https://azertag.az AZERTAC - Azerbaijan State News Agency https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijans_tourism_potential_showcased_in_st_petersburg-4493706 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 21:55:00 +0400 St. Petersburg, November 3, AZERTACAzerbaijan’s tourism potential was showcased at Creative Economy Days in St. Petersburg, which brought together representatives of government agencies, business circles, and expert communities from CIS countries. The representative office of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board in Russia also took part in the international event.As part of the Travel Hub “Sodruzhestvo” project, a business breakfast on creative economy and tourism was held at the Tauride Palace.During the event, a representative of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board delivered a presentation highlighting the country’s tourism opportunities, with a particular focus on its cultural heritage, fashion and shopping tourism, and emerging creative industries.Azerbaijan was presented as a year-round tourist destination where centuries-old traditions blend with contemporary art, architecture, fashion, and gastronomy. Participants explored Baku’s tourism potential as a regional cultural and creative hub, with particular attention to traditional crafts, including kelaghayi production and jewelry featuring Azerbaijani ornaments.The presentation also highlighted historical and cultural attractions in Baku and the regions, leisure opportunities at the Shahdag and Tufandag mountain resorts, national cuisine, winemaking traditions, and the development of Slow Food Azerbaijan as a gastronomic destination. Farida Abdullayeva Special correspondent   https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_promotes_its_tourism_offering_to_jordanian_travel_trade_professionals-4493346 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 17:38:00 +0400 Baku, November 3, AZERTAC The Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) hosted the “Experience Azerbaijan B2B Networking Event” in Amman, Jordan, on 2 November, bringing together 66 travel trade professionals representing 48 companies to explore tourism opportunities and strengthen business connections between Azerbaijan and Jordan.The event was attended by Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of ATB, and H.E. Shahin Abdullayev, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.The programme introduced participants to Azerbaijan’s year-round tourism offering, with a focus on destinations such as Baku, Gabala, Shahdag, Guba-Gusar and Shaki. The presentation highlighted a diverse range of experiences, including family holidays, luxury resorts, nature and adventure tourism, winter activities, cultural heritage, gastronomy, wellness and halal-friendly hospitality.A key part of the event was the B2B programme, which brought together three Azerbaijani companies, including Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), with Jordanian travel agencies, tour operators and tourism industry representatives. The meetings provided an opportunity to discuss potential cooperation, establish direct industry connections and explore new business opportunities.The event also welcomed 17 media representatives, supporting broader awareness of Azerbaijan’s tourism offering in the Jordanian market.Air connectivity between Jordan and Azerbaijan is supported by weekly charter flights operated by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) and Fly Jordan, providing additional travel options for visitors from the Jordanian market.As part of the official visit, Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of ATB, and Ramzi Al-Maaytah, CEO of the Jordan Tourism Board, discussed existing AZAL flights between the two countries and explored the possibility of introducing additional flight connections in the future, taking into account visa facilitation measures. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijans_tourism_potential_promoted_in_china-4492545 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:35:00 +0400 Beijing, November 3, AZERTACThe international business tourism exhibition - the China International MICE Exchange (CIMX 2026) has kicked off in Beijing, China.The Azerbaijan Tourism Board, together with three national tourism companies, and Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL) are jointly participating at the exhibition to showcase Azerbaijan’s tourism opportunities, its potential for hosting international events, and prospects for cooperation with the Chinese market.CIMX 2026 serves as an international platform specialized in the MICE industry, covering business meetings, corporate events, conferences, exhibitions and incentive travel.The event will bring together tourism authorities, professional buyers, event organizers, tourism companies and representatives of the aviation sector from different countries.The participation of the Azerbaijani delegation, aims to strengthen the country's recognition as an international MICE destination, establish new partnerships in the Chinese tourism market, and contribute to establishing business ties between the tourism industry representatives of the two countries.The exhibition showcases Azerbaijan's rich historical and cultural heritage, modern tourism infrastructure, high-class hotels, conference and event venues, as well as extensive opportunities for corporate and incentive travel to international participants.The Azerbaijan Tourism Board and partner companies are holding meetings with representatives of the Chinese market in a B2B format to discuss the development of new tourism products, attracting corporate groups, organizing international events, and long-term cooperation opportunities. Shahin Jafarov Special correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijans_tourism_potential_promoted_in_china-4492557 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 12:32:00 +0400 Beijing, November 3, AZERTACThe international business tourism exhibition - the China International MICE Exchange (CIMX 2026) has kicked off in Beijing, China.The Azerbaijan Tourism Board, together with three national tourism companies, and Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC (AZAL) are jointly participating at the exhibition to showcase Azerbaijan’s tourism opportunities, its potential for hosting international events, and prospects for cooperation with the Chinese market.CIMX 2026 serves as an international platform specialized in the MICE industry, covering business meetings, corporate events, conferences, exhibitions and incentive travel.The event will bring together tourism authorities, professional buyers, event organizers, tourism companies and representatives of the aviation sector from different countries.The participation of the Azerbaijani delegation, aims to strengthen the country's recognition as an international MICE destination, establish new partnerships in the Chinese tourism market, and contribute to establishing business ties between the tourism industry representatives of the two countries.The exhibition showcases Azerbaijan's rich historical and cultural heritage, modern tourism infrastructure, high-class hotels, conference and event venues, as well as extensive opportunities for corporate and incentive travel to international participants.The Azerbaijan Tourism Board and partner companies are holding meetings with representatives of the Chinese market in a B2B format to discuss the development of new tourism products, attracting corporate groups, organizing international events, and long-term cooperation opportunities. Shahin Jafarov Special correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_cinema_chief_hopes_japanese_tv_drama_will_strengthen_bilateral_ties-4492314 Tue, 03 Nov 2026 11:13:00 +0400 Baku, November 3, AZERTAC The head of Azerbaijan’s Cinema Agency has expressed hope that the popular Japanese television drama “Vivant” will bring the two countries closer together, Jiji Press reported.Azerbaijan, located on the western shore of the Caspian Sea, was one of the main filming locations for the television drama.In a recent interview with Jiji Press in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, Rashad Azizov, Director General of the agency, praised the Japanese drama for making “history.” It provided an “opening moment” for building a “bridge” between the two countries, he said.Noting that this was the first time a large-scale Japanese screen production had been filmed in Azerbaijan, Azizov said: “We hope that this film will be the starting point for the future of Japan-Azerbaijan ties.”Azerbaijan has already begun welcoming Japanese fans of the drama to the country. Expressing hope that they would enjoy the historic sites, architecture and cuisine the country has to offer, Azizov said he hoped to see more Japanese tourists.Known as an oil and natural gas producer, Azerbaijan has also focused on its creative industries in recent years. As part of this effort, the country reimburses up to 40 pct of expenses incurred by non-Azerbaijani companies producing films in the country, Azizov said.The cinema chief said that the share of creative industries in the country’s gross domestic product had “doubled” over the past three years. The sector offers “quite a good opportunity” for investors, he added, expressing his intention to further develop the industries and attract more investment from within and outside Azerbaijan. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/norway_hosts_events_marking_azerbaijans_victory_day_and_20th_anniversary_of_nayo-4491852 Mon, 02 Nov 2026 20:06:00 +0400 Stockholm, November 2, AZERTACSolemn concert programs marking November 8 - Azerbaijan's Victory Day and the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Norwegian Azerbaijanis’ Youth Organization (NAYO) were held in the Norwegian cities of Stavanger and Oslo.The events were organized with the support of Azerbaijan’s State Committee on Work with Diaspora. The celebrations brought together representatives from various political parties, members of the Turkish and Chechen communities, as well as Azerbaijani diaspora representatives from France, Switzerland, and Latvia.Addressing the event, Samir Bayramov, Adviser to the Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, underlined that Victory Day occupies a special place in the history of the Azerbaijani people and the celebration of this significant date abroad contributes to the preservation of national memory. Samir Bayramov also highlighted the importance of NAYO's activity over the past 20 years in establishing and developing the Azerbaijani diaspora in Norway.“Such events play a crucial role in strengthening national unity and solidarity among our compatriots living abroad, promoting Azerbaijani culture, and the upbringing of the younger generation in the spirit of national and moral values,” he noted.Ramil Aliyev, Chairman of Azerbaijan House in Oslo, congratulated the Azerbaijani people on Victory Day, paying tribute to the memory of the martyrs, who made the victory possible.“Victory Day is a celebration of the unity and heroism of the Azerbaijani people, as well as historical justice. Celebrating this significant day abroad is of great importance for upholding a deep bond with the Motherland, preserving national memory and solidarity,” Ramil Aliyev emphasized.Touching upon NAYO's 20th anniversary, Ramil Aliyev noted that over the past two decades, the organization has played an important role in bringing young Azerbaijanis together, preserving their native language, national and spiritual values, and cultural heritage, as well as promoting Azerbaijan in Norway.Anne Lindboe, Mayor of Oslo, addressed the event participants via a video message, extending her congratulations on the occasion of NAYO's 20th anniversary.The concert programs featured performances by Ilkin Dovlatov, Azerbaijan's representative at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024; Nisbat Sadrayeva, winner of the 5th Mugham TV Competition; Elchin Abbasov, Honoured Cultural Worker and tar player; Khayyam Mammadov, Honoured Artist and kamancha player; nagara performer Jafar Hasanov; ethno-jazz musician Tural Raphael; and the Ritm dance group.The mugham, folk and contemporary musical compositions performed by the artists, the distinctive sounds of traditional Azerbaijani musical instruments, and the dance performances created a special festive atmosphere at the events. Nargiz Jafarli Special correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/pakistani_influencers_explore_azerbaijans_diverse_tourism_destinations-4491666 Mon, 02 Nov 2026 17:57:00 +0400 Baku, November 2, AZERTACAzerbaijan welcomed 10 influencers from Pakistan on a media familiarisation trip highlighting the country’s cultural heritage, historical landmarks and contemporary city life.Taking participants through Baku, Ganja, Shusha and Khankendi, the programme showcased the distinctive character and tourism potential of each city, with a focus on introducing Pakistani audiences to destinations beyond the capital.The itinerary highlighted Baku’s dynamic urban landscape alongside Ganja’s longstanding cultural traditions and historical landmarks. Through encounters with different architectural styles, local heritage and everyday life, participants gained a broader perspective on the country's character and the experiences that make each destination unique.A particular focus was placed on Shusha, Azerbaijan’s cultural capital, and Khankendi as part of the State Programme on the Great Return. The visit offered insights into Garabagh and East Zangezur’s historical significance and cultural legacy, while drawing attention to ongoing restoration and redevelopment efforts. Participants also explored the region’s emerging tourism opportunities and rapidly developing infrastructure, reflecting its transformation into an increasingly accessible destination for international visitors.The initiative aimed to raise awareness of Azerbaijan’s lesser-explored urban destinations among Pakistani audiences and encourage interest in new travel routes across the country. By sharing their first-hand experiences through digital platforms, the participating influencers are expected to introduce a wider audience to Azerbaijan’s evolving tourism landscape and inspire future travel from Pakistan. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/sheki_khans_palace___a_shining_example_of_eastern_architecture-4491516 Mon, 02 Nov 2026 16:50:00 +0400 Baku, November 2, AZERTACThe declaration of 2026 as the “Year of Urban Planning and Architecture” in Azerbaijan by President Ilham Aliyev has once again drawn attention to the importance of preserving and promoting the country’s rich architectural heritage and historical monuments.As part of this initiative, a series of articles highlighting Azerbaijan’s architectural heritage and efforts to preserve and promote its historical landmarks is being published.AZERTAC presents an article by architect and professor Elchin Aliyev on the Palace of the Sheki Khans.The Palace of the Sheki Khans is the former residence of the Khans of Sheki, located in the city of Sheki, which was known as Nukha until 1968. The palace is a monument of history and culture of world importance and now serves as a museum. Built in the 18th century in the Oriental style, it stands in the elevated northeastern part of the city, within an area enclosed by fortress walls. The palace, approximately 32 meters long and 9 meters wide, has two floors with a total area of about 300 square meters. It contains six rooms, four corridors, and two mirrored balconies. The building is 10 meters high, with each floor measuring 3.35 meters in height. The palace façade is decorated with paintings depicting hunting and battle scenes, as well as geometric and vegetal patterns.The window openings in the palace halls and rooms feature removable stained-glass panels made using a technique known as shebeke. The geometric designs of these windows, incorporating colorful pieces of glass, harmonize with the overall composition of the palace’s main façade.The shebeke patterns were created by folk artisans using small wooden pieces and colored glass, without glue or nails. Murals cover the walls, niches, stalactite transitions between the walls and ceilings, and the ceilings themselves in the halls on both floors and in the rooms on the second floor. The interior paintings date from different periods. They include works by European masters preserved in the stalactite decorations of the lower hall’s ceiling, as well as paintings from the early 20th century by the renowned master Usta Gambar, his brother Safar, and his son Shukur, all from Shusha; Ali Gulu, Gurban Gulu, and Jafar from Shamakhi; Usta Abbas Ali; and other masters.The oldest paintings date back to the 18th century, including those on the upper-floor ceiling attributed to Abbas Gulu. It is believed that Abbas Gulu, whose name is preserved on the palace walls, was the architect who designed the building.The paintings on the first floor were created by Mirza Jafar from Shamakhi in 1895–1896, while those on the upper floor were painted by Usta Gambar from Shusha in 1902. The artists Ali Gulu and Gurban Gulu from Shamakhi worked mainly on the upper floor. The second floor is divided into two sections: one for men and the other for women.The palace, which also incorporates features of traditional Azerbaijani residential architecture, is considered one of the finest examples of 18th-century palace architecture in the Caucasus and one of the architectural gems of the Islamic East. Historians generally date the palace to the 18th century. However, Audrey Altstadt, a professor at the University of Chicago, dates it to the 17th century.Another scholar, Sandor Rado, stated that the palace was built by Hussein Khan in 1760 and subsequently rebuilt. The Art Encyclopedia dates the palace to 1761–1762. According to the 1890 edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica, the fortress in Sheki was built in 1765, while the palace was constructed somewhat later, in 1790.Mikael Useynov, a prominent Azerbaijani architect of the mid-20th century, believed that the Palace of the Sheki Khans was built between 1762 and 1797. He also maintained that construction was completed by Mohammed Hasan Khan, the great-grandson of Haji Chelebi Khan, the founder of the Sheki Khanate. Useynov noted that “the most prominent features of palaces of the 18th century are represented” in the Khans’ Palace.In 1853, a layout plan of the fortress was drawn up. According to the plan, the fortress contained a considerable number of buildings serving various purposes for the families of the Khanate’s aristocracy.   The 250th anniversary of the palace was celebrated in Sheki on July 4, 2012.Once, a magnificent garden stood in front of the palace. Today, only two enormous, spreading plane trees, as old as the palace itself, remain from that garden. Like loyal sentinels, they have guarded this architectural treasure of Azerbaijan for centuries. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijans_cultural_heritage_showcased_at_festival_in_south_korea-4491165 Mon, 02 Nov 2026 13:51:00 +0400 Beijing, November 2, AZERTAC Azerbaijani culture was showcased at the 21st edition of the Migrants’ Arirang Multicultural Festival (MAMF), held in Changwon, South Korea.The Azerbaijani pavilion, supported by the Fund for Support to Azerbaijani Diaspora, introduced visitors to the country’s rich cultural heritage, including national costumes, kelaghayi art, tea traditions and music. It also promoted intercultural dialogue and raised awareness of Azerbaijani culture.The project was implemented under the leadership of Gunay Karimova, an Azerbaijani living in South Korea, with Leyla Masimli and Aziza Huseynzade also playing active roles.MAMF is one of South Korea’s largest multicultural festivals. It is organized by the local government, the Gyeongsangnam-do Foreign Residents Support Center and the Changwon Cultural Foundation. Shahin Jafarov Special correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/_quotancient_stone_modern_memory_quot_and__quotradius_of_responsibility_quot_projects_presented-4490406 Sun, 01 Nov 2026 20:36:00 +0400 Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Arzu Aliyeva, Head of Baku Media Center, and Alena Aliyeva attended the event Baku, November 1, AZERTACThe Stone Chronicle Museum hosted the presentation of the "Ancient stone, modern memory" project by artist-sculptor Orkhan Nabizada and "Radius of responsibility" project by Elvin Nabizada.Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Arzu Aliyeva, Head of the Baku Media Center, and Alena Aliyeva attended the event.Inspired by the ancient petroglyphs of Gobustan, the "Ancient stone, modern memory" project features depictions of the Caucasian leopard, gazelle, gray wolf, brown bear, and golden eagle. Meanwhile, the "Radius of responsibility" project interactively explores humanity's relationship with wildlife. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/cruise_ship_service_planned_to_launch_on_moscow_baku_route-4489761 Sat, 31 Oct 2026 17:15:00 +0400 Moscow, October 31, AZERTAC“Cruise ship service between Moscow and Baku is expected to be launched in the near future,” Adam Hakimov, Russia’s Trade Representative in Azerbaijan, told Zvezda TV Channel.According to him, a voyage aboard a luxury-class cruise ship will take seven days in each direction, making the round trip approximately 14 days in total.“We plan to launch a cruise ship service on the Moscow–Baku route in the near future. One ship is already ready, while two more will be ready soon. If the project proves successful, we hope that these two ships will also make voyages to Baku,” he underlined.The Trade Representative also noted that the project is being implemented with government support. According to him, the construction of the cruise ships is being subsidized by Russia’s Ministry of Industry and Trade. Farida Abdullayeva Special Correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/concert_dedicated_to_victory_day_held_in_stockholm-4489563 Sat, 31 Oct 2026 13:26:00 +0400 Stockholm, October 31, AZERTAC A classical music concert dedicated to Azerbaijan’s November 8 Victory Day has been held in Stockholm.The concert, organized in the Baroque Hall of the Swedish History Museum, took place on the initiative of Aynur Malikova, an Azerbaijani pianist living in Sweden. It was held with the support of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora and the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Kingdom of Sweden, and jointly organized by the Garabagh and SAF organizations.The concert was attended by representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Sweden, employees of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, members of the Azerbaijani diaspora from various Swedish cities, and classical music enthusiasts.Ayda Amir Hashimi, Stockholm coordinator of the Coordination Council of Scandinavian Azerbaijanis, emphasized that the concert, held on the eve of Victory Day on November 8, carried deep historical and spiritual significance for the Azerbaijani community in Sweden, going beyond the promotion of music and culture.Addressing the event, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Sweden, Elnur Sultanov, congratulated the participants on the sixth anniversary of the historic Victory achieved in the 44-day Patriotic War and on November 9 State Flag Day.Noting that the memory of the martyrs who gave their lives for Azerbaijan’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity is always honored, the ambassador said that Victory Day, forever etched in the nation’s memory, symbolizes national strength, determination, and unity.“Six years ago, under the resolute leadership of President and Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and through the peerless valor of our Armed Forces, the nearly thirty-year military occupation by Armenia was ended, restoring Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity,” the diplomat emphasized.Samir Bayramov, adviser to the Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, thanked everyone for attending the event. He stressed that such events are important for introducing Azerbaijani history and traditions to the Swedish public while helping compatriots living abroad preserve their national identity and cultural heritage.The concert program featured works by Azerbaijani and European composers performed by pianist Aynur Malikova, Swedish flutist Catrin Spångberg, Japanese pianist Naomi Yamamoto, Turkish violinist Ekim Kuzukıran, and mezzo-soprano Chinara Azimova, who came from Austria.The repertoire included an excerpt from Fikret Amirov’s ballet “One Thousand and One Nights” and his “Dance of Love,” the “Adagio” from Gara Garayev’s ballet “Seven Beauties,” Uzeyir Hajibeyli’s “Arazbari,” and Niyazi’s “Azerbaijan,” as well as compositions by Giacomo Puccini, Frédéric Chopin, and Edvard Grieg.The performances were warmly received by the audience and met with enthusiastic applause. Nargiz Jafarli Special Correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/latvian_artist_azerbaijan_has_many_highly_professional_artists-4489488 Sat, 31 Oct 2026 12:08:00 +0400 Baku, October 31, AZERTAC“Events such as Baku Art Weekend are of great importance. Festivals like these help promote Azerbaijani culture internationally and provide foreign guests with an opportunity to become more familiar with the country’s art,” Latvian artist and sculptor Egons Perševics told AZERTAC.He noted that this was his first visit to Baku and that the city had left a very positive impression on him.“I was amazed by what I saw here. Azerbaijan has many highly professional artists. It was a great pleasure for me to work alongside them,” the sculptor noted. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/turkish_guest_art_weekend_festival_is_organized_at_a_very_high_level-4489461 Sat, 31 Oct 2026 11:41:00 +0400 Baku, October 31, AZERTAC“The Art Weekend” festival is organized at a very high level. The event features a wide range of fascinating artworks and various exhibitions. I am pleased to take part in such a prestigious art event,” Ahmet Caner, a guest from Türkiye attending the “Flight to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW” festival told AZERTAC.He noted that the exhibition of artworks reflecting Azerbaijan’s rich culture, history and national values was of particular importance.“These pieces provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the country’s cultural heritage,” he emphasized. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/heydar_aliyev_center_hosts_official_opening_of__quotart_weekend_quot-4489326 Sat, 31 Oct 2026 02:33:00 +0400 Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Founder of IDEA Public Union, together with Alena Aliyeva, attend the event Baku, October 31, AZERTACThe official opening of the Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW festival was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center on October 30.Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Founder of IDEA Public Union, together with Alena Aliyeva, attended the opening ceremony of the festival. The Heydar Aliyev Center presented several exhibitions as part of the "Art Weekend" opening.Addressing the opening ceremony, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Founder of IDEA Public Union, said that renowned artists from various countries joined the event. “And over the next few days, you will discover many paintings, installations, sculptures, and performances. All to show the beauty of nature and also its strength and its rigidity.In 2012, we have established a Caucasus "Big Five" that include endangered species of animals, which are the brown bear, grey wolf, the Caucasian leopard, the imperial eagle, and the gazelle. And since then, we have worked together with local departments and international organizations to preserve these endangered species of animals and to reintroduce them into the wild and also to increase their habitat. And it has been quite successful.In order to understand nature and to love it, the best way is to spend more time in the nature. Then you can really connect to it. And also, we want to make sure that everybody remembers that they can make a huge difference by themselves, even with very small actions. So, this is what the Sense the Future NOW festival means to us,” Leyla Aliyeva added. The event also featured the national dances performed by Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic Expressing his gratitude to Leyla Aliyeva on behalf of international art representatives, who have come to Baku to participate in the festival Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW, Art curator Simon de Pury said: “Back in 2012, I had the great pleasure to meet you there in London. And I remember you said there are two things that I'm really very, very interested in. One is, I really want the artists from Azerbaijan to get a wide acknowledgement, to get widely seen around the world and to get a lot of international exposure. And so we discussed and did do an exhibition in 2012, Fly to Baku, which incorporated some of the greatest and most interesting living artists of Azerbaijan. We did the first exhibition in London. It was a huge success and subsequently, that exhibition travelled to many cities. It went to Paris, it went to Moscow, it went to several cities around the world. Then, in 2016, we did a great retrospective dedicated to the American artist George Condo. And that exhibition was a big success here in the Heydar Aliyev Centre. And that is when I discovered this incredible building Zaha Hadid was one of the greatest architects of our time. And I think that the building in which we are now is her magnus opus. In my view, it's her best work in a brilliant career.”The event featured the immersive theatrical performance authored and directed by Parviz Mammadrzayev, with the visual atmosphere created for "Art Weekend" by Laman Yusifli. Through choreography, music, and visual storytelling, the play embodies a poetic journey that explores the fragile relationship between humanity and nature.Following the ceremony, the Azerbaijan State Dance Ensemble performed "Jangi" and "Yalli," dances showcasing the country’s ancient dance traditions.Held for the second consecutive year at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and Head of the IDEA Public Union, the festival's exhibition program brings together diverse artistic approaches, generations, and geographies, offering audiences an opportunity to reflect on themes such as memory, cultural heritage, nature, biodiversity, identity, and the future.The “Big Five of the Caucasus” is one of the key themes of this year’s “Art Weekend,” exploring the region’s biodiversity and the role of animals in cultural memory, mythology and collective identity.Another project presented in the Heydar Aliyev Center is “Legendary Creatures: An Azerbaijani Bestiary”. Connecting the “Big Five” with mythological creatures from Azerbaijani folklore, it highlights the importance of preserving wildlife and cultural heritage.The exhibition features six works by six artists, including carpet art, sculpture, photography, metalwork and mixed media. All the works are presented to the public for the first time as part of “Art Weekend.”A contemporary art exhibition “When Nature Speaks. Heirs” features the Caucasian leopard, brown bear, grey wolf, golden eagle and goitered gazelle, exploring the relationship between humanity and nature, highlighting heritage, responsibility and the natural world we leave to future generations. It brings together artists working in installation, sculpture, ceramics, textiles and mixed media.Attendees then toured an exhibition titled “The Skin of Truth” by Chinese artist Zhang Ji feature works from the artist’s “The Skin of Truth” and “Ultima” series, blending architectural motifs from different religious and cultural traditions with contemporary painting. Inspired by landmarks such as the Great Mosque of Córdoba and the Alhambra Palace, Zhang Ji uses a syringe instead of a brush to create raised surfaces reminiscent of bas-relief sculpture. His works have been exhibited in the United States, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, China, France, Spain, Switzerland, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and other countries, and included in collections worldwide.The Heydar Aliyev Center also presents “What If Women Ruled the World?” by renowned American artist Judy Chicago and Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto’s Mirror of Eternity. Since 2022, the What If Women Ruled the World?” project has developed a global archive spanning several countries. Visitors in Baku will be able to contribute to its next chapter by answering questions in an interactive recording booth.Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto’s Mirror of Eternity project employs artificial intelligence to combine human portraits, generating new faces that have never existed before. Participants upload their portraits to the system, which then merges them with another person’s portrait to create a new image. Each portrait thus exists not as a fixed record of memory, but as an evolving digital entity transformed through successive encounters. The project explores the relationship between humanity, memory, technology, and the ever-changing nature of life.The Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW festival will run until November 1. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/land_of_carpets_exhibition_opens_at_azerbaijan_national_carpet_museum-4488888 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 18:23:00 +0400 Baku, October 30, AZERTAC The “Land of Carpets” exhibition has opened at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum as part of the Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW project.Bringing together the rich heritage of Azerbaijani carpet art and contemporary artistic approaches, the exhibition highlights the creative dialogue between tradition and innovation.The exhibition features works by Latif Karimov, founder of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, distinguished scholar and People’s Artist of Azerbaijan; contemporary artists Madina and Narmin Najaf; and carpet art specialist Yashar Malfouzi.Marking the 120th anniversary of Latif Karimov’s birth, the exhibition showcases two relief silk carpets woven for the first time based on the artist’s original designs. A contemporary interpretation of his rich artistic legacy is also presented through works by winners of a digital art competition jointly organized by the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum and the HUG.art platform.The exhibition also features new carpets woven based on paintings by Madina and Narmin Najaf. These works demonstrate the creative connection between visual art and traditional carpet weaving, highlighting the carpet’s potential as a medium of contemporary artistic expression.Also on display is a relief carpet inspired by Gushlu, a 19th-century Baku carpet from the collection of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, alongside two relief carpets created by Yashar Malfouzi.As part of Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW, the ongoing exhibition Faig Ahmed: 2011–2024 at the museum has been expanded to include three new works by Faig Ahmed, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan.The exhibition will run until November 29. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/ali_asadov_construction_of_new_building_for_tbilisi_state_azerbaijan_drama_theatre_named_after_heydar_aliyev_expected_to_begin_soon-4488072 Fri, 30 Oct 2026 13:05:00 +0400 Signagi, October 30, AZERTAC  “I hope that construction of a new building for the Tbilisi State Azerbaijan Drama Theatre named after Heydar Aliyev will begin in the near future,” Azerbaijani Prime Minister Ali Asadov said at the 11th meeting of the Azerbaijan–Georgia Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation.He emphasized that cultural and humanitarian cooperation remained one of the key priorities in bilateral relations.“The Azerbaijani and Georgian communities living in the two countries play a special role in the development of relations. Providing opportunities for education in their native languages and operating schools that offer such education serve to further strengthen relations between our nations,” the prime minister added. Khatayi Azizov Special Correspondent https://azertag.az/en/xeber/engram_exhibition_opens_at_museum_of_azerbaijani_painting-4487331 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 21:44:00 +0400 Heydar Aliyev Foundation Vice-President Leyla Aliyeva and Alena Aliyeva attended the event Baku, October 29, AZERTACOrganized by YARAT Contemporary Art Space, the “ENGRAM” exhibition has opened at the Museum of Azerbaijani Painting of the XX-XXI Centuries, featuring selected works from private collections that reflect Azerbaijani art from the 1950s to the present day.Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Alena Aliyeva attended the event and viewed the exhibition.Curated by Aida Mahmudova and Farah Alakbarli, the exhibition assembles tangible manifestations of the artistic and cultural shifts that shaped Azerbaijani culture throughout the 20th century and continue to leave their mark on the country's visual arts. “ENGRAM” is a physical trace that preserves lived experience in memory. Drawing on this concept, the exhibition presents painting as a space where individual perception and historical experience take material form.The evolution of Azerbaijani art through periods of transition is expressed in its formal approaches, revealing how inherited visual languages are preserved, tested and transformed.The act of collecting is itself a means of preserving memory. Shaped by personal affinities and choices, each collection reflects an individual vision of the artistic value of works of art. By assembling these works within a shared exhibition space, “ENGRAM” brings individual viewpoints into dialogue. It explores how artworks preserve the memory of their time and how each encounter reshapes that memory.The exhibition showcases works of painting, graphic art and sculpture by Aida Mahmudova, Altay Sadigzade, Abdul Khalig, Ashraf Murad, Javad Mirjavadov, Farhad Khalilov, Gennady Brijatyuk, Huseyn Hagverdiyev, Kamal Ahmad, Mahmud Rustamov, Mahmud Taghiyev, Mikayil Abdullayev, Museyib Amirov, Niyaz Najafov, Gorkhmaz Afandiyev, Rasim Babayev, Rashad Babayev, Sattar Bahlulzade, Tahir Salahov, Taghi Taghiyev, Tofig Javadov, Toghrul Togrul Narimanbeyov and Ujal Hagverdiyev.The exhibition also featured AISEL’s musical performance, “SUBLIMINALS: A Manifestation Experience.” https://azertag.az/en/xeber/somalia_expresses_interest_in_azerbaijans_tourism_expertise-4487220 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 19:46:00 +0400 Baku, October 29, AZERTAC On October 29, Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of Azerbaijan’s State Tourism Agency, met with Abdulfatah Kasim Mohamud, Somalia’s Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism.During the meeting, the Somali minister expressed his country’s interest in studying Azerbaijan’s experience in tourism development and applying its best practices in Somalia.Kasim Mohamud also expressed interest in Azerbaijan’s expertise in developing tourism infrastructure, promoting destinations, attracting investment and creating competitive tourism products.The parties discussed potential joint projects and ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation in tourism. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/michelangelo_pistoletto_at_fly_to_baku_art_weekend_mirror_of_eternity_and_new_art____interview-4487202 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 19:35:00 +0400 Baku, October 29, AZERTAC Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto’s project will be presented at the Heydar Aliyev Center as part of the “Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW” festival. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore his work entitled Mirror of Eternity.Over more than six decades of artistic practice, Pistoletto has used mirrors to make viewers an integral part of his artworks. In his Mirror Paintings series, created in the 1960s, the viewer’s reflection becomes part of the work, making each encounter unique.With Mirror of Eternity, the artist continues this concept by drawing on the possibilities of the digital age. The project uses artificial intelligence to merge human portraits and generate entirely new faces that have never existed before.In an interview with AZERTAC, Pistoletto discussed the concept behind the work to be presented in Baku and the role of digital technologies in art. - Why does the mirror motif occupy such an important place in your artistic practice?- Modern art led artists to create their own marks as expressions of their inner feelings and being. In the 1950s, I did not want to create an independent mark of my own that would exclude me from society. I wanted to recognize myself not through a mark made by my own will, but through the reasons for my existence and for being in the world.I exist, and I cannot deny it, because I see myself in the mirror. The mirror is a direct representation of my presence. It is not an arbitrary statement I make about myself. So, instead of painting the figure I see in the mirror to create a self-portrait, I decided to paint the mirror itself.I created a mirror on the surface of the canvas: a black ground, covered in many layers of varnish, brought light and image into the virtual depth of the canvas. I saw not only my own reflection, but also everything that existed around me in space and time, including all the people reflected on the mirror-like canvas. My self-portrait became a self-portrait of the world. - What is the concept behind the project Mirror of Eternity?- The concept at its core is immortality, an idea we have inherited culturally from the ancient Egyptians. Think of the figure of the pharaoh, who represented the whole society of his time: his body was mummified, and his likeness reproduced in gold, a material symbolizing incorruptibility and eternity. The tomb also bears witness to this system of beliefs and rituals. Offerings of food and other goods to the deceased were thought to ensure that they could continue to live in the afterlife, beyond their earthly existence.The idea of immortality has endured through the centuries: from Roman tombs with golden portraits of imperial figures to Byzantine icons, where the human figure stands out against a gold background, symbolizing a dimension beyond the material world and opening onto the light of infinity.Today, new technologies and artificial intelligence are making this aspiration tangible and accessible to everyone. It is no longer limited to pharaohs, emperors or Jesus Christ, whose images have survived and endured through the centuries. Potentially, it can include each of us, because anyone’s image can be technologically inserted into the trinamic formula of creation.This formula is represented by three circles. When one person’s image is placed in one of the two outer circles and another person’s image in the opposite circle, the central space becomes the site of their connection and generates the image of a third figure that did not previously exist.The process recalls biological procreation, through which two individuals give rise to a new person, who looks different from both while retaining some of their features.If I leave my image in the technological system of Mirror of Eternity, it can combine with the image of anyone else who enters their own likeness into it. Each new connection can generate another figure, which can then interact with other images, creating a potentially endless chain.An image, therefore, can continue to exist and generate new presences even after the person has physically passed away. This is where the idea of an eternity made possible by technology takes shape: it is like a virtually transferred DNA, gradually formed within human society. - What does it mean to you to make the viewer an integral part of the artwork?- When I saw that viewers were becoming an integral part of the Mirror Painting, I realized that I, too, was entering directly into a shared thought. Everyone who looks at the Mirror Painting shares the work because they become part of it through their own image. They cannot avoid their physical presence in front of it.The Mirror Painting connects everyone’s thoughts. Thought then leads to practical activities that bring together all the people standing before the mirror: economics, politics, religion and every other sphere of social life. - How do you explore the concepts of memory and presence through this project?- To create a Mirror Painting, I fix the image of a person or an object onto its surface—something that might appear in the mirror for only an instant. What we see in a mirror has no memory, because it consumes the present anew at every moment. The image of the present does not remain in the Mirror Painting, because every subsequent image is different.But by fixing an image that would otherwise disappear from the mirror, I allow it to remain. It becomes the image of a moment that no longer changes and survives alongside all the images that continue to change in the mirror. It is the memory of an instant that remains forever, together with the present and the future. In this way, through the Mirror Painting and the image fixed on its surface, I give the mirror memory. - What does it mean to you to engage in a dialogue with Azerbaijani audiences and present your work as part of Art Weekend 2026 in Baku, a city that brings together its historical and contemporary identities?- Through art, my work connects Baku with every other place in the world, because the human, artistic-intellectual and practical principle behind the Mirror Painting is not limited to any particular place; it is universal.The change we can bring to Baku through art and culture is therefore the same change we can spread throughout the rest of the world. All the differences within global society can be brought, through the trinamic formula of creation, into a process of generating shared understanding—an understanding that can be embraced around the world. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_and_pata_strengthen_tourism_ties_with_asia_pacific_markets-4487127 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 18:47:00 +0400 Baku, October 29, AZERTAC Azerbaijan is strengthening its connections with key Asia-Pacific tourism markets through the PATA Hosted Buyers Summit Baku 2026, held in Baku on October 29 and jointly organized by the State Tourism Agency, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). The event brought together local tourism businesses and more than 50 tourism professionals from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea to explore new opportunities for cooperation.Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, noted, “The Asia-Pacific region is an important market for Azerbaijan’s tourism sector, offering significant potential for attracting visitors and expanding international cooperation. The opening of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board’s representative office in Beijing this year marks an important milestone in strengthening our presence in the region. Hosting the PATA Hosted Buyers Summit Baku 2026 further reinforces these efforts by bringing international tourism professionals together with Azerbaijani businesses, creating opportunities to establish direct industry connections and develop new business partnerships.”PATA Chairman Henry Oh emphasized Azerbaijan’s diverse tourism offerings and the summit’s role in connecting international partners with local businesses.Oh said, “Our theme reflects a clear business objective: connecting Azerbaijan with key source markets across Asia-Pacific and helping turn the destination’s tourism potential into tangible business opportunities. Through our network across Asia-Pacific, we bring together destinations, tourism businesses and travel trade partners who understand their respective markets. We look forward to building on this partnership through knowledge exchange, industry connections and future initiatives that strengthen Azerbaijan’s reach across Asia-Pacific and beyond.”A key outcome of the summit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) and PATA. The agreement was signed by Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA, and Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, in the presence of Henry Oh, PATA Chairman, and Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The MOU aims to raise awareness of Azerbaijan across Asia-Pacific markets, strengthen cooperation with tourism industry partners and media, and encourage the exchange of knowledge and experience across the sector.B2B meetings held during the summit gave local companies and international tourism professionals an opportunity to discuss potential partnerships and develop new business connections.The programme also takes participants beyond Baku, to Shamakhi, Gabala, Shaki and Gakh, introducing them to Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, hospitality traditions and tourism infrastructure. It showcases the country’s Silk Road heritage, mountain and nature tourism, business travel, Umrah Plus programmes and tailored travel experiences, while exploring opportunities for multi-country Caucasus itineraries with neighboring destinations.Founded in 1951, PATA has more than 650 members worldwide, including tourism authorities, airlines, airports, hospitality organizations, educational institutions and travel companies. The Azerbaijan Tourism Board has been a member since 2019. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/judy_chicago_to_present_what_if_women_ruled_the_world_at_fly_to_baku_art_weekend-4486785 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 16:44:00 +0400 Baku, October 29, AZERTAC American artist Judy Chicago will present her banner project “What If Women Ruled the World?” at the “Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW” festival, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the IDEA Public Union from October 30 to November 1.The festival will also feature the immersive exhibition “When Nature Speaks: Heirs”.In an interview with AZERTAC, Judy Chicago spoke about the origins and central concept of her project, her collaboration with former Dior Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri, the theme of gender equality, and the personal significance of presenting her work in Baku. - How did the core concept behind the “What If Women Ruled the World?” project originate?- The seeds of this inquiry can be traced to my early works of the 1970s, when I sought to rewrite art history by founding the Feminist Art Movement, which would reframe history and culture through the female experience. At this time, I began considering what the world would be like if gender equality existed, women’s voices were heard, and their history was not erased. As these questions evolved, they eventually manifested themselves on global stages. In 2002, I worked with the Long March Project, which took its title from the Chinese Red Army’s historical Long March from 1934 to 1936. “Long March—A Walking Visual Display” set out to recreate twenty sites along the 6,000-mile historical trek, each composed of site-specific displays and discussions. It was here that I initiated the project titled What If Women Ruled the World?, inviting Chinese women artists to develop proposals envisioning a world ruled by women and to compare their shared vision and individual visions with reality. - How did your collaboration with Dior’s creative director Maria Grazia Chiuri shape the development of the project?- The collaboration with Maria Grazia Chiuri was foundational to the development of What If Women Ruled the World?. The project began with my longstanding interest in imagining a monumental female/divine figure—a concept I had first conceived in the 1970s—but Chiuri and Dior provided the support and vision to realize it on an unprecedented scale for the Spring–Summer 2020 Haute Couture show in Paris. This gave the project a life that I never imagined I would see in my lifetime. It also resonated well beyond the fashion world and took on a life of its own. - Why were banners chosen as the medium to express this concept?- The banners grew out of my long engagement with textile and craft traditions, including the banners I created for The Dinner Party. Textile traditions such as quilting, historically practiced by women, evolved into powerful vehicles for transmitting memories, emotions, and personal narratives, and were later reclaimed by feminist artists as a recognized form of fine art. When Maria Grazia Chiuri invited me to collaborate with Dior, I proposed banners carrying questions around What If Women Ruled the World?, transforming this tradition into large, public statements. In 2022, I came together with DMINTI to extend this spirit of collective making into a global participatory project, using quilting as a medium to inspire dialogue around gender equality and imagine alternative futures. - What questions does the project invite the audience to reflect upon?- I asked a series of questions that seemed relevant to our challenges today. This is the role of the artist as I see it: to raise questions, even uncomfortable ones, that can help us imagine a better world for all living creatures. I want to reiterate that I’m not interested in matriarchy. I am interested in equality. These banners raise a series of questions such as: “If women ruled the world, would men and women be equal?” “Would men and women both raise children?” “Would the planet be protected?” In other words, if the world were infused with a female perspective—which is about caring, nurturing, sharing—how would it affect the whole world? - What does presenting this project as part of Art Weekend 2026 mean to you against the backdrop of Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage and Baku’s dynamic contemporary art scene?- It is thrilling to me that a project that I initiated twenty-five years ago in a remote part of China (Lugu Lake) has grown, evolved and travelled all over the world. I never imagined that the questions I raised then (in the original banners) would resonate with so many people in so many cultures. What has happened speaks to the importance that art can have in stimulating dialogue and overcoming all the differences between us. The thousands of responses generated by the What If Women Ruled the World? project also show that there is one constant all over the globe: the need for women's voices to become part of the cultural dialogue in order to achieve a world of greater equality and justice, apparently a world that many people long for. Thank you, Baku, for welcoming my art and the values it represents. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/shirvan_national_park_a_unique_ecosystem_with_rich_biodiversity_video-4486146 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:20:00 +0400 Salyan, October 29, AZERTAC The latest feature in AZERTAC’s “If I Were a Tourist” column highlights Shirvan National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and gazelles.Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind, we head south to explore the park’s diverse natural landscapes, one of Azerbaijan’s natural treasures.Turning off the Alat–Astara highway in Salyan district, we enter the park. After parking our vehicle at the entrance, we board a safari vehicle and set off to explore the captivating semi-desert landscape.Under the bright sun and in the warm weather, we soon encounter the park’s most famous residents — gazelles. Appearing alone or in herds, these graceful animals immediately catch our attention. Some pause to survey their surroundings, while others leap away and disappear into the steppe after briefly appearing in front of our cameras.Listed in Azerbaijan’s Red Book, gazelles are among the park’s greatest natural treasures. Seeing these animals in the wild leaves a lasting impression on every nature lover.Since 2010, a project to protect gazelles, reintroduce them, and restore their historical habitats across Azerbaijan has been underway. The initiative is being implemented by the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, IDEA Public Union, and the WWF Azerbaijan Office.The park’s wildlife extends beyond gazelles. Rare species such as the jungle cat, great bustard, and greater flamingo also contribute to its rich biodiversity.We continue our journey along a raised walkway, where a completely different scene unfolds. The vast lake resembles a bustling haven for birds: one settles on the water while another spreads its wings and soars into the sky. The lake is alive with movement, offering a new spectacle of wildlife at every turn.With more than 230 bird species recorded, Shirvan National Park is a popular destination for ornithologists and birdwatchers. During migration and winter, ducks, geese, coots, and flamingos flock to its lakes and shorelines.Located in the Kura–Aras lowland, at the junction of the Garadagh, Salyan, and Neftchala districts, Shirvan National Park covers an area of more than 54,000 hectares. Its semi-desert and dry-steppe landscapes, lowland lakes, wetlands, and sandy shores along the Caspian Sea give the park its distinctive geographical character.The area is home to reptiles such as tortoises, lizards, and snakes, as well as mammals including wolves, jackals, foxes, and wild boars. The local flora, which includes oleaster trees, Caspian saltwort, shahsevi, and various wormwood species, further enriches the ecosystem.The park’s unique character lies in the diversity of its landscapes, where the blue Caspian Sea meets vast plains, reed-fringed lakes, and abundant wildlife.A visit to Shirvan National Park is not merely an opportunity to discover new places; it also allows visitors to appreciate nature’s delicate balance and recognize the importance of conserving rare species. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/shamakhis_literary_heritage_the_mausoleum_of_shahkhandan_nasimis_brother_video-4486116 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 12:05:00 +0400 Shamakhi, October 29, AZERTAC The latest feature in AZERTAC’s “If I Were a Tourist” column highlights the Mausoleum of Shahkhandan in Shamakhi.This time, our journey takes us to a city renowned for its ancient history and rich literary heritage. The mausoleum of Shahkhandan, brother of the great Azerbaijani poet Imadaddin Nasimi, stands in a historic cemetery alongside the Baku–Shamakhi–Yevlakh highway.For visitors to Shamakhi, the site is more than an architectural monument. It is a sacred place that preserves the family legacy of a prominent Azerbaijani poet and the spiritual memory of generations. Every year, thousands of visitors from Azerbaijan and abroad come to explore the monument, learn about the country’s rich past, and pay tribute to its cultural heritage.Among the medieval monuments of material culture, the Mausoleum of Shahkhandan stands out for its architectural design and historical significance. Built in an octagonal shape, it is crowned with a conical dome. The monument has a single entrance and stands approximately eight metres tall. With its simple yet majestic design, the mausoleum has preserved the craftsmanship traditions of its era and the historic character of the city.Born in Shamakhi in 1369, Imadaddin Nasimi was one of the foremost thinkers of the Eastern Renaissance. Forced to leave his homeland amid the social, political, and religious turmoil of his time, he was executed and buried in Aleppo in 1417.His brother Shahkhandan, meanwhile, lived in Shamakhi throughout his life. According to historical sources, he also wrote poetry under the pen name “Shahi Khandan.” The mausoleum is therefore not merely a tomb, but also an important monument commemorating the Nasimi family’s legacy and Shamakhi’s Renaissance heritage.Shahkhandan Cemetery is also the final resting place of Seyid Azim Shirvani, a prominent 19th-century Azerbaijani poet and a leading figure in Enlightenment literature. Historical sources confirm that he was buried there in accordance with his last wishes.The Mausoleum of Shahkhandan has undergone restoration and conservation with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/a_musical_bridge_from_baku_to_norway_azertac_revives_memories_of_a_project_launched_nearly_30_years_ago_video-4486011 Thu, 29 Oct 2026 11:55:00 +0400 Baku, October 29, AZERTAC Nearly 30 years ago, music brought Azerbaijan and Norway together. In 1997, Norway’s SKRUK choir and Azerbaijani performers presented a joint musical project entitled Landet vi kommer fra (“The Country We Come From”). The collaboration brought together two musical cultures, traditions, and creative worlds.Nearly three decades later, AZERTAC correspondents in Baku and Norway tracked down and interviewed participants in the project to explore how the idea came about, the challenges they overcame, and the memories that have stayed with the musicians. Now, their recollections bring this remarkable story, which began in 1997, back to life. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_somalia_discuss_cultural_cooperation-4485657 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:52:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC On October 28, Adil Karimli, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture, met with Abdulfatah Kasim Mohamud, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism of the Federal Republic of Somalia, as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.Adil Karimli highlighted Somalia’s high-level participation at the Forum, recalling that the friendly country had always supported Azerbaijan’s just cause on international platforms.The meeting also addressed discussions on prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and Somalia in the cultural sphere, the mutual exchange of experience, and opportunities for expanding relations.The Somali minister expressed his gratitude for the invitation to the event of global significance and congratulated the Government of Azerbaijan on the lofty organization of the Forum.The meeting also featured an exchange of views on issues of mutual interest. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/7th_world_forum_on_intercultural_dialogue_wraps_up_in_baku-4485591 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 21:45:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTACOn October 28, the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, themed “Dialogue for a Shared Future,” concluded with a concert program at the Heydar Aliyev Center.The event brought together officials, representatives from participating countries and organizations, as well as cultural figures and other guests.Addressing the gathering, Martin Newman, founder of the "Newman Partnership," Nihal Saad, Director of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC); Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), highlighted the importance of the forum, the promotion of intercultural dialogue, and the strengthening of mutual understanding among different cultures. Speakers expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and the Government of Azerbaijan for the excellent organization of the forum.The event continued with a “OneHumanity Concert: Our Oldest Future”.The concert program featured pieces by J. S. Bach, Gara Garayev, Antonio Vivaldi, Fikrat Amirov, Dmitri Shostakovich, Franghiz Ali-Zade, Felix Mendelssohn and Pau Casals.Participants of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue are scheduled to visit Garabagh on October 29.Held from October 27 to 29, the Forum was organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), UNESCO, the World Tourism Organization, and ICESCO.Established in 2008 at the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, the Baku Process on intercultural dialogue serves as a key international platform for promoting intercultural understanding. As its principal international event, the Forum contributed to strengthening mutual understanding, solidarity, and international cooperation. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_maldives_explore_prospects_for_cultural_cooperation-4485495 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:24:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC Adil Karimli, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture, met with Heena Waleed, the Maldives’ Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage, on October 28 on the sidelines of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku.Adil Karimli thanked his Maldivian counterpart for attending the forum and highlighted the steady development of relations between the two countries.In this regard, the ministers noted that the introduction of mutual visa exemption for holders of ordinary passports in April this year marked a new stage in the development of bilateral ties.Praising the excellent organization of the forum, Minister Waleed highlighted Azerbaijan’s significant contribution to promoting intercultural dialogue worldwide.The ministers also discussed prospects for cultural cooperation. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_to_host_10th_world_forum_on_gastronomy_tourism-4485489 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:21:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTACAzerbaijan will host the 10th World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, scheduled to take place in Gabala in June 2027.The international event will bring together tourism and gastronomy experts, government representatives, academics, producers and entrepreneurs to discuss the development of gastronomy tourism and its growing role in promoting cultural heritage and supporting local economies.As part of the forum, Azerbaijan's national cuisine, traditional gastronomy heritage, and local products will be presented to international tourism and gastronomy experts.The forum aims to promote the exchange of knowledge and experience in the field of gastronomy tourism, identify successful practices and strengthen the role of gastronomy tourism in the development of destinations. The forum also provides an opportunity to examine how gastronomy can contribute to economic growth by supporting local producers, encouraging entrepreneurship and creating additional opportunities for tourism-related businesses.Organization of the event in Azerbaijan will contribute to presenting the country's gastronomy potential to the international audience, expanding cooperation opportunities in tourism investment and education directions, as well as establishing business relations with representatives of the international tourism industry. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/7th_world_forum_on_intercultural_dialogue_highlights_museums_as_spaces_for_inclusivity_and_solidarity-4485486 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:19:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC A panel discussion entitled “Museums and Heritage Institutions as Participatory Spaces for Inclusivity, Dialogue, and Social Solidarity” was held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Baku.Held at the Heydar Aliyev Center in partnership with UNESCO and Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture, the panel explored the role of museums in promoting intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and social solidarity.Addressing the opening ceremony, Sabina Hajiyeva, Head of the State Service for the Protection, Development and Restoration of Cultural Heritage under Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture, emphasized the role of cultural heritage preservation in fostering international cooperation and dialogue.She noted that restoration projects implemented in Azerbaijan and abroad at the initiative of First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva make a significant contribution to cultural diplomacy.Other speakers included Nasir Al Darmaki, Vice-President of the International Council of Museums; Nicole Dowd, Head of Public Programs at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art; Amina Malikova, Director of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum; and Jo-Anne Sunderland Bowe, Community Partnerships Manager at the British Museum.The discussion highlighted the importance of transforming museums beyond their traditional role in preserving heritage into open spaces that bring together the experiences and perspectives of diverse communities.The panel aimed to strengthen the role of museums and cultural heritage institutions in promoting inclusivity, empathy, and peaceful coexistence, as well as to integrate the principles of intercultural dialogue into governance mechanisms. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijan_rwanda_discuss_prospects_for_cultural_cooperation-4485480 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:13:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC On October 28, Adil Karimli, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture, met with Utumatwishima Jean Nepo Abdallah, Rwanda’s Minister of Youth and Arts, on the sidelines of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.Adil Karimli thanked the Rwandan side for participating in the forum.The Azerbaijani minister noted that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation had supported the restoration of cultural, educational, and social infrastructure in Rwanda, highlighting the prospects for cultural cooperation between the two countries.The Rwandan minister thanked Azerbaijan for the invitation to the forum, noting that the international event addressed a topical issue.The meeting also featured an exchange of views on issues of mutual interest. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/azerbaijani_delegation_participates_in_9th_world_investment_forum_in_doha-4485468 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:07:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTACA delegation from Azerbaijan's State Tourism Agency attended the 9th World Investment Forum held in Doha, Qatar, on October 25–27.The agency was represented at the event by Kanan Aliyev, Chief of Staff of the State Tourism Agency, and Zaur Bayramov, Executive Director of the Center for Management and Development of Tourism and Recreation Zones.The forum, jointly organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the State of Qatar under the theme "Investing in the Future," focused on sustainable development, promotion of international investments and expansion of cooperation opportunities.The participation of the State Tourism Agency's delegation in the forum aimed to showcase the investment potential of Azerbaijan's tourism sector, explore international cooperation opportunities within tourism and recreation zones, and expand relations with potential investors.Forum sessions addressed digital approaches to investment promotion, attracting investment into cultural and creative industries, the investment readiness of creative ecosystems, and cooperation for climate, nature, and well-being.Discussions focused on access to financial resources and international markets, institutional cooperation, development of sustainable infrastructure, and creation of economic opportunities for local communities.The 9th World Investment Forum brings together representatives of government agencies, investors, business leaders, and international financial institutions to discuss global investment issues amid geopolitical tensions, economic fragmentation, and rapid technological changes. The forum also features events and discussions on areas such as investment policy, investments in artificial intelligence, sustainable finance and business, climate and environment, ocean protection, investment promotion, special economic zones, entrepreneurship, tourism, and culture. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/heydar_aliyev_foundation_and_icesco_sign_new_cooperation_agreement-4485465 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:05:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC On October 28, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, met with Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO).During the meeting, the sides discussed prospects for cooperation between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and ICESCO. They recalled that the Foundation received the Hamdan-ICESCO Prize in 2025 in recognition of its projects in education and social support across the Islamic world and other countries. It was also emphasized that the Foundation had consistently attached particular importance to education and social welfare throughout its activities.In this regard, the sides highlighted the importance of the memorandum providing for the exchange of experience and implementation of joint projects in culture, science, education and the promotion of modern technologies. They also noted the agreement signed in 2025 on projects aimed at empowering women affected by conflict and promoting their social inclusion in three regions of Burkina Faso and Niger.Following the meeting, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and ICESCO signed a new cooperation agreement providing for the implementation of several major projects.One of the projects envisages the next presentation of the Natavan Heritage Excellence Award. Established jointly by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and ICESCO, the award aims to promote and share best practices in the protection and management of tangible cultural heritage.Another area of cooperation under the new agreement is the implementation of a regional project entitled “Peace Through Culture and Development in West Africa”. Covering Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Benin and Côte d’Ivoire, the project will focus on fostering intercultural dialogue, preserving cultural heritage, strengthening institutional and professional capacities, and actively involving young people and women in these efforts.The agreement also provides for the continuation of the Artificial Intelligence Index (AI Index) in the Islamic world, launched in Baku in 2025. A ministerial-level meeting is planned to discuss progress in this area and develop cooperation on artificial intelligence among countries of the Islamic world. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/leyla_aliyeva_meets_unesco_deputy_director_general-4485459 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:03:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC On October 28, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, met with Åsa Regnér, Deputy Director-General of UNESCO.During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on the current state and prospects of cooperation between the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and UNESCO.They emphasized the importance of joint projects in the fields of cultural heritage protection, education, science, and culture, and discussed opportunities to further expand cooperation in these areas.The meeting also covered other issues of mutual interest. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/baku_hosts_presentation_of_3rd_edition_of_book_of_peace_dedicated_to_azerbaijan-4485387 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:34:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC On October 28, the presentation of the 3rd edition of the “Book of Peace,” titled “Weaving the Carpet of Harmony: Peace and Multiculturalism in Azerbaijan through the Eyes of the Youth,” prepared by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), was held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.Addressing the event, Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of ICESCO, emphasized that Azerbaijan, with its rich culture, longstanding traditions of peaceful coexistence, and unwavering commitment to intercultural dialogue, serves as an inspiring example for the entire world. He described this publication as both an expression of respect for Azerbaijan's culture of dialogue and a call to action. The “Book of Peace” carries a vital message for today’s fragmented world. Through the observations and impressions of the authors, Azerbaijan's traditions of multiculturalism come to life on the pages of this book.The ICESCO Director-General underlined that the Heydar Aliyev Foundation makes invaluable contributions to peacebuilding in Azerbaijan and worldwide. Through its humanitarian initiatives and support for intercultural dialogue, the Foundation builds bridges between communities.Speaking at the event, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, underscored that at a time when conflicts, division, and intolerance continue to divide the world, peace and mutual understanding are more important than ever before. ICESCO has always been a meeting point for diverse cultures, religions, and civilizations. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation has been promoting noble values for almost 20 years through projects in culture, education, environmental protection, and humanitarian work. Over the years, the Foundation has restored numerous historical and cultural monuments, built hundreds of schools and kindergartens, contributed to the preservation of national parks and wildlife, and implemented various other projects both in Azerbaijan and globally.Leyla Aliyeva noted that the “Book of Peace” conveys a meaningful message: to live in peace, to be respected and understood, and to be surrounded by care.In his remarks, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) and UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, said that in the recent history of diplomacy and international relations, there had been only two pieces of good news for him: “The first was the end of apartheid in South Africa. The second is the peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, which was initiated and mentioned yesterday by President Ilham Aliyev.” He noted that the 21st century must be the last century of wars and conflicts, and that humankind must put an end to wars.Following the speeches, a video highlighting the concept of the “Book of Peace” was screened.ICESCO Youth Peace Ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco also delivered remarks at the event.The event concluded with a musical programme featuring 10-year-old mugham singer Rasul Baghirov. Additionally, ICESCO Director-General Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik was presented with the painting “Welcome to Garabagh” by artist Mir Azar Abdullayev.The 3rd edition of the “Book of Peace” highlights Azerbaijan's role in promoting peace and strengthening interfaith and intercultural solidarity, as well as the international significance of the country's multiculturalism model.The book features articles written by 29 young leaders from various countries across the Islamic world. Each of these young people has visited Azerbaijan and shared their personal impressions and experiences regarding the country's model of peace, multiculturalism, and peaceful coexistence. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/leyla_aliyeva_and_arzu_aliyeva_attend_concert_presented_as_part_of_aria_of_heaven_project-4485330 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:10:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC A concert programme featuring residents of Orphanage No. 2 and social service institutions for persons with disabilities was presented as part of the “Aria of Heaven” (Cənnətin ariyası) project.Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, and Arzu Aliyeva, Head of the Baku Media Center, attended the concert.They had warm conversations with the residents of the orphanage and social service institutions and posed for commemorative photos.The “Aria of Heaven” project is implemented at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/global_challenges_and_the_role_of_youth_key_messages_from_the_baku_forum-4484742 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 16:28:00 +0400 Baku hosts panel session on “Youth Dialogue: Spotlighting Impact” Baku, October 28, AZERTACA plenary session entitled “Youth Dialogue: Spotlighting Impact” was held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, themed “Dialogue for a Shared Future”.The event was co-organized in partnership with the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Ministry of Culture.Addressing the session, Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), who also serves as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, spoke about the global challenges facing the modern world.He underlined that climate change, wars and artificial intelligence were among the key challenges of our time. He added that the interconnected nature of these issues made addressing them even more complex.Farhad Hajiyev, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, emphasized that young people not only adapt to a changing world but also play a crucial role in shaping its future.Farid Jafarov, Deputy Minister of Culture, noted that the youth camp organized as part of the forum helps build connections among young leaders from different countries and strengthen mutual understanding. He highlighted that more than 100 young people from 44 countries across five continents were participating in the forum.During the plenary session, young people from France, India, Kenya and other countries also shared their experiences of intercultural dialogue. They spoke about projects carried out with peers from different countries and explained how these initiatives had helped promote cultural diversity and mutual understanding. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/un_under_secretary_general_the_young_generation_should_be_a_generation_of_peace_not_war-4484820 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 15:51:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC “Mutual understanding, solidarity, empathy, strong connections and healthy relationships are of great importance. Therefore, the young generation should be a generation of peace, not war,” said Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), who also serves as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.He made the remarks during a plenary session entitled “Youth Dialogue: Spotlighting Impact”, held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.Addressing young people, Moratinos underlined that climate change, wars and artificial intelligence were among the key challenges facing the modern world. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/artist_farid_rasulov_meets_art_lovers_at_azerkhalcha_exhibition_hall-4484715 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 15:16:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC An event bringing together artist Farid Rasulov and art lovers was held at the Azerkhalcha exhibition hall in Icherisheher.The discussion focused on how Rasulov’s works are transformed into carpets, as well as on Stitches That Keep Tales Alive: Garabagh Carpets, a collection created in collaboration with OJSC Azerkhalcha.Participants explored how artistic ideas are translated into carpets, the creative collaboration between artists and carpet makers, the artistic value of handwoven carpets, and the role of traditional craftsmanship in contemporary art. They also discussed carpets as both works of art and interior design pieces, the collection’s limited-edition nature, and new ways of expressing Azerbaijan’s carpet-weaving traditions.Created in partnership with OJSC Azerkhalcha, Stitches That Keep Tales Alive: Garabagh Carpets presents the traditions of Garabagh carpet-making through a contemporary artistic language. The collection approaches this heritage not merely as a remnant of the past, but as a living part of contemporary art, reinterpreting ancient patterns in a modern visual context. Its central idea is to establish a meaningful dialogue between heritage and modernity, bringing together stories and history with contemporary artistic thought in every woven stitch.Created especially for the International Carpet Festival, the collection was unveiled at the event, where it was warmly received. It features six carpets: The Tale of the White Horse and the Birds, The Legend of the Garabagh Horse, The Pattern of Elegance, Echoes of Golden Feathers, The Tiger in the Stitches and Pomegranate, Crown of the Night.Made from a blend of wool and silk using a 3D technique, the collection is based on the idea that preservation alone is not enough: cultural heritage must remain dynamic to stay relevant.During the event, guests had the opportunity to view the carpets up close and touch them.The carpets created by Farid Rasulov in collaboration with OJSC Azerkhalcha will also be displayed at the Beyond Memory exhibition at QGallery in Icherisheher, as part of the Flight to Baku. Art Weekend: Feel the Future NOW festival, taking place from October 30 to November 1.-0- https://azertag.az/en/xeber/miguel_ngel_moratinos_the_world_is_currently_facing_polarization_fragmentation_and_uncertainty-4484676 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 14:52:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC “The world is currently facing polarization, fragmentation and uncertainty. Young people are thinking about their own future, as well as the kind of world that future generations will inherit from us. Your voices must be heard to help write a new chapter in human history,” said Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), who also serves as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.He made the remarks during a plenary session entitled “Youth Dialogue: Spotlighting Impact”, held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.“I believe that today’s meeting and all the activities you have been carrying out in Baku demonstrate that young people representing different nationalities, religions and cultures can work together, build friendships and inspire one another to create,” Moratinos emphasized. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/diego_godoy_azerbaijans_staging_of_turandot_precisely_meets_audience_expectations____interview-4484448 Wed, 28 Oct 2026 13:03:00 +0400 Baku, October 28, AZERTAC The premiere of the large-scale production of “Turandot” was a resounding success at the Heydar Aliyev Palace. The Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre presented a new staging of Giacomo Puccini’s famous opera, which had not been performed in Azerbaijan for 98 years.In an interview with AZERTAC, Chilean tenor Diego Godoy spoke about his experience of taking part in the Azerbaijani production and shared his impressions of the staging. He performed the celebrated role of Calaf on the second and third nights of the premiere. — Diego, it is your first time in Azerbaijan. What are your impressions of Baku?— I’m absolutely delighted! Baku is a remarkably beautiful city. Its blend of modernity and tradition is wonderful and truly inspiring. As an artist, I appreciate beauty in all its forms.I’m also very pleased with how welcoming and hospitable people are here. The opera theatre team met me at the airport and have been available to help me around the clock.Their kindness has made it much easier to settle in after a long journey. I’ve felt genuinely welcomed from the very beginning.— How would you describe your collaboration with your Azerbaijani colleagues?— I’d like to mention that I met Maestro Ayyub Guliyev in Moldova last year. I also had the opportunity to meet Yusif Eyvazov once. During a rehearsal in Orange, France, I stood in for him. We got to know each other and spent some time together, and it was a very pleasant experience.I made my debut as Calaf with Maestro Guliyev in Chisinau, Moldova, and he later recommended me for Baku’s production of “Turandot”. That debut was a turning point in my career, opening up opportunities to perform the role at other major opera houses, including in Stuttgart, home to one of the world’s most important opera venues.It was a great pleasure to work with Maestro Guliyev. The musicians here are highly skilled, and what I appreciate most is the maestro’s ability to communicate his ideas with great clarity.I was not surprised by the Azerbaijani performers’ professionalism at our first rehearsal because I already knew that Azerbaijan has a strong tradition of musical education. I feel very fortunate to have worked with such outstanding colleagues.— How would you assess the Azerbaijani staging of “Turandot”?— I have a particular fondness for traditional productions. I’m certainly open to modern interpretations when they are well executed, but I generally prefer versions that remain true to the original. I really admire Mikayil Mikayilov’s production. Azerbaijan’s staging of “Turandot” precisely meets audience expectations: a traditional production enriched with wonderful details, including the comic characterization of Ping, Pang and Pong — the three imperial ministers serving at Princess Turandot’s court (ed.). The director has given each of these characters a distinct personality.This is my third time performing in ‘Turandot’, and I’ve seen many productions. Although this staging is traditional, the director’s personal touch is evident in the small but meaningful details. I particularly like the scenes featuring my character, especially Calaf’s arias and, of course, ‘Nessun dorma!’ The final duet is also wonderful. I love duets, and I really enjoyed those between Calaf and Turandot.The integration of modern elements is particularly noteworthy, including the visuals projected onto the screen. I would also like to commend the excellent ballet and the scenography, which faithfully reflects the original libretto. Mikayil Mikayilov has treated the original story of “Turandot” with great respect, creating an atmosphere that genuinely transports us to ancient China.— How do you like the costumes and stage design?— You know, these costumes and sets really fire the imagination and transport you into a world of dreams. After all, “Turandot” is a myth, a fairy tale. I feel like a child playing amid this scenery, surrounded by a mythical world of the East.I was very passionate about Eastern mythology and history when I was younger. So being here in Azerbaijan, a country that bridges East and West, is especially meaningful to me. In some ways, the story of “Turandot” is also linked to the peoples, including nomadic communities, who helped shape this country.I devoted considerable time to studying this subject, which was a true passion of mine during my teenage years. I now hope to have the opportunity to learn more about Azerbaijan’s rich history.— Let’s talk about your character, Calaf. How do you perceive him, and what does it mean to you to portray him on stage and sing his part?— Calaf is a symbol of heroism. I would describe him as the archetypal hero.These days, we sometimes lose sight of what heroism really means because we are so influenced by films and everything that comes with them. But heroism goes far beyond the familiar image of a superhero. Calaf is no superhero, yet he is a powerful symbol.I believe Puccini wanted to depict a kind of battle between night and day, with Calaf representing the sun and Turandot the moon.Calaf is one of the most celebrated tenor roles in opera. Performing “Nessun dorma”, one of the best-known arias in operatic history, carries tremendous responsibility.Yet Puccini’s creation extends far beyond this famous aria. Calaf is a complex role featuring numerous demanding passages, both vocally and dramatically. It is an iconic part that places considerable responsibility on the performer and presents a formidable challenge for any tenor.Since making my debut in the role in Moldova, however, I have become increasingly confident. Each performance allows me to explore the character more deeply and brings me greater enjoyment in singing the role.— How important is it for theatres to invite international artists? Your theatre, for instance, has invited you to perform here. What does this kind of collaboration mean for the theatre and the wider cultural scene today?— Such collaboration is essential because opera is a universal art form and a cultural asset of global significance.While it originated in Italy, opera is by no means confined to Italian culture. Over time, distinct French, German, Russian and other operatic traditions emerged. Today, opera stands as part of the common cultural heritage of humankind.It is wonderful that art allows us to forge connections and build bridges between countries through a common language. Opera itself is a form of communication — a universal language that transcends borders.Here, I meet people who speak Russian, Azerbaijani, English and Italian, among other languages. Yet opera enables us all to understand one another. It brings together music, theatre and dramatic performance, and I believe safeguarding this shared cultural heritage is of great importance.On October 25, Diego Godoy shared the stage with Azerbaijani Honoured Artist Farida Mammadova, who performed the role of Turandot, under the baton of Maestro Ayyub Guliyev, also an Honoured Artist of Azerbaijan.On October 27, the Chilean tenor performed alongside Azerbaijani Honoured Artist Ilaha Afandiyeva, who took on the role of Turandot, under the baton of Maestro Mustafa Mehmandarov. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/heydar_aliyev_center_to_host_a_series_of_art_weekend_exhibitions-4483647 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 21:54:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTACThe “Fly to Baku. Art Weekend. Sense the Future NOW” festival will open in Baku on October 30 for the second consecutive year.Initiated by Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, the festival’s exhibition programme will bring together diverse artistic practices, generations and geographies, inviting audiences to engage with themes including memory, cultural heritage, nature, biodiversity, identity and the future.The programme will include the official opening of “Art Weekend” and several exhibition launches at the Heydar Aliyev Center, as well as events at other venues across the city. “Big Five” art collection to be displayed at Heydar Aliyev Center for first time The “Big Five of the Caucasus” will be one of the key themes of this year’s “Art Weekend,” exploring the region’s biodiversity and the role of animals in cultural memory, mythology and collective identity.The Heydar Aliyev Center will host “When Nature Speaks. Heirs,” a contemporary art exhibition conceived by Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Featuring the Caucasian leopard, brown bear, grey wolf, golden eagle and goitered gazelle, the exhibition explores the relationship between humanity and nature, highlighting heritage, responsibility and the natural world we leave to future generations. It will bring together artists working in installation, sculpture, ceramics, textiles and mixed media.Another project, “Legendary Creatures: An Azerbaijani Bestiary,” will be presented in the Heydar Aliyev Center’s park on October 30. Connecting the “Big Five” with mythological creatures from Azerbaijani folklore, it highlights the importance of preserving wildlife and cultural heritage. The exhibition will feature six works by six artists, including carpet art, sculpture, photography, metalwork and mixed media. All the works will be presented to the public for the first time as part of “Art Weekend.” Chinese artist’s unconventional paintings to be exhibited at Heydar Aliyev Center The Heydar Aliyev Center will host an exhibition titled “The Skin of Truth” by Chinese artist Zhang Ji on the opening day of Baku Art Weekend. Organized by the Center in collaboration with JD Malat Gallery, the exhibition will feature works from the artist’s “The Skin of Truth” and “Ultima” series, blending architectural motifs from different religious and cultural traditions with contemporary painting. Inspired by landmarks such as the Great Mosque of Córdoba and the Alhambra Palace, Zhang Ji uses a syringe instead of a brush to create raised surfaces reminiscent of bas-relief sculpture. His works have been exhibited internationally and included in collections worldwide.On October 30, the Center will also present “What If Women Ruled the World?” by renowned American artist Judy Chicago, marking the project’s regional debut. Since 2022, it has developed a global archive spanning several countries. Visitors in Baku will be able to contribute to its next chapter by answering questions in an interactive recording booth. Heydar Aliyev Center to showcase Pistoletto’s artwork combining mirrors and AI On October 30, Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto’s Mirror of Eternity will be presented at the Heydar Aliyev Center as part of Art Weekend.The project employs artificial intelligence to combine human portraits, generating new faces that have never existed before. Participants upload their portraits to the system, which then merges them with another person’s portrait to create a new image. Each portrait thus exists not as a fixed record of memory, but as an evolving digital entity transformed through successive encounters. The project explores the relationship between humanity, memory, technology and the ever-changing nature of life.The work has been exhibited internationally, including at The Bass Museum of Art in Miami Beach and India Art Fair in New Delhi in February 2026. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/indigenous_tourism_cultural_heritage_preservation_and_lasting_peace_in_spotlight_of_7th_world_forum_on_intercultural_dialogue-4483572 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 21:03:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC“Indigenous tourism is of great importance for preserving cultural heritage, passing traditional knowledge on to future generations, expanding economic opportunities, and advancing lasting peace,” said Jean – Philippe Le Moigne, Director of Development at Destination Original Indigenous Tourism (DO-IT), Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of the Yatista Consulting Group, as he addressed a plenary session entitled “Tourism for a shared future: how inclusion, equity, and community leadership are quietly building peace,” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.According to him, indigenous tourism entails direct involvement of indigenous people in tourism activities, promotion of their cultures, and their engagement in the development of the tourism sector.He added that community, cultural, rural, ecological, and adventure tourism could become integral items of this sector when developed by indigenous people. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/special_session_of_7th_world_forum_on_intercultural_dialogue_concludesjoint_session_of_international_organizations_and_ministers_focuses_on_addressing_disinformation_and_protecting_cultural_heritage-4483461 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:58:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTACThe second part of the Special Joint Session of the 3rd High-Level Meeting of International Organizations and 6th Ministerial Meeting of the Baku Process was held on October 27 as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, themed “Dialogue for a Shared Future”. The session, titled “From Partnership to Collective Action: Strengthening Global Synergy for Intercultural Dialogue in the AI Era” brought together high-ranking officials, parliamentary leaders, religious figures, scholars, journalists, and representatives of various ethnic and cultural groups.At a session moderated by Elman Abdullayev, Secretary-General of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for UNESCO, Sudan’s Minister of Culture, Information and Tourism Khalid Ismail Ahmed Ali highlighted technology’s role in promoting cultural heritage, stressing the need for its responsible use to combat misinformation and bias.Other participants, including ministers, diplomats and representatives of international organizations, discussed how AI and modern technologies can advance intercultural dialogue, preserve cultural heritage, strengthen mutual understanding and promote peace. They also emphasized international cooperation, joint initiatives, reliable information and the fight against disinformation.The event emphasized youth engagement, expanded educational and creative opportunities, respect for cultural diversity, and the role of digital technologies in promoting intercultural dialogue. Speakers highlighted the need for practical international cooperation to address global challenges, preserve cultural heritage and promote sustainable peace. Held on October 27–29, the Forum is organized by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture in partnership with UNAOC, UNESCO, UN Tourism and ICESCO as part of the Baku Process, launched in 2008 at President Ilham Aliyev’s initiative. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/ai_should_serve_language_development_and_cultural_heritage_preservation_tajik_minister_says-4483356 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 19:02:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC “Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer confined to scientific research but is also influencing intercultural exchange. Algorithmic systems can play a crucial role in introducing people to different cultures and strengthening mutual understanding,” said Matlubakhon Sattoriyon, Minister of Culture of Tajikistan, addressing a special joint session of the 3rd High-Level Meeting of International Organizations and the 6th Ministerial Meeting of the Baku Process, held on the sidelines of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue under the theme “Dialogue for a Shared Future”.The Tajik minister underscored the importance of preserving the historical memory of cultures amid ongoing global digitalization and the development of AI.She also stressed that preventing algorithmic bias and discrimination in AI systems should be regarded as a fundamental principle. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/former_croatian_president_calls_on_forum_participants_to_visit_garabagh_and_see_its_development_firsthand-4483323 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 18:53:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC “Croatia and Azerbaijan gained independence in the same year and share similar experiences regarding the events in Dubrovnik and Garabagh,” said Ivo Josipović, former President of Croatia and a member of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, during a plenary session entitled “Culture at the Centre: SECUREd Pathways to a Shared Future,” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.According to him, both regions, devastated by war, are now flourishing again.Ivo Josipović called on Forum participants to visit both regions and see their development firsthand. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/miguel_ngel_moratinos_culture_of_peace_is_essential_to_preventing_war-4483191 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 18:20:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC “The leadership of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Culture put forward an initiative entitled ‘Culture for Peace.’ This was an innovative concept,” said Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), who also serves as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia.He made the remarks during the plenary session entitled “Culture at the Centre: SECUREd Pathways to a Shared Future,” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.He noted that, from the perspective of the United Nations system, this was not so much a challenge as a major innovation, since the UN and UNESCO had already developed an important concept: a “Culture of Peace.”“It is necessary to build a culture of peace to prevent war,” Miguel Ángel Moratinos emphasized. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/director_general_icesco_prepared_two_reports_on_the_situation_in_garabagh-4483182 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 18:19:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC“During our first visit to Garabagh together with ICESCO representatives, we witnessed the devastating scale of destruction. Today, however, the situation is completely different. Those regions have been rebuilt and reconstructed, and life has returned to them,” Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) said during the plenary session on “Culture at the Centre: SECUREd Pathways to a Shared Future” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue. Emphasizing that ICESCO had prepared two reports on the situation in Garabagh, the Director-General described them as important documents that should also be presented to foreign visitors to the region.“We are very proud to present this report. If necessary, it can also be submitted to international courts. This is because a remarkable transformation has taken place in Garabagh compared with 2020.Azerbaijan should be proud of the progress it has made, its restoration and reconstruction efforts, and the measures taken to preserve its heritage and cultural sites. These efforts will safeguard the identity and unique culture of Azerbaijan and its people,” Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik emphasized. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/director_general_icesco_prepared_two_reports_on_the_situation_in_garabagh-4483179 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 18:19:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC“During our first visit to Garabagh together with ICESCO representatives, we witnessed the devastating scale of destruction. Today, however, the situation is completely different. Those regions have been rebuilt and reconstructed, and life has returned to them,” Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik, Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) said during the plenary session on “Culture at the Centre: SECUREd Pathways to a Shared Future” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue. Emphasizing that ICESCO had prepared two reports on the situation in Garabagh, the Director-General described them as important documents that should also be presented to foreign visitors to the region.“We are very proud to present this report. If necessary, it can also be submitted to international courts. This is because a remarkable transformation has taken place in Garabagh compared with 2020.Azerbaijan should be proud of the progress it has made, its restoration and reconstruction efforts, and the measures taken to preserve its heritage and cultural sites. These efforts will safeguard the identity and unique culture of Azerbaijan and its people,” Salim bin Mohammed AlMalik emphasized. https://azertag.az/en/xeber/un_special_envoy_describes_destruction_in_azerbaijans_liberated_territories_as_horrific-4483068 Tue, 27 Oct 2026 17:54:00 +0400 Baku, October 27, AZERTAC“I have witnessed many scenes of war and destruction. However, what I saw during the initial phase of the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity was absolutely horrific,” Islamophobia Miguel Ángel Moratinos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), who also serves as the UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, said during the plenary session titled “Culture at the Centre: SECUREd Pathways to a Shared Future” held as part of the 7th World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue.He described the area as scorched earth, saying nothing had been left behind: destroyed mosques, devastated villages, mined areas, ruined land, and an atmosphere of war.“Unfortunately, even today, we continue to witness churches, synagogues and other places of worship being bombed, destroyed, and demolished during conflicts without anyone being held accountable. We must establish a code of conduct to ensure the protection and restoration of religious sites,” Miguel Ángel Moratinos emphasized.