http://www.today.az Covering Azerbaijan inside and outside http://www.today.az/images/logo_small.gif http://www.today.az http://www.today.az/news/regions/254351.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:51:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe annual cost of housing for asylum seekers in the UK has increased dramatically over the past four years, from £17,000 to £41,000 per person, Azernews reports.In the 2019-2020 financial year, 739 million pounds were spent on housing and support for asylum seekers. But in the 2023-2024 financial year, this figure rose to 4.7 billion pounds, which corresponds to an average annual cost of 41,000 pounds per migrant.Research experts pointed to the lack of housing as the main reason for the increase in costs. The lack of alternatives, such as council apartments and dormitories, means that asylum seekers are accommodated in hotels at a cost of about 145 pounds per night. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254350.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:26:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaKazakhstan and Turkiye plan to develop a roadmap for the production of tactical unmanned aircraft systems, Azernews reports.This issue was discussed between the Minister of Defense of Kazakhstan Ruslan Zhaksylykov and the CEO of Baykar Defense company Haluk Bayraktar."The parties have come to an agreement on the development of a roadmap on the localization of production of tactical unmanned aircraft systems and operational-level barrage ammunition," the Ministry of Defense said in a statement.The meeting took place within the framework of the IV International Defense and Aerospace Industry Exhibition SAHA EXPO-2024.It is noted that the exhibition presents automatic command and control systems, robotic systems, communications, air defense, radio intelligence, electronic warfare and radio interference.In addition, the delegation of the Ministry of Defense of Kazakhstan, headed by Zhaksylykov, held talks with Minister of National Defense Yashar Guler and Chairman of the Defense Industry Agency Haluk Gergun. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254349.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 22:46:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe United States and Turkmenistan highlighted the topic of climate change, in particular cooperation on reducing methane emissions, as one of the priority areas of cooperation, Azernews reports.This became known during a meeting between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan Akhmet Gurbanov and Director of the Central Asia Department of the Bureau of the U.S. Department of State Mark Cameron.During the discussion, the sides exchanged views on the current state and prospects of bilateral cooperation between Turkmenistan and the United States.The main areas of partnership were political cooperation, trade and economic ties, climate change issues and humanitarian cooperation.At the end of the meeting, the participants focused on the importance of building a mutually beneficial constructive dialogue. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254348.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 22:19:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaRising temperatures in the Arctic increase the risk of infection of polar bears with viruses, bacteria and parasites, Azernews reports.As a result of the conducted research, it was found that the possibility of infection with diseases that these animals did not encounter 30 years ago has increased significantly. Researchers analyzed blood samples from bears living in the Chukchi Sea between Alaska and Russia to find out how this could be related to rising temperatures and melting ice. The samples for the study were collected between 1987 and 1994, and then re-examined 30 years later, between 2008 and 2017.The researchers found that many of the recent blood samples contained chemical signs indicating that the bears were infected with one of five viruses, bacteria or parasites. Doctor of Biology from the U.S. Geological Survey. Karin Rhode said this shows that something has changed in the entire Arctic ecosystem. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254347.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 21:50:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Republic of Korea and the United States are conducting Freedom Flag aviation exercises involving about 110 aircraft, including low-profile F-35 fighters. This was reported by the Yonhap news agency with reference to the Air Force of the Republic of Korea, Azernews reports.Training began on October 21 and will continue until November 1. South Korea will use F-35A, F-15K fighters, the American side - F-35B and F-16, as well as MQ-9 unmanned aerial vehicles. During the first week, the military of the United States and the Republic of Korea will focus on drawing up mission plans, in the second week, air fire support and defensive maneuvers of aviation will be practiced."For the first time, a joint flight" of fighter jets and drones will take place, Yonhap reports. An Australian KC-30A tanker transport aircraft will join the exercise. It is planned that as part of the training, he will refuel a South Korean fighter in the air.The agency points out that the Freedom Flag exercises are taking place for the first time, as they "replace under one name" the regular exercises Korea Flying Training, which took place in the first half of the year, and Vigilant Defense, which were held in the second. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254346.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 21:19:00 +0400 The 10th BRICS Summit in South Africa, which President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an will attend by special invitation as the “Summit Chairman of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation”, holds new opportunities for Turkiye. Increasing economic diversity with BRICS countries, which are expected to surpass the total economic power of Western countries by 2030, and deepening trade relations with union countries will provide Turkiye with great gains on the way to becoming a global power.The 10th BRICS Summit, to which Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an was specially invited as the "Summit Chairman of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation", is expected to provide an opportunity for Turkiye to increase its economic diversity and deepen its trade relations with the countries of the union. BRICS refers to a consultation and cooperation platform whose members are Brazil, the Russian Federation, India, the People's Republic of China, and the Republic of South Africa, which are defined as emerging markets. In this context, the BRICS Summit will also be held in Johannesburg, the capital and trade center of the Republic of South Africa, on July 25-27.High-level contact opportunityPresident Erdo?an will also attend the summit, where global economy, trade, investment, and financial cooperation will be discussed, as a special guest as the "Summit Chairman of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation". The BRICS Summit, which will be attended by many state leaders and business world representatives, will be Erdo?an's second international meeting following the NATO Summit in the new period following the June 24 elections. President Erdo?an's participation in the Summit will also constitute the first high-level contact between Turkiye and BRICS. The summit, which will be held for the 10th time this year, will be convened under the theme of "BRICS in Africa: Cooperation for inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the 4th Industrial Revolution".Trade between Turkiye and BRICS countries reaches 60.7 bln dollarsBRICS countries, all five of which are G-20 members like Turkiye, account for more than 40 percent of the world's population and 20 percent of the global economy. With a 17 percent share in world trade, BRICS countries produce one-third of the world's industrial products and half of its agricultural products. The total foreign trade volume of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa with the world last year was $5.9 trillion.Turkiye's total trade volume with the BRICS countries was $60.7 billion last year. Turkiye's total exports to these five countries during this period were calculated as $7.3 billion, while imports from these countries amounted to $53.4 billion.First Turkish President visits ZambiaFollowing his visit to the Republic of South Africa, President Erdo?an will pay an official visit to Zambia on July 28. President Erdo?an and Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who will hold one-on-one and inter-delegation meetings on the occasion of the visit, will discuss all aspects of the relations between the two countries and exchange views on regional and international developments. Erdo?an's visit, which is also of historical importance as it is the first official visit from Turkiye to Zambia at the presidential level, is expected to provide the opportunity for further development and diversification of relations between Turkiye and Zambia. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254345.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:42:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaChina is starting to compete with the United States in the field of space tourism. So, the company of this country, Deep Blue Aerospace, announced that it has started selling tickets to tourists who will go into space in 2027, Azernews reports.The cost of a ticket for two seats on the first ship to fly into space will be 1.5 million yuan (thousands of US dollars in 2011).Tickets for "Deep Blue Aerospace" will go on sale on October 24. The company plans to introduce more tickets next month. Passengers will go into space on a suborbital flight, which means that the rocket will reach space, but not orbit.Along with Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin and Elon Musk's SpaceX, the Chinese company also plans to develop the commercial passenger flight industry. Deep Blue Aerospace says the large-scale commercialization of space tourism using reusable rockets is crucial to reduce high launch costs. He noted that he plans to launch a launch vehicle from orbit in the first quarter of 2025.Other Chinese companies have announced plans to enter the space tourism sector. In May, the state-backed startup CAS Space announced that it would begin space tourism flights by 2028. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254344.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 20:15:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaIn Batumi Oil Terminal LLC (100% of the share belongs to KazTransOil JSC) commissioned a new crane of the Stork type with a lifting capacity of up to 40 tons to equip the dry cargo terminal of Batumi Seaport LLC, Azernews reports."Updating the technical infrastructure will increase the efficiency of the port, which is important for its further development and competitiveness. This event is associated with an increase in the share of bulk cargo of Batumi Oil Terminal LLC," the message explains.As a result of the installation of a new gantry crane, the technological productivity of the dry cargo terminal of Batumi Seaport LLC will increase."In particular, the operational capabilities of servicing large-tonnage vessels such as Handisize and Handymax will increase," the message says.In January-September 2024, Batumi Seaport LLC handled 1 million 408 thousand tons of dry cargo, which is by 51.1 thousand tons more than in 9 months of 2023.As part of its development strategy, Batumi Oil Terminal LLC has initiated two significant investment projects aimed at increasing the volume of transshipment of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and light petroleum products. These projects involve the modernization and expansion of the terminal infrastructure, which will allow the company to increase the efficiency of processing these types of cargo, meeting the growing demand in the market and strengthening the competitiveness of the port.The initiative is part of a long-term plan for the development of the port, which should help increase its cargo turnover and improve its position as an important logistics hub in the region. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254343.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:38:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaNorth Korea is building unidentified structures on the eastern inter-Korean Donghae Road, Azernews reports.According to him, employees of the South Korean border surveillance service noticed that the Server had recently installed structures on the road to Donghae. It is assumed that these structures may serve as a framework for concrete border barriers.The source said that signs of the construction of similar structures by the Northerners on the Gyeonggi road have not yet been found.Last week, the DPRK blew up sections of roads leading to South Korea from its side. On October 9, the General Staff of the Korean People's Army announced that it would close roads and railways with the Republic of Korea and "turn the southern border into a fortress." http://www.today.az/news/interesting/254342.html Weird / Interesting Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:14:00 +0400 By News CentreThe Ministry of National Defense announced that an air operation was carried out against the terrorist organization PKK targets in Syria and Iraq. In the operation, 32 PKK/KCK targets were destroyed.In the terrorist attack on the Turkish Aircraft Industries Corporation (TUSA?) Facility in the Kahramankazan district of Ankara, 5 of our citizens were martyred and 22 people were injured.Making a statement after the treacherous attack, National Defense Minister Ya?ar Güler said , "We give these PKK scoundrels the punishment they deserve every time, they do not come to their senses. I repeat what I always say, we will not let go of them until the last terrorist is eliminated."Simultaneous bombardment against PKKurkish Armed Forces began hitting terrorist organization PKK targets in Iraq and Syria.The Ministry of National Defense announced that 32 PKK/KCK targets were destroyed.The statement said, "Air operations were carried out against terrorist targets in northern Iraq and Syria, and 32 targets were successfully destroyed. Our air operations continue with determination ." http://www.today.az/news/regions/254341.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:40:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Norwegian government is preparing a bill that will restrict access to social networks for residents under the age of 15, Azernews reports.Currently, the country already has an age restriction — it is allowed to use social networks from the age of 13. However, according to a study by the Norwegian Media Authority, over half of children aged 9-11 are still actively using these platforms.The Prime Minister stressed that the state must intervene to protect children from the influence of the "power of algorithms.""Children should be protected from malicious content on social media. These are the big tech giants who oppose the brains of young children. We know that this is an uphill battle," he said. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254340.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:19:00 +0400 On October 23, 2024, in connection with the declaration of the city of Shusha as the "Cultural Capital of the Islamic World" for 2024, a scientific session on the topic "Archaeological Research of Shusha and its Surroundings" was organized by the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists (CYSS) of the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (AMEA), Azernews reports.The event was opened with a speech by the scientific secretary of the Institute, PhD in History, Associate Professor Ellada Bakirova, who noted that the history of archaeological research in Shusha dates back to the 19th century, and provided a brief overview of the research work carried out by the Institute in the city of Shusha and the surrounding areas since its liberation. She emphasized that young people represent the present and future of science, including archaeology, and should therefore be eager to share their research and become the driving force behind scientific events.Next, the chairwoman of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists of the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology, Nigar Mustafayeva, greeted the participants and, in her speech, highlighted the importance of the successful work and archaeological research being conducted in the territories liberated from occupation.At the scientific session, presentations were given by young scientists and specialists from various scientific institutions. Senior researcher of the "Monitoring and Evaluation of Field Research" department of the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology, PhD in History Gulan Aliyeva spoke on "The Monuments of Garabagh in Archaeological Research," head of the "International Relations of Caucasian Countries" department of the Institute of Caucasian Studies, PhD in History, and chairwoman of the CYSS of the Institute, Gunel Musayeva, on "The Strategic Importance of the City of Shusha," head of the "Religion and Social Thought" department of the Institute of Oriental Studies named after academician Z.M. Bunyadov, PhD in Philosophy and CYSS chairman Elnur Mustafayev, on "The Importance of Shusha’s Epigraphic Monuments in the Study of Historical Processes," researcher of the Radiation Problems Institute Aybeniz Ahmadova on "The Application of Radiocarbon and Spectroscopic Methods in the Archaeological Research of Garabagh," CYSS chairwoman of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology of the Ministry of Science and Education of Azerbaijan, PhD in Biology Nargiz Bayramova on "Biodiversity of Garabagh: Soil and Water Resources," and laboratory head of the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology Ajdar Babazadeh on "International Archaeological Research in Shusha Fortresses-2024." http://www.today.az/news/society/254336.html Society Thu, 24 Oct 2024 17:54:00 +0400 Music has a unique power to bring people together and Azerbaijani composer Khadija Zeynalova understands this better than anyone.As the founder of the Harmony of Sound International Music Festival, she has dedicated herself to celebrating different musical traditions and fostering cultural connections.In this interview with AZERNEWS, Khadija Zeynalova shares her vision for the festival, and how she hopes to create a space for unity through sound.She discusses the festival's origins, the exciting lineup planned for the upcoming 2024 edition focussing on Cuban music, and the importance of music as a tool for unity and understanding among people from different backgrounds.Q: Could you tell us how the idea of organizing the Harmony of Sound International Music Festival came about and what are the main goals you are pursuing?A: The idea of organizing the Harmony of Sound International Music Festival has been with me for a long time. I have always dreamed of creating my own international music festival to promote our country and the rich Azerbaijani musical culture in the world, particularly in Europe and specifically in Germany. After founding the Bridge of Sound orchestra in 2016, inspired by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's work "West-östlicher Divan," I decided to organize a festival that could unite different nations, musical instruments, and styles.Harmony of Sound International Music Festival, which I established in 2021, has become an important event that brings together various cultural traditions through music and helps to build bridges between cultures. Each year, our festival is dedicated to the musical culture of a new country. In previous years, we focused on Azerbaijan, Ukraine, and Argentina, and in 2024, we will pay special attention to Cuba.The main goal of the festival is to create a platform where each country can showcase its musical traditions and instruments, whether they are folk, classical, or contemporary.We aim to demonstrate cultural diversity through music and promote mutual understanding among peoples. Different musical traditions and cultures converge here.Q: Why was Cuban music chosen as the theme for this year's festival?A: Cuban music is a unique phenomenon that has absorbed elements from various cultures and styles, making it one of the most recognizable and beloved forms of music worldwide.Over the centuries, Cuban music has developed under the influence of African, Spanish, and Caribbean traditions, resulting in a rich and diverse musical culture full of energy, passion, and rhythm. One of the most renowned and popular music genres associated with Cuba is salsa. This dance genre has gained worldwide fame due to its dynamism and rich rhythms.The history of Cuban music begins with son cubano, a genre considered a precursor to salsa. Son emerged in the early 20th century as a blend of African rhythms and Spanish music, particularly traditional guitar music and bolero. Furthermore, we cannot overlook Cuban jazz, enriched with local rhythms and melodies.Cuba has made significant contributions to global jazz culture through genres like Afro-Cuban jazz, which combines the improvisational freedom of jazz with the rich rhythms of African and Caribbean music.Q: What aspects of Cuban music would you like to highlight during the festival?A: Cuban music is incredibly interesting and multifaceted. It encompasses everything from captivating dance rhythms to Afro-Cuban melodies. Cuban music has absorbed elements of Spanish, African, and Latin American musical traditions, creating a unique sound landscape. This music possesses a special rhythmic pulse that is impossible to ignore. During our festival, we would like to emphasize this blend of styles — including salsa, rumba, son, and rarer Afro-Cuban genres. These rhythms not only accompany dances but also express the joy and life energy of the Cuban people.It is this combination of passion, rhythm, and cultural heritage that makes Cuban music unique and appealing to listeners worldwide. Cuban music is not only about sounds; it is also an essential part of the cultural identity of the nation. It accompanies Cubans throughout their lives — from family celebrations to national festivals. Cuban music has the ability to convey joy, passion, and even pain, making it relatable and understandable to listeners all over the world.Cuba continues to be a centre of musical innovation, and its contribution to global culture is immeasurable.Q: Which works presented at the festival do you consider the most significant, and why?A: The compositions presented at our festival were very interesting and diverse. We had the honour of hosting many wonderful ensembles, soloists, and musicians with unique and captivating concert programs. Special attention was drawn to the new works that premiered at the festival. The program included pieces by composers from Germany, Cuba, Spain, and Azerbaijan, highlighting the international character of our event. I would particularly like to mention two of my own compositions that were performed for the first time at this festival. These pieces were created specifically for the festival and reflect the interaction of musical cultures from different countries. They are significant works not only for me personally but also for the entire program, as they symbolize the festival's main idea — cultural unity through music.Q: In your opinion, what is the importance of exchanging musical cultures between nations, especially in the context of the Harmony of Sound Festival?A: Music creates a space of strength and hope that prevents us from falling into despair and, on the contrary, maintains faith in the possibility of peace.The Harmony of Sound International Music Festival builds bridges between cultures, religions, and nations. It demonstrates that music can truly unite people, regardless of their nationality, background, religion, or political views.The festival plays an important role in promoting peace and unity among people from different cultures. Harmony of Sound is designed as a platform for exchanging musical and cultural traditions between countries, styles, musical genres, and various musical instruments. At the heart of our festival is always music that knows no borders. Our goal is to promote the perception and acceptance of New music, connecting it with traditional music in the context of intercultural and international dialogue. We also strive to support young artists and musicians from Germany and other countries, fostering cultural exchange and uniting people through concerts featuring invited professional artists and ensembles.Q: What are your plans for the future? Will you continue the Harmony of Sound festival? Are there any solo projects or other initiatives you plan to implement?A: We have grand plans for the future. We want to continue developing and expanding our Harmony of Sound festival, spreading its concept and attracting even more international audiences. The main goal of our festival is "Music Without Borders." Through music, we can communicate with all people, regardless of their nationality, political beliefs, or cultural background.We also have many other projects. This year, we released our third CD in the USA and Germany. Next year, we have a lot of exciting projects and ideas planned, both related to the festival and individual initiatives. We will continue to create musical programs that unite people and cultures, and delight our audience with new musical discoveries.Note that Khadija Zeynalova is a graduate of the Baku Academy of Music, the Detmold Music Academy and the University of Paderborn in Germany, where she defended her doctoral dissertation with honours on the topic of "Azerbaijani Musical Culture of the 20th Century and Trends in Western Music". Since 1999, she has been a member of the Union of Composers of Azerbaijan.While living in Germany, she founded the international musical group Bridge of Sound, which successfully represents cultural diversity in the music industry.In 2007, Khadija became the first Azerbaijani female composer accepted as a member of the German authors' society GEMA. Her achievements have been recognized by prestigious scholarships such as the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung, DAAD and a scholarship from the German Culture Ministry.As a talented composer, her works have been performed at famous festivals and concerts in countries such as Azerbaijan, Austria, Germany, Greece, Georgia, USA, Canada, Great Britain, Italy, Hungary, Turkey, Cyprus, Japan, Ukraine and many others.In 2024, she was awarded the title "Künstlerin des Jahres – Composer of the Year" by the Kloster Landschaft OWL foundation and the German Ministry of Culture, and was also nominated as "Artist in Residence". http://www.today.az/news/business/254339.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 17:36:00 +0400 The process of measuring wind potential has already started in the Lachin and Kalbajar regions, Azernews reports, citing Javid Abdullayev, the Director of the State Agency for Renewable Energy Sources (AREA) under the Ministry of Energy, as he said during an event at the Baku Shipyard regarding the delivery of the blades for the "Khizi-Absheron" wind power station to Baku.He noted that there is significant solar and wind energy potential in the territories liberated from occupation:"We have solar potential in the Zangilan and Jabrayil regions, and wind potential in the Kalbajar and Lachin regions. As we know, we are actively continuing our work with BP on the construction of the "Shafag" Solar Power Station. I hope that very soon, you will witness some concrete results from that project. Work has already started in the area, and infrastructure development is also underway.""At the same time, I would like to mention that the process of measuring wind potential has already begun in the Lachin and Kalbajar regions. Special measurement stations have already been built. The peculiarity of wind is that the measurement process needs to be carried out for one year to make it possible to later provide commercial proposals based on the wind speed," Abdullayev said. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254338.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 17:13:00 +0400 Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Azerbaijan's significant contribution to the development of international logistics corridors in Eurasia, during the final meeting of the BRICS summit held in Kazan, Russia, Azernews reports via Russian media."Indeed, you quite accurately noticed that the role of Azerbaijan, especially in the development of logistics corridors, is very important—but not only that," Putin remarked, as reported. He also emphasized the growing trade between Azerbaijan, Russia, and other BRICS countries as a vital element of their cooperation.During the event, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev highlighted that major transport routes, including the North-South and East-West corridors, run through Azerbaijan, with all segments operating successfully.The BRICS summit was held in an "outreach" format, bringing together key international figures to discuss strategic economic and trade partnerships. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/254337.html Analytics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:54:00 +0400 by Leyla Tariverdiya, Day.azThe honorary chairman of the Georgian Dream party, Bidzina Ivanishvili, made a fuss with his latest interview with Imedi TV company. A lot of things were said that Georgians had never heard before. And they wouldn't have heard it if it hadn't been for the outright pressure from the West on the country ahead of the parliamentary elections and attempts to manipulate the interests of the Georgian people.Ivanishvili told how Georgia was being pushed to war with Russia. Former Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili was offered to take a similar step, assuming that the war would last three or four days. To the "misunderstanding" on the part of the prime minister whether these three or four days are worth the destruction of the country, the Western partners cynically replied that "there are three or four million of you. They won't kill everyone in three or four days. Then you can start a guerrilla movement in the woods. We will help you, you will fight from there."…It is doubtful that this was invented in connection with the recent events around Georgia. And, again, the Georgian people would never have known about this if the West had not gone so far in its pressure on Tbilisi.Georgia has been looking to the West for almost all the years of its independence. Even under the current authorities, which are considered to be "pro-Russian", she did not think about which vector to choose. But the country has its own interests, its own principles, and unlike some other post-Soviet states, which are ready to do anything for the sake of the West's favor, Georgia has shown independence in decision-making. And this disobedience caused a surge of negativity in Western circles.It has already been stated that the European Union has suspended the process of Georgia's accession to the bloc. In a statement, the European Council said that the EU "expresses serious concern about recent events in Georgia," in particular, due to the adoption of the law on Transparency of Foreign Influence, which "represents a departure from the steps outlined in the Commission's recommendation on granting candidate status." No arguments that such laws were adopted in the "cradle of democracy" of the United States and in the European Union itself did not work: they can, Georgia cannot. Unprecedented measures were taken to force the Georgian government to abandon its intentions, but the law was passed anyway. The pressure on Tbilisi intensified even more after the Speaker of the Georgian Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili, signed the law "On Family Values and Protection of Minors" in October. The adopted law prohibits same-sex marriage, adoption of children by same-sex couples and transgender transition. Both projects were submitted to the Parliament by the Georgian Dream.The law on foreign agents to the Georgian Dream could somehow be forgiven, but the harassment of transgender people - never.Today, a whirlpool has formed around Georgia. According to a scenario that has been repeatedly tested in Azerbaijan, the West has taken on Tbilisi, using all its propaganda tools and outright threats. Parliamentary elections will be held in Georgia on October 26. It is worth expecting that the most serious propaganda flurry awaits the current government after them.On Sunday, October 20, an opposition march called "Georgia chooses the European Union" took place in Tbilisi. Georgian President Salome Zurabishvili was among the participants. The opposition planned to demonstrate with a mass action that the Georgian people say "no" to the current government and are mostly in favor of European integration. In principle, Georgian citizens have the opportunity to demonstrate the European choice without slogans and shouts this Saturday, but the opposition considered it necessary to take preventive measures, show their unity and strength to everyone. However, the very next day, not very encouraging details began to emerge. It was expected that up to 300 thousand citizens would take part in the march and at the rally on Freedom Square, but in the end only a few tens of thousands came to the rally.Mamuka Mdinaradze, executive secretary of the Georgian Dream, told reporters that the Georgian opposition lost the elections a week before the vote. According to him, people were brought from all over the country to the rally. "No one has done anything like this before," Mdinaradze wrote on social media.It should be noted that the elections will be held according to the proportional system and the mandates will be distributed among the parties that have overcome the five percent barrier. The Coalition for Change, the National Movement (its founder is former Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, who is currently in prison), the Strong Georgia coalition, the For Georgia Party (founder is former Prime Minister and former associate of Bidzina Ivanishvili Giorgi Gakharia), the ruling Georgian a dream."The topic of Georgia became one of the main topics at the recent two-day EU summit. "The European Council is discussing a number of foreign policy issues, including the situation in Moldova and Georgia. Both countries are facing a decisive moment on their European path," European Council President Charles Michel said in a letter to EU leaders on the eve of the summit.As for Moldova, it has already experienced its "decisive moment". The European choice in the referendum held on October 20 won by a narrow margin - 55 against 45 percent of the vote. Although Moldovans said "yes" to the European Union, in fact, half of the country's population opposed European integration, and this is a serious reason for the EU to think. Western propaganda declared the results of the referendum to be the result of "disinformation." However, it's time to accept reality - the "Western choice" has ceased to be a carrot on a string. Everything ends someday, and so do illusions. It's not because countries are changing Western choices to Russian ones. It's just that the example of Ukraine has freed many from illusions. Even the most loyal followers of the Western choice. Georgia has been waiting for the favor of the European Union for the longest time - more than fifteen years. And it was only in December of last year, the most recent, that she finally received the status of a candidate, although she tried her best to match all the years. If Western support had been so reliable, the country would have been admitted to the EU even before the 2008 war, but Georgia is not needed in the "European family", just as Ukraine is not needed.It can be said with all certainty that the countries of the Eastern Partnership will not become members of the European Union. The EAP was not created for this, but to keep these states on a short leash and away from Russia. Moreover, they cannot wait for membership now, when they (with the exception of Azerbaijan) can be turned into a real springboard of confrontation between the West and Russia. Ukraine has already been sacrificed, the same fate was prepared for Georgia, but it jumped off the hook, and if the current government retains power, it will not be possible to push the country into the regional "ring".By the way, Armenia is now running along this path with great enthusiasm and drooling with joy. The rally boys who run the country really believe that they will soon be accepted into the European Union and NATO, after which the heavens will open and grace will fall from there. Armenia is absolutely incapable of drawing conclusions, if not from its own, then at least from other people's mistakes. They feed her sweets, declare their love and at the same time lead her by the handle to the abyss, then gently push her.Only a fool can believe that Armenia will join the EU. The European Union already has enough extra mouths, why does it need another one? Armenia is much more useful as bait and bait. And she herself is one of those who is not capable of independent politics and will regularly follow that carrot on a string, hoping that it will one day fall into her mouth.A week before the elections, the EU Ambassador to Georgia Pavel Gerchinsky made another statement with a warning. "We will respect your choice, your future is in your hands, not in the hands of someone else, but please respect that the European Union is based on certain values. These are freedom, democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. These values are non-negotiable. If Georgian voters decide to turn Georgia into a one-party state, if they decide to ban all opposition parties, expel civil society from the country, if you allow Georgia to become a place where there will be no free media, if you decide that the rights of every person in Georgia will not be protected, then I want to tell you openly - Georgia will not become a member of the European Union not today, not tomorrow, and not in 2030," Gerchinsky said.The EU ambassador contradicts himself. Arguing that the European Union will respect the choice of the Georgian people, he immediately declares that if the Georgian people choose something that the West does not like, the EU will not respect their choice. This is the whole philosophy of the "democratic world".The most interesting thing is that Georgia is not actually going to change its course. She has been and remains on the same course. It is impossible that the West, with their ubiquitous special services, did not know about the real thoughts of official Tbilisi. The whole problem is that Georgia no longer wants to solve its internal issues by asking permission from Western partners. And then it turns out that the Western partners don't like it at all. They don't need such a Georgia.We wish the Georgian people patience and sobriety. A serious choice awaits him on October 26. http://www.today.az/news/business/254335.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:38:00 +0400 The frequency of official visits at various levels between Azerbaijan and China, both of which play significant roles in the global economy, is on the rise, further enhancing bilateral relations. Notably, projects in the green energy sector stand out, reflecting a mutual commitment to sustainable development and collaboration in this critical area.On October 23, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov spoke at the 3rd Belt and Road Energy Ministers' Conference held in Qingdao, China, addressing the joint cooperation project "One Belt, One Road."During his speech, the minister highlighted the critical role of "green energy corridors" in the development of the Belt and Road initiative. He emphasized that "One Belt, One Road" is a strategic initiative that shapes the modern geo-economic landscape of Eurasia. Azerbaijan’s geographic position as a transit center between Europe and Asia enhances its importance in this project, particularly through its transport and energy corridors. This positioning not only facilitates trade but also underscores Azerbaijan's strategic role in regional energy security.The "One Belt, One Road" initiative, announced by China in 2013, aims to create infrastructure and foster mutual relations among Eurasian countries. It focuses on two main development directions: the "Silk Road Economic Belt" and the "Maritime Silk Road." This framework is designed to establish a trade corridor for direct transportation of goods from East to West under favorable conditions, thus streamlining global supply chains.Azerbaijan was the first country in the Caucasus to support China's "One Belt, One Road" initiative, reinforcing its role as a logistics center and bridge in the strategy’s implementation. This partnership not only enhances Azerbaijan's economic landscape but also positions it as a key player in regional geopolitics.Minister Shahbazov emphasized the significance of the Joint Declaration adopted between the two countries. He stated, "The Declaration, which is the pinnacle of Azerbaijan-China relations, opens wide opportunities for the development of energy partnerships within the modern Silk Road belt. It establishes a roadmap that deepens our cooperation in oil and gas production, processing, and green energy." This statement reflects a strategic alignment between the two nations, showcasing how shared goals in energy can lead to sustainable development.The declaration encompasses key sectors such as oil and gas production and processing, green energy, transport infrastructure, information and telecommunications, the digital economy, non-ferrous metals, and construction materials. By actively promoting cooperation in these priority areas, Azerbaijan and China can foster collaboration grounded in market economy principles, ultimately yielding beneficial outcomes for both nations' populations.Notably, both countries are advancing cooperation in renewable energy resources. China, as an industrial powerhouse, has shown particular interest in and support for green energy initiatives. For Azerbaijan, transitioning to clean energy is a priority, making this collaboration mutually beneficial. The convergence of their energy agendas highlights a crucial area of synergy between the two nations.Chinese companies are set to play a pivotal role in Azerbaijan's green energy development, particularly through supplying "green technologies" and establishing solar power plants. The Memorandum of Understanding with "Energy China" aims to implement 2 GW renewable energy projects, which includes the construction of two solar power plants with a total capacity of 160 MW and the 100 MW "Gobustan" hydropower project. The involvement of other Chinese firms like "China Datang," TBEA, and "PowerChina" further illustrates the depth of this partnership.This cooperation is particularly vital as Azerbaijan enhances its "green energy corridors" in the next phase of renewable energy development until 2030. The minister highlighted the "Caspian-Black Sea-Europe," "Azerbaijan-Turkiye-Europe," and "Central Asia-Azerbaijan-Europe" corridors, which aim to connect the energy systems of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan with the European energy market. This strategic initiative is projected to transfer approximately 10 GW of energy between Asia and Europe, thus fostering a more integrated regional electricity market. Such developments not only align with China's carbon neutrality goals but also diversify its energy supply, allowing for the import of "green energy" from Central Asia and Azerbaijan.Minister Shahbazov also addressed energy initiatives under the COP29 Presidency, urging "Belt and Road" countries to actively engage in the Global Climate Summit and support Azerbaijan's initiatives.At the conclusion of the conference, the "Belt and Road Green Energy Cooperation Action Plan" was adopted, and the office of the Belt and Road Energy Partnership Secretariat was established. This signifies a formal commitment to collaboration, setting the stage for future projects that can enhance energy security and promote sustainable development across the region.Cooperation between Azerbaijan and China across various sectors—including political, economic, investment, transport, green energy, and public diplomacy—is strengthening. Recently, the bilateral relationship has achieved a qualitatively new level.Despite the significant differences in the size of their economies, Azerbaijan and China exhibit strong economic complementarity and substantial potential for enhanced collaboration in industrialization and investment. This declaration is anticipated to fully leverage the mechanisms for cooperation in these areas, fostering deeper engagement in planning and policy initiatives.In conclusion, the strengthening cooperation between Azerbaijan and China marks a significant development in their bilateral relations, particularly in the realms of energy, transport, and sustainable development. The recent discussions and agreements, highlighted by Azerbaijan's participation in the 3rd Belt and Road Energy Ministers' Conference, underscore both countries' commitment to fostering a strategic partnership. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254334.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 16:18:00 +0400 On October 24, Azerbaijan's Prime Minister Ali Asadov sent a condolence letter to Turkiye's Vice President Cevdet Y?lmaz, Azernews reports.Asadov expressed deep sorrow upon hearing the news of casualties and injuries caused by the terrorist attack at the Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSA?) facility in Ankara.The Prime Minister offered heartfelt condolences to the Vice President of Turkiye, the families and loved ones of the victims, and the brotherly people of Turkiye, wishing a speedy recovery to all those injured in this tragic incident. http://www.today.az/news/business/254333.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:42:00 +0400 Legal grounds have been established for the electronic state registration of legal entities with foreign investment in Azerbaijan, regardless of whether the founders are foreign individuals or entities.Samira Musayeva, head of the "Entering into Business" Working Group of the Commission for Business Environment and International Ratings and Deputy Head of the State Tax Service (STS), announced this at a meeting of the Working Group, Azernews report.She noted that the registration process for foreign legal entities has been fully aligned with that of local entities, eliminating existing differences."A number of important reforms have been implemented to enhance the entrepreneurial environment. These reforms have facilitated both the initiation of entrepreneurial activities and effective business management in later stages."Musayeva added that, based on the World Bank's "Business Ready" report, several changes were made to the state registration of commercial legal entities, as well as civil and labor legislation. http://www.today.az/news/sports/254332.html Sports Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:21:00 +0400 FC Qarabag will be playing its next match today in the group stage of the UEFA Europa League, Azernews reports.The team will host the Netherlands' "Ajax" club in the III round match, which will take place at Tofig Bahramov Republican Stadium in Baku.The match is set to kick off at 20:45, and it will be officiated by Scottish referee Nicholas Walsh.After the first three rounds, the Amsterdam team has accumulated four points and is in 8th place, while the team from Aghdam has no points and is in 34th place.Qurban Qurbanov's squad has previously played matches where they lost 0:3 to "Tottenham" in England and 1:2 to Sweden's "Malmo" at home.The 2024–25 UEFA Champions League is the 70th season of Europe's premier club football tournament organised by UEFA and the 33rd season since it was rebranded from the European Champion Clubs' Cup to the UEFA Champions League.This is the first season under a new format, where in the league phase each team plays eight games against different opponents, but all 36 teams are ranked in a joint group.The final will be played on May 31, 2025, at Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany.The winners of the 2024–25 UEFA Champions League will automatically qualify for the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League league phase, the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup, the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, and earn the right to play against the winners of the 2024–25 UEFA Europa League in the 2025 UEFA Super Cup. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254331.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 15:05:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev’s meeting with Nikol Pashinyan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia, has commenced in the city of Kazan, during the session of the 16th BRICS Summit in the Outreach/BRICS+ format, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/business/254330.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 14:59:00 +0400 There should be measurement criteria for evaluating individual areas of the business environment in Azerbaijan.Vusal Shikhaliyev, the head of the Secretariat of the Commission for Business Environment and International Ratings, made this statement at the meeting of the "Entering into Business" Working Group held today, Azernews reports."We ensure the active participation of interested parties, including the private sector, in the process of preparing reforms in the business sector. At the same time, we inform these parties about the implementation of reforms after their adoption," he noted.According to V. Shikhaliyev, the private sector will play a significant role in expanding the recent reforms related to "Entering into Business," including the favorable opportunities created for the registration of foreign and local investment enterprises.It should be noted that Azerbaijan is expected to be included in the World Bank's "Business Ready" report in September 2025. In October of this year, the first edition of the new report, which includes 50 countries, was published. This report will replace the discontinued Doing Business report and is expected to cover more economies next year. "Business Ready" will focus on ten topics that encompass the stages of starting, continuing, closing, or restructuring any company's activities: business entry, business location, utilities, labor relations, financial services, international trade, taxation, market competition, dispute resolution, and bankruptcy. http://www.today.az/news/society/254329.html Society Thu, 24 Oct 2024 14:35:00 +0400 Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation and the Hungarian Embassy in Azerbaijan have organized an event dedicated to István Mandoki Kongo, a prominent Hungarian Turkologist, whose 80th birthday is celebrated this year, Azernews reports.The event took place at the foundation headquarters and was attended by ambassadors and diplomats from Turkish states in Azerbaijan, representatives from foreign affairs and culture ministries, as well as representatives from scientific circles.President of Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, Professor Aktoty Raimkulova spoke about the achievements of István Mandoki Kongo, a renowned scholar in linguistics and ethnography from Hungary, which is an observer state of the organization.She noted that Mandoki dedicated most of his life to studying the culture, language, and history of Turkic peoples. A. Raimkulova emphasized that thanks to Mandoki's contributions to the development of Turkology, a bridge has been built, strengthening Hungarian-Turkish friendship through his scholarly works.The Hungarian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Tamás József Torma, highlighted Hungary's status as an observer member of the Turkish Council since 2018.He emphasized that Hungary attaches great importance to the unity of Turkish states and peoples.Subsequently, the Ambassadors of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan in Azerbaijan, Bahrom Ashrafkhanov and Maksat Mam?tkanov, respectively, expressed their confidence that the existing brotherly and friendly relations between their countries would strengthen even further.During the event, the renowned Hungarian Turkologist David Somfai Kara, a member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and Gergely Agócs, a researcher from the House of Hungarian Heritage, made presentations on István Mandoki Kongo's life and work, as well as the Kipchak-Turk-Hungarian relations.Later, a noted political and state figure, Hasan Hasanov, spoke about the historical relations between Hungary and the Turkish world, emphasizing that the cultural and historical ties between our peoples have ancient roots. He noted that Hungary's integration with the Turkish world has strengthened in recent times, occurring on the basis of both economic and cultural interests, with Hungary's status as an observer member of the Turkish Council serving as an example of this process.He also stressed the importance Hungary places on the ancient Turkish heritage and common cultural roots, which further solidifies this cooperation.Established in 2012, the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation focuses on the preservation of the Turkic heritage in member countries as well as conducting projects in collaboration with partners in third nations.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/business/254328.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:56:00 +0400 As the COP29 climate conference approaches, welcoming visitors from around the globe to Baku from November 11 to 22, the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company has launched a Digital Transport Map, Azernews reports citing the press service of the company.This online resource provides essential information on strategically located transport hubs, venue access, and hotel accommodations, allowing users to efficiently manage their transport needs during COP29.The network of transport hubs covers key locations throughout the city and integrates various routes and transport options. These hubs connect delegates and visitors from their accommodations to Baku Stadium, offering easy access to multiple modes of transport, including shuttle buses, metro lines, and taxis.Available on the COP29 website, the newly launched Digital Transport Map is designed to help users identify the locations of key transport hubs. These hubs aim to optimize delegates' journeys by effectively linking transport options between hubs, the venue, and accommodations throughout the conference.This user-friendly resource provides navigation to Baku Stadium, including the Blue and Green Zones, Heydar Aliyev Airport, major hotels, and residential complexes, alongside the COP29 transport hub network and relevant shuttle services. It also includes details on parking areas, bus stops, and pick-up and drop-off points. Users can select the most efficient routes for driving or walking between destinations by interacting with the map.The interactive transport map is part of a broader strategy by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company to manage the influx of visitors during the conference, ensuring smooth and comfortable mobility for both guests and city residents.Additional measures include deploying hundreds of taxis and nearly 400 buses, including express public transport, dedicated conference shuttles, and airport transfers, all aimed at providing reliable transportation services.Moreover, the Government of Azerbaijan is pleased to offer accredited participants complimentary city and airport shuttle services, as well as free access to public transport during the conference from November 11 to 22. This initiative goes beyond UNFCCC requirements, demonstrating Azerbaijan's commitment to exceeding expectations as the host country. To access these complimentary services, delegates must present their accreditation or a confirmation letter from UNFCCC. http://www.today.az/news/business/254327.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:34:00 +0400 ?Azerbaijan is set to unveil a roadmap for the development of green buildings before the upcoming COP29 summit, according to Leyla Huseynli, a sustainable finance expert at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Azernews reports.Speaking at the "Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Microfinance" conference, Huseynli revealed that the roadmap will be part of a new regulatory framework aimed at promoting green buildings within the country."This roadmap is being developed under a Memorandum of Understanding signed with the State Committee for Architecture and Urban Planning of Azerbaijan," Huseynli stated, highlighting the significance of this initiative for Azerbaijan's broader sustainability goals.In addition to her work on green building regulations, Huseynli emphasized the IFC's ongoing collaboration with the Central Bank of Azerbaijan in several key areas, especially related to sustainable finance. She also warned of the growing impact of climate change, stating, "Climate change is not a distant future, we are already feeling its effects. Events in the next 50 years will be five times more severe, and the damage they cause is expected to increase significantly."Huseynli noted that the IFC’s commitment to sustainability has been demonstrated through its investments. In 2023, IFC's total investment portfolio amounted to $43 billion, with $14 billion already allocated to sustainable and green finance projects. She added that these efforts have helped attract an additional $15 billion in funding for projects focused on sustainability and addressing climate change.As Azerbaijan prepares to host COP29, the country is positioning itself as a leader in green development, with the introduction of the green building roadmap serving as a crucial step in its environmental and regulatory reforms. http://www.today.az/news/society/254326.html Society Thu, 24 Oct 2024 13:14:00 +0400 CINEMO Mobile Film Festival has gained international status this year, Azernews reports citing founder and director of the festival, actor and producer Ruslan Sabirli."Today, mobile cinema is a growing creative industry, as everyone has a mobile phone, and many video clips, short films, and social media content are being produced every day, with the number of bloggers, vloggers, and influencers constantly increasing. I would like to note that this year the status of the festival has been elevated; it is now the CINEMO International Mobile Film Festival. I believe that this is an important event for our country and an excellent motivation for participants," he said.The festival features both international and local nominations:• International: Best Feature Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Social Video, Best Music Video, Best Social Media Vlog.• Local (for Azerbaijan only): Best Feature Film, Best Documentary Film, Best Social Media Content.The International Mobile Film Festival CINEMO is organized by SBRLY with the support of the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, Azerbaijan Cinema Agency, as well as TikTok, a leading destination for short-form mobile video.The awards ceremony will be streamed live on the official account of the TikTok streaming community in Central Asia and the Caucasus: https://www.tiktok.com/@tiktoklive_eecca.The jury will select winners from the submitted films. Participation conditions, film requirements, prize fund, etc. More detailed information can be found on the festival's website: www.cinemoff.com.Any questions can be directed to the festival's email and social media accounts:E-mail: [email protected]: https://www.facebook.com/cinemoffInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cinemoff/Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, Milli.Az and Turkic.world. http://www.today.az/news/business/254325.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:58:00 +0400 The opening ceremony of the International Green STEAM Azerbaijan Festival will be held on October 24, with the support of the Ministry of Science and Education and the COP29 Presidency, as well as the organization of the "STEAM Azerbaijan" project, Azernews reports.More than 900 participants from a total of 244 teams are taking part in the final stage of this year's festival, with 146 of them representing 15 countries, including Great Britain, Turkiye, Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the United States.A total of 17 judges from 10 different countries, including Denmark, Slovakia, Canada, and Turkey, are involved in content development and participant evaluation.Competitions and exhibition competitions will be organized in nine categories within the festival, including "Green Initiatives," "Green Coding," "Hydrogen Machine Race," "Drone Technologies," "Our Satellite," "Robot Battle," and "Future Engineers." Topics such as these will be covered.It should be noted that the festival will take place on October 24-25.During the two-day festival, participants will also take part in training sessions focused on climate change and sustainability, organized by experts from the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company.The main goal of this year's festival is to traditionally promote STEAM-based education, develop 21st-century skills among students, and reveal creative talent. In connection with the announcement of the "Year of Solidarity for the Green World" in our country and the hosting of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in Azerbaijan in 2024, the festival aims to promote the development of innovative solutions and projects for the effective use of water resources, alternative energy sources, and environmental health by applying a STEAM-based approach. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254324.html World news Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:36:00 +0400 According to information received from security sources, MIT carried out operations against the terrorist organization PKK in northern Syria and Iraq following the terrorist attack on the campus of the Turkish Aerospace Industries Inc. (TUSA?) in the Kahramankazan district.During the operations, many strategic points belonging to the organization, such as the energy-infrastructure building, logistics and ammunition depot, were targeted.It was emphasized that M?T will continue its operations against the terrorist organization PKK/YPG without interruption until the planned goal is achieved.Recall that a terrorist attack was carried out on the Ankara headquarters of TUSA?, the heart and pride of Turkey’s defense industry. 5 people were martyred and 22 people were injured. According to initial reports, the 2 terrorists who carried out the attack were PKK members. While the People’s Alliance’s efforts to “strengthen the home front” and Israel’s threats have increased, the suspects of this dark act, which came at a time when the PKK was cornered in Iraq and Syria, are many…The capital Ankara was the scene of a major terrorist attack yesterday. An armed and bomb attack was carried out on TUSA? (Turkish Aerospace Industries) in Kahramankazan. The 2 terrorists who carried out the attack blew themselves up. 5 people were martyred and 22 people were injured.The attack took place on 23 October at 15:26. Two terrorists, one of whom was a woman, arrived at the TUSA? campus at shift change time with a commercial taxi they had killed and robbed, and as soon as they got out of the vehicle, they opened fire with long-barreled weapons on the group of personnel leaving the campus. The terrorists then headed toward the personnel entrance gate, firing. When the security guards opened fire again, the female terrorist headed toward the gatehouse and detonated the bomb she was wearing there. The other terrorist went through the ruined gatehouse and entered the building next door. The terrorist, who opened fire randomly and went up to the upper floor, entered the rooms on this floor one by one by shooting. This terrorist detonated the C4 explosive on him and blew himself up in the corridor.Staff drove down to shelterDuring the attack, the personnel on the campus were taken to shelters for security purposes. Some locked themselves in their rooms. Extensive security measures were taken around the building and throughout Kahramankazan. 4 helicopters conducted an aerial control flight, and ANKA UAV flew over TUSA? after the attack. A large number of armored vehicles, ambulances, fire departments, health and AFAD teams were dispatched to the scene. 22 people injured in the attack were taken to hospitals for treatment. It was learned that 3 of the injured were in serious condition.Visiting the wounded in the hospital, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya gave the information that the identification efforts of the terrorists were continuing. Yerlikaya said ,"From the beginning, we have been concerned about the way this action took place and the images we have watched. This is our assessment, but we will share these once the identification and other evidence become clear."Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor's Office launched a judicial investigation into the terrorist attack. 1 deputy chief public prosecutor and 8 public prosecutors were assigned. Ankara 3rd Criminal Court of Peace imposed a publication ban on the attack.The terrorist attack on TAI also tightened the measures at other defense industry facilities in the capital. While measures were increased at points such as ASELSAN and MKE, the personnel working there also left under the control of security forces.It was noteworthy that the attack was carried out while President Erdo?an’s calls to “ strengthen the domestic front ” and the BRICS leaders’ summit, to which Turkey has also applied for membership, were ongoing. The summit is being held in Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, which is affiliated with the Russian Federation. The selection of a defense industry facility in the Kahramankazan district of Ankara for the terrorist attack led to comments on social media asking, “ Is this attack a message to the summit ?”The locomotive of the defense industry*TUSA?, founded in 1973, is the locomotive of the Turkish defense industry with its air platforms developed with national resources. It has over 6,500 engineers and approximately 16,000 employees in 4 million square meters of open and 710,000 square meters of closed area. Some of the important projects implemented by TUSA?, which is the technology center of Turkey, are as follows:*HÜRKU? : A turboprop trainer aircraft developed for training and close air support missions. There are both training and light attack versions.*T129 ATAK: Attack and reconnaissance helicopter developed based on the Italian A129 Mangusta. Customized according to Turkey's needs.*ANKA : Medium altitude and long-term airborne UAV system. Used for observation, reconnaissance and target detection.*AKSUNGUR: A more advanced and larger version of the ANKA platform. The UAV with a high carrying capacity is used in both reconnaissance and attack missions.*HÜRJET: Developed as a jet training aircraft, the platform was designed to meet the advanced training needs of Air Force pilots. It is also used in light attack missions.He was martyred while receiving his flower at the doorIn the vile attack, TUSA? Mechanical Engineer Zahide Güçlü, TUSA? Quality Controller Cengiz Co?kun, TUSA? employee Hasan Hüseyin Canmaz, security guard Atakan ?ahin Erdo?an and taxi driver Murat Arslan were martyred. Engineer Zahide Güçlü was martyred on her wedding anniversary. Güçlü was shot when she went down to the gate to receive the flowers her husband sent her. 5 police officers, one chief police officer and one commissioner were injured in the attack. Among those injured was TUSA?'s technical draftsman.Upon hearing the news of the attack, TUSA? employees rushed to the campus in Kahramankazan. TUSA? employees who were taken out of the shelters were evacuated from the campus by the Gendarmerie and Police Special Operations teams. During this time, a TUSA? employee expressed his reaction to the vile attack by shouting:"We will work harder and produce more in defiance of traitors"Security forces are investigating the events leading up to the attack on the two dead terrorists. How the terrorists arrived in Kahramankazan is being solved through security cameras and MOBESE recordings. The two terrorists were captured on security cameras before the attack. It was determined that the two terrorists seen in Kahramankazan walked holding hands in order not to attract attention, and that they walked around the city center in this manner. When the terrorists arrived in the capital, whether they stayed or not, and whether there were any people who aided and abetted them are also being investigated in detail.The terrorists came to the TAI campus with a commercial taxi with the license plate "06 JMT 07", whose driver they killed and robbed in Kahramankazan. It was learned that the terrorists killed the taxi driver Murat Arslan and laid him on the floor in front of the back seat of the taxi. There was mourning at the taxi stand. The father of the martyred taxi driver, Mahmut Arslan, said, "They got in the car from the stop. When they went to TAI, they committed a massacre. They shot my son in the back and put him in the back of the vehicle."After the vile terrorist attack, airstrikes were launched against terrorist targets in northern Iraq and Syria. The Turkish Armed Forces and the National Intelligence Organization destroyed 32 terrorist targets. Many terrorists were killed in the airstrikes. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254323.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:20:00 +0400 The first plenary session of the 16th BRICS Summit in the Outreach/BRICS+ format began in the city of Kazan, Azernews reports.President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev is attending the event.Initially, the heads of delegations participating in the Outreach/BRICS+ format of the 16th BRICS Summit posed for a family photo.President Ilham Aliyev addressed the event. http://www.today.az/news/sports/254322.html Sports Thu, 24 Oct 2024 12:17:00 +0400 The U-23 World Wrestling Championship continues in Tirana, the capital of Albania, Azernews reports.The winners of the last five weights of Greco-Roman wrestling at the world championships have been determined.Rashad Mammadov (55 kg) defeated American William Sullivan (12:4), Colombian Cristofor Aguilar (9:0), and Japanese Kohei Yamagiva (12:2) and advanced to the final. Rashad, who lost to Iranian Ali Ahmadi in the decisive match with a score of 3:11, finished the world championship with a silver medal.Polish Mairbek Salimov was invincible for Ziya Babashov (63 kg) in the 1/8 finals - 0:8.Although Khasay Hasanli (77 kg) won against Matrik Petrosyan from Armenia due to the quality of points (2:2), he lost to Samuel Bellscheidt from Germany in the 1/8 finals with a score of 0:5.Hasanli was stronger than Russian Ismail Barakhoyev (5:3) in consolation matches with Belgian Ibrahim Tabayev (3:2).Having won a convincing victory (7:1) over Georgian Temuri Orjonikidze, Khasay won the bronze medal.Cocu Samadov (87 kilograms) lost to Adam Guardziola from Poland with a score of 1:4 in his debut.Wrestling remains the most popular sport in the county and is overseen by the National Wrestling Federation, which was established in 1993.The Rio Games opened a new page in wrestling for Azerbaijan. The country became one of only two nations ever to increase the number of medals achieved in five consecutive games.In 2020, Azerbaijani freestyle wrestlers finished third in the overall medal table of the Individual World Cup in Serbia.National wrestlers won two medals, including silver and bronze. Russia topped the medal table, followed by Turkiye.The national team also won five medals at the Grand Prix Moscow held in Russia.The national team won one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals in the tournamentIn 2022, Azerbaijani wrestler Osman Nurmagomedov (92 kg) was crowned the World Champion in Belgrade.Nurmagomedov became the World Champion after defeating the Russian wrestler in the final.At the 2024 Summer Olympics, Greco-Roman wrestler Hasrat Jafarov (67 kg), and freestyle wrestlers Giorgi Meshvildishvili (125 kg) and Magomedkhan Magomedov (97 kg) won bronze medals for Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/business/254321.html Business Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:53:00 +0400 Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev, designated President of COP29, met with Makar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation, Azernews reports citing the post shared by COP29 on its official X account.The parties negotiated innovative financing solutions for climate action.The talks also addressed increasing support for developing countries and mobilizing private sector investments to achieve sustainable development goals before COP29. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254320.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:34:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has arrived at the Kazan Expo International Exhibition Center to participate in the Outreach/BRICS+ format of the 16th BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254319.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:21:00 +0400 To date, approximately 168,000 hectares of land in the liberated territories have been cleared of mines, Azernews reports, citing Ramil Azizov, head of ANAMA's Department of Education and Work with Victims, as he stated this during a roundtable on "Mine Victims in Azerbaijan: Achievements and Future Tasks."He mentioned that 161,000 mines have been discovered in the cleared areas:"Approximately 25,000 of these are anti-personnel mines. Since 1991, more than 3,400 people have fallen victim to mines. From the end of the Patriotic War until the end of 2021, there were 77 mine incidents. Since then, as a result of awareness efforts, the number of incidents has decreased by up to 60%."Note that despite attempts at formally requesting information about the location of those mines, Armenia repeatedly denied that it possessed the relevant information and refused to engage on the issue.Finally, in February this year, Armenia has submitted 8 minefield maps of territories located in the liberated lands to Azerbaijan. These maps cover some of the areas along the former contact line. However, the maps covering part of the former contact line passing through Khojavand, Tartar, and Goranboy districts, as well as the areas mined by Armenian military units when they retreated in November 2020, has not been submitted yet.Many have suspicions about these maps because previous minefield maps submitted by Armenia were inaccurate. Only 25 percent of these maps were correct. Especially submitting minefield maps of the height where civilians do not live increases this suspicion. It is also worth noting that more than 55% of recent landmine cases have occurred outside the areas covered by the information provided.The behavior that Armenia displayed by relation to the landmine threat is indeed another setback to the peace and confidence-building measures taken during the post-conflict period in the region.It is worth noting that because of Azerbaijan's liberated territories remain contaminated with mine, the new infrastructure and green energy projects remains a risky and problematic goal. These obstacles to a legal peace are part of the challenges facing the repopulation, development and integration of the liberated territories on the path to a full peace.The Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action, known as ANAMA, has grown from a fledgling organization to one fully equipped to clear mines, provide risk education and assist survivors of accidents. Today ANAMA's efforts are aimed to continue increasing and expansion of mine action capacity to provide the clearance of all liberated areas of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254318.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 11:00:00 +0400 The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack at the TUSA? production facility in Ankara, Azernews reports.The international organization issued a statement regarding the incident."We strongly condemn this treacherous attack, extend our condolences to the Republic of Turkiye and the brotherly Turkish people, and wish a speedy recovery to the injured," the statement said.It should be noted that 5 people were killed and 22 injured in the terrorist attack at the TUSA? production facility in Turkiye. Turkiye's Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, stated that initial investigations suggest the attack was carried out by the PKK. http://www.today.az/news/sports/254317.html Sports Thu, 24 Oct 2024 10:39:00 +0400 Three Azerbaijani boxers have started IBA Youth World Boxing Championships 2024 in Montenegro with a victory, Azernews reports.Although Gizbas Iskandarli (60 kg) had to face Ayda Kopse (Slovenia) within the 1/16 final stage, the opponent did not fight and the boxer was declared the winner. He will fight in the 1/8 finals with Tunisian Molka Khalif, who was released from the first round.Ali Abdullayev also won in his debut at 63.5 kilograms. The boxer won against Skender Lala (Albania) - 4:1 (29:27, 29:27, 29:27, 29:27, 27:29). Abdullayev will face Russian Malik Sugaipov in the 1/16 finals.Abbasgulu Shadlinski (75 kilograms) also won the 1/32 final match. He knocked out Montassar Ben Zid (Tunisia) - 5:0 (29:28, 30:27, 30:27, 30:27, 30:27). The national member will play his second match against Giorgi Natroshvili (Georgia).Note that IBA Youth World Boxing Championships 2024 will end on November 3.Boxing is known as one of the oldest known sports in the history of humankind.The earliest evidence of boxing dates back to Egypt around 3,000 BC.This sport was introduced to the ancient Olympic Games by the Greeks in the late 7th century BC.In 1924, the International Amateur Boxing Federation (FIBA) was established.Since 1946, it has been referred to as the International Boxing Association (AIBA). Boxing made its Olympic debut at the 1904 Games in St. Louis.In 1926, the boxing championship was held for the first time in Azerbaijan, where national boxers took first place.Since 1992, the Azerbaijani Boxing Federation has become a full member of the International Boxing Association (AIBA).Azerbaijani boxers have won many prestigious awards at many international championships.Aghasi Mammadov has entered Azerbaijan's history of boxing as the first national boxer, as a gold medallist at the world championship.Another Azerbaijani boxer, Fuad Asadov, was among the medallists at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games.Many times, Azerbaijan has been chosen as the host country for major boxing championships.The AIBA Youth World Championships were held in Baku in 2019. This world championship was the first licensed youth tournament to qualify for the 2010 Olympic Games held in Singapore.The country also hosted the 2011 AIBA World Boxing Championships, which was the first major qualifying event for the London 2012 Olympic Games. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254316.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 09:00:00 +0400 Speaker of Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova expressed condolences to the Speaker of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Numan Kurtulmu? regarding the terrorist act committed in Ankara.S. Gafarova, in her letter addressed to the Speaker of the Turkish Parliament, said that she was shocked by the news of the death of people as a result of the terrorist act committed in the Turkish Aviation and Space Industry Company and strongly condemned the terrorist act.The Speaker of the Parliament expressed deep condolences to the families and relatives of the deceased, to the brotherly people of Turkiye on her own behalf and on behalf of the deputies of the Milli Majlis, and wished for the recovery of the injured. http://www.today.az/news/politics/254314.html Politics Thu, 24 Oct 2024 08:00:00 +0400 "The main task of the working group of Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, co-chaired by the deputy prime ministers of the countries, regarding the opening of communications in the South Caucasus is to find solutions suitable for both Baku and Yerevan."Maria Zakharova, the Spokesperson of the Russian Foreign Minister, said this at a briefing.She noted that the working group is actively working in this direction and is ready to provide comprehensive assistance to partners in the future. Zakharova stressed that the entire South Caucasus region will benefit from the opening of communications. http://www.today.az/news/interesting/254312.html Weird / Interesting Wed, 23 Oct 2024 23:46:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe export of Kazakh oil to Germany via the Druzhba pipeline in January-September 2024 amounted to 1.1 million tons, Azernews reports.According to the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan, oil exports to Germany from Kazakhstan in the amount of 1.2 million tons are planned for 2024.145 thousand tons of Kazakh oil were delivered to Germany in September, and 133 thousand tons in October.Since 2023, Kazakhstan has been supplying oil to Germany through the Transneft trunk pipeline system in the direction of the Adamova Zastava oil delivery point. In January-September 2023, 590 thousand tons of oil from Kazakhstan were exported to Germany. In total, 993 thousand tons of Kazakh oil were transported to Germany by the end of 2023 (from the resources of Karachaganak Petroleum Operating).President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev said that the republic is ready to increase oil exports to the German market, and the head of the Ministry of Energy of the Republic Almasadam Satkaliyev reported that Germany had requested to increase annual supplies from the current 1.2 million to 2.5 million tons. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254311.html World news Wed, 23 Oct 2024 23:23:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Chinese company TBEA has completed the overhaul of two blocks of the Bishkek CHP plant, Azernews reports.Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan Akylbek Zhaparov visited the CHP and inspected the operation of the energy facility. Together with the Mayor of the capital Aibek Dzhunushaliyev, Minister of Energy Taalaibek Ibrayev and representatives of relevant structures, they inspected a number of thermal power plant facilities.A.Zhaparov stressed that the Bishkek CHP is one of the most important energy facilities in the country, providing electricity and heat to a significant part of the capital.He instructed to strengthen control over the operation of thermal power facilities, as well as ongoing repair work.It should be noted that on the night of February 1-2 this year, an accident occurred at the CHP, as a result of which most residents of the city were left without heat for almost a day.At a meeting of the Ministry of Energy of Kyrgyzstan, following the results of work for 9 months, it was reported that 192 thousand tons of coal out of the required 1 million tons were supplied to the CHP. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254310.html World news Wed, 23 Oct 2024 22:41:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaKazakhstan is considering the possibility of starting car deliveries to Afghanistan, Azernews reports.This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan Serik Zhumangarin.According to him, the Afghan side asked to organize meetings and events for the sale of new or used cars."I think it's realistic to start selling the first cars next year," Zhumangarin said.The Deputy Prime Minister noted that he had already held preliminary negotiations with Kazakhstani suppliers. However, in order to implement the project, two key issues need to be resolved: to find a reliable partner from the Afghan side and to develop supply routes.On October 22, a Kazakh-Afghan business forum was held in Almaty with the participation of representatives of both countries. http://www.today.az/news/interesting/254309.html Weird / Interesting Wed, 23 Oct 2024 22:17:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaA detachment of ships of the Navy of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA), led by the aircraft carrier Liaoning, passed near Taiwan, Azernews reports.According to him, on the evening of October 22, PLA ships passed through the waters near the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands (also known as Dongsha) and continued north to the Taiwan Strait.As indicated in the statement, Taiwan's armed forces were closely monitoring the situation. http://www.today.az/news/interesting/254308.html Weird / Interesting Wed, 23 Oct 2024 21:50:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaRussia retains its status as a leading supplier of oil to India. In April-September 2024, oil imports from Russia to India increased by 2.5 percent compared to last year, Azernews reports.India remains the largest export destination for offshore oil from Russia and buys Russian oil at discounted prices.Currently, Russia's share in the total volume of oil imported by India is 39 percent. Iraq is in second place with 18 percent, and Saudi Arabia is in third with 13 percent. The share of the United Arab Emirates rose to 8 percent from 5 percent in the previous year, and the share of the United States increased to 5.5 percent in April-September. The total volume of oil imports to India has increased by 4 percent this year. In September, the volume of oil supplies from Russia increased by 6.4 percent compared to August and reached 1.88 million barrels per day.India is the third largest consumer of oil in the world with over 85 percent dependence on imports. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254307.html World news Wed, 23 Oct 2024 21:22:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the US Armed Forces have begun conducting large-scale joint exercises Keen Sword, the geography of which will extend to the entire territory of Japan, Azernews reports.The exercises that take place every two years, within the framework of which, in particular, air defense and missile defense are being practiced, will last until November 1.As previously reported by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the exercises will include staff coordination of the parties, joint airborne operations, integrated air and missile defense, protection of key infrastructure facilities and remote Japanese islands. On both sides, all three types of troops - ground, sea and air - will take part in the exercises. Also this year, the Australian Armed Forces will join the exercises.According to the Japanese defense Ministry, about 45 thousand military personnel will take part in the exercises - 33 thousand from the Japanese side and 12 thousand from the American side. Japan and the United States will also involve 40 ships and 370 aircraft in the Keen Sword exercises this year.It is noted that representatives of Australia, Great Britain, Germany, India, Italy, Canada, Lithuania, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, France, South Korea and NATO were invited to the exercises as observers. Keen Sword has been held since 1986, and these exercises will be the 17th. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254313.html World news Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:40:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaEvery day, thousands of liters of contaminated water seep into the ground from a nuclear waste plant in Cumbria, UK, Azernews reports.The Magnox chip storage bunker, one of the largest nuclear facilities in Europe, is considered one of the most dangerous buildings, and work is underway to move waste from there to safer and more modern facilities.But the report released on Wednesday says that slow progress will delay work until about the end of the 2050s, with serious implications for security and finances. The National Audit Office reported that a leak in the building occurred in 2019, and currently about 2,100 liters of dirty water flows into the ground every day. But since it is dangerous to enter the building, engineers cannot fix the leak and even find it difficult to determine the exact cause. This means that the leak is expected to continue for another 30 years. http://www.today.az/news/regions/254306.html World news Wed, 23 Oct 2024 20:19:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe German defense concern Rheinmetall has signed a contract with the Spanish government for the supply of 81 mm Eimos mortar systems. The contract value is about 150 million euros, Azernews reports."The Spanish government has signed a contract with Rheinmetall for the supply of 84 Eimos 81mm mortar systems. A framework agreement worth about 150 million euros was signed with Rheinmetall's subsidiary Expal Municipalities," the statement said.At the same time, it is indicated that it also includes maintenance and training of personnel."The systems should be delivered to the Spanish armed forces between the end of 2024 and the end of 2027. The order will be placed at the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2024," the concern said.In early August, Rheinmetall reported that its sales volume increased by a third (33%) in the first half of the year compared to the same period in 2023 to 3.8 billion euros. Operating profit almost doubled and reached 404 million euros. The volume of orders received and framework agreements concluded more than doubled to 15.4 billion euros. http://www.today.az/news/business/254305.html Business Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:39:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulThe blades of the "Khizi-Absheron" Wind Power Plant have been brought to Baku, Azernews reports citing the Ministry of Energy.The ministry stated that the blades for the "Khizi-Absheron" Wind Power Plant, built in Azerbaijan by ACWA Power, have arrived in Baku.It should be noted that the "Khizi-Absheron" wind power plant will have a capacity of 240 megawatts and will be the first wind power plant in Azerbaijan as well as the largest in the Caucasus region.The plant is expected to generate 893 gigawatt-hours of clean energy per year and reduce carbon emissions by more than 400,000 tons annually. It will operate under the "build-own-operate" (BOO) model for a period of 25 years and will be managed by ACWA Power.The station will be constructed in two locations: Zone-1 of the Absheron region and Khizi-3 of the Khizi region, with 37 wind turbines strategically placed for optimal wind harvesting. This project supports Azerbaijan's goals of economic diversification and energy system modernization and will contribute to increasing foreign investments in the non-oil sector. http://www.today.az/news/society/254304.html Society Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:58:00 +0400 Members of Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union have gathered in Ganja, Azernews reports.The guests first got acquainted with the building of the Ganja State Drama Theater.The meeting was attended by representatives from Ganja, Mingachevir, and Shaki State Drama Theaters.Chairman of Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union People's Artist Haji Ismayilov discussed the current state of Azerbaijani theaters, their achievements, and the challenges they face.He stressed that Ganja State Drama Theater has been representing the country honorably at international events.Director of the Ganja State National Drama Theater Aqil Behramli was awarded the Union's "Theater Worker" medal.In his remarks, Behramli expressed gratitude for the recognition and spoke about the urgent issues that need to be addressed within the industry.During the meeting, various members of the Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union's Executive Board, including People's Artist Ilham Namig Kamal and Honored Artist Azad Shukurov, Executive Board member, People's Artist Mehrabin Farzalibayov, leading director of the Mingachevir State Drama Theater Valeh Karimov, Ganja Theater's literature section head Anar Burjaliyev, chief director of the Shaki Theater Mirbala Salimli, along with other prominent figures like People's Artist Ella Yaqubova and actress Konul Hajiyeva, discussed a range of issues facing the theaters.Topics ranged from funding and support for production to the need for modernizing facilities and attracting younger audiences.In their remarks, theater figures stressed the significance of collaborative efforts among theaters in different regions to strengthen the national theater scene and introduce innovative approaches to engage with the public.The Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union has a long-standing tradition of theater that dates back to the early 20th century, with the formation of the first national theater in Baku in 1900.Founded in 1897 as Union of Artists, the organization continued its activity as Union of Muslim Artists from 1917, Union of Turkish Actors from 1920, Azerbaijan Theater Society from 1945, and on February 27, 1987 by the order of the founding conference was renamed into the Union of Theater Workers of Azerbaijan.The primary mission of the Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union is to support and develop the theatrical arts within the country.The Union is a member of the International Confederation of Theater Unions and the UNESCO International Theater Institute.Azerbaijan Theater Workers Union engages in activities such as organizing workshops, festivals, and competitions to showcase emerging talent and to promote collaboration among artists. http://www.today.az/news/business/254303.html Business Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:41:00 +0400 Rovshan Najaf, president of the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR), met with John Evans, chief executive officer of Subsea7, Azernews reports citing SOCAR.During the meeting, they discussed the projects successfully implemented by Subsea7 in Azerbaijan and explored potential opportunities for cooperation on new projects.They exchanged views on the value that the application of Subsea7's new technologies in the Caspian Sea sector can bring to upcoming projects, as well as other issues of mutual interest. http://www.today.az/news/society/254302.html Society Wed, 23 Oct 2024 17:22:00 +0400 Ganja State Philharmonic Hall has hosted a concert dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the prominent composer, holder of the Shohrat and Sharaf Orders, People's Artist Ramiz Mirishli, Azernews reports.Honored Cultural Worker Mehpara Jafarova, soloists Samira Hajiyeva, Zamina Mustafaeva, Samir Mammadov, Azer Vardieyv, and Hayal Aliyev, accompanied by the Ganja State Philharmonic's Folk Instruments Orchestra, conducted by artistic director and conductor Khayal Gahramanov.The compositions like "Araz?m," "?lk sevgi," "Q?zlar bula??," "Dedi t?l?sm?," "Küsüb m?nd?n," "Do?ma diyar?m," "H?yat söyl? s?n kimins?n," "Bir könül s?nd?rm??am," and "Az?rbaycan dünyam m?nim" were performed at the concert program.Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az and Milli.Az.Ramiz Mirishli was born on April 16, 1934, in Nakhchivan. After moving to Baku, he entered the A. Zeynalli Music College to study kamancha.Following his graduation, he returned to Nakhchivan for a time, where he taught, before continuing his musical education and graduating from the Azerbaijan State Conservatory in 1962 (under the instruction of Jovdat Hajibayli), now known as the Baku Music Academy. Even during his student years, he created a piano trio, a quartet, romances, and a symphonic poem.From 1962 to 1971, Ramiz Mirishli headed the music editorial office at state television. From 1989 to 1995, he served as the artistic director of the Azerbaijan State Song and Dance Ensemble. He taught at the Azerbaijan State Conservatory for over 20 years.Ramiz Mirishli was the author of the operettas "The Stolen Girl" and "Let's Become Relatives," as well as symphonic and concert works, including pieces for national instruments, suites, and overtures for folk-instrument orchestras, song and dance ensembles, choreographic compositions, and dramatic plays.He also composed music for dramatic performances and films, including "An Apple Like an Apple," "Man in the House," "The Old Pier," "Ghazelkhan," and "Invitation," along with numerous songs.Ramiz Mirishli passed away on April 17, 2015. http://www.today.az/news/business/254301.html Business Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:58:00 +0400 As part of the preparatory process for the COP29 conference, road traffic monitoring measures will be simulated from 02:30 to 05:30 on the night of October 26 to 27, in accordance with the event's overall plan and route, Azernews reports citing the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company.It was noted that traffic management monitoring will continue on some streets and avenues of the capital to ensure the uninterrupted and safe organization of traffic during the event.In addition to COP29 cars and buses, emergency medical vehicles and fire engines will also participate in the monitoring, which will be conducted by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency.It should be noted that traffic direction will be changed on some streets in the city for the purpose of monitoring, and more detailed information will be announced soon. Additionally, on October 26 and 27, COP29 buses will operate on the streets and avenues of the capital without restrictions, to avoid causing inconvenience to the public.