-enhancing and job-creating potential of the services sector," Ferro said. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239643.html World news Tue, 03 Oct 2023 00:50:00 +0400 Georgia’s National Intellectual Property Centre on Sunday said the export of Georgian honey increased, noting that in 2021 the export of honey amounted to $402,098, while in 2020 the figure was $29,053, Azernews reports, citing Agenda.The body, also known as Sakpatenti, said there were three geographical types of honey registered in Georgia, including Machakhela, Ninotsminda and Mukhuri honey.The number of beehives has also increased in the country, with Georgia’s eastern Kakheti region being the leader in this direction, Sakpatenti added.The world’s oldest honey, dating back to the third millennium BC, was found by archaeologists in Georgia, near the village of Sakire in the Borjomi region, in 2003. Two ceramic vessels were also found during the archeological excavations.Sakpatenti emphasised that the evolution of the bee species was conditioned by the complex climatic elements and biodiversity of flora in Georgia that gave them special characteristics and ultimately made the Georgian bee breeds unique, unlike other bee species.By scientific calculations, the bee nutrition in Georgia allows the number of its families to increase even more, which, along with the growth in the production of beekeeping products, means a sharp increase in the yield of a number of agricultural crops", the Centre noted.A Georgian bee was awarded three times with a gold medal in 1961 in Germany, in 1965 in Romania and in 1971 in Moscow. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239639.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 23:50:00 +0400 With the support of the Department of Political and Economic Research of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic, the First Analytical Kurultai in Central Asia - the First International Conference on Business and System Analysis in the Kyrgyz Republic - will be held in Bishkek on October 7, 2023, Azernews reports, citing Kabar.The community of business analysts of the Kyrgyz Republic invited speakers from Belarus, Russia, the Republic of Cyprus, and Kazakhstan, who are ready to share their valuable experience. The speakers worked/are working in companies such as Gazpromneft - Digital Solutions, EPAM Systems, Sberbank, Geek Brains, Escalate, UniCredit Bank, VEB Technologies and other organizations.It should be noted that the community of business analysts of the Kyrgyz Republic was created in the spring of 2022 and has more than 400 participants. The community hosted more than 10 free events, from talks to hands-on workshops and sessions. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239640.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 23:20:00 +0400 Inflation in Uzbekistan in September 2023 was 1.24%, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.This is the highest figure for this month in the last three years (2021 – 1.09%, 2022 – 1.03%), and also the largest increase since the beginning of 2023.Last month, food prices rose by 1.8%, non-food products by 1%, and services by 0.6%.Since the beginning of the year (January-September), inflation has increased to 5.13%, annual inflation (compared to September last year) has accelerated to 9.19% (8.96%). During the year, food products rose in price by 11%, non-food products – by 7.6%, services – by 8.2%.Also, over the past month, housing rents have increased in a number of regions (the national average by 2.4%).In September, prices for public catering services in nine regions increased by an average of 0.1% to 2.5% (from 0.3% to 5.3% in August).In a number of regions, the “pilaf index” has also changed. The cost of one serving of pilaf in the Bukhara region increased by 11.9% – to 28.2 thousand soums, in the Samarkand region – by 7.3% (27 thousand soums). In Navoi and Kashkadarya regions, pilaf also became more expensive (2% and 1.6%). http://www.today.az/news/regions/239641.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:45:00 +0400 Italy on Monday was celebrating National Grandparents Day, Azernews reports, citing ANSA.Premier Giorgia Meloni took part, posting a photo of herself with her grandmother Maria and her sister Arianna.She hailed grandparents as "living treasures, custodians of traditions, models of wisdom and affection".Farmers' association Coldiretti, meanwhile, said over one in three families in Italy rely on grandparents for financial assistance and/or for help with child care or other forms of practical assistance. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239642.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 22:15:00 +0400 President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev received Mutaz al-Hayat, the chairman of the board of Power International Holding company, at his residence in Doha on October 1, Azernews reports, citing Kun.uz News Agency.Power International is the largest national holding company of Qatar, which is active in 19 countries of the world in the fields of energy, petrochemical, industry, agriculture, transport infrastructure, healthcare, and tourism. It is one of the leading multinational companies in the Middle East.Today, in cooperation with this company, a modern livestock cluster is being built in Jizzakh region, which will be the largest agro-industrial complex of the region in the future.Building a high-speed highway in the country, increasing the volume of ammonia and urea production, building business and hotel infrastructure, and health facilities were noted as promising projects.The Qatari side announced that the holding will soon open its office in Uzbekistan. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239644.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 21:10:00 +0400 The popular American singer Bruno Mars on Sunday performed at the Dinamo Arena stadium in the Georgian capital city of Tbilisi as part of Starring Georgia, a series of shows promoting the country's tourism potential and showcasing it on the map of entertainment events around the world, Azernews reports, citing Agenda.Maia Omiadze, the Head of the Georgian National Tourism Administration, said about 70,000 music enthusiasts were hosted for the show at the venue.The winner of 15 Grammy Awards, four Brit Awards, four Guinness World Records and other prizes, Bruno Mars was sought by organisers of the two-year programme aiming to see Georgia host a "constellation” of stars of the international popular music scene, a release by Black Area Arena performance venue said.Initiated by Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili, the campaign will have a 2024 edition as well. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239669.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:47:00 +0400 An exhibition has been organized as part of the 74th International Astronautical Congress., Azernews reports.President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and their son Heydar Aliyev attended the opening of the exhibition.Following the ribbon cutting ceremony symbolizing the opening of the exhibition, the attendees familiarized themselves with the stands of participating companies.The pavilion of the exhibition, installed on an area of 8,000 square meters, features the stands of 150 companies representing 36 countries.The head of state and the First Lady viewed the stands of the Turkish Space Agency, the Saudi Space Agency, the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Indian Space Research Organization, the Israel Aerospace Industries, the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics, the Chinese Society of Astronautics and other companies.The Baku Congress has already surpassed the congresses held in Australia, Germany, U.S., UAE and France in terms of number of sponsorship packages bought by 22 companies in space industry. The Congress has over 30 sponsors.4 main sponsorship packages, including Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze ones, were bought by the US companies such as “Space X”, “Axiom Space”, “Blue Origin”, “Boeing”, “Lockheed Martin”, “BlackSky” “Vast”, “Northrop Grumman”, the Chinese Society of Astronautics, the Turkish Space Agency, the “Plan S” technology company, the Saudi Space Agency, Israel Aerospace Industries, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre, the Indian Space Research Organization, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, “ispace”, “JGC Holdings Corporation”, “Astroscale” companies, “Aiurbus” Office in Germany, Intersputnik International Organization of Space Communications, Portugal's “Neuraspace” company, Bulgaria's ‘EnduraSat” company, Austria's “Asgardia Space” company, the Italian Association of Aeronautics and Astronautics, the UK Space Agency, Amazon's “Project Kuiper”, “Jet Propulsion Laboratory”, and “Voyager Space” company.Founded in 1951, the International Astronautical Federation is the world’s leading space advocacy body with more than 460 members in 110 countries, including all leading space agencies, companies, research institutions, universities, societies, associations, institutes and museums worldwide.As organizer of the annual International Astronautical Congress (IAC) – world’s premier global space event – and other thematic events, the IAF actively encourages the development of astronautics for peaceful purposes and supports the dissemination of scientific and technical information related to space. Azerbaijan has been a member of the International Astronautical Federation since 2003. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239609.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:45:00 +0400 The opening ceremony of the 74th International Astronautical Congress has kicked off at the Baku Convention Center, Azernews reports.President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva and their son Heydar Aliyev attended the event.First, the Congress participants posed together for photographs.The opening ceremony saw a musical show as well as videos about Azerbaijan and the 24th International Astronautical Congress held in Baku in 1973.Then, a video presenting the International Astronautical Federation was screened.The opening ceremony was addressed by President of the International Astronautical Federation Clay Mowry.A video message of the China Space Station astronauts was demonstrated.President of the International Astronautical Federation Clay Mowry presented to President Ilham Aliyev a keepsake including a photograph depicting Great Leader Heydar Aliyev and President Ilham Aliyev together with astronauts at the 24th International Astronautical Congress held in Baku in 1973, which was demonstrated in the space and then brought back, and other attributes.Then, a video message of the International Space Station astronauts was shown.The head of state addressed the opening ceremony of the Congress.Speech by President Ilham Aliyev-Dear Mr. President of the International Astronautical Federation.Dear ladies and gentlemen.Dear guests.Welcome to Azerbaijan, welcome to Baku. After 50 years, the congress is back. First of all, I’d like to express deep gratitude to the International Astronautical Federation for the honor to host the Congress in Azerbaijan. Also, I'd like to express gratitude to the International Academy of Astronautics and International Institute of Space Law for their constant support.For us, it's a big honor to host such an important global event. We have more than 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries. I am sure that our guests will have a chance apart from their duties here at the Congress to know more about Azerbaijan, its history, its culture, its people.Azerbaijan became a member of a global space club more than a decade ago. And now with two telecommunication satellites and one Earth observation satellite, we continue our efforts to develop space industry in Azerbaijan. Also, I'd like to inform you that these three satellites are managed by Azerbaijani specialists, and they provide services not only to us, but to 45 countries.The Congress here in Baku will definitely give a new impetus to the development of space industry, development of high tech and innovation sector of our country, its modernization. Now modernization is a word, which characterizes our vision for the future, our agenda and our plans.During the times of independence, Azerbaijan transformed into an active member of international community. Our policy is always very clear, transparent, straightforward, and is aimed at winning friends and enhancing cooperation. Azerbaijan participates as an active member of the international community in numerous political, economic and regional development projects. We, for the fourth year, are chairing the second largest international institution after the United Nations – the Non-Aligned Movement, and we've been entrusted the honor to chair this institution by unanimous decision of 120 countries. So, this really reflects the broad international support to Azerbaijan.At the same time, our cooperation with the European institutions also develop successfully. With nine members of the EU, Azerbaijan signed declarations on strategic partnership. So, that actually demonstrates our foreign policy agenda, which is absolutely open and as I already said, aimed at cooperation and broader regional involvement and inclusivity.Azerbaijan is a member of two important international institutions - Organization of Islamic Cooperation and Council of Europe - and is one of the very few countries, which is a member of both. More than 100 countries are participants in these two international organizations. So, this actually is a reflection of not only our geography and our culture, but also our political intentions. Because being situated just between Europe and Asia, being a kind of natural transportation, cultural, and now also economic bridge, which connects two continents, surely gives us this basic opportunity to create a broad international cooperation in our region.I think geography means a lot for maybe all the countries of the world. For us, geography means opportunity. So, we managed to transform our geographical location into a positive scenario, having good relations with our neighbors, with whom we share centuries of cohabitation and partnership. Today, we broaden our horizons. And actually entrusting us with hosting this important international event, we consider it as a sign of respect, as a sign of support to our endeavors.Being a natural bridge between the continents, of course, played an important role for the development of our society. Throughout the centuries, Azerbaijan had a multicultural and multiconfessional society. Now during more than 30 years of independence, we have strengthened this factor of our life. We consider it as an important factor of stability, predictability, and the peaceful coexistence between representatives of all ethnic groups and representatives of all confessions in Azerbaijan. We really live like in one family, and it is also noted and reflected in decisions of international organizations like United Nations, which fully support Azerbaijan's efforts to promote multiculturalism. By the way, the regular World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, which is held by our initiative in our country, is a unique platform for making interactions between different civilizations, more results oriented.Azerbaijan was the initiator of the Baku Process more than a decade ago, which for the first time in history united the Council of Europe and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in one platform addressing important issues of global politics, intercultural dialogue and peaceful development.Azerbaijan is also known as a country where the first oil in the world was produced in the middle of the 19th century. And at that time, we were producing more than half of the world's oil production and also maybe not many people know that the first offshore oil was also produced in Azerbaijan in the Caspian by Azerbaijani oil workers in the middle of 20th century.And now, when we are independent, our natural resources serve the benefit of our people. The rapid transformation during the years of independence is actually a demonstration of the proper use of our natural wealth. For some countries, who are rich with oil resources, oil is a curse. For us, it was the way how to develop, how to strengthen our independence, how to protect our identity, and to build a strong economy.If you look at today's map of energy and transportation routes, including pipelines, you will see the touch of Azerbaijan. The projects, which we initiated and successfully completed together with our neighbors and partners, actually, is a big contribution to energy security, not only of our region. And today, as we all know, energy security is an integral part of the national security of every country. Today Azerbaijan is a reliable supplier of energy resources to international markets, and is considered by the European Union as a pan-European supplier. But among our partners, there are dozens of countries in different continents, and all that serves the international cooperation, predictability, and at the same time, successful economic development of our country.Three years ago, we completed the main task of our life. We restored our territorial integrity, which was violated for almost 30 years. We suffered aggression, occupation, ethnic cleansing, which was a big tragedy for our nation and a big humanitarian catastrophe. When our lands became occupied in the beginning of 90s, more than 1 million of Azerbaijanis - at that time our population was 8 million - became refugees and internally displaced persons. That was probably the highest per capita ratio of refugees in any country. And at that time, we were very poor. We did not yet started to develop our natural resources. We were landlocked, disorganized and the prospects for the future were not very clear.But our people demonstrated strong political will. We tried for many years to find a peaceful solution to the conflict and to put an end to occupation by peaceful means. For 28 years, we were strongly committed to negotiation process, but unfortunately, we clearly realize that it is not possible to do by peaceful means. So, we used our right for self-defense. We used the right, which is given to every country by the UN Charter - right for self-defense - and liberated our territories three years ago, and put an end to occupation. Just less than one months ago, we fully restored our sovereignty all over the country.Unfortunately, international organizations, which were obliged to put an end to occupation, did not produce any results. The United Nations Security Council adopted four resolutions demanding immediate and unconditional withdrawal of Armenian forces from our territories. But these resolutions were not implemented for 27 years. We implemented those resolutions ourselves, sacrificing the lives of our people. Other international institutions like the OSCE had a mandate for negotiation facilitation, but it produced zero result and led to total frustration and disappointment in Azerbaijan`s society.So, our experience of restoration of territorial integrity and sovereignty in a certain way is unique. We put an end to a conflict, which was imposed on us. We protected our dignity. We restored justice and international law. And now it's time for peace in Caucasus. This is our agenda. Our agenda is peace in the Caucasus, peace in the region, cooperation and shared benefits.Today we demonstrate that, of course, in order to become really independent country, we had to have a strong economy. We clearly realize that. Therefore, all our main efforts were aimed how to create such an economy, which will be self-sufficient, that will not lead us to a kind of a dependence on any global center of power, or on any financial institution. We managed to do it.I would like to inform you with some figures. Taking into account that most of our guests are visiting Azerbaijan for the first time, I think these figures clearly demonstrate what has been achieved in Azerbaijan recently. So, in the last 20 years, our GDP grew four times, our budget revenues grew more than 30 times, foreign trade turnover more than 10 times-gross. We managed to reduce our direct foreign debt, and now it is around 10% of GDP. By the end of 2024, according to our plans, it will be around 7-7.5% of GDP. Foreign exchange reserves in Azerbaijan exceed our direct foreign debt 10 times. So, in other words, if we would like, we can repay all our debts within a couple of months. We created a very positive investment climate, not only for energy, but other sectors. So, total investments in the last 20 years were more than 300 billion US dollars and among which 190 billion was investment in the non-energy sector.One of the big challenges in the beginning of our independence was poverty, which was endemic. 20 years ago, the percentage of people living in poverty was close to 50. Now it is 5.5%, which actually demonstrates that natural resources, which we accumulated and which we brought to international market were properly managed. And the fair distribution of national wealth today is seen by international experts and most important by the people of Azerbaijan. So, all these actually demonstrates that country is well-established. Political, economic and social stability is an important factor of our development, because it is clear that if situation is not stable and is not predictable, you cannot expect investors to come and to risk their capital.I hope that our guests will have opportunity to see what I've just said with their own eyes, seeing the people, meeting with people, and knowing more about Azerbaijan. Yes, we have ancient history, part of which was demonstrated in the video presentation, and the ancient culture. But as an independent country we are still very young, only 32 years old.And, in conclusion, I'd like to say once again that we really are very proud that we are hosting the Congress for the second time. As it was already said and demonstrated that the 24th Congress was held in Baku in 1973. I'm very grateful to all our guests and especially to our brave Chinese astronauts, which have that very dear for me photo in the space. So, in certain way, I am also there. I am part of your community.Of course, hosting for the second time this important event is a big honor for us. Once again, I would like to express gratitude to all those who participated in that decision. So for the second time, the Congress is held in Baku, in the same city, but not in the same country. Today, it is independent Azerbaijan, which hosts such a global event. So once again, thank you for being with us. I wish the Congress success.x x xThen, the winners were awarded in a number of categories.The opening ceremony continued with a concert.x x xPresident of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan put together their signatures on the Akinci unmanned aerial vehicle at the Teknofest Azerbaijan Aerospace and Technology Festival held for the first time in Baku on May 28, 2022.Selçuk Bayraktar presented to the head of state a small model of that unmanned aerial vehicle on the sidelines of the 74th International Astronautical Congress. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239645.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 20:05:00 +0400 The periodic report of the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights on Armenia will be presented in Geneva, Switzerland, Azernews reports.The Press and Public Relations Department of Milli Majlis reported that Kamal Jafarov, who represents Azerbaijan at the event, will present the position paper in his capacity as deputy chairman of the Western Azerbaijan Community Youth Union.Within the framework of the visit, the MP is also scheduled to meet with UN human rights rapporteurs on the issue of recognizing the rights of return of Western Azerbaijanis. http://www.today.az/news/society/239646.html Society Mon, 02 Oct 2023 19:33:00 +0400 By AzernewsLaman IsmayilovaJam SS Theater Studio has opened its new theater season with a grand premiere.The musical "The Greatest Showman" has been presented to the wide audience at the Rashid Behbudov State Song Theater.This stunning musical left an unforgettable impression on the audience with its exciting dance numbers, designer costumes, unusual scenery and vocal numbers.Head of Jam Group Aziz Azizov told AZERNEWS that the preparation for this musical premiere took more than three months. He recalled the last year, when the musical was demonstrated at a private screening. In 2023, "The Greatest Showman" was presented to all musical fans in Baku."Initially, The Greatest Showman was demonstrated at a private screening in English with the support of the U.S. State Department. In 2023, this musical was presented to the general public in Russian and Azerbaijani, marking the opening of the Jam Group's theater new season. The Greatest Showman stands out for its vibrancy and sound. The biographical musical is based on the story and life of Phineas Taylor Barnum, a famous showman and entertainer, and his creation of the Barnum & Bailey Circus," said Aziz Azizov.Speaking about how the idea came up to show the musical in Baku, head of the Jam Group first of all mentioned such iconic musicals as "Cats" and "Chicago"."First of all, I would like to mention such classic musicals as Cats and Chicago. The first one requires a huge variety of sets and costumes. As for the musical Chicago, it was presented to the Baku public many times. This time we decided to surprise the audience with the bright and unusual theater work-The Greatest Showman, which was staged according to all the canons of a musical.In his remarks, Aziz Azizov touched upon Jam SS Theater Studio's upcoming projects:"Jam SS Theater Studio's program is scheduled for a year in advance. The musical Donna's Story will be once again presented to the public on October 7. The Great Gatsby will be shown for the first time in Baku on December 9. Chicago will be presented to the audience on February 3-4. Moulin Rouge will be demonstrated on February 10-11. Jam Group will also delight its little spectators with two premieres-The Beauty and the Beast on November 12 and Barbie: Princess Charm School on November 25," Azizov said.He added that the program also includes family musicals like "The Grinch" to be shown on December 2-3, and Frozen to be staged on December 16-17."Furthermore, we are going to delight the Baku audience with musicals dedicated to Halloween, including "Monsters in Baku" on October 15 , "Coco" on October 22 , as well as the family musical "Corpse Bride" on October 29," he concluded.Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, Milli.Az. http://www.today.az/news/society/239647.html Society Mon, 02 Oct 2023 19:00:00 +0400 By AzernewsLaman IsmayilovaAzerbaijani director has been invited to take part in the 10th MITEN International Theater Festival in Hungary.Recall that this spring Tarlan Rasulov became the only Azerbaijani director to represent the country at the International Theater Olympics in Hungary."The scale of the Olympics is impressive. More than 750 theater productions from 58 countries were demonstrated in different Hungarian cities as part of the event. The Olympics are held every four years. It would be nice if Azerbaijan also hosted the Theater Olympics one day. It is very important to overcome some of the isolation of our theater. We have everything for this and there are people who can realize this plan in the best possible way, shaking up the theatrical landscape and demonstrating the strengths of the Azerbaijani theater to professionals and audiences from different countries," Tarlan Rasulov told AZERNEWS.The finale of the Theater Olympics will be the MITEM festival. Its rich program includes a theater conference, discussions and round tables on contemporary challenges facing culture and art, popular theater productions from France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Georgia and other countries, as well as a review of the national Hungarian theater.Founded in 2014, Hungary's largest international theater festival is aimed to serve as an artistic meeting place where representatives of different cultures and theater aesthetics can present their work and connect with each other.In recent years, the festival program included over 200 theater plays from 30 countries.The 10th MITEN International Theater Festival will last until October 23.Tarlan Rasulov is a theater director, founder of the dOM, known as the first interactive theater in Azerbaijan. He is also the author of the method of spontaneous acting.Rasulov heads the Cultural Center at the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts and the laboratory of experimental theater at the Azerbaijan Union of Theater Workers.He has initiated a number of social and theatrical projects created with the support of UNICEF, UNHCR, Goethe Institute, British Council, etc.Tarlan Rasulov is a member of the Azerbaijan Union of Theater Workers. European Drama Translation Network (EURODRAM), Eastern European Performing Arts Platform, Guild of Professional Film Directors of Azerbaijan.Regional managing editor of the Azerbaijani theater section of the international theater portal The Theater Times. Participant and laureate of international theater festivals, expert and speaker at international forums and conferences.He is also the regional managing editor of the Azerbaijani theater section of the international portal "The Theater Times".Rasulov is a participant and laureate of international theater festivals, expert and speaker at international forums and conferences. http://www.today.az/news/society/239648.html Society Mon, 02 Oct 2023 18:43:00 +0400 By AzernewsRena MurshudIn accordance with the request voiced by representatives of the Armenian residents of the Garabagh region of Azerbaijan on September 29 in the city of Yevlakh during a regular meeting regarding the organization of radio and television broadcasting, the situation with broadcasting in the region was studied, Azernews reports with reference to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.It was noted that as a result of radio monitoring, seven radio and nine television programs of Azerbaijan were broadcast through the Shusha TV and Radio Broadcasting Station in many territories of the Garabagh region, including Khankendi. Education of the Armenian residents living in the Garabagh region and communication of the calls of the Azerbaijani state to them is carried out using FM radio at frequencies 101.1, 103.5, and 97.7 MHz, as well as digital television at a frequency of 674 MHz, broadcast in Armenian and Russian languages,“However, additional measures will be taken to further expand the quality and coverage of radio and television broadcasts in the Garabagh region,” the message says.Communication network starts operating in KhankendiFurther to the report, the State Service for Special Communication and Information Security (SSIS) has created and put into operation a TETRA radio communication network in the city of Khankendi, as well as in Agdera and Khojaly districts for reliable management and organization of information exchange in operational mode.It was reported that currently, preparations for the construction of "AzStateNet" network are underway in this region.It was noted that the State Service of Special Communication and Information Security, guided by the decrees and orders of the President of Azerbaijan, continues to provide state bodies with uninterrupted and secure special-purpose communication.It should be remembered that during the last period of the current year, 15 state institutions operating in the territories of Garabagh and East Zangezur economic regions were provided with data and internet channels through "AzStateNet" network. http://www.today.az/news/regions/239649.html World news Mon, 02 Oct 2023 18:29:00 +0400 A document of agreement was signed in Baku on April 24, 2023, which aims to promote and strengthen defense cooperation between Azerbaijan and Gerogia, as well as provide practical activities for the implementation of military cooperation programs adopted by the parties.In this regard, at today's plenary session of the parliament the law "On approval of the agreement on cooperation in the field of defence between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of Georgia" was also discussed, Azernews reports.The document states that the parties will cooperate in the following areas:- military education, training and exercises;- defence and security policy;- peacekeeping and humanitarian operations;- cooperation within the framework of NATO's Partnership for Peace programme;- arms control and disarmament;- military legislation;- logistics;- civil-military co-operation;- defence cyber security;- military cartography;- military medical services;- social, sporting and cultural activities;- humanitarian demining;- other areas of mutual interest.Co-operation between the parties will take the following forms:- official visits and staff meetings;- bilateral negotiations, consultations and exchange of experience;- participation in training and educational events;- exchange of information of mutual interest;- participation in conferences and seminars;- participation in cultural and sporting events;- other mutually agreed forms of co-operation.The competent bodies for the implementation of the agreement are the Ministry of Defence on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Defence on behalf of the Government of Georgia. The competent authorities of the parties may sign additional agreements and annual co-operation plans for the implementation of the Agreement. Any changes in the authorities shall be notified to the parties in writing through diplomatic channels.The draft was put to the vote and adopted. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239638.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 18:00:00 +0400 Rena Murshud The high-power explosive devices were discovered in the lower and side parts of four bridges In the Khojavend district, Azernews reports with reference to the press services of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Agency for Mine Action(ANAMA).According to the press, explosive devices installed by illegal military groups, mainly consisting of boxes filled with TNT weighing more than 200 kg and triggered when electrical devices are turned on, were found on bridges located near residential buildings, the central district hospital, as well as individual residential areas.An electric detonator is installed on the bottom and sides of the bridges in boxes filled with 25 kg of TNT, and several anti-tank mines of the TM-57 type to enhance the explosive effect. Such explosive devices were placed with the aim of causing a deadly explosion and mass destruction of equipment and people.The discovered explosive devices were neutralized by agency employees. The security of the area is also ensured. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239637.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 17:42:00 +0400 Rena Murshud The Technical Director of the Turkish company "Baykar" Seljuk Bayraktar shared his impressions of the congress in Baku during a press conference within the framework of the 74th International Congress of Astronautics, Azernews reports.He emphasized that this event featured stands of such Turkish companies as Rocketsan and Aselsan.“Our organization engaged in space exploration is also taking part in the congress. We are one nation - two states, and therefore we need to develop cooperation in the field of space,” Bayraktar added.Recall that today the 74th International Congress of Astronautics started in Baku in partnership with the Space Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Azerkomos) and the International Astronautical Federation.The event will be attended by representatives from space agencies, the public sector, investors and private space companies, local and international media, and more than 5,000 representatives from 101 countries. At the International Astronautics Congress, 150 companies are represented in the exhibition pavilion.The congress will last until October 6. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239636.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 17:20:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received head of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, Azernews reports.The head of state greeted Justin Welby and touched upon the importance of his visit.Head of the Anglican Communion, Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby extended his congratulations to President Ilham Aliyev on the centenary anniversary of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev’s birthday. He highlighted the role of Azerbaijan in the multiculturalism and interfaith dialogue, touched upon Vatican-Azerbaijan relations and hailed Azerbaijan’s contribution to restoration of the catacombs in Vatican.Touching upon hardships Azerbaijan faced during the first years of independence the head of state said that 20 percent of the Azerbaijani lands were occupied at that time, over a million Azerbaijanis became refugees and IDPs, socio-political crisis prevailed and the country experienced economic slump and internal instability.President Ilham Aliyev once again underlined that Azerbaijan had come forward with a peace treaty initiative, said that historical opportunities had emerged for forging ahead with the peace agenda in the region, and touched upon the efforts the country makes in this direction.The President of Azerbaijan underlined that the central authorities had provided large-scale humanitarian assistance to the Armenian residents of the Garabagh region after the anti-terror measures had been ceased, saying the services related to migration, social protection and healthcare are being offered to the population on the ground.The head of state pointed out that the Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan had made a statement to the general public as well as the Armenians with respect to the rights and security of the Armenian residents of Garabagh.President Ilham Aliyev expressed hope that the upcoming meeting in Granada would give an impetus to development of the peace agenda in the region.Justin Welby underlined the importance of trust building and ethnic reconciliation in the post-conflict period, saying he is ready to share his experience on this matter.The role of ethnic reconciliation and civil society organizations was noted during the conversation. http://www.today.az/news/business/239635.html Business Mon, 02 Oct 2023 17:00:00 +0400 Abbas Ganbay Prospects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkiye in the field of industry and technology have been discussed. This was reported by Economy Minister Mikail Jabbarov in his account on the social network "X", Azernews reports."With Turkish Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kac?r, we expressed satisfaction with the development of friendly and fraternal relations between the two countries in various directions, as well as in the field of industry and technology, and exchanged views. on the prospects of our cooperation," he said. http://www.today.az/news/politics/239634.html Politics Mon, 02 Oct 2023 16:54:00 +0400 Rena Murshud The name of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-speaking Countries is changing, Azernews reports.According to the parliament, this issue was discussed at today's meeting of the Milli Majlis. The draft approval of the Protocol “On Amendments to the “Location Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Secretariat of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-Speaking Countries (TurkPA Secretariat)”, the organization will be called the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic-Speaking States.After discussion, the document was put to a vote and approved.Recall that the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA) was established by the Agreement signed by the Heads of Parliaments of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye on November 21, 2008 at the Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul.