http://www.today.az Covering Azerbaijan inside and outside http://www.today.az/images/logo_small.gif http://www.today.az http://www.today.az/news/regions/262466.html World news Fri, 03 Oct 2025 20:06:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaGoogle has cut more than 100 design jobs, according to recent reports. Employees from the "quantitative user experience research" and "platform and service experience" teams within the cloud technology division, along with staff from several other departments, were laid off earlier this week, Azernews reports.These roles typically involve using data, surveys, and other analytical tools to understand user behavior and influence product design decisions. The report also highlights that some cloud technology development teams have been reduced by as much as half, with a significant portion of the layoffs affecting employees based in the United States.Some employees were reportedly given until early December to secure another position within Google. These layoffs come as part of broader organizational changes linked to the company’s increased focus and investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure. Just last month, Wired magazine revealed that over 200 contractors working on AI projects like Gemini and AI Overviews were also let go.The report further pointed out underlying tensions related to wages and working conditions. Some insiders believe that the layoffs were partially intended to quell growing protests over low salaries and job insecurity.Earlier this year, in February, Google also laid off staff from its cloud technology division, stating the need to concentrate on areas deemed “critical to our business and ensuring our long-term success.”These cuts reflect the tech giant’s strategic pivot towards AI-driven innovation, which is reshaping how products are developed and delivered. However, the challenge remains balancing rapid technological advancement with maintaining employee morale and trust—a delicate act that many companies in Silicon Valley are currently navigating. http://www.today.az/news/business/262465.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:35:00 +0400 A trilateral meeting of government representatives of Azerbaijan, Russia, and Iran will take place in Baku on October 13–14, Azernews reports.According to the Cabinet of Ministers, the delegations will be led by Deputy Prime Minister Shahin Mustafayev from Azerbaijan, Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk from Russia, and Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development, Farzane Sadiqi.The agenda of the meeting will focus on strengthening cooperation in the fields of transport and logistics, energy, and customs. http://www.today.az/news/business/262464.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 19:00:00 +0400 “Gedik Kaynak” LLC, a resident of the Neftchala Industrial District managed by the Economic Zones Development Agency, has exported another 100 tons of electrode products to Turkmenistan. According to the agency, the company will gradually deliver a total of 600 tons of products to the country, Azernews reports.Registered as a resident of the Neftchala Industrial District in 2021, “Gedik Kaynak” LLC currently produces electrodes in eight sizes, including two types. In the next stage, the enterprise plans to expand its product range by launching the production of stainless steel and aluminum electrodes.As the only electrode producer in Azerbaijan, the enterprise has an annual production capacity of 330 tons. With an investment value of 7.5 million manats (about $4.4 million), it has also created more than 20 permanent jobs.In addition to meeting domestic demand under the “Geka” brand, the company exports its products to Iraq, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, while negotiations are underway to enter the Russian and Kazakh markets. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262476.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:19:00 +0400 Footage of President Ilham Aliyev’s working visit to Denmark has been published on his social media accounts.Azernews presents the post:"President Ilham Aliyev’s working visit to Denmark (01–02.10.2025)". http://www.today.az/news/politics/262463.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 18:08:00 +0400 On October 3, as part of the 14th Session of the Statistical Commission of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Ankara, a meeting took place at the Turkish Statistical Institute between the delegation led by the Chairman of Azerbaijan’s State Statistical Committee and Turkish officials.Azernews reports that during the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the field of statistics was signed between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Türkiye.The MoU was signed by Tahir Budagov, Chairman of Azerbaijan’s State Statistical Committee, and Erhan Çetinkaya, President of the Turkish Statistical Institute.The agreement is expected to further strengthen and deepen bilateral cooperation in official statistics, support the integration of modern information and communication technologies in statistical production, and promote the exchange of best practices across various statistical domains. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262474.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:45:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaBilateral memorandums of cooperation have been signed between the National Libraries of Azerbaijan and Turkiye.Trilateral memorandum has been signed involving the National Library of Azerbaijan, the Institute of Manuscripts named after Muhammad Fuzuli of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), and the National Library of Morocco. The documents were inked as part of the 11th Baku International Book Fair.In his speech during the ceremony, the Director of the National Library, Professor Karim Tahirov, provided information about the library's international cooperation. He highlighted that Azerbaijan has signed cooperation memorandums with the national libraries of 54 countries to date. Tahirov emphasized that these new agreements would create new opportunities for book and information exchange, the establishment of literature corners, the use of electronic resources, the exchange of expertise, exhibitions, conferences, and online services.Ayhan Tu?lu, Director of the National Library of the Republic of Turkiye, noted that the signed document would contribute to the development of cultural and scientific cooperation between the two countries.President of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), Academician Isa Habibbayli, stated that the signing ceremonies held within the framework of the international book fair would make a significant contribution to strengthening international relations in the fields of science, education, and culture.Samira El Malizi, Director of the National Library of Morocco, remarked that libraries play a bridging role between nations, and the signed trilateral memorandum would open new opportunities for future joint projects, exhibitions, and scientific research.With over 5 million books, manuscripts, and maps, the Azerbaijan National Library is considered one of the largest libraries in the Caucasus region. Since 1939, the library has borne the name of the eminent playwright Mirza Fatali Akhundov.The library has an extensive collection of literature in Azerbaijani, Russian, English, and other languages. It has collected and preserved national editions, works of Azerbaijani and foreign authors about Azerbaijan published abroad.The National Leader, Heydar Aliyev, visited the National Library four times in 1995-1997 and donated nearly 300 books from his personal library.In 2004, the Mirza Fatali Akhundov Library was granted the status of a national library by the decision of Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers.The building of the library is no less impressive. The library's fa?ade is decorated with the statues of eminent poets and writers like Nizami Ganjavi, Mahsati Ganjavi, Uzeyir Hajibayli, Shota Rustaveli, Alexander Pushkin and many others.The scope of the library's activities is constantly expanding. In 2005, on the basis of legal copies received from publishing houses and printing companies, the library published the yearbook "Books of Azerbaijan" for 1990, 1991, 2000, and 2001.Over the past years, the National Library has signed a memorandum on bilateral mutual cooperation with about 80 libraries.In 2021, the Culture Ministry and Mirza Fatali Akhundov Library launched a joint campaign, "Let's go to Garabagh with a book", to restore libraries in the Garabagh region.A large number of books were donated to the Garabagh Book Fund by a number of international organizations working in the field of culture, Turkic-speaking countries, famous foreign and local authors, publishers, and printing houses.In 2025, Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) as w officially signed between the National Libraries of Tajikistan and Azerbaijan during a ceremony held in Dushanbe.The agreement was inked by the director of the Azerbaijani National Library, Karim Tahirov, and the director of the Tajikistan National Library, Farzalizada Jumakhon.This memorandum provides a framework for enhanced collaboration between the two institutions, emphasising the exchange of books, publications, and other cultural materials to foster mutual understanding and strengthen the cultural ties between the two nations.It also sets the stage for joint activities and projects aimed at promoting literacy, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting scholarly research. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262473.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:37:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe collection "Shebeke" by the famous Azerbaijani designer Gulnara Khalilova has been successfully presented at Turkistan World Craft Fest-2025, held in the city of Turkestan, Kazakhstan, Azernews reports.The festival took place as part of the opening of the "Craftsmen’s Village" in Turkestan.The "Shebeke" collection, inspired by traditional Azerbaijani stained glass art, became a true highlight of the festival. This collection, which combines modern design elements with national art, generated significant interest."The Craftsmen's Village is envisioned as a center for cultural tourism and education in the field of crafts. It will preserve and pass on traditional technologies to future generations. The main goal is not only to showcase the rich traditions of handicraft art but also to strengthen cultural ties between Turkic-speaking nations," said Gulnara Khalilova.Participants in the festival included representatives from Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkiye, Tajikistan, Russia, China, and Kazakhstan. Each presented unique handmade items reflecting the culture and craft traditions of their country. The main focus was on ceramics, textiles, works in carpet weaving, and jewelry-making. The event also featured presentations of traditional technologies, craft fairs, workshops, gastronomic zones, and folklore performances.Gulnara Khalilova is the head of the Azerbaijan National Costume Center, a member of the Eurasian Association of Ethno-Designers, a Doctor of Philosophy in Art Studies, and the founder of the Cizgi brand.Her collections have been successfully showcased at Fashion Weeks and international events in the USA, the UK, Sweden, Austria, Romania, Turkiye, Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Bulgaria, Norway, Serbia, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and other countries. http://www.today.az/news/society/262472.html Society Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:31:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovA state-of-the-art school building has officially opened in the city of Göyt?p?, located in Azerbaijan’s Jalilabad district. Constructed with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the new facility will serve Vasif Huseynov Secondary School No. 2 and marks a significant investment in the region’s educational infrastructure.Construction began in October 2024 and was completed in record time. The three-story complex, consisting of two interconnected blocks, is designed to accommodate up to 625 students. Built to meet modern educational standards, the school offers a wide range of specialized facilities, including classrooms, laboratories for physics, chemistry, and biology, computer science rooms, military training and medical units, technology workshops, a teachers’ lounge, technical rooms, a cloakroom, library, cafeteria, assembly hall, and fully equipped sports and gymnastics halls. An outdoor mini stadium will also be available for physical education and recreational activities.The building has been outfitted with essential furniture and equipment, while subject-specific classrooms and labs feature contemporary teaching aids. Landscaping and greening efforts have also been carried out in the surrounding schoolyard, creating a welcoming and eco-friendly environment for students and staff.This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation to enhancing educational opportunities and infrastructure across Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/business/262471.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 17:10:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulThe 9th meeting of the Coordination Committee between the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) and Germany’s energy company Uniper was held recently.Azernews reports, according to a statement from SOCAR that the meeting opened with remarks from SOCAR Vice President Elshad Nasirov, Uniper SE’s Chief Commercial Officer Karsten Poppinga, and Germany’s Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Dr. Ralf Horlemann.Following the opening speeches, SOCAR Vice President Ziba Mustafayeva delivered the keynote address.The speakers highlighted the ongoing success of the long-term and mutually beneficial partnership between SOCAR and Uniper. They emphasized the strategic importance of their joint projects in strengthening Europe’s energy security. Special attention was given to the continued efforts to expand cooperation between the two companies across various areas.Presentations were also delivered on key topics including the SOCAR–Uniper partnership, the current status of the Southern Gas Corridor, European energy policy and emerging trends, energy transition, sustainability, decarbonization, public relations, and human resources strategies. These sessions sparked constructive discussions among participants.The meeting also underscored the importance of enhancing cooperation in the areas of communication and corporate social responsibility.At the conclusion of the event, SOCAR and Uniper signed a new Cooperation Program covering the years 2025–2026. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262470.html Sports Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:25:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaMaqsud Mahsudov, a member of the Azerbaijani team in trampoline gymnastics, has won a gold medal at the third CIS Games.He scored 60.190 points in the men's individual competition and climbed to the top of the podium.Earlier, Seljan Mahsudova had won a bronze medal in the women's individual competition.Azerbaijan is hosting the third Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Games from September 28 to October 8, 2025, marking a significant event in the region's sports calendar.This multi-sport competition brings together athletes from CIS member states and invited countries, aiming to promote friendship, cooperation, and athletic excellence.For the first time in the history of the CIS Games, competitions are being held across seven cities in Azerbaijan: Ganja, Mingachevir, Gabala, Shaki, Goygol, Yevlakh, and Khankandi.Each city hosts events in different sports, with the second-largest city, Ganja, serving as the main hub and officially designated the CIS Sports Capital for 2025.Around 23 sports are being contested across 12 venues, highlighting a broad and inclusive athletic program.A total of 1,624 athletes from 13 countries had confirmed participation. Event mascots Babir and Leyla are helping to generate enthusiasm among young fans. http://www.today.az/news/society/262469.html Society Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:03:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulOn October 2–3, an international conference titled “A Turning Point for the Caspian Sea: From COP29 and UNOC 2025 Outcomes to COP30 Action” was held at the Baku Congress Center.Azernews reports that the event was initiated by Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union.The opening session on October 3 featured speeches from Mukhtar Babayev, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues and COP29 President; Rauf Hajiyev, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources; Michael Fishbach, founder and director of the Great Whale Conservancy; Jeyhun Aliyev, Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Center under the Ministry of Agriculture; Eugene Seah, Chief Operations Officer at Baku International Sea Trade Port; and Pascal Peduzzi, Director of the UN Environment Programme’s (UNEP) Global Resource Information Database in Geneva, who joined virtually.Speakers addressed the mounting environmental challenges facing the Caspian Sea, the world’s largest enclosed inland body of water. These include a significant drop in sea levels, depletion of marine biodiversity, degradation of coastal ecosystems, and increasing pollution—issues that, as emphasized by participants, cannot be resolved by individual countries alone.It was noted that over the past decade, the Caspian Sea has experienced a drop of 2.5 meters, posing serious risks to coastal infrastructure, fisheries, local communities, and ecosystems. The receding shoreline introduces further environmental threats such as soil salinization and loss of biodiversity. The speakers stressed that the Caspian’s climate-driven transformations carry regional implications and require coordinated action, joint research, and mutual trust among littoral states. The importance of translating the outcomes of Azerbaijan’s COP29 presidency into practical steps and long-term solutions was also underlined.The conference continued with expert panel discussions involving representatives from COP29, UNEP, UN-Habitat, and leading scientific and research institutions from various countries. Discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation for Caspian Sea protection, sustainable water resource management, and enhancing international coordination. Participants highlighted the need for stronger scientific collaboration in addressing the region’s complex ecological challenges.Jointly organized by the IDEA Public Union and the Caspisnet scientific network, the conference brought together experts from more than 10 countries, specializing in marine ecology, sustainable aquaculture, hydrology, geographic information systems, and other relevant fields. The aim was to exchange knowledge on sea level fluctuations, marine biodiversity conservation, and ecological balance, while identifying shared solutions.As part of the event, participants are also scheduled to visit Absheron National Park to gain firsthand insight into the Caspian’s rich biodiversity. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262468.html Sports Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:12:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijani boxer Subhan Babayev has kicked off the U-19 European Championship with a win.The national team member competing in the 60 kg weight category eliminated Luka Crnogorac (Croatia) in the round of 16.The boxer defeated his opponent with a score of 3:1 (29:27, 28:27, 29:27, 28:28, 27:29).Babayev will face Simonas Puniskis (Lithuania) in the quarterfinals. The bout is scheduled for October 4.It should be noted that the European Championship will conclude on October 9.Boxing is recognized as one of the oldest sports in human history, with the earliest records of the sport dating back to ancient Egypt around 3,000 BC.The Greeks introduced boxing to the ancient Olympic Games in the late 7th century BC.In 1924, the International Amateur Boxing Federation (FIBA) was founded, and in 1946, it was renamed the International Boxing Association (AIBA). Boxing made its Olympic debut at the 1904 Games in St. Louis.Azerbaijan hosted its first boxing championship in 1926, with national boxers claiming first place. Since 1992, the Azerbaijani Boxing Federation has been a full member of AIBA.Azerbaijani boxers have earned numerous prestigious accolades in international competitions. Aghasi Mammadov made history by becoming Azerbaijan's first gold medalist at the World Championships. Fuad Asadov also earned a spot on the podium at the 2004 Summer Olympics.Azerbaijan has been chosen multiple times to host major boxing events.In 2019, Baku hosted the AIBA Youth World Championships, which was the first youth tournament to serve as a qualifier for the 2010 Singapore Olympics.The country also hosted the 2011 AIBA World Boxing Championships, which served as the primary qualification event for the London 2012 Olympics. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262467.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaFrom October 4 to 10, the CineMastercard cinemas in the D?niz Mall and G?nclik Mall will host the “Space Film Festival”, organized by the Space Academy, operating under the Azercosmos Agency, with the support of the Brazilian company "IDEIA Space".The festival is held as part of the World Space Week and will give an unforgettable impression to everyone who is interested in the topic of the universe and space exploration.During the week, viewers will be presented with cult and favorite films about space on the CineMastercard screens.Festival program:• October 4 - "Gravity" - in Russian and English languages• October 5 - "Mickey 17" - in Russian and English languages• October 6 - "The Wandering Earth 2"- in Russian and English languages• October 6 - "Fly Me to the Moon" - in English language• October 7 - "Dune" (Dune: Part One) - in Russian and English languages• October 8 - "Dune 2" (Dune: Part Two) - in Russian and English languages• October 9 - "Inception"- in Russian and English languages• October 10 - "Interstellar" - in Russian and English languagesTicket sales have already started!Do not miss the opportunity to go on a cinematic journey through the mysterious space in the cinemas "CineMastercard D?niz Mall" and "CineMastercard G?nclik Mall".Discover the wonders of the universe on the big screen! http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262462.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:30:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijan has been represented at European Languages Fair in Sofia.The event, which took place at Ivan Vazov National Theater, covered 19 languages and was organized in collaboration with language and culture institutes that are members of EUNIC-Bulgaria, as well as cultural centers, consulates, and embassies of non-EU countries, under the auspices of the European Commission's "Written Translations" Directorate in Bulgaria.The Azerbaijan Language and Culture Center, operating under Sofia University's Saint Kliment Ohridski, joined the initiative again this year, introducing festival participants to the Azerbaijani language, culture, and literature.The center's stand was supported by students specializing in Turkology—Katrin Nikova and Veronika Balkanc?, who study Azerbaijani language. They provided guests with detailed information about the Center’s activities and the Azerbaijani and Turkish languages taught in the Turkology department.At the stand, translations of works by Azerbaijani writers and poets into various European languages, including Bulgarian, were presented. The display also included interesting facts about Azerbaijan, excerpts from Margarita Pavlova's book "Plam?çka and Plam?çko" dedicated to Azerbaijan, and educational leaflets titled "Would you like to learn expressions in several Turkic languages?"It is noteworthy that the main goal of the presentation was to promote the activities of the Azerbaijan Center created by Baku Slavic University and to make the Azerbaijani language taught in the Turkology department of the Faculty of Classical and Modern Philology at Sofia University more appealing to young people, encouraging them to choose this field of study. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262461.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:10:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaA presentation of the anthology "Classic Czech Short Stories" has taken place in Baku.The book was published by "Elm v? T?hsil" Publishing House, edited by Ivana Bozd?chová and Jaroslav Olša Jr., with stories translated from Czech into Azerbaijani by Shabnam Asadova.The presentation was attended by diplomats, public figures, members of the Azerbaijani intellectual community, scholars, journalists, and literature lovers.Milan Sedlá?ek, the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Azerbaijan emphasized that the publication of Czech short stories in Azerbaijani would strengthen Czech-Azerbaijani cultural relations and provide Azerbaijani readers with an opportunity to explore Czech literature more deeply.He pointed out that this was a historic moment, as for the first time, works by 14 Czech authors were translated into Azerbaijani and published in a single collection. The project showcased Czech literature from the 19th century to the modern era.In his speech, Sedlá?ek noted that Azerbaijani readers could gain a broader understanding of Czech literature by exploring such a diverse selection of works. He also mentioned that if readers were drawn to any particular writer, they would be encouraged to seek out their other works, thus further immersing themselves in Czech prose.The Ambassador highlighted that the anthology is a continuation of cultural exchange between the two nations, referring to the release of an Azerbaijani short story collection in Czech three years earlier in Prague, edited by Bozd?chová. He expressed hope that such initiatives would continue through collaborative literary and cultural projects in the future.Dr. Ivana Bozd?chová, the editor of the collection, stressed that "Classic Czech Short Stories" is a unique anthology featuring works by 14 Czech authors, including both 19th-century writers and those who became literary icons in their lifetimes. She shared her personal connection with some of these authors, with whom she had the privilege of meeting.Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Bozd?chová explained that she first came to Azerbaijan 10 years ago to teach Czech at Baku Slavic University. Over time, she grew fascinated with the country and its rich culture.Recognizing that Czech readers were largely unfamiliar with Azerbaijani literature, she decided to introduce them to works by Azerbaijani writers. This effort resulted in the publication of the "Sar? G?lin" anthology, translated by Shabnam Asadova, for which Dr. Bozd?chová also served as editor.She noted that the current project "Classic Czech Short Stories" aimed to introduce Azerbaijani readers to Czech literature. After carefully selecting works for the anthology, they were translated into Azerbaijani by Asadova. Dr. Bozd?chová expressed her belief that this project would help both nations gain a better understanding of each other's culture, enriching their spiritual lives.She also thanked the Czech Embassy in Azerbaijan and everyone who contributed to the realization of the project.The event also featured readings from selected stories in both Czech, read by Dr. Bozd?chová, and Azerbaijani, read by Azerbaijani poetess Leyla Begim Jafarova, which sparked considerable interest among the audience.Photo Credits: Aydin Sadikhov http://www.today.az/news/politics/262460.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0400 The Armenian Parliament has adopted a statement on establishing peace with Azerbaijan. The document expresses support for the joint declaration of the leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia, signed in Washington, and the initialing of the agreement on peace and the establishment of interstate relations.   Meanwhile, in Geneva...   The Armenian side has always tried to match its cathedrals to some important international events, to nestle at their side and shine in their aura. If there were no events, the Armenians held their hearings and discussions within the walls of some serious institution. First at the UN, then in Congress, then in the European Parliament, then somewhere else. This created a certain background that gave importance and internationality to the Armenian get-togethers, at least in their own eyes.   Armenian revanchists and separatists continue to use this method of self-esteem enhancement today. In parallel with the work of the UN General Assembly in New York, the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council was held in Geneva. And in parallel with this session, a party was organized there, in Geneva, dedicated to the "right" of Armenians to return to the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan.   It should be noted that the event was not organized by the UN Human Rights Council, as the Armenian media is trying to present it. Although the shabby separatist Artak Beglaryan trumped the name of this structure, the party was actually organized by the International Christian Solidarity (CSI). There is such an organization that has devoted all its activities in recent years to protecting the interests of the Armenian separatists. CSI, together with Beglaryan and other destructive elements, is bombarding the UN with demands to appoint a special rapporteur on Karabakh and ensure the return of Armenians to Karabakh, from where they left completely voluntarily and with music.   CSI assisted the separatists in the person of Beglaryan in organizing a gathering next to the UN Human Rights Council, and the fact that it was held in parallel with the Council session added additional urgency to the Armenian whining.   CSI tries very hard, describing in its "Christian" messages how the legitimate owners of the liberated territories are restoring them, erasing the traces of the occupation. Christian Solidarity clearly does not know what the UN is asking for. Because no one, no serious organization, will take action against Baku because of the demolished buildings in Khankendi, the demolished memorials and the reconstruction of settlements. Why? Because the whole world, with the exception, apparently, of CSI, knows how to use the Internet and knows what Azerbaijani cities, villages and monuments were turned into during the years of the Armenian occupation. For every snot-soaked photo of a demolished separatist facility, the Azerbaijani side will always be able to post thousands of evidence against the CSI wards. This truth may or may not be accepted, but it is impossible to hide from it. No Christian solidarity, real or feigned, can justify what the Armenians have done. The whining of the CSI and the separatists under the care of the organization will not cope with this array of facts and evidence.   That's why the UN does not deal with this issue, and that's why even international institutions loyal to the Armenians are limited to meaningless documents.   Attempts to pass off their party as a UN event are very touching. In various resources, a lady with a determined face, Abi McDougal, who is a representative of Christian Solidarity, is presented as the "chief representative of the United Nations." The fact is that CSI, like thousands of other NGOs around the world, has consultative status with the United Nations, but its members cannot represent themselves as representatives of the United Nations. This is manipulation, and the Armenian opposition media are doing just that, deceiving their audience.   The participation of Swiss deputies in the event also does not give any status. The only notable person at the party was lawyer Paul Williams. The Professor of International Law is an ardent advocate of the concept of self-determination of peoples. In the destructive sense of the term. He has developed a model of "earned sovereignty," which has been hoped for in Armenia for many years. This model was applied in Kosovo. William said: "I think Serbia has not understood that Kosovo is no longer part of Serbia, that it is an independent country on the right path to Europe." Who remembers, the same words were uttered in Yerevan and Khankendi about "Artsakh", they say, being an "established independent and democratic state", following the European path, and so on. The neighbors could not understand why the West recognized Kosovo, but did not recognize the "earned sovereignty" of occupied Karabakh.   In response to their perplexity, the Armenians heard "there are no identical conflicts." Exactly. Just as there is no such thing as "earned sovereignty."   Artak Beglaryan and others who cannot accept Azerbaijan's restoration of its sovereignty continue to talk about some kind of legal basis for the return of Armenians to Karabakh, the need for international pressure on Baku, some kind of political will of the world community and other things that cannot change the realities in any way.   The Armenian leadership has recognized these realities, and the cries of the opposition, the separatist elite and the revanchists have no weight in international organizations. And the Armenian leadership is already beginning to perceive the situation correctly and see the consequences of attempts to change it. Speaking at the PACE session in Strasbourg the other day, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, speaking about the possibility of the return of Armenians, stated: "I'm saying bluntly that I don't think it's realistic. Moreover, I attach great importance to honesty in this matter so that people can build their own perspectives and plans. In this context, I consider the issue of the return of refugees to be dangerous for the peace process." Armenia and Azerbaijan have already recognized the territorial integrity and inviolability of each other's borders on the basis of the Alma Ata Declaration. And we should focus on this formula and work on its implementation. "Simply put, Armenia and Azerbaijan should leave each other alone for the coming decades and focus on developing economic cooperation and a step-by-step dialogue," Pashinyan said.   Azerbaijan is ready to leave its neighbor alone to the extent that he adheres to Pashinyan's formula. Azerbaijan doesn't need anything from its neighbors except for them to learn how to behave like neighbors. Attempts by the Armenian opposition to change the course of the processes will not lead to anything good. Because the Azerbaijani side has a lot to show for it. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262458.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:40:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaDr. Ivana Bozd?chová is a distinguished scholar and professor at Charles University in Prague, specializing in Czech literature and translation studies.Dedicated to advancing Czech literary traditions, Doc. Ivana Bozd?chová played a key role in editing the "Classic Czech Short Stories" anthology, which has been translated into Azerbaijani.In the interview with AZERNEWS, Doc. Ivana Bozd?chová explained how this anthology opens a window into Czech culture, providing Azerbaijani readers with a rare opportunity to connect with Czech history, society, and artistic expression.She expressed her hope that the anthology would spark further interest in Czech literature and strengthen the cultural ties between the two countries.Q: Could you tell us a bit about the Classic Czech Short Stories anthology? What can readers expect from this collection?A: This is the very first collection of Czech literature translated into Azerbaijani. It includes 14 Czech writers, spanning from the second half of the 19th century to contemporary literature. The anthology features a mix of classical and modern Czech literature, showcasing a variety of genres.Among these, eight are living authors, including two women. The collection was designed to reflect the diversity of Czech writing, offering a blend of different genres and voices. The traditional Czech culture represented here will be a unique introduction for readers who might not yet be familiar with Czech literature.Some of the authors featured are well-known internationally, such as Karel ?apek. His work is often celebrated not only for his inventions but for its deep reflection on human nature and societal issues.The collection aims to give readers an understanding of Czech culture, both historical and contemporary, through short stories that offer different backgrounds, characters, and life perspectives. It is a way to open the imagination and encourage readers to think about the world in a more expansive way. By reading these stories, one can reflect on how life is lived across different cultures and see common themes that unite us all.Q: Can you tell us about the process behind the creation of this project and how it came to life?A: I first came to Azerbaijan 10 years ago, when I began teaching the Czech language at Baku Slavic University. I started studying your country and the rich culture of the Azerbaijani people. Given that Czechs are avid readers, yet most of them are unfamiliar with Azerbaijani literature, I came up with the idea: why not introduce our readers to the works of Azerbaijani writers?! As a result of careful work, a collection of Azerbaijani short stories titled "Sar? G?lin" was published, translated into Czech by Shabnam Asadova, with me also serving as the editor.Now, our task was to introduce Azerbaijani readers to the works of Czech authors. Thus, the idea to publish the "Classic Czech Short Stories" anthology was born.What made this translation process especially challenging was our decision to translate directly from Czech.This ensured that the essence and subtleties of the original Czech texts were preserved.With the publication of both books, my goal has been achieved.Q: How do you think this anthology can help Azerbaijani readers connect with Czech culture?A: I believe this anthology can help Azerbaijani readers better understand Czech culture and values. Literature plays an important role in bridging cultural gaps, and this collection offers a window into Czech traditions, history, and society. Just as Azerbaijani literature reflects the unique character of this country, Czech literature expresses our own cultural identity, and through it, we share many common themes such as human emotions, social dynamics, and universal experiences.In both Czech and Azerbaijani cultures, literature and music are central to our identities.We both have a long history of appreciating art, and we share a deep connection to storytelling.I believe this anthology will allow Azerbaijani readers to see these connections and appreciate the shared values between our cultures.Thank you for the opportunity to introduce Czech literature to the people of Azerbaijan.It has been a pleasure to work on this project, and I am thrilled to see it reach Azerbaijani readers.Photo Credit: Aydin Sadikhov http://www.today.az/news/business/262457.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:25:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzThe First Deputy Minister of Finance of Azerbaijan, Anar Karimov, met with a delegation led by Alexander Tyrell, Country Director of the UK Department for Business and Trade, during his official visit to Baku.The meeting focused on the current state and future prospects of economic and financial cooperation between the two countries, as well as the implementation of the provisions of the Protocol of the 7th meeting of the Joint Intergovernmental Commission on Trade and Economic Cooperation, held in London in April this year.Discussions highlighted investment promotion, taxation and customs cooperation, the application of advanced technologies in agriculture and food security, and opportunities for closer business-to-business engagement. The exchange of experience in digital transformation, financial technologies, and professional services was also addressed.Anar Karimov underlined that economic modernization and diversification remain long-term priorities for Azerbaijan, and that collaboration with the UK creates additional opportunities to adapt to new challenges.Alexander Tyrell emphasized the significance of joint projects and initiatives, noting the key role of the Intergovernmental Commission in strengthening bilateral relations.The meeting concluded with a broad exchange of views on future partnership opportunities and other areas of mutual interest. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262459.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:13:00 +0400 According to Armenian media, Robert Kocharyan flew to Moscow once again just the day before. This time, his destination was Sergey Kiriyenko, who is widely regarded as the key figure overseeing Moscow’s policy toward post-Soviet countries.   Reports say Kocharyan traveled with high hopes — aiming to sell himself, and preferably at a premium.   He presented Kiriyenko with his “plan to defeat Pashinyan.” The plan, it turned out, was rather simple: gather all the disgruntled, shout “Down with Vovaevich!” and… invest money in whom? Of course, in Kocharyan himself.   Kiriyenko, however, was not impressed by the proposal, and the would-be savior of the nation was clearly given to understand that funding would not be forthcoming.   Apparently, there are younger and more appealing candidates. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262456.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:50:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaA presentation of " Classic Czech Short Stories", an anthology edited by Dr. Ivana Bozd?chová from Charles University, has taken place in Baku.The publication of the book in Azerbaijani by the "Elm v? T?hsil N??riyyat?" Publishing House represents a significant milestone in the cultural exchange between the Czech Republic and Azerbaijan.The translation into Azerbaijani was carried out by Shabnam Asadova, a renowned translator.In an interview with AZERNEWS, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Azerbaijan Milan Sedlá?ek emphasized the significance of this publication for strengthening the cultural ties between the two countries.He highlighted that this was the first-ever translation of Czech literature into Azerbaijani, describing it as a "momentous step" towards building a stronger cultural connection between the two nations.Q: How do you assess the significance of publishing the anthology for strengthening cultural ties between our countries?A: As I pointed out during the opening ceremony, this is a truly momentous occasion, as it represents the first-ever translation of Czech literature into Azerbaijani.I believe such events do not happen very often. I am very glad that we were able to dedicate three years to preparing this project.In my opinion, this is an important step in the development of our political and economic relations.Q: What contribution does your project make to the development of bilateral relations?A: This anthology covers Czech literature from the 19th century to the present, which allows the reader to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Czech literary tradition.This is a very significant aspect for a single book. After reading it, the reader may become interested in the works of such authors as Karel ?apek, Jaroslav Hašek, and other prominent Czech writers. This will give them the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and continue exploring further. If there is demand, we will continue to translate and publish new works.It is also worth noting that this is not the second book in this series, as the first one was a collection of Azerbaijani short stories translated into Czech. This project was carried out by one translator, Shabnam Asadova.The anthology includes Azerbaijani short stories. This project was completed three years ago, and now, as a continuation, we have presented this new anthology.Q: What initiatives are being undertaken to further expand cultural ties between Azerbaijan and the Czech Republic, as well as in other areas?A: One of the key steps, in my opinion, is the opening of the Azerbaijani House in Prague. This is a significant event for the development of cultural exchanges. I know that the director of the Azerbaijani House is actively working in this direction. Many cultural events are held at the Azerbaijani House, and, as is well known, culture is always closely linked to economic development.When the economy prospers, successful businesses emerge that support culture.We are actively working in this direction, and the economic ties are already showing positive results. I hope that based on this, we will continue to develop both cultural and educational projects. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262455.html Sports Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:40:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaRound 7 of the Azerbaijan Premier League is set to kick off on October 3.The two matches will be played on the first day of the round.In the opening match, "Araz-Nakhchivan" will take on the "Imishli" club, with the game kicking off at 17:00.In the second match, "Zira" will host "Neftchi" at home, with the match beginning at 19:30.The remaining matches of the round will be held on October 4-5.The Azerbaijan Premier League is the top Azerbaijani professional league for men's association football teams, comprising ten clubs.Seasons run from August to May, with teams playing 36 matches each (playing each team in the league four times, twice at home and twice away).The Premier League champion secures the right to play in the UEFA Champions League's first qualifying round.The runner-up and the third-place winner secured the right to play in the UEFA Europa Conference League, starting in the second qualifying round.Since 1992, a total of 8 clubs have been crowned champions of the Azerbaijani football system.The Azerbaijan Premier League was first organised in 2007 and succeeded the Top Division, which existed from 1992 to 2007. FC Qarabag won the title in the 2022–2023 season for the tenth time.The 2024–25 Azerbaijan Premier League marks the 33rd season of Azerbaijan's top-tier football competition.On April 27, 2025, during the 32nd round of the Premier League, Qarabag FC clinched the title with four matches to spare after a 1–1 draw against Sabah.This victory made them the champions for the 12th time overall and for the fourth consecutive season.This season is the final one featuring 10 teams, as the league will expand to 12 teams starting from the 2025–26 season. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262454.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:30:00 +0400 President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev sent a congratulatory letter to President of Iraq Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid on the occasion of Iraq’s national holiday.In his letter, the Azerbaijani President highly valued his recent meeting and exchange of views with the Iraqi President in New York.“I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to further strengthen Azerbaijan-Iraq relations and to fully realize the potential of our mutually beneficial cooperation, both bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks,” President Ilham Aliyev underlined. http://www.today.az/news/business/262453.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 12:01:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulThe economic reforms led by President Ilham Aliyev have significantly boosted the competitiveness of Azerbaijani entrepreneurs, said Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov at the 2nd National Competition Forum.Azernews reports, Jabbarov noted that the peace agreement signed on August 8 in the United States is expected to further strengthen international interest in Azerbaijan’s economy. He added that this development will also give rise to new opportunities for regional integration.“The core strength of our economic policy lies in the non-oil and gas sector,” the minister emphasized. “Between 2021 and 2024, the non-oil sector has grown by 6.7%. Naturally, we are constantly looking for ways to accelerate this growth.”Jabbarov also highlighted a major milestone: Azerbaijan’s non-oil exports have doubled over the past six years. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262452.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:53:00 +0400 Germany is an important partner for us, and we attach great importance to the comprehensive development of our bilateral relations, said President Ilham Aliyev in a congratulatory letter to President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier."Your visit to Azerbaijan in April gave a fresh impetus to the advancement of our cooperation, which encompasses a broad agenda.I believe that we will continue our joint efforts to further develop the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Germany, sustain our mutually beneficial cooperation across various fields, and enrich it with new content," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262451.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:52:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzArmenia has expressed strong interest in normalizing relations with Azerbaijan, emphasizing that Yerevan would be among the main beneficiaries of lasting peace and cooperation in the region, Azernews reports.Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan made the remarks in an interview with the “Polish TPV World” channel.“If we talk about the railway connection, according to experts, its construction may take at least two years. But we can already use the infrastructure and territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan to send and receive cargo. We have begun discussions with our American partners regarding TRIPP, and I think we can complete this process in the coming months, after which construction should start,” Mirzoyan said.The minister also underlined that the text of the peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan has already been initialed, and Yerevan is prepared to sign it “as soon as possible.”Touching on the broader reconciliation process, Mirzoyan acknowledged the heavy psychological legacy of the decades-long conflict: “There is a bloody history and memory on both sides. I believe there is still a certain degree of caution between societies, probably on both sides. The reconciliation process will take time. Peace, as I have already noted, has been established, but it requires constant care and daily efforts from both sides.”Mirzoyan’s remarks highlight Armenia’s recognition of the economic and strategic opportunities tied to regional cooperation, particularly in transport and connectivity, as well as the challenges of overcoming deep-rooted mistrust between the two nations. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262450.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:51:00 +0400 The successful development of relations between Azerbaijan and Korea is a source of great satisfaction, said President Ilham Aliyev in a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung on the occasion of his country’s National Day, Azernews reports."Today, we have ample opportunities to further deepen our cooperation in a number of areas, particularly in economic-trade, industry, high technologies, digital transformation, science, education, and other areas.I am confident that, in line with the interests of our friendly peoples, we will continue our joint efforts consistently to strengthen Azerbaijan-Korea relations and expand our cooperation," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262449.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:49:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid, President of the Republic of Iraq, on the occasion of the country's national day."Dear Mr. President,On behalf of myself and the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my most sincere congratulations and best wishes to you and all your people on the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Iraq.I highly value our recent meeting in New York and the exchange of views we held. I am confident that we will continue our joint efforts to further strengthen Azerbaijan-Iraq relations and to fully realize the potential of our mutually beneficial cooperation, both bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks.On this significant day, I wish you robust health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of Iraq lasting peace and prosperity." http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262448.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:42:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaA delegation from the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Center, operating under the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, has been on a business trip to South Korea.It was noted that the visit took place as part of a project implemented under a memorandum signed between the Culture Ministry and ADA University. The main purpose of the trip was to learn about South Korea's experience in the development of cultural and creative industries, as well as to discuss new cooperation opportunities in the fields of innovation and technology.The delegation participated in the "EdTech 2025" exhibition held in Seoul and familiarized themselves with educational programs at the Korea Museum of Contemporary Art. Meetings at the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) focused on the international exchange of creative content and the implementation of joint projects.As part of the program, the delegation also visited the country's leading science and innovation center, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). During the visit, they were introduced to the "Startup KAIST" program and provided information on projects at the intersection of culture and technology.As a result of the visit, it is expected that Azerbaijan's creative industries will expand their international cooperation network, new opportunities will arise for young people, and the country’s creative ecosystem will be enriched with global trends. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262447.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:38:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Korea Lee Jae Myung on the occasion of his country’s National Day, Azernews reports."Dear Mr. President,On the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Korea, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and extend best wishes to you and to your entire people on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan.The successful development of relations between Azerbaijan and Korea is a source of great satisfaction. Today, we have ample opportunities to further deepen our cooperation in a number of areas, particularly in economic-trade, industry, high technologies, digital transformation, science, education, and other areas.I am confident that, in line with the interests of our friendly peoples, we will continue our joint efforts consistently to strengthen Azerbaijan-Korea relations and expand our cooperation.On this festive day, I extend to you my best wishes and wish lasting peace and prosperity to the friendly Republic of Korea," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262446.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:35:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Azernews reports."Dear Mr. President,On behalf of myself and the people of Azerbaijan, I extend my sincere congratulations to you and all your people on the occasion of October 3 – German Unity Day.Germany is an important partner for us, and we attach great importance to the comprehensive development of our bilateral relations. Your visit to Azerbaijan in April gave a fresh impetus to the advancement of our cooperation, which encompasses a broad agenda.I believe that we will continue our joint efforts to further develop the friendly relations between Azerbaijan and Germany, sustain our mutually beneficial cooperation across various fields, and enrich it with new content.On this festive occasion, I wish you robust health, happiness, and success in your endeavors, and the friendly people of Germany lasting peace and prosperity," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/society/262445.html Society Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:20:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulKazakhstan and Azerbaijan have held discussions on strengthening bilateral cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy and atomic technologies.The talks were held between Chairman of the Kazakhstan Atomic Energy Agency, Almasadam Satkaliyev, and Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, Parviz Shahbazov.The meeting focused on exchanging expertise in the regulation and oversight of the atomic industry, ensuring nuclear and radiation safety, environmental monitoring, and the handling of radioactive materials.Both sides also discussed training and upskilling specialists, diversifying cooperation prospects, and introducing modern nuclear technologies.“Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan are brotherly nations, united by long-standing ties and a shared commitment to the safe and peaceful development of nuclear energy. We are determined to continue exchanging expertise and strengthening our cooperation, which will benefit both our countries and the wider region,” said Satkaliyev. http://www.today.az/news/society/262443.html Society Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:19:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzOn October 2, a powerful photo exhibition dedicated to Azerbaijani landmine victims was opened in Brussels, Belgium.The exhibition was organized within the framework of the “CulMINATION Point of Danger” project, implemented by the “Gilavar” Photo Club Public Union with support from the State Support Agency for NGOs of Azerbaijan. The “Fireland” Azerbaijanis Union partnered in the initiative on the Belgian side.Speaking at the event, Rashad Mehdiyev, Chairman of the Gilavar Photo Club, emphasized that this was the first NGO-led European exhibition series on Azerbaijan’s landmine problem held at such a scale. “After Munich, Nuremberg, and Paris, the photos we are exhibiting this time in Brussels can be called ‘talking pictures.’ They tell the stories of people whose lives were destroyed by mines planted by Armenia on Azerbaijani lands. We will not remain silent—the time has come for Armenia’s military-political leaders, responsible for this cruelty during the 30-year occupation, to answer. Our appeal to the world from Brussels, the capital of the European Union, is for the sake of justice,” he said.The exhibition features portraits and testimonies of mine victims. For example, the photo of Elmir Bagirov, who lost both legs after stepping on an anti-tank mine before the age of 18, is accompanied by his words: “Can a person fall into an anti-tank mine on his own land? It is difficult to imagine, but I survived. From that day my life full of suffering began—I lost my youth and both legs.” Another photo shows Samir Alizadeh, who lost both legs and an eye: “One step, two explosions… You tell me what happens next…” Similarly, Rahim Garashov recalls losing his leg while rescuing a colleague from mines buried one on top of the other: “What were they trying to do by burying the mines like this? Why so much cruelty? While saving someone else, I became a victim myself.”Through QR codes attached to each portrait, visitors could access additional information and statistics about Azerbaijan’s mine contamination and the ongoing demining efforts.Organizers noted that the exhibition will continue across Europe, raising awareness of the humanitarian tragedy Azerbaijan faces due to mines planted during Armenia’s occupation of its territories. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262444.html Politics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:05:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzThe open trial of several former leaders and figures of the separatist regime in Garabagh, charged with committing grave crimes against peace and humanity, will continue next week at the Baku Military Court.According to Azernews, the proceedings are scheduled for October 6 under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with Judges Jamal Ramazanov and Anar Rzayev, and reserve Judge Gunel Samadova.Among the defendants are Arayik Harutyunyan, Arkadi Ghukasyan, Bako Sahakyan, Davit Ishkhanyan, David Babayan, Levon Mnatsakanyan, and others. They face charges for crimes including the planning and conduct of aggressive war, genocide, war crimes, terrorism, financing terrorism, forcible seizure and retention of power, and multiple other violations arising from Armenia’s military aggression against Azerbaijan.In total, 15 individuals are being tried within the criminal case, which reflects numerous offenses committed by Armenian state officials, armed forces, and illegal armed groups. According to the prosecution, these crimes were carried out under direct orders and instructions from Armenia’s leadership, with material, technical, and personnel support provided by the state.The list of accused also includes former Armenian leaders and commanders such as Robert Kocharyan, Serzh Sargsyan, Vazgen Manukyan, Vazgen Sargsyan, Samvel Babayan, Vitali Balasanyan, Zori Balayan, Seyran Ohanyan, Monte Melkonyan, and others, who are cited as organizers and perpetrators of the crimes in question.The charges cover a wide range of articles under the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan, including:Article 100 – planning, preparing, initiating and waging a war of aggression;Articles 102–107 – crimes against humanity, including genocide, extermination, slavery, deportation, and persecution;Articles 109–116 – violations of international humanitarian law, torture, mercenary activity, and war crimes;Articles 214–218, 278–279 – terrorism, financing of terrorism, creation of criminal organizations, forcible seizure of power, and establishment of illegal armed groups.The court proceedings are viewed as a landmark step in holding accountable those responsible for crimes committed during Armenia’s decades-long aggression against Azerbaijan and its civilian population. http://www.today.az/news/business/262442.html Business Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:22:00 +0400 By Akbar NovruzThe II National Competition Forum is underway in Baku, bringing together government officials, business leaders, and experts to discuss key issues in market regulation and competition policy.The forum was convened to analyze the current state of competition policy in modern economic conditions, regulate the activities of natural monopolies, safeguard public interests, and address existing challenges in the sector. It also aims to facilitate the exchange of views on shaping effective and fair market relations in Azerbaijan.The event is being attended by Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov, Chairman of the Committee on Economic Policy, Industry and Entrepreneurship of the Milli Majlis Azer Amiraslanov, Chairman of the State Agency for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Supervision under the President Elnur Baghirov, and President of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs’ Organizations Mammad Musayev, along with representatives from business associations and the private sector.Officials emphasized that strengthening competition policy is essential for ensuring consumer rights, increasing efficiency in natural monopolies, and creating a more transparent and competitive business environment. The forum serves as a platform to outline reforms and promote dialogue between the state and the private sector. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262441.html Arts & Entertainment Fri, 03 Oct 2025 10:16:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaOn October 2, a ceremonial event was held to announce the results of the 7th Baku International Architecture Competition.Head of the Baku Media Center, also participated in the event.Elbay Gasimzada, the Chairman of the Board of the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan, stated that the Baku International Architecture Competition had been held for the 7th time since 2013.He recalled that in the first competition, more than 100 projects from 20 countries were presented. He continued, saying, "We decided to continue this tradition and repeat it every two years. The number of participants has been growing year by year. In this competition, 270 projects from about 40 countries were presented. This competition is one of the 5 most prestigious competitions of the International Union of Architects. The jury has always consisted of 5 members, 4 of whom are internationally recognized foreign experts from the International Union of Architects. The competition, held in seven categories, is quite reputable."Azerbaijan Culture Minister Adil Karimli mentioned that, within the framework of the Baku International Architecture Competition, many renowned architects from around the world gather every two years in our capital to participate in solving the most important issues and contribute to the development of this field."President Ilham Aliyev provides sustainable and comprehensive support for the development of architecture. First Vice-President, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva is a patron of Azerbaijani culture. Mehriban Aliyeva gives special attention to architecture as an essential part of culture and contributes to the preservation, restoration, and transfer of cultural heritage to future generations. Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva and the head of the Baku Media Center, Arzu Aliyeva, also closely support cultural projects and are, in general, the closest friends of cultural figures and architects," the minister added.Then, the members of the competition's jury were awarded the Union of Architects of Azerbaijan's highest award, the academic Mikayil Huseynov Commemorative Medal.Following that, the results of the competition were announced. The top three winners in each category were honored.The event continued with an artistic program. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262440.html World news Fri, 03 Oct 2025 09:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaMajor Korean food companies are shining the spotlight on K-food at Anuga 2025, which takes place from Saturday to Wednesday in Cologne, Germany. For the first time, Korea will be featured as the guest country at the world’s largest food trade fair, Azernews reports, citing Korean media.According to industry officials on Thursday, leading Korean brands such as Nongshim, Dongwon Group, Daesang, Lotte Wellfood, Samyang Foods, and Pulmuone will participate with booths. The fair will host around 8,000 companies from 118 countries and is expected to attract 150,000 visitors from the food and retail sectors.Nongshim and Pulmuone plan to showcase popular Korean snacks. Nongshim will operate a booth styled as a Shin Ramyun snack bar, offering tastings including the popular Shin Ramyun Toomba. The company will also unveil a new product, Shin Ramyun Kimchi Fried Noodles, aimed at global markets.Pulmuone will highlight tofu, Asian noodles, rice balls, tteokbokki (spicy sticky rice cakes), and gimbap (seaweed rice rolls), alongside a range of health-focused and vegan products.Pulmuone Chairman Lee Hyo-yul and CEO Lee Woo-bong will attend the event. Recently, Pulmuone opened a sales office in Amsterdam and plans to establish a European subsidiary later this year to strengthen its foothold in the region.Dongwon Group will present its exhibition under the slogan “Answering Needs.” Dongwon F&B will focus on its tuna products, which contain 25 grams of protein per can—almost half of the daily recommended intake for an adult. Its Yangban brand will showcase essential Korean foods such as tteokbokki, dried seaweed, kimchi, and instant rice.“We aim to promote healthy, Korean-style products to global food buyers who have a strong interest in K-food,” said Yoo Seol-a, head of overseas marketing at Dongwon F&B.Samyang Foods, famous for its fiery Buldak spicy noodles, will make its debut at Anuga. The company’s booth, branded “Buldak Spicy Club,” will highlight Buldak noodles and sauces. Vice Chairman Kim Jung-soo will attend in person.“We expect Anuga to strengthen Buldak’s position as a leading K-spicy brand and help expand our international markets,” the company said.Daesang will focus on kimchi in Europe, hosting a cooking show featuring Michelin-starred chef Fabrizio Ferrari, who will create innovative fusion dishes using kimchi.Binggrae will introduce its fish-shaped ice cream sandwich, Bungeoppang Samanco, to European buyers for the first time, while Lotte Wellfood will showcase Pepero and its sugar-free Zero brand.“Korea is joining the world’s largest food fair as the guest country at a time when the global Korean Wave is boosting the popularity of K-food,” said Park Jin-sun, chairman of the Korea Food Industry Association and CEO of Sempio Food. “This event will help K-food establish itself not only as a consumer product but as an integral part of global culture.” http://www.today.az/news/analytics/262439.html Analytics Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:30:00 +0400 By Nazrin AbdulAzerbaijan’s successful diplomacy is gaining momentum day by day. Under the leadership of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the country is achieving remarkable progress — not only in its economic development, but also in enhancing its geopolitical influence across Eurasia and beyond. From energy partnerships to regional connectivity and peace-building, Azerbaijan is steadily strengthening its role as a reliable and strategic partner on the international stage.On October 1–2, 2025, President Ilham Aliyev of the Republic of Azerbaijan participated in the 7th Summit of the European Political Community (EPC), held in Copenhagen, Denmark. The summit brought together nearly 50 European leaders to address shared challenges, including European security, energy resilience, migration, and hybrid threats. For Azerbaijan, this high-level gathering served as an important platform to reaffirm its strategic role in regional stability, energy cooperation, and intercontinental connectivity.Azerbaijani President Aliyev's visit was marked by several significant diplomatic engagements. His meeting with Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan reflected a continued commitment to peace-building in the South Caucasus. Both sides reaffirmed the agreements reached at the Washington Peace Summit, emphasized the importance of regional transport links, and welcomed the formal closure of the OSCE Minsk Group structure, recognizing it as a step toward shaping new, modern mechanisms for regional cooperation. The leaders agreed to maintain dialogue and pursue confidence-building measures that support long-term peace.During meetings with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Ilham Aliyev was congratulated on the progress made in advancing the peace agenda between Armenia and Azerbaijan. Both European leaders expressed their appreciation for Azerbaijan’s constructive approach and reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting the peace process moving forward. They emphasized that achieving sustainable peace in the South Caucasus is not only vital for regional stability but also for broader European security. In this context, Costa and von der Leyen highlighted the importance of developing transport connectivity across the region, stressing that the EU views these infrastructure projects as critical for fostering economic integration and interregional cooperation.The meeting also underlined Azerbaijan’s growing strategic role in European energy security. It was noted that, in accordance with the Strategic Energy Partnership Agreement signed between the EU and Azerbaijan in 2022, the volume of Azerbaijani gas exports to the European market has significantly increased. President Aliyev shared that Azerbaijani gas now reaches 10 European countries, including 8 EU member states, underscoring Azerbaijan’s emergence as a trusted and essential energy partner for Europe, particularly in the context of ongoing efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce dependency on single suppliers.President Aliyev expressed his gratitude for the congratulations and emphasized that the achievements in the peace process are of historical importance not only for Azerbaijan but also for Armenia and the broader region. He noted that both countries have already adapted to the realities of peace and stressed that Azerbaijan remains fully committed to pursuing a forward-looking, stable, and lasting peace, driven by regional cooperation, mutual respect, and shared prosperity.In a separate meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, both leaders emphasized the growing ties between Azerbaijan and Italy within the framework of a comprehensive strategic partnership. They discussed recent milestones, including the opening of the Italy-Azerbaijan University in Baku, and the deepening of cooperation in energy, investments, education, and cultural exchange. These engagements reflect Azerbaijan’s broadening diplomatic scope, combining bilateral depth with multilateral outreach.At the summit level, Azerbaijan’s support for the Middle Corridor — a key East-West transport and trade route — was also recognized. President Aliyev detailed the ongoing development of Azerbaijan’s logistics and transport infrastructure, which is helping facilitate increasing cargo transit from Central Asia to Europe. This underscores Azerbaijan’s position as a vital link between continents, particularly in a time of evolving global supply chains and geopolitical realignment.Qaraba? : A name of triumph in every arenaInterestingly, on the very day of President Aliyev’s meetings in Copenhagen, a football match was played between Qaraba? FC — Azerbaijan’s leading football club — and FC Copenhagen, in Azerbaijan’s capital. Qaraba? FC secured a decisive 2:0 victory, symbolically mirroring the success achieved in diplomacy.The name Qaraba? has, over the past five years, become a national emblem of resilience and achievement. Since 2020, it has stood for a new era of unity, development, and strength. Now, it echoes not only in political discussions and reconstruction projects, but also on international sports stages. From the halls of diplomacy to the arenas of UEFA, Qaraba? represents victory.We can say with certainty: only victory is worthy of Qaraba? — and of Azerbaijan — in every field. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262438.html World news Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaChina and Malaysia are currently engaged in preliminary negotiations on a joint project for processing rare earth elements.Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund, Khazanah Nasional, is expected to become a partner with a Chinese state-owned company in this venture.According to Reuters, citing anonymous sources, “If this joint venture goes ahead, it would represent a significant policy shift for China, which is both a major supplier and processor of rare earths. Previously, China prohibited the export of recycling technology to maintain its global dominance in this sector.”It is reported that Beijing is willing to share its advanced processing technology in exchange for access to Malaysia’s untapped rare earth reserves. This move is seen as a strategic effort to reduce competition from the Australian company Lynas Rare Earths, which operates a processing plant in Malaysia’s Pahang state.However, sources reveal that the project faces several challenges. The Chinese side is reportedly concerned about whether Malaysia can reliably supply enough raw materials for the plant, while Malaysian officials express worries about potential environmental impacts and regulatory hurdles.Attempts to obtain official comments from both Malaysian and Chinese authorities were unsuccessful.If successfully finalized, this agreement could position Malaysia as one of the few countries outside China to possess Chinese rare earth processing technology — a potentially transformative development in the global rare earth industry, critical for the production of electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262437.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 22:24:00 +0400 The TürkMedya E-Commerce and Retail Summit was held at the Istanbul Financial Center, bringing together senior executives from government, finance, and the business world, alongside industry stakeholders. The summit was attended by Minister of Trade Ömer Bolat and Vice President of the Presidency’s Investment and Finance Office Bekir Polat. Opening remarks were delivered by Trade Minister Ömer Bolat, TürkMedya Executive Board Chairman Murat Çiçek, and Halkbank General Manager Osman Arslan.The summit addressed the effects of digitalization on the retail sector, the growth of e-commerce volume, and future strategies.In his speech, Minister Bolat underlined the momentum gained by e-commerce during the pandemic:“We can easily say that the turning point for e-commerce was the Covid pandemic. That was the period when the importance of e-commerce became clear. I clearly remember that, in those days, whatever the business in computer and information technologies, it grew exponentially,” he said.Sharing global and national data, Bolat noted:“Global trade is expanding rapidly, and projections for 2026 foresee a global trade volume of $8.1 trillion. This figure was $5.5 trillion just four years ago, in 2022. In Türkiye, the share of people ordering goods and services online was 35 percent in 2020, when Covid began, and has now risen to 55.7 percent—nearly 56 percent—in 2025. This growth is continuing.”Bolat emphasized the role of the Ministry of Trade in monitoring the sector:“As the Ministry of Trade, we operate ETB?S, the e-commerce registration system. Each year we publish a report called The Outlook of E-Commerce in Türkiye. On May 6 this year, we announced our latest report. By the end of 2024, e-commerce volume reached 3 trillion Turkish lira. This includes everything—from ticket sales to clothing and food, essentially all e-commerce transactions. Compared with 2023, this represents an increase of 61.7 percent. Based on the average exchange rate at the time, this 3 trillion lira corresponds to about $90 billion in trade.”He also highlighted the impact on retail e-commerce:“Retail e-commerce reached 1.619 trillion lira in 2024, a 63.7 percent rise compared with the previous year. These figures are huge and growing every year far beyond inflation or revaluation rates. The share of e-commerce in our gross domestic product has reached 6.5 percent. Between 2019, before the pandemic, and 2024, the compound annual growth rate was 30 percent. Globally, e-commerce sales account for more than 19 percent of total retail sales, and this is expected to reach 25 percent by 2027. In Türkiye, e-commerce’s share in total trade has reached 19.1 percent, about one-fifth—similar to the global level.”Bolat added that order volumes have grown sharply:“The number of orders in Türkiye rose from 1.36 billion to 5.91 billion. The number of marketplace sellers increased from 57,000 in 2019 to 584,000. That’s a 919 percent increase—nearly a tenfold jump—in the number of sellers over five years. These figures show that e-commerce in Türkiye is advancing in giant strides. It is impossible for a business to survive in competition without taking digitalization and e-commerce into account.”He also pointed to the entrepreneurial structure of the sector:“Of all e-commerce businesses, 78.5 percent are sole proprietorships, 18 percent are limited companies, and 3.6 percent are joint-stock companies. This means e-commerce has spread widely, been embraced by society, and is seen as a powerful tool for competition, especially for individual entrepreneurs.” http://www.today.az/news/regions/262436.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:20:00 +0400 The Chairman of the Foreign Economic Relations Board (DE?K) Somalia Business Council and the Somali Representative of Albayrak Group, Ahmet Sami ??ler, along with the Director of Mogadishu Port, Umut Yurdakul, shared their assessments on the company’s activities and the strategic importance of the port.??ler recalled that Albayrak Group entered Somalia following President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an’s historic visit to the country in 2011. He emphasized that their initial goal was humanitarian.“At that time, Somalia was in a very difficult situation, facing a crisis due to drought. We said, let us not work only for short-term relief, but let’s create something permanent,” ??ler explained.He noted that the group began restoration work at Mogadishu Port, the country’s main gateway. “We have been operating this port for about eleven years now. We have invested in every way possible. We believe we have made a strong contribution to the state. We are satisfied with Somalia, and hopefully Somalia is satisfied with us. We have become closely identified with the country,” he said.??ler also recalled that in 2012 the group rebuilt a collapsed hospital, transforming it into the Recep Tayyip Erdo?an Training and Research Hospital, one of Africa’s largest and most advanced. The hospital was inaugurated in 2015 with the presence of President Erdo?an.He added that Albayrak Group was honored to construct Türkiye’s largest embassy complex abroad, the Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu, which began in 2014 and was completed in 2016. The company has also undertaken the construction of the Somali Presidential Complex. “We did everything possible to contribute to this project, building it for the President, the Somali state, and its people,” ??ler stressed.Highlighting the importance of Mogadishu Port as the country’s trade lifeline, ??ler stated that about 70 percent of Somalia’s imports now come from Türkiye, whereas in the past goods had been sourced largely from China and the United Arab Emirates. The trade volume between Türkiye and Somalia has reached half a billion dollars, he said, with the aim of further growth.However, ??ler pointed to difficulties with visas and residence permits. “If these problems are not resolved, we risk losing our commercial gains over time. Serious responsibilities fall on our leaders, political representatives, ministers, and embassies to address this,” he noted, adding that Somalis also face similar challenges in Türkiye.Acknowledging Somalia’s security issues, ??ler remarked that opportunities come with risks: “Where there is risk, there is also potential. For those who know how to take risks, there are great opportunities here.”Addressing global business leaders, ??ler urged: “Everything comes from outside. There are no factories here, no investments, no tourism. To revive these sectors, entrepreneurs are needed. Somalis expect this from us. We tell Turkish businesspeople: ‘Come to Somalia, see it for yourself. If you are willing to take risks, opportunities await.’”Mogadishu Port Director Umut Yurdakul underlined that this is the capital’s only and largest entry port. With almost no domestic production, nearly all of Somalia’s needs pass through the port. He noted that Turkish products have declined somewhat in recent years due to shifting global logistics routes and wars, yet Türkiye remains Somalia’s largest supplier, alongside imports from India, China, and the Middle East.He added that goods also reach Somalia through neighboring Kenya via transit trade. Construction of Mogadishu Port began in 1973 and continued in stages until 1983. However, it was closed from 1991, when civil war broke out, until 2006. “During that period, Somalis were cut off from both goods and developments around the world,” Yurdakul explained.Later, measures were taken to boost trade and improve living conditions. “The most important of these measures was this port. It was essential for humanitarian aid to reach Somalia and for trade to continue,” Yurdakul stressed.He recalled that Albayrak Group took over management and modernization of the port through a concession agreement signed at the end of 2014. “With our work, we have tried to bring the port to international standards. Today, we provide services at that level. Once this was proven, global companies embraced this port. In a sense, Somalia reopened to the world thanks to this port,” he said.Yurdakul also emphasized the country’s weak road and rail links, underscoring that Mogadishu Port remains the only point capable of sustaining the entire nation. Somalia’s 3,300 kilometers of coastline hosts scattered settlements, with small local ports serving some areas, but none match Mogadishu’s capacity. Even in Somaliland, the large port on the Gulf of Aden does not rival Mogadishu’s scale.“Products entering here are distributed all across the country. Our port also serves as a collection hub,” Yurdakul explained. The port spans 350,000 square meters and is served by three of the world’s largest container lines.He concluded by noting that all foodstuffs, as well as cement and steel used in Somalia’s reconstruction, pass through Mogadishu Port. “It is truly the country’s lifeline,” Yurdakul said. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/262435.html Analytics Thu, 02 Oct 2025 20:53:00 +0400 By Qabil AshirovIn an era where global supply chains are being redefined and geopolitical fault lines are shifting, the emergence of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route—commonly known as the Middle Corridor—offers a compelling alternative to traditional East-West trade routes. The recent agreement between the railway operators of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia to establish a unified long-term tariff across the entire corridor marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of Eurasian logistics. This is not merely a technical adjustment; it is a strategic alignment that could reshape the economic geography of the region.The Middle Corridor stretches from China through Central Asia, across the Caspian Sea, through the South Caucasus, and onward to Europe. It bypasses both Russia and Iran, offering a politically neutral and economically efficient route for freight transport. In the wake of global tensions, sanctions, and the need for diversified trade channels, this corridor has gained unprecedented relevance. It is no longer a secondary option—it is fast becoming a primary artery for Eurasian commerce.The significance of this corridor lies not only in its geography but in its potential to foster regional cooperation and economic integration. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia are not merely transit countries; they are strategic stakeholders in a new vision for Eurasia. Their decision to harmonize tariffs across the corridor is a bold step toward eliminating logistical bottlenecks and enhancing the competitiveness of the route. It sends a clear message to global markets: the Middle Corridor is open for business, and it is here to stay.The agreement, signed during the VII International Transport and Logistics Business Forum “New Silk Way” in Almaty, is embedded within a broader action plan aimed at removing “bottlenecks” along the route. These bottlenecks—whether infrastructural, procedural, or regulatory—have long hindered the corridor’s full potential. By committing to joint development of port, rail, and logistics infrastructure, and by embracing digitalization of procedures, the three countries are laying the groundwork for a seamless and modern transport ecosystem.This is not just about trains and tariffs. It is about vision, resilience, and strategic foresight. The Middle Corridor offers a lifeline to landlocked Central Asian economies, a gateway for Chinese goods to reach European markets, and a bridge for European exporters to access Asia. It is a corridor of opportunity, and the recent trilateral agreement is a testament to the political will required to unlock that opportunity.Moreover, the unified tariff structure simplifies the cost calculation for shippers and logistics companies, making the corridor more attractive and predictable. In a world where time is money and uncertainty is the enemy of investment, such predictability is invaluable. It reduces friction, accelerates decision-making, and enhances the corridor’s appeal to global logistics players.The strategic importance of the Middle Corridor cannot be overstated. It is a counterbalance to the Northern Corridor and the Southern Corridor. It offers a stable, secure, and efficient route that aligns with the interests of a wide array of stakeholders—from multinational corporations to regional governments. Its development is not just a regional priority; it is a global necessity.The trilateral agreement also reflects a deeper geopolitical reality: the rise of regionalism in a multipolar world. As global powers recalibrate their strategies, regional actors are stepping up to shape their own destinies. Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia are demonstrating that cooperation, not confrontation, is the key to progress. Their alignment on the Middle Corridor is a model for others to follow.In conclusion, the Middle Corridor is more than a transport route—it is a strategic project that embodies the aspirations of a new Eurasia. The recent agreement on unified tariffs is a milestone that will accelerate its development and enhance its global standing. As the world looks for alternatives to congested and politicized trade routes, the Middle Corridor stands out as a beacon of connectivity, cooperation, and economic promise. The future of Eurasian logistics is being written today—and the ink is flowing through Baku, Almaty, and Tbilisi. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262434.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 20:23:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Catalan club set this record during the second round of the Champions League group stage against Paris Saint-Germain, despite a 1–2 loss. Since December 15, 2024 — when they suffered a 0–1 defeat to Leganés — Barça has found the back of the net in every official game across all competitions, Azernews reports.This impressive scoring streak spans La Liga, the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, and the Spanish Super Cup. What makes it even more notable is the variety of goal scorers — more than 15 different players have contributed during this run.The all-time Spanish record, however, still belongs to Real Madrid, who scored in 73 consecutive matches between 2016 and 2017 under Zinedine Zidane. That legendary side featured the iconic BBC trio: Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, and Gareth Bale.Barcelona’s current streak has been powered largely by its new generation of homegrown talents. Rising stars like Lamine Yamal and Gavi, both products of the famed La Masia academy, have played crucial roles — adding a symbolic dimension to this historic run. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262433.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:49:00 +0400 Turkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uralo?lu, has said that 5G will serve as a strategic milestone in the country’s digital transformation, underlining the government’s ambition to build an ecosystem based on domestic production.“We want to turn our country into a technology hub that not only develops 5G systems locally but also exports them to global markets,” Uralo?lu stated. He emphasized that ongoing projects would pave the way for high-value exports while boosting national technological capacity.As part of the “End-to-End Domestic and National 5G Project,” Turkiye plans to produce both base stations and core network components within the country. Uralo?lu announced that 5G infrastructure will be required to include at least 60 percent domestically produced equipment and 30 percent nationally developed communication technologies. This approach, he noted, will strengthen Turkiye’s telecommunications industry while reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.The minister also highlighted the broader economic benefits of the initiative. “Through local production, we will both protect our domestic market and achieve the capacity to compete globally,” he said, adding that the move would also contribute directly to reducing Turkiye’s current account deficit.Uralo?lu pointed to high-tech exports as a key priority of economic policy, stressing that 5G investments would enhance Turkiye’s R&D and patent capabilities. In the longer term, he said, Turkiye aims to be an active player in shaping 6G technologies as well.Beyond telecommunications, 5G will have transformative effects across multiple sectors. In industry, it will accelerate automation; in transportation, it will enable smart solutions; in healthcare, it will support digitalization; and in finance, it will provide secure data flows. “We are not only planning for 5G but also preparing for technologies beyond 5G,” Uralo?lu concluded. “These steps will increase Turkiye’s technology exports and strengthen our competitive edge in the global marketplace.” http://www.today.az/news/regions/262432.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:21:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaLithuania’s transmission system operator, Litgrid, plans to increase electricity trading capacity with Poland, a move expected to boost the growth of renewable energy in Lithuania, according to the Baltic News Service, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.In a press release on Wednesday, Litgrid announced it has developed a concept for expanding cross-border capacity, which would create more opportunities for electricity trading once implemented.Donatas Matelionis, head of Litgrid’s Power System Operations Department, said that since the Baltic states synchronized with the Continental European power system in February and have been operating smoothly with their European partners, there is now potential to increase the available capacities for power trading.According to the plan, electricity export capacity via the LitPol Link interconnector would reach up to 365 megawatts (MW) and import capacity up to 200 MW by 2026. These figures are expected to grow to 500 MW for export and 353 MW for import in 2027.Litgrid, together with Poland’s transmission operator PSE, is also currently working on the Harmony Link project — an onshore interconnection set to launch in 2030. Once operational, Harmony Link will double the trading capacity between Lithuania and Poland, enabling power flows of up to 1,200 MW in both import and export directions.This expansion is particularly significant as it will facilitate greater integration of renewable energy sources into Lithuania’s power grid, enhancing energy security and supporting the region’s green transition goals. http://www.today.az/news/regions/262431.html World news Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:21:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe Philippines' Department of Energy (DOE) unveiled a comprehensive framework on Thursday for integrating nuclear energy into the country’s power generation mix, Azernews reports, citing foreign media.Energy Secretary Sharon Garin signed the department circular that formally establishes the policy foundation for the Philippines’ first commercially developed and operated nuclear power plant (NPP), designated as the Pioneer NPP.“This framework is more than just a policy document; it sends a strong investment signal,” Garin said.“By setting clear guidelines for nuclear integration, we are assuring investors, partners, and stakeholders that the Philippines is prepared to responsibly and strategically adopt nuclear energy as a vital part of its clean energy transition,” she added.Garin emphasized that nuclear energy will complement renewable sources by providing reliable and stable baseload power, ensuring that the Philippine economy has the energy security needed to support growth while meeting climate commitments.Under the circular, the Pioneer NPP will be treated as a baseload facility and granted priority dispatch in coordination with the DOE, the Independent Market Operator, and the System Operator — regardless of the nuclear technology used.This approach guarantees a competitive investment environment for the Pioneer NPP and lays the groundwork for future nuclear projects that will strengthen the country’s long-term energy security.Garin highlighted that the Pioneer NPP will not only diversify the nation’s energy mix but also establish a robust regulatory framework that attracts both local and international investors.As the Philippines moves toward this new energy frontier, the successful deployment of the Pioneer NPP could position the country as a regional leader in clean and reliable nuclear power, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and achieve ambitious climate goals. http://www.today.az/news/sports/262430.html Sports Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:43:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaThe President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation, Mahir Mammadov, has met with the members of the women's national chess team.President of Azerbaijan Chess Federation Mahir Mammadov expressed interest in the team's preparations for the upcoming European Team Championship, which will take place in Batumi in a few days, and wished the Azerbaijani team success.The meeting was attended by the First Vice-President of the Azerbaijan Chess Federation, Faiq Hasanov, the national team captain, Ilaha Gadimova, and coaches Nijat Abasov and Gadir Huseynov.The Azerbaijani women's team includes Ulviyya Fataliyeva, Govhar Beydullayeva, Gulnar Mammadova, Khanim Balajayeva, and Ayan Allahverdiyeva.The continental championship will begin on October 5.The European Team Chess Championship will take place in Batumi, Georgia, from October 4 to 15.The event features separate Open and Women's sections, with each competition consisting of 9 rounds played under a Swiss system.The 2025 European Team Chess Championship will showcase 75 teams, including 39 in the Open tournament and 36 in the Women's Championship. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262429.html Politics Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:22:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovOn October 2, during the ongoing trial at the Baku Military Court concerning crimes committed by citizens of the Republic of Armenia, victim Ilham Mammadov gave testimony.Azernews reports that Mammadov recounted that on May 10, 2002, while serving in the army and heading to his post in the Haram plain, he was captured by Armenian armed forces. He stated that he had been unarmed at the time. After being taken prisoner, Armenian soldiers beat and tortured him. One of the officers, he noted, displayed particular brutality. Mammadov later learned that the officer’s name was Levon.Answering questions from state prosecutors, the victim pointed directly at the accused, Levon Mnatsakanyan, and identified him as the officer who had beaten him. He testified: “He hit me first with his fist, then with the butt of his rifle. He forced me to climb onto a trench and fired his weapon. At that moment, my back was turned toward the positions of the Azerbaijani Army. He made me stand in such a way that my own soldiers could have shot me by mistake. Later, they forced me to walk through mined areas.”Mammadov said he was held for a week in Azerbaijani territories under Armenian occupation at the time, before being transferred to Armenia. He remained in captivity for six months and 15 days before being handed back to Azerbaijan.Responding to questions from the defense, the victim stated that he had not known Mnatsakanyan prior to his capture and was unaware of his military rank at that time. “But from the way others treated him, I assume he was the chief of staff,” he added.In response to Mnatsakanyan’s own questions, Mammadov confirmed that he was born in 1973 and held the rank of first lieutenant at the time of his capture. He explained: “I graduated from the Azerbaijan Agricultural Institute, which had a military department, and was granted an officer’s rank upon completion.”The trial continues against several citizens of Armenia accused of committing numerous crimes as a result of Armenia’s military aggression, including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, preparation and waging of an aggressive war, genocide, violations of the laws and customs of war, terrorism and its financing, the violent seizure and retention of power, and other grave offenses. http://www.today.az/news/politics/262428.html Politics Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:20:00 +0400 On October 2, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Giorgia Meloni, President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic, in Copenhagen, Azernews reports. http://www.today.az/news/society/262427.html Society Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:01:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreA violation of the state border from the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Republic of Azerbaijan was prevented in the service area of the “Horadiz” border detachment of the State Border Service, Azernews reports.As a result of joint border search and operational measures conducted by the State Border Service and the State Customs Committee, a total of 15 kilograms 200 grams of marijuana and 1,490 methadone M-40 pills containing narcotics were discovered and seized. The contraband was being smuggled across the border with the intent of illegal circulation inside Azerbaijan.The State Border Service emphasized that such operations demonstrate the country’s determination to combat drug trafficking, which poses a threat to both national security and public health. It was also underlined that the Azerbaijani side continues to strengthen cooperation between border and customs authorities to ensure effective control over the state border, particularly in areas vulnerable to smuggling attempts. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/262426.html Arts & Entertainment Thu, 02 Oct 2025 14:48:00 +0400 By Laman IsmayilovaAs part of the 11th Baku International Book Fair, the Office of the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan (Ombudsman) held a presentation on October 1, Azernews reports. The event showcased the Ombudsman's publications and awareness-raising activities.At the event, the head of the Legal Awareness Sector of the Ombudsman's Office, Mugalib Mahmudov, provided information about the awareness-raising activities carried out by the Ombudsman. He spoke about the work done in areas such as citizens' rights and freedoms, children's rights, gender equality, the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities, and the promotion of international human rights documents.He noted that the institution regularly prepares and distributes various publications, brochures, and booklets among the public, and also holds awareness-raising events aimed at increasing the legal knowledge of young people.At the event, Vali Guliyev, acting head of the Analysis and Monitoring Sector of the Department of Access to Information of the Ombudsman's Office, provided detailed information about the Ombudsman's activities in this field. He stated that ensuring citizens' right to access information, cases of violations of this right, and the information access opportunities for vulnerable population groups are always at the center of attention.A representative of the Ombudsman's Office added that expanding information access opportunities for vulnerable groups—such as persons with disabilities, low-income families, children, and elderly people—and presenting information in accessible formats for them is one of the priority areas.Then, Azer Isali, Senior Advisor of the Child Rights Protection Sector of the Department of Human Rights Protection of the Ombudsman's Office, talked about the protection of children's rights, the awareness-raising activities carried out in this area, and the publications prepared. He emphasized that the work done in the field of protecting children's rights serves to educate them, increase their legal knowledge, and ensure their growth in a healthy environment. Azer Isali also highlighted that the Ombudsman's Office prepares various brochures, booklets, and educational materials to promote national and international legislation on children's rights.Shahla Aslanova, Chief Advisor of the Department of Cooperation with International Organizations and Civil Society Institutions of the Ombudsman's Office, discussed the projects implemented by the institution in cooperation with international organizations, joint work with civil society institutions, and awareness-raising activities. She noted that the joint activities in the field of human rights protection and promotion make a significant contribution to raising public awareness.On the initiative of the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Azerbaijan, books, leaflets, and booklets dedicated to legal awareness were prepared and published in various languages – Azerbaijani, Russian, English, Ukrainian, and French – from 2002 to 2025.In total, during the Ombudsman's activities, 278 publications have been printed and presented to a wide readership, including one electronic edition. Of these, 190 are books, 79 are leaflets and booklets, and 9 are posters.