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/265709.html World news Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:49:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzUnited States President Donald Trump said that Iran has been a "bad" negotiator in recent discussions and expressed hope the country will take a more reasonable approach in future talks, AzerNEWS reports.Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump called the negotiations "very important" and said he'll take part in the Geneva talks on Tuesday "indirectly.""Iran is a very tough negotiator. They're good negotiators, or bad negotiators... I would say they're bad negotiators because we could've had a deal instead of sending the B2s," Trump said.He concluded by saying he thinks Tehran will want to make a deal. "I don't think they want the consequences of not making a deal," the US president said.The United States has moved additional military forces into the Middle East ahead of talks with Iran in Geneva, positioning assets to deter Tehran if diplomatic efforts fail, CNN reported, citing multiple sources familiar with the matter.The US Air Force has shifted refuelling tankers and fighter aircraft from the United Kingdom closer to the region, the news agency was told. A US official said Washington continues to send air defence systems, while some units scheduled to leave will remain longer.Two unnamed sources also told CNN the administration doesn't have a clear plan for who would govern Iran if the current leadership were removed. They said the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) would probably move quickly to fill any vacuum and identified potential strike targets beyond nuclear facilities, including IRGC headquarters. Some discussions have reportedly included possible joint US-Israel operations.Sources added Iran's stance on uranium enrichment may limit room for agreement. However, positions could still shift, with economic incentives tied to oil, gas and rare earths access expected to resurface at the upcoming talks. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/265707.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:36:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijan Film Days have been held in Berlin through the joint organization of the Azerbaijan Film Agency, the Azerbaijani Embassy in Germany, and the Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Berlin, AzerNEWS reports citing the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry.Speaking at the opening ceremony, Acting Director of the Azerbaijan Cultural Center in Berlin Isa Mammadov highlighted the purpose of the event, stressing the significance of promoting Azerbaijani cinema internationally and strengthening intercultural dialogue.People's Artist Mehriban Zaki spoke about the achievements of Azerbaijani cinema in recent years and underlined the importance of presenting contemporary national films to international audiences.The film "Victory Dance" was screened as part of the program. The film's originator, Shafag Mehraliyeva, Executive Director of the Adibin Evi Literature Support Foundation, stressed the significance of launching the film's international screenings in Berlin.Following the screening, a networking session was organized for participants. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265708.html Politics Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:21:00 +0400 On the air of the radio station Komsomolskaya Pravda, Russian military correspondent Dmitry Steshin stated that neither Armenia nor Azerbaijan are friends, that Russia was needed by them only as a market, and now their elites are "kowtowing" to the United States.Well, it’s a familiar tune: the moment someone stops looking to please—friendship is over, the curtain falls, traitors exit stage left. Yesterday they were “brotherly nations,” today—they are “not friends.”Geopolitics, it seems, works like a school chat: no like—no loyalty.Shall we reveal a harsh truth? Countries don’t form friendships based on schoolyard oaths, but on interests.What benefits one day may not benefit the next. It’s a market, not a marriage ceremony.And if someone is “kowtowing,” perhaps it’s simply called diplomacy. Or do we expect every nation to stand at attention and buy exclusively out of nostalgia? Unfortunately, the world has long moved beyond a subscription to eternal loyalty. http://www.today.az/news/business/265705.html Business Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:13:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzAzerbaijan imported 1.34 million smartphones in 2025, marking a nearly 11% decline compared to 2024. Despite the drop in volume, the total import value increased to $457.3 million, up from $439.95 million a year earlier, reflecting around 4% growth. This trend indicates a clear shift in the market toward more expensive devices, AzerNEWS reports.By country of origin, China remained the largest supplier. In 2025, Azerbaijan imported 1.08 million smartphones from China, worth $359.2 million. While volumes fell by about 10% year-on-year, the total value rose by 7%, pushing the average price per handset from $332 to $333.Vietnam ranked as the second-largest source. Imports from Vietnam totaled 247.9 thousand smartphones in 2025, with a value of $89.3 million. This represented an 8% increase compared to the previous year, with the average price hovering around $360 per device.In contrast, smartphone imports from India declined sharply. Volumes dropped from 74.7 thousand units in 2024 to just 14.1 thousand units in 2025, while the total value fell from $19.8 million to $8.5 million. The average price per smartphone from India stood at around $265. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265706.html Politics Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:12:00 +0400 According to media reports, US President Donald Trump has invalidated a 2009 document recognizing greenhouse gases as harmful to health. This will allow, in particular, to remove restrictions for the automotive industry. Trump called the so-called "endanger finding", adopted under Barack Obama, catastrophic and seriously damaging to the US automotive industry.   This decision, as many observers believe, put an end to the actively promoted policy of decarbonization and denigration of fossil fuels in recent years.   The atmosphere around the topic of decarbonization began to change immediately after Trump was elected President of the United States. The new head of the White House, unlike the previous administration, turned out to be an opponent of the green agenda, which inspired those who opposed it in Europe itself. The heads of large companies have spoken more boldly about the unacceptability of a radical green transition. In particular, in December 2024, an open letter from the owner of one of the world's largest steelmaking companies (ArcelorMittal Holding) appeared in the Financial Times Lakshmi Mittala. The entrepreneur complained about the unprecedented problems faced by the European steel industry due to the cost of decarbonization. Decarbonization of the industry requires huge investments and the use of currently non-viable green hydrogen.   Mittal would hardly have dared to talk about this and go against the Western trend if the newly elected US President had not been a proponent of traditional fuels. Of course, the problem of greenhouse gases and climate change exists and is a direct consequence of human activity, but the radical and categorical methods used by the trendsetters of "green" fashion did not look like a real concern for the planet. They sounded more like attempts at economic redistribution of the world and political pressure on oil and gas producing countries.   But the President of Azerbaijan told the truth before anyone else. In June 2024, at the opening of the Baku Energy Week, responding to demagoguery from Europe, he said: "We cannot be blamed for the fact that we have oil and gas. It's a gift from God." And at the opening of COP29 in Baku, the head of state spoke even more specifically: "Oil, gas, wind, sun, gold, silver, copper are all natural resources. Countries cannot be blamed for having these resources. Also, they should not be blamed for bringing these resources to the market. Because the market needs them. People need them. So, here's my message: As president of COP29, we will, of course, strongly advocate for a "green" transition, and we are doing this. But at the same time, we must be realistic," President Ilham Aliyev said.   Back then, during the peak popularity of the topic of decarbonization, not every leader of a mining country would have risked going against the trend thoughtlessly promoted by the West and calling for a realistic view of things. It is clear that the author of such a categorical agenda could not be the East, where most of the producing countries are concentrated. Tellingly, the largest oil and gas producers in the Middle East have developed "green" technologies. Nevertheless, with the expansion of European "green" propaganda, our country has become a target for criticism, although, paradoxically, Europe itself buys Azerbaijani oil and gas. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, despite the strict requirements of the Paris document, EU countries have begun to increase purchases of Azerbaijani gas, Germany last year significantly increased imports of Caspian oil, and this year began to receive our gas. While criticizing Baku, the Europeans simultaneously viewed it as a partner in their energy security.   Radical decarbonization has proven to be an overly complex and expensive process. And today, the complete abandonment of fossil fuels is no longer seen as an achievable goal in the medium term. The modern world, with its industrial content, cannot do without oil and gas. The transfer of polluting industries to third world countries, as has always been practiced by Western countries, also does not justify itself from a climatic point of view, since it does not change anything for the problems that have already formed on the planet.   Many are already beginning to realize the need for balance and the lifting of strict restrictions for oil companies. Some corporations, under pressure, began to refocus on "green" projects and curtail oil and gas. European banks have stopped financing projects related to fossil fuels. And again, the paradox is that all this was done against the background of the abandonment of Russian gas and energy starvation. The EU shares its expectations for the expansion of Azerbaijani supplies, but no one talks about who will pay for the expansion of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). Azerbaijan is ready to expand supplies, especially since additional volumes of gas are being released with the introduction of alternative energy sources in the country. However, he is not ready to finance the project, while the Europeans do not even want to sign long-term contracts.   At the Baku Energy Week 2025, President Ilham Aliyev stated that Azerbaijan's agenda regarding COP29 was very pragmatic. "She was far from populism and false narratives. It was based on pragmatic calculations of countries' demand for fossil fuels. And we see what happens in some countries when the balance between fossil fuels and green energy is not maintained. This causes power outages, energy collapse, and can lead to much more complex consequences. Therefore, I consider it the right policy to maintain balance and not follow the trends of the times, which sometimes dictate our steps," he said.   Another leader who dared to go against the harsh agenda was Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Speaking at the COP29 Leaders' Summit in Baku, Ms. Meloni said that there is currently no single alternative to the supply of fossil fuels, and called for a realistic global outlook and balance.   The balance between renewable energy and oil production is absolutely real. This is not a far-fetched narrative designed to ensure the economic interests of producing countries. It was in oil and gas producing Azerbaijan that the Garadagh solar power plant, the largest solar power plant in the region, built, among other things, by the UAE oil and gas producing company Masdar, started operating three years ago. In January 2026, the largest Khizi-Absheron wind power plant in the South Caucasus, built by another Middle Eastern partner of Azerbaijan, the Saudi company ACWA Power, was commissioned. And now the Bilasuvar SES is being built in Bilasuvar, which will surpass the Garadagh SES in terms of capacity. Mining Azerbaijan is acting while the Europeans are experiencing serious problems created by their own short-sightedness.   The participation of global oil giants in renewable energy projects in Azerbaijan can be cited as proof of the compatibility of seemingly contradictory agendas. BP is involved in the construction of a 240-megawatt solar power plant in Jabrayil, as well as in the electrification project of the Sangachal terminal. At the same time, the British oil giant continues to produce hydrocarbons in the Caspian Sea and is considering expanding its participation in projects.   There are very few European countries among Azerbaijan's partners in renewable energy projects. But the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China are actively cooperating with Baku in this area. I must say that these are the countries that have succeeded in advancing the decarbonization agenda. For example, China currently has two of the world's largest solar power plants, and the world's TOP 10 includes four solar power plants in this country. We also remind that Azerbaijan cooperates with China in terms of environmentally friendly transport.   Azerbaijan does not change the green agenda, it successfully combines it with the use of the wealth given to the Azerbaijani land. At the "Breakfast with the leadership of Azerbaijan" event organized by Euronews during the Davos Forum, President Ilham Aliyev stated that "we have well-founded hopes that we can experience a second very significant oil boom in Azerbaijan if exploration projects conducted by international energy companies produce good results. We hope so."   The era of fossil fuels is far from over. It's just not realistic. The development of the modern world is based on these energy sources. In order to abandon them, the world must completely technologically rearm, spending unthinkable amounts on this. Only then will it be possible to achieve the goal of decarbonization.   Saving the planet, stopping climate change, and restoring a clean atmosphere and healthy environment to people are wonderful and very important goals. Greenhouse gases really worsen the state of the atmosphere, but the fight against them should not turn into terror. Mindless decarbonization will lead not to saving the planet, but to new crises and wars. But I would like humanity to reach the era of clean air alive. http://www.today.az/news/business/265704.html Business Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:53:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzIn January 2026, Azerbaijan imported 129,932.80 tons of wheat, according to the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The value of this wheat amounted to $28,872,000, AzerNEWS reports.In January 2025, the country imported 86,654.05 tons of wheat with a value of $18,695,000. Compared with the same period in 2026, wheat imports increased by about 50 percent in volume and 54.4 percent in value.Looking further back, available trade data shows that in January 2024, Azerbaijan imported approximately 75,800 tons of wheat, valued at around $16.4 million (based on statistical customs reports for early 2024).In January 2023, wheat imports were slightly lower at roughly 68,200 tons, valued at about $15.2 million, reflecting more moderate demand and a stronger domestic supply situation at the time. http://www.today.az/news/society/265703.html Society Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:28:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzThe final court decision (verdict) was announced in an open court session on the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, who was charged with crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, as well as terrorism, financing terrorism, and other serious offenses under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan.AzerNEWS reports that the hearing took place at the Baku Military Court, chaired by judges Zeynal Agayev, Jamal Ramazanov, and Anar Rzayev (reserve judge Gunel Samedova). The accused was provided with a Russian-language interpreter and a state-appointed defense lawyer.The session was attended by the accused and his defense attorney, victims and their legal heirs along with their representatives, prosecutors representing the state prosecution, and Rufat Mammadov, Head of the Cabinet of Ministers’ Office, recognized as the victim on behalf of the Azerbaijani state.According to the verdict, R. Vardanyan was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment. It is noteworthy that during the trial, the prosecutor had sought life imprisonment for the accused. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/265702.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:23:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaThe first eclipse of the year will be an annular solar eclipse, set to begin on February 17 at 13:56 and conclude at 18:27, AzerNEWS reports citing the Shamakhi Astrophysical Observatory.The maximum phase of the eclipse will occur at 16:12. The phenomenon will be observed primarily over Antarctica. As the type of eclipse depends on the observer's location, it will also be visible in countries including Argentina, Madagascar, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Seychelles, Mozambique, Chile, Botswana, Malawi, Zambia, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Mauritius, Réunion, and Lesotho, among others.Eclipses occur when the Earth or the Moon passes in front of the Sun, partially or completely blocking its light. The angle between the orbital planes of the Earth and the Moon differs by just 5°09'.An eclipse takes place when the new Moon or full Moon phase aligns with the orbital nodes. For a solar eclipse to occur, the apparent angular sizes of the Moon and the Sun in the sky must also be nearly identical.During a solar eclipse, the Moon moves between the Sun and the Earth, preventing sunlight from reaching parts of the Earth's surface.As a result, the Moon’s shadow falls on specific regions, and the eclipse is observed. Solar eclipses occur only during the new Moon phase and are classified as total, annular, partial, or hybrid depending on the relative positions of the Sun, Moon, and Earth.The maximum duration of a total solar eclipse is approximately seven minutes, as the area covered by the Moon’s shadow on Earth is relatively small. As an observer moves from the umbra to the penumbra, the percentage of the Sun's disk covered by the Moon decreases, resulting in a partial rather than a total eclipse.The degree of coverage in a partial eclipse also depends on the observer's geographic location.This eclipse will not be visible from Azerbaijan. The next eclipse will be a total lunar eclipse on March 3. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265701.html Politics Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:10:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China, AzerNEWS reports."Dear Mr. President,It is on the occasion of the upcoming Spring Festival, that on my behalf and behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I have the pleasure of sincerely congratulating you, and through you, the friendly people of China.This ancient holiday, a symbol of peace and harmony and a representation of renewal, hope, and gratefulness to nature, in its essence celebrates mutual understanding, friendship, and unity. I wish that the Chunjie, marking the arrival of the New Year according to the Chinese calendar, brings your people a joyful spirit, prosperity, and abundance.We are gratified by the continued deepening and enrichment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and China, built on a solid foundation. Undoubtedly, the intensity of our political dialogue and mutual understanding creates favorable conditions for the further rapid development and strengthening of these relations.I am confident that the traditional friendly relations between Azerbaijan and China, as well as our fruitful cooperation, will continue to expand through our joint efforts in line with the interests of our peoples, while our strategic partnership is further strengthened.On the occasion of this holiday, I would like to once again extend to you my warmest congratulations, wishing you robust health, happiness, and success in important state duties, and everlasting peace and prosperity to the friendly people of China," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265700.html World news Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:02:00 +0400 Nazrin AbdulThe “Balak?n” vessel-ferry operated by Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Company (ASCO), part of AZCON Holding, has successfully completed scheduled repairs and returned to service.As reported by AzerNEWS, citing ASCO, the overhaul was carried out at the Z?? Ship Repair and Construction Yard.The repair works included hull welding, pipeline installation, and electrical upgrades. The vessel’s steam boiler and watertight doors were renewed, while both the mechanical and electrical components of the deck cranes were serviced. Crew living quarters and service rooms were also refurbished.In addition, the above-water section of the ferry and the rail wagon deck were thoroughly cleaned and coated with a double layer of paint to enhance durability and protection.Following the completion of repairs, the “Balak?n” ferry embarked on its first voyage to Kazakhstan’s Kurik Port.The vessel is 154.8 meters long and 17.5 meters wide, with a maximum speed of 12.5 knots and a deadweight capacity of 5,400 tons. http://www.today.az/news/sports/265699.html Sports Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:43:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaInternational referee Eldar Zulfugarov has received a new appointment from the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), AzerNEWS reports citing the Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation.He will serve as the first referee in today's CEV Women's Champions League play-off match in Greece between Olympiacos S.F.P. and Italy's Numia Milano.The second referee for the match will be Hungarian official Agnes Batkai-Katona.The Azerbaijan Volleyball Federation (AVF) is the governing body of volleyball and beach volleyball in Azerbaijan.The federation was founded in 1991 and became a member of the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) and the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) in 1992.The main goals of the AVF are to promote volleyball across the country, support youth and grassroots development, improve coaching and officiating standards, and achieve consistent success at the international level.The federation works closely with clubs, schools, and regional organisations to expand participation and raise the overall quality of the sport. http://www.today.az/news/society/265698.html Society Tue, 17 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovIn line with the directive of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan continues to implement the Great Return program to the territories liberated from occupation, with another group of former internally displaced persons resettled in the city of Aghdam.AzerNEWS reports that in the latest phase, 120 families — a total of 419 people — have relocated to Aghdam. For decades, these families had lived in temporary accommodation across the country, primarily in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings. Their return marks another step in the government’s large-scale reconstruction and repopulation campaign aimed at restoring life to districts heavily damaged during the years of occupation.For many, the move is more than a change of address — it is the fulfillment of a long-awaited promise.“We are three sisters. I was 23 when we were forced to leave Aghdam and became internally displaced,” Fazila Novruzova told journalists. “For the past 33 years, we have lived in Baku’s Sabail district. Now, with immense joy and pride, we are returning to our homeland — to Aghdam.”Novruzova expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported displaced families throughout the years, particularly President Ilham Aliyev. “We thank everyone who stood by us in difficult times and extended their support,” she said, adding that her plan is to begin a new chapter of life in her native city and contribute to its revival.Another returnee, Vazir Aliyev, described the day as historic. “This is a very significant day for us. We are returning to our hometown of Aghdam. The city is once again welcoming its residents, and we greet this moment with great joy and pride. We have waited for this day for years,” he sid.Aliyev emphasized that the relocation is not simply a resettlement but a true homecoming. “We hope that life will return to all our liberated villages and cities. Our children grew up without seeing these lands. Now they will come to know their homeland and build their future here.”Ceyran Huseynova, another former displaced resident, said the day was unforgettable. “I thank God for this day. May God protect our President, grant mercy to our martyrs, and health to our veterans,” she said.Recalling the painful memories of leaving Aghdam decades ago, Huseynova admitted that emotions were overwhelming. “When we left our homeland, we believed we would one day return. Today, that dream has become reality. My child was born in Baku and grew up without seeing her native land. Now we are returning home together.”The returnees paid tribute to the servicemen who lost their lives during the conflict, noting that their sacrifice made the present moment possible. Officials describe the resettlement of Aghdam as both a humanitarian priority and a strategic milestone in post-conflict recovery.Once reduced to ruins, Aghdam is now undergoing rapid reconstruction, with new residential complexes, infrastructure, and public facilities rising across the city. Authorities say further waves of relocation are planned in the coming months as the Great Return gathers pace. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265697.html World news Tue, 17 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaThe U.S. Department of War is preparing to test a mobile nuclear reactor designed for military applications, AzerNEWS reports.The project is being developed in partnership with the United States Department of Energy, combining defense and civilian nuclear expertise.According to official plans, on February 15, 2026, a next-generation nuclear reactor will be transported by a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III from March Air Reserve Base in California to Hill Air Force Base. From there, it will be moved to the San Rafael Energy Research Center for a series of tests and technical evaluations.The mobile reactor is part of a broader effort to develop small modular reactors (SMRs) capable of providing reliable, carbon-free power in remote or strategically sensitive locations. Unlike traditional large nuclear plants, SMRs are compact, easier to transport, and designed with enhanced safety systems. For the military, such reactors could power remote bases, radar installations, or emergency operations without relying on vulnerable fuel supply chains.Earlier, U.S. Vice President J. D. Vance announced that Washington plans to supply small modular reactors to Armenia as part of a bilateral agreement on cooperation in the field of peaceful nuclear energy. The initiative is expected to support Armenia’s energy security and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.Experts note that while mobile nuclear technology offers strategic and environmental advantages, it also raises questions about safety, security, and non-proliferation. If successful, however, the project could mark a significant step toward more flexible and resilient energy systems — both for defense purposes and for civilian use in the future. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265696.html World news Tue, 17 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaAn exoplanetary system located about 116 light-years from Earth may be reshaping scientists’ understanding of how planets form. It was discovered using data from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) and the European Space Agency’s CHaracterising ExOPlanet Satellite (Cheops), AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media.Four planets orbit the red dwarf star LHS 1903 — the most common type of star in the universe. What makes this system unusual is the order of its planets. The innermost planet is rocky, the next two are gas-rich, and the outermost planet is rocky again.This configuration challenges the standard model of planetary formation, which we observe in our own solar system: rocky planets form close to the star, while gas giants form farther away. The prevailing theory explains this pattern through the structure of the protoplanetary disk. Near the young star, temperatures are extremely high, allowing only heat-resistant materials like iron and silicates to condense into solid bodies — forming rocky planets.Farther out, beyond the so-called “snow line,” temperatures are low enough for water and other volatile compounds to freeze into ice. These icy materials help planetary cores grow rapidly. Once a core reaches roughly 10 times Earth’s mass, it can gravitationally capture large amounts of hydrogen and helium, leading to the formation of a gas giant.However, in this system the outermost planet, LHS 1903 e, defies that expectation. With a radius about 1.7 times that of Earth, it is classified as a “super-Earth” and appears to have a rocky composition despite its distant orbit.Researchers suggest that the planets may have formed sequentially from the inside outward. In this “gas-depleted” formation scenario, the outermost planet formed millions of years after the inner ones. By that time, much of the gas in the protoplanetary disk had already dissipated, preventing it from growing into a gas giant.What makes this discovery particularly intriguing is that red dwarfs like LHS 1903 are the most abundant stars in our galaxy. If similar “inside-out” formation processes occur elsewhere, planetary systems may be far more diverse than previously thought.The system also presents exciting opportunities for future study. Observations with the James Webb Space Telescope could analyze the atmosphere of LHS 1903 e, if it has one. Because the planet may be relatively cool, water vapor — or even clouds — could potentially exist there, offering valuable clues about its composition and evolution.Ultimately, this discovery serves as a reminder that planet formation is more complex than simple textbook models suggest. Each new system we uncover expands our understanding of how worlds are built — and sometimes forces us to rethink the rules entirely. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265695.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 21:23:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaAccess to social media for people under the age of 16 could be banned in the UK as early as 2026, AzerNEWS reports.According to government sources, the ban may come into effect this summer, following the completion of consultations on the matter. The restrictions would cover not only traditional social networks but also AI-powered chatbots. Additionally, online platforms could be required to enforce limits on the amount of time children spend on endless-scrolling apps, aiming to curb digital overuse.On the evening of February 15, the Cabinet of Ministers announced that urgent legislative work would begin on February 16 to amend the Law on Internet Security. According to a statement from the office of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, “the government will swiftly close legal loopholes and ensure all AI chatbot providers comply with their obligations to combat illegal content” under the law.Starmer highlighted London’s actions regarding the Grok chatbot, developed by American billionaire Elon Musk’s xAI company. The government stated that these efforts “have sent a clear signal that no platform will have a free pass.” In excerpts from a speech scheduled for Monday, Starmer added, “Today we are closing the loopholes that threaten children and laying the groundwork for future protections. We are acting to safeguard children’s well-being and help parents navigate the digital minefield of social media.”As reported by The Times, the prime minister plans to use so-called “Henry VIII powers” to accelerate the process. Named after the English monarch who reigned from 1509 to 1547 and could change laws via royal decree, these powers allow the government to amend regulations through by-laws without full parliamentary approval.“These powers enable us to respond to research findings and technological developments within months, rather than waiting years for new legislation to pass through Parliament,” the government stated. Experts warn that while this approach allows for rapid action, it also concentrates significant power in the executive branch, raising questions about oversight and transparency.The proposed measures have sparked debate among parents, educators, and tech companies. While some welcome stronger protections for children, others worry that an outright ban may limit young people’s ability to develop digital literacy skills in an increasingly connected world. Social media platforms, meanwhile, may face new technical and legal challenges as they adapt to stricter rules and time limits for minors.The UK could become one of the first countries to impose such sweeping restrictions, potentially setting a precedent for how governments balance child safety and digital freedom in the age of AI. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265694.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 20:21:00 +0400 By Alimat AliyevaAstronomers have uncovered a planetary system that challenges conventional theories of planet formation. The system likely includes a rocky planet that formed beyond the orbits of its gaseous neighbors, after most of the material needed for planet formation had already been used, AzerNEWS reports.The system, observed with the European Space Agency's CHEOPS Space Telescope, consists of two rocky planets and two gaseous planets orbiting a relatively small and dim star known as a "red dwarf." This star, called LHS 1903, is located about 117 light-years away in the direction of the constellation Leo. For reference, a light-year is the distance light travels in a year—roughly 9.5 trillion kilometers.LHS 1903 has about half the mass of our Sun and emits only about 5% of the Sun’s brightness.What fascinates scientists is the unusual arrangement of the planets. The planet closest to the star is rocky, followed by two gaseous planets further out. “Traditional models suggest that planets near a star should be small rocky worlds with little or no gas,” explained Thomas Wilson, an astronomer at the University of Warwick in England and lead author of the study published in Science.He added, “This is because the inner regions of a planetary system are usually too hot for gas or ice to remain. Any primordial atmosphere would be stripped away by stellar radiation. Conversely, planets forming farther from the star in colder regions typically accumulate large gaseous envelopes. This system defies that expectation, presenting a rocky planet beyond its gas-rich neighbors—a configuration we have not seen before.”In our Solar System, the inner planets—Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars—are rocky, while the outer planets are gaseous giants. Dwarf planets like Pluto, orbiting beyond the gas giants, are small and icy.Since the 1990s, astronomers have discovered more than 6,100 exoplanets orbiting stars beyond our Solar System. Remarkably, all four planets in this newly discovered system orbit closer to LHS 1903 than Mercury does to the Sun. The outermost planet lies at only about 40% of Mercury’s distance from our Sun, a configuration common around red dwarfs, which tend to have smaller masses than the Sun.The two rocky planets are classified as super-Earths—rocky worlds roughly ten times the mass of Earth. The two gaseous planets are mini-Neptunes, smaller than Neptune but still larger than Earth.Researchers suggest the planets may have formed sequentially rather than simultaneously in a large disk of gas and dust around their star. “Did the fourth planet form after the gas ran out, or was it the remnant of a collision that stripped away its atmosphere? The latter scenario might seem unlikely until you consider that the Earth-Moon system formed from just such a giant impact,” said Andrew Cameron, an astronomer at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and co-author of the study.Intriguingly, the fourth planet might even be potentially habitable. It has a mass 5.8 times that of Earth, with an average surface temperature of about 60°C—similar to the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth, 57°C. “While extreme by Earth standards, this temperature does not rule out habitability. Future observations with the James Webb Space Telescope could reveal more about its atmosphere and surface conditions, providing insights into whether life could exist there,” Wilson said.This system not only challenges our understanding of planet formation but also offers a unique opportunity to study planets in configurations previously thought impossible, hinting that our Solar System may not be as typical as once believed. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265693.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 18:40:00 +0400 U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Monday that reaching a new agreement with Iran will be challenging, citing deep ideological differences between Washington and Tehran, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media.“Look, doing a deal with Iran is not easy,” Rubio told reporters during a joint press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in Budapest. He argued that Iran’s leadership makes decisions based on religious doctrine rather than political pragmatism.“Iran’s policies are driven by radical Shia clerics who make decisions on the basis of pure theology,” Rubio said. “That makes it difficult to negotiate.”Despite the obstacles, Rubio confirmed that U.S. negotiators are already en route to the talks. He declined to predict the outcome but struck a cautiously optimistic tone. “We’ll see what happens,” he said. “We’re hopeful there’s a deal.”The remarks come amid renewed efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to intensify economic pressure on Tehran in a bid to push it toward accepting stricter limits on its nuclear program.Earlier Monday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi signaled resistance to mounting pressure, warning that Tehran would not accept what he described as “submission before threats.”The exchange underscores the fragile state of diplomacy between the United States and Iran, with both sides projecting firm public positions even as negotiations loom. http://www.today.az/news/society/265692.html Society Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:57:00 +0400 Nazrin AbdulAzerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have significant potential to strengthen their business relations, AzerNEWS reports.This was stated by Yusif Abdullayev, Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Agency (AZPROMO), during the Azerbaijan-UAE Food and Agriculture Business Roundtable held today in Baku.“Such events play a crucial role in promoting the country internationally. Today’s meeting is of particular importance to us, and we are very pleased to host it,” Abdullayev said.He noted that the Azerbaijani side welcomed Her Excellency the Minister of the UAE and her delegation. “The visiting delegation is sizable, with 25 representatives from the UAE, including numerous companies, while 16 Azerbaijani firms and more than 20 representatives overall are participating,” he added.Abdullayev highlighted that B2B meetings began at 9:30 a.m. today, providing companies with an excellent opportunity to establish direct communication, get to know each other better, and explore potential cooperation opportunities. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265691.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:42:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzA suspicious envelope arrived at Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office on Monday, Israeli news sources confirmed, AzerNEWS reports.The envelope was examined by Israel Police forensic laboratory personnel on location, who eliminated the possibility of an explosive. It was then sent to a biological laboratory in Ness Ziona."Suspicious signs arose during tests of an envelope that was received," the Security and Emergency Division in the Prime Minister's Office stated. "It has been taken care of according to protocol, which has now concluded. It does not represent a danger to any of the workers."An unnamed source involved in the events told Maariv that within the envelope were ampoules containing an unknown substance.Envelope sent to Prime Minister found to be harmlessOther suspicious envelopes have been sent to the Prime Minister before.In November 2025, an envelope was found outside Netanyahu's office. Paramedics and additional forces on the scene ruled out the suspicion that it contained a dangerous substance. http://www.today.az/news/society/265690.html Society Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:36:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzThe open court hearing on the criminal case against Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan will continue on February 17, according to the Baku Military Court, AzerNEWS reports.The court noted that during the previous hearing held on February 10, the judicial examination was completed and the panel of judges moved to deliberations. The upcoming session will mark the continuation of proceedings in the high-profile case.Ruben Vardanyan is charged under multiple articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other grave offenses. The charges encompass allegations related to planning and waging a war of aggression, deportation and forced transfer of population, persecution, enforced disappearance, torture, mercenary activity, violations of international humanitarian law, intentional and attempted murder, illegal entrepreneurship, creation of criminal and armed groups not ??????????????? by law, acts threatening aviation safety, forcible seizure of power, and illegal crossing of Azerbaijan’s state border.The proceedings are being conducted in an open format at the Baku Military Court, with the case drawing close public and international attention due to the scope and gravity of the charges involved. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265689.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:19:00 +0400 Nazrin AbdulA nationwide state of disaster has been declared in South Africa following the rapid spread of foot-and-mouth disease, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media reports.Elias Sithole, head of South Africa's National Disaster Management Centre, stated that infections detected across several provinces have escalated into a national-level threat.President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that the government plans to vaccinate approximately 14 million cattle over the next 12 months in an effort to contain the outbreak. Authorities warn that the disease poses a serious risk to the livestock industry, food security, and the country’s export markets.It should be noted that foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. The foot-and-mouth disease virus causes it and spreads quickly through direct contact, contaminated equipment, and even air over short distances.Infected animals develop fever, mouth and hoof blisters, drooling, and lameness. While adult animals often recover, the disease can be fatal for young livestock.FMD rarely affects humans, but it poses a serious threat to agriculture, food security, and international trade. The disease is closely monitored worldwide by the World Organisation for Animal Health due to its major economic impact. http://www.today.az/news/society/265688.html Society Mon, 16 Feb 2026 12:07:00 +0400 Applications are now open for participation in the Urban Expo, one of the flagship events of the World Urban Forum’s thirteenth session (WUF13), which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from 17 to 22 May 2026, AzerNEWS reports.Organizers have announced that the deadline for submitting applications to the Urban Expo is 31 March 2026. Applications are accepted online and will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, with early submissions strongly encouraged. Only one application per category may be submitted.Expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors from around the world, the Urban Expo will serve as a high-profile international platform for presenting best practices and innovative solutions in sustainable urban development. The exhibition will cover an area of 35,000 square metres and host a broad range of stakeholders, including national and local governments, regional organizations, UN agencies, academic institutions, international financial institutions, civil society groups, foundations, and private sector representatives.Participants will be able to choose from various exhibition formats, ranging from standard stands to large-scale national and city pavilions. The Urban Expo will focus on key global priorities such as adequate housing, climate resilience, digital innovation, and inclusive urban development, highlighting practical and forward-looking responses to contemporary urban challenges.New initiatives will debut at WUF13, including the Startup Pavilion and the WUF Academy, aimed at fostering innovation, knowledge-sharing, and capacity-building.For registration and further information, applicants may visit the Urban Expo page or contact the team at [email protected] http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/265687.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:58:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaAzerbaijani artist Nigar Narimanbayova has captivated the audiences at the ART CAPITAL 2026 exhibition, held at Grand Palais, one of Europe's and the world's most prestigious art venues, AzerNEWS reports.Her artworks, continuing the creative legacy of her mentor, Vidadi Narimanbayov, were presented at the esteemed Salon des Artistes Français, where only pieces selected by a jury of academicians are exhibited each year.Among the highlights, her artwork "Little Fairy" has drawn particular attention from visitors, showcasing her delicate style and deep engagement with contemporary and traditional influences.For the fifth consecutive year, Nigar Narimanbayova has represented Azerbaijan at this legendary salon, making her the country's only recurring exhibitor.ART CAPITAL is recognised as one of the largest and most influential contemporary art projects in Europe and worldwide, making the artist's repeated participation a notable achievement for Azerbaijani art on the global stage.This year, the fair brought together more than 3,000 artists from around the world.The exhibition featured painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, installation art, and more, creating a rich dialogue between classical forms and cutting?edge contemporary work.Established in 1881, the Salon des Artistes Français is considered the legal heir to the historic Paris Salon, created three centuries ago by French kings and the Académie des Beaux-Arts.Exhibiting in this salon is widely regarded as a mark of prestige and international recognition in the art world. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265686.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:39:00 +0400 Nazrin AbdulThe head of X and founder of xAI, American billionaire Elon Musk, has announced that version 4.20 of the Grok neural network will be released this week, AzerNEWS reports, citing foreign media reports.Musk stated that the update will represent a significant improvement over the current 4.1 version. However, specific details about the changes have not yet been disclosed.Industry observers expect the new release to deliver greater answer accuracy, faster processing speeds, and potentially expanded functionality.Grok is being developed as a competitor to leading large-scale artificial intelligence models and is fully integrated into the X platform. The AI system is distinguished by its built-in “sense of humour” and its direct, real-time access to data from X. Its core capabilities include answering questions, generating code, creating images, and analysing trends.Earlier reports also indicated that SpaceX has integrated a unique modification of Grok—known as “Spok”—developed by xAI into its internal processes. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265685.html Politics Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:13:00 +0400 President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has sent a congratulatory letter to President of the Republic of Lithuania Gitanas Nauseda on the occasion of Lithuania's national holiday, AzerNEWS reports."Dear Mr. President,On the occasion of the national holiday of the Republic of Lithuania, I sincerely congratulate you and your people on my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan.Azerbaijan and Lithuania are united by friendly and cooperative relations. I believe that our joint efforts to further strengthen our bilateral relations, which have good traditions, and to expand our cooperation will continue to contribute to the well-being of our peoples.On this holiday, I wish you robust health, success in your endeavors, and everlasting peace and prosperity to the people of Lithuania," the letter reads. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265683.html Politics Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:11:00 +0400 He presents himself as a blogger, an “independent journalist,” and an “investigator.” However, the figure of Emin Huseynov has long been the subject of debate, and his work continues to raise serious questions among critics.   Some observers point to what they describe as a provocative style, reliance on grant funding, and a level of journalistic responsibility they consider questionable. In their view, the image of an independent expert is at times overshadowed by political bias and self-promotion.   Particular public attention was drawn to the circumstances of his departure abroad via the Swiss embassy, an episode that became widely discussed. For some, this step was seen as an effort to ensure personal safety; for others, it became a subject of criticism and irony.   In any case, his biography and chosen methods remain polarizing, continuing to spark debate and differing interpretations. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/265684.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:03:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaAt the headquarters of the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation, a meeting has been held between the organization's President, Professor Aktoty Raimkulova, and the Director of the ANAS Institute of Folklore, Doctor of Philology Hikmat Guliyev, AzerNEWS reports.The meeting focused on the current state of cooperation between the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation and the Institute of Folklore, the outcomes of joint projects, and prospects for further development. Also participating in the discussions were Chief of Staff of the Foundation, Doctor of History Fakhri Hajiyev, Head of Projects Leyla Hasanova, and Research Specialist Serik Nurmoldaev.During the meeting, special emphasis was placed on the significance of the joint scientific and publishing initiatives carried out in 2025, highlighting their role in advancing scholarly research and promoting cultural heritage.In particular, it was noted that the first volume of the multi-volume, multilingual anthology "Turkic Folklore Heritage" — "Azerbaijani Heroic Epic", prepared in accordance with academic principles and published to a high standard, represents a significant contribution to the study and promotion of the Turkic world's folkloric legacy.The participants also highlighted the international scientific symposium titled "From Ashig Alasgar to Uzeyir Hajibayli: Cultural Codes of the Turkic World", stressing its importance in exploring the shared cultural memory of Turkic peoples and shaping new scholarly approaches.In addition, the sides discussed the ongoing work and upcoming tasks related to the preparation of the second volume of the anthology, "Azerbaijani Love Epics."It was noted that this publication will make an important contribution to presenting the spiritual values, aesthetic worldview, and rich folklore traditions of Turkic peoples on a solid scientific basis.Established in 2012, the Turkic Culture and Heritage Foundation focuses on the preservation of the Turkic heritage in member countries as well as conducting projects in collaboration with partners in third nations.The foundation provides assistance in the protection, study, and promotion of Turkic culture and heritage through supporting and funding various activities, projects, and programs.The organization carries out its activities in cooperation with TURKSOY and the Turkic Academy.The Institute of Folklore of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) was established in 1994 as a continuation of decades-long efforts in Azerbaijan to systematically study and preserve the country's rich oral and intangible heritage. Its roots, however, trace back to earlier research traditions from the Soviet period, when Azerbaijani folklore was documented and studied by scholars at various academic institutions and cultural organizations.The Institute has become the central hub for folklore research in Azerbaijan, combining fieldwork, archival studies, and theoretical analysis. It has played a key role in collecting epic tales, folk songs, proverbs, legends, and customs from all regions of the country, ensuring that these traditions are preserved for future generations.Through its publications, conferences, and symposia, the Institute has established itself as a leading authority in the field, bridging traditional oral heritage with modern scholarly research. http://www.today.az/news/sports/265674.html Sports Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:42:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaOn February 16, the 20th round of the Azerbaijan Premier League will conclude with two final matches, AzerNEWS reports.The first fixture of the day will see Shamakhi host Turan Tovuz at the Shamakhi City Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 14:30.Turan Tovuz currently sit fourth in the standings with 33 points, while Shamakhi occupy eighth place with 23 points.The closing match of the round will take place between Gabala and Sabah at the Gabala City Stadium, starting at 17:00.The Baku-based side Sabah lead the league table with 46 points. Meanwhile, Gabala's "Red-Blacks"find themselves in 10th position with 14 points.In the previous matches of the round, FC Qarabag defeated Imishli 1–0, Zira edged past Karvan-Yevlakh by the same scoreline, Araz-Nakhchivan secured a 1–0 victory over Sumgayit, and Neftchi claimed a 3–1 win against Kapaz.The Azerbaijan Premier League was first organized 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/regions/265662.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:21:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovThe Israeli Air Force has carried out a new airstrike targeting areas in southern Lebanon, AzerNEWS reports.The press service of the Israel Defense Forces confirmed the operation, stating that the strike targeted a member of the Hezbollah in the Hanin area of southern Lebanon. Israeli authorities described the individual as being involved in terrorist activities.Meanwhile, Lebanon’s official news agency, National News Agency, reported that Israeli forces also struck an area near a border checkpoint along the Syrian frontier.According to initial reports, four people were killed in the attack. Further details regarding the identities of the victims and the extent of the damage have not yet been disclosed.Tensions along the Israel–Lebanon border have remained high amid ongoing regional instability, with periodic exchanges raising concerns about broader escalation. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265667.html Politics Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:10:00 +0400 Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev gave a master class for world politicians in terms of iron logic and argumentation. He also puts the dots on the "I" expertly. This is not given to many leaders. In an interview with France 24 TV channel given during the Munich Security Conference, the Azerbaijani President put an end to a number of issues that seemed to be open to certain circles and countries.   Recently, especially on the eve of the visit of US Vice President Jay Dee Vance to the region, there has been a lot of talk about the alleged upcoming changes in the fate of Armenian war criminals who received sentences for their deeds. It seemed to someone that Vance would devote his visit to this issue. The United States will put pressure on Baku and these individuals will be released. How, why, and where did such forecasts come from? Perhaps such expectations were prompted by the recent transfer of four prisoners to Armenia, which some saw not as a one-time step of goodwill, but as the beginning of a process that would result in all the criminals being released.   In the foreign media, these forecasts were viewed with a reasonable degree of confidence. It is no coincidence that the French journalist devoted a significant place to the topic of the liberation of the separatists. But this is even very useful, because it was necessary to close this topic once and for all, and for as wide an audience as possible. There is no doubt that what the President of Azerbaijan said has already spread all over the world. And more importantly, these words were heard by a concerned part of the internal audience, who fell for the demagoguery of the provocateurs.   The Head of State made it very clear that no changes in the fate of war criminals should be expected. Yes, the American side probed the situation, and that's it. "During the meeting with the Vice president, which lasted several hours, among other issues, he raised this issue, and I outlined Azerbaijan's position on this issue, and that was it. We mainly discussed bilateral relations, regional development, TRIPP and the prospects of concluding an official peace with Armenia," President Ilham Aliyev told the French TV channel.   It should be noted that on the eve of Vance's visit, the Armenian opposition, separatists, the Diaspora, the lobby, and various international Christian NGOs bombarded Washington with appeals and tearful requests to put pressure on Baku and rescue the "Christian martyrs." These messages had no effect. On the contrary, in Baku, the Vice President of the United States spoke about the tolerance of Azerbaijan and the peaceful coexistence of different faiths here. In other words, the Armenians who received sentences are not viewed by the American side from a religious perspective, which caused a nervous reaction in certain circles, who, remembering Donald Trump's pre-election statements, expected completely different results.   The sentenced persons committed crimes against Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani people. And it lasted for three decades. The four who were handed over to Armenia in January are ordinary performers. Only one of them was involved in the Khojaly genocide, but this is a sick old man whom the Azerbaijani side allowed to die in his homeland for humanitarian reasons. Those who were given harsh sentences are the leaders, those who made criminal decisions and participated directly in their execution. The blood and tears of thousands of peaceful Azerbaijanis, children and the elderly are on their hands and on their conscience. What kind of pardon can we talk about?   The journalist of the France 24 TV channel believes that pardoning the criminals would be a gesture of goodwill. He is not the first to suggest that Azerbaijan "turn the page." The country, which suffered from the thirty-year occupation, is expected to forget everything, turn over the most difficult pages of its history and archive the case. Isn't there too much expectation from Azerbaijan?   "You know, these people have committed serious crimes against humanity. Imagine the Nuremberg trials after World War II, and two months after all these Nazi leaders are sentenced to death, someone comes and asks for their release... Their crimes were even worse than what the Nazis committed during World War II," President Ilham Aliyev snapped, closing the topic.   The dots above the "i" are placed. Azerbaijan's position is very clear and accessible. I think it was expressed in the same spirit at the meeting with Mr. Vance. Most likely, the American side will no longer return to this. The American-Azerbaijani agenda is extensive and too important for Washington to overshadow it with interference in the affairs of Azerbaijan, which will not remain without consequences.   There is another topic that needed to be clarified for an international audience. And again, it's good that a French journalist picked it up. The Frenchman suggested that Baku "turn the page", if not on the issue of prisoners, then on "compassion for the Armenians who had to leave Karabakh as a result of the last war."   The Azerbaijani President's response should be given in detail here. He said:   "Our position on this issue has been very clear. It has been repeatedly voiced, including published on the website - we have invited all Armenians living in Karabakh to apply for Azerbaijani citizenship or a work permit. We had several rounds of interaction with representatives of Karabakh Armenians, but they chose to leave for Armenia. We have hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis who were deported from the territory of modern Armenia and subjected to ethnic cleansing, but the Armenian government has never put forward any proposals for their return. I think we should consider this issue from the perspective of reciprocity. The right to return is a universal right, and, of course, Azerbaijan will definitely respect this right if we receive an appropriate appeal. But at the same time, considering that we fought with Armenia for 30 years and they occupied our territory for 30 years, we expect a similar attitude towards hundreds of thousands of Azerbaijanis, whom we call Western Azerbaijanis, and giving them the opportunity to return to the territory of present-day Armenia."   If you put the words of the head of state in one sentence, it will sound like this: Armenians will be able to return to Karabakh only when Azerbaijanis will be able to return to Armenia. It's logical and fair. No one is saying that the path to Azerbaijan is closed to Armenians, but international law cannot be interpreted in the interests of one country and ignore another. As the head of state says, this is a two-way road. And foreign "walkers" can only talk about the return of Armenians to Karabakh in conjunction with the return of Azerbaijanis. No changes are expected in this position.   The three hundred thousand Azerbaijanis who were subjected to ethnic cleansing in Armenia in the late 1980s have never been taken into account by international organizations and powers. The complete expulsion of the second largest ethnic group from the Armenian SSR, which historically lived in this territory, has never raised any questions about Yerevan. This was taken for granted as a consequence of the conflict. Some European officials did not even try to hide that for them the return of Armenians and the return of Azerbaijanis are "completely different issues." What they are right about is that there is indeed a big difference between voluntary departure and forced exile.   In Armenia, they are afraid of the return of Azerbaijanis and do not want them, madly, to the point of hysteria. Realizing that in conditions of uncontrollable nationalism this would cause big problems inside the country, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan wisely decided to abandon the demands for the return of Armenians to Karabakh. It is not possible to raise this issue, bypassing the topic of the return of Azerbaijanis. Baku will not make any concessions. To condition the peace process, as demanded by the opposition, on the return of the separatists and the release of the "Christian martyrs" would be a serious mistake that would cost Armenia dearly.   Pashinyan does not want to risk his chance to raise Armenia from its knees. The United States and other partners of Yerevan do not want to risk strategically beneficial relations with Baku. International organizations do not want to risk being drawn into intractable disputes that will drag on for many years. So far, no Western politician has even hinted to the Armenian side about the need for the return of Azerbaijanis. This topic continues to be taboo in the world. Therefore, the issue of the return of Armenians to the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, I think, can be considered closed.    President Ilham Aliyev has also put an end to the "I" in the issue of signing a peace treaty. It can be officially concluded only after Armenia has amended its Constitution. Once this is done, there will be no obstacles to the official signing of a peace treaty, the Azerbaijani leader said in an interview with a French TV channel, adding, however, that "peace has already been achieved for Azerbaijan." The two countries are starting to build relations and learn to live in peace, there are no gunshots on the borders. Nevertheless, the preamble of the Armenian Constitution remains a stumbling block. As long as the basic law of the former occupier contains claims on the territory of Azerbaijan, it is impossible to talk about a lasting and long-term peace. And the President of Azerbaijan wants this peace to be eternal, and therefore Baku does not make any concessions on fundamental issues.   Baku's rigidity and principled approach is a way of salvation for the region. Including for Armenia. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265659.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovExpired and unserviceable ammunition will be destroyed at a military training ground near the settlement of Pir?k??kül and at a training center located in the A?d?r? District, AzerNEWS reports, citing the Defense Ministry.The Ministry noted that the disposal process will take place from February 16 to 20. The operation will involve the destruction of munitions whose service life has expired and which are no longer suitable for use.The Ministry emphasized that the procedure will be carried out in strict compliance with safety regulations. The destruction of the ammunition will occur at the designated military polygon near Pir?k??kül as well as at the training center in the territory of A?d?r? District.Officials also sought to reassure the public, noting that residents in nearby areas may hear explosion sounds during the specified period.“We urge the population not to be alarmed by the sounds of explosions and inform citizens that there is no cause for concern,” the statement said.The Ministry underscored that all necessary safety measures will be observed throughout the process to ensure public security. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265657.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzUnited States President Donald Trump told Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu back in December 2025 that, should talks with Iran fall through, he would support Israel targeting Tehran's ballistic missile program, CBS News reported on Sunday, citing sources, AzerNEWS reports.The two sources detailed that US military and intelligence figures have been having internal talks about the possibility of backing a second round of Israeli attacks against Iran.The focus has been on how Washington could assist in such a mission, including a potential aerial refueling for Israeli jets, as well as the question of ensuring overflight permission for the airspace of other countries in the Middle East. It remains unclear which countries could give such permissions, as Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates all previously said they would forbid the use of their airspace for such purposes.‘Dismantling Iran's nuclear program a must’Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said at a conference on Sunday that any deal with Iranmust include the dismantling of its nuclear infrastructure, noting that he still feels sceptical about the whole situation."All enrichment has to leave Iran. There should be no enrichment capability. Not [just] stopping the enrichment process, but dismantl[ing] the infrastructure that allows you to enrich in the first place," he commented. He further added that the issue of Iran's ballistic missile program also needs to be addressed. "The axis of terror" must be dismantled, Netanyahu insisted.Talking about Hamas, he underscored that its tunnels need to be destroyed. So far, Israel dismantled 150 kilometers of a total of 500 kilometers of these tunnels, Netanyahu noted. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/265654.html Analytics Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:30:00 +0400 Elnur EnverogluEnergy security, sovereignty and strategic trust are drawing President Ilham Aliyev and President Aleksandar Vucic closer than ever. The first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council in Belgrade meant more than diplomatic warmth: it marked a deliberate move to firm up Azerbaijan–Serbia relations in long-term energy investment, political coordination and economic integration. From a planned 500-megawatt gas-fired power plant near Nish to expanded gas exports, renewable energy cooperation and food security agreements, both countries are posing themselves as reliable partners in a volatile European landscape. United by a shared emphasis on statehood, sovereignty and mutual support in international forums, Baku and Belgrade are transforming political goodwill into infrastructure, capital flows and strategic leverage.The inaugural session of the Azerbaijan–Serbia Strategic Partnership Council in Belgrade was carefully organised but strategically serious. Held on Serbia’s Statehood Day, the symbolism was unmistakable. President Aleksandar Vucic framed the meeting as a “turning point”, while President Ilham Aliyev underlined sincerity and continuity. Behind the language of friendship lay a clear political and economic agenda.At its core, this was about energy, sovereignty and trust.The most consequential outcome of the visit was the agreement on the design, construction and operation of a 500-megawatt gas-turbine power plant in Serbia. To be jointly overseen at presidential level, the project represents one of Azerbaijan’s most significant investments in Europe in recent years.For Serbia, the logic is urgent. Vucic repeatedly stressed that Europe is entering what he described as the “era of electricity”. With demand rising, data centres expanding and industrial modernisation under way, Belgrade needs reliable baseload power. The planned plant near Nish would convert Azerbaijani gas into domestically generated electricity, strengthening Serbia’s energy security while reducing exposure to volatility.For Azerbaijan, the project deepens its role as a strategic energy supplier to Europe. Baku has already begun exporting gas to Serbia. Now it is moving further along the value chain: from raw gas supplier to co-investor in electricity generation capacity.President Aliyev highlighted that Azerbaijan’s export potential currently stands at around 2 gigawatts and is expected to grow significantly by 2032 due to major renewable energy projects. Serbia, therefore, is not simply a customer. It is becoming part of Azerbaijan’s broader European energy architecture.The mutual benefit is clear. Serbia secures supply and new capacity. Azerbaijan expands market access and cements its image as a reliable partner at a time when Europe seeks diversification.Beyond economics, the meeting reinforced a shared political narrative. Both leaders emphasised respect for territorial integrity and state sovereignty. Azerbaijan's Aliyev congratulated Serbia on strengthening its statehood; Vucic underlined that Serbia has consistently supported Azerbaijan on difficult issues.This alignment matters. Both countries operate in sensitive geopolitical environments, the Balkans and the South Caucasus, where questions of borders, identity and international recognition remain delicate. The repeated references to mutual support in international organisations were not incidental. They form part of a pragmatic diplomatic understanding.The Strategic Partnership Council institutionalises this alignment. Serbia holds such a format with only a limited number of states. By placing Azerbaijan in this category, Belgrade signals that the relationship is no longer transactional but structural.While energy dominated headlines, the breadth of documents exchanged shows a wider ambition.Agreements were signed on food security, economic cooperation, media and communications, culture, sports and health insurance systems. These may appear secondary, but they serve two important functions.First, they create bureaucratic momentum. By instructing ministries to produce concrete projects before Vucic’s upcoming visit to Azerbaijan, both presidents are demanding implementation, not symbolism.Second, they expand the relationship into people-to-people domains. The launch of direct Belgrade–Baku flights in May is a practical step in this direction. Tourism, business travel and cultural exchange become easier when connectivity improves.Food security cooperation is also strategically relevant. In an era of supply chain disruption, agricultural exchange between two politically aligned partners reduces vulnerability.President Ilham Aliyev made a pointed remark: investment flows only to countries where there is trust and a stable climate. By committing substantial capital to Serbia’s energy infrastructure, Azerbaijan is effectively endorsing Serbia’s economic reforms and investment environment.President Vucic reciprocated with unusually personal praise, repeatedly describing Aliyev as a trusted partner and experienced statesman. The tone reflected not merely diplomacy but political chemistry.This chemistry underpins practical results. Serbia’s trade in services with Azerbaijan has increased dramatically over the past decade. More importantly, the relationship is moving from episodic cooperation to strategic planning.The reference to EXPO 2027 in Belgrade, and Azerbaijan’s confirmed participation, further embeds the partnership in long-term planning cycles.If one looks beyond the ceremony and diplomatic courtesies, the meeting reveals three defining themes at its core.First, energy security is the engine of cooperation. Gas exports, electricity generation and renewable expansion form the backbone.Second, sovereignty is the political glue. Both leaders frame their domestic and foreign policies around strong statehood and mutual respect for territorial integrity.Third, implementation is being prioritised. Presidential oversight of the power plant project and explicit instructions to ministers signal that both sides expect delivery within months, not years.Despite a fragmented European and Eurasian environment, mid-sized states are increasingly building selective, interest-based alliances. Indeed, the Azerbaijan–Serbia Strategic Partnership Council reflects that trend. It is less about grand geopolitical realignment and more about disciplined, sector-by-sector consolidation.For Serbia, the benefit lies in diversified energy sources, foreign investment and reinforced international backing. For Azerbaijan, it lies in deeper European integration, expanded export routes and strengthened diplomatic support.The meeting in Belgrade did not produce dramatic rhetoric. It produced something more durable: infrastructure plans, signed agreements and a framework designed to outlast political cycles.If implemented at the pace both presidents publicly demanded, this partnership could become a model of how two strategically placed states convert political goodwill into tangible power, which is measured not only in megawatts, but in mutual leverage. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265652.html World news Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzU.S. President Donald Trump said the Board of Peace will announce this week that member states have pledged more than $5 billion toward humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Gaza and committed thousands of personnel to an international stabilization force and local police in the territory, AzerNEWS reports.In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the announcement will be made Feb. 19, 2026, at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, where he will be joined by member states of the organization, which he chairs.Trump wrote that member states have pledged more than $5 billion toward Gaza humanitarian and reconstruction efforts and have committed thousands of personnel to an international stabilization force and local police to maintain security and peace for residents of the enclave.He also said Hamas “must uphold its commitment to full and immediate demilitarization.”Trump described the Board of Peace as having “unlimited potential” and said it would prove to be “the most consequential international body in history,” adding that it is his honor to serve as its chairman. http://www.today.az/news/sports/265682.html Sports Sun, 15 Feb 2026 23:25:00 +0400 Italy's Lisa Vittozzi put on a superb display of shooting, hitting all 20 targets to win gold in a thrilling women's 10km biathlon pursuit race at the Winter Games on Sunday, AzerNEWS reports.Norway's Maren Kirkeeide stormed back from two late misses to secure the silver medal ahead of Suvi Minkkinen of Finland, who took bronze.Lisa Vittozzi has become the Olympic champion in the 10 km biathlon race, with Kirkeide finishing second and Minkkinen in third. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265681.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 22:48:00 +0400 The United States Department of Defense announced in a statement on Sunday that overnight, it boarded Veronica III, a crude oil tanker, in the US Indo-Pacific Command, AzerNEWS reports."The vessel tried to defy [US] President [Donald] Trump's quarantine — hoping to slip away. We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down. No other nation has the reach, endurance, or will to do this," the department said.“The vessel tried to defy President Trump’s quarantine —hoping to slip away. We tracked it from the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, closed the distance, and shut it down,” the post continued.Video featured in the post also appeared to show U.S. forces on board the tanker.According to MarineTracker, a ship-tracking website, the Veronica III is a Panamanian crude oil tanker. The website also showed the ship in the middle of the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia, at close to 8 a.m. EST Sunday. The Veronica III has previously been linked to Venezuela, according to The New York Times, which reported last month that it departed from the country’s main oil port.Last week, the U.S. military intercepted a different oil tanker it claimed had been operating despite Trump’s quarantine of sanctioned vessels in the Indian Ocean. The military had also chased after the ship from the Caribbean.The U.S. has also seized multiple oil tankers in the Caribbean in the last few months amid tensions in the region, with American forces also recently capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and Trump pressuring Cuba to make a deal with the U.S.“International waters are not sanctuary. By land, air, or sea, we will find you and deliver justice. The Department of War will deny illicit actors and their proxies freedom of movement in the maritime domain,” the DOD said in their Sunday post. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265680.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 22:19:00 +0400 Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi confirmed for the BBC in an interview published on Sunday that the next round of talks between Tehran and the United States will take place on February 17, AzerNEWS reports.He stated that the ball is now "in America's court to prove that they want to do a deal," further adding that if Washington is sincere, there will be a chance for an agreement.The deputy minister stressed that Iran is ready to make a compromise in order to get the deal done. He mentioned that currently, the negotiations are moving "in a positive direction." Nonetheless, he said that it is too early to make a judgment.On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said President Donald Trump preferred a deal but it was "very hard to do" one with Iran.But in an interview with the BBC in Tehran, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, Iran's deputy foreign minister, said the ball was "in America's court to prove that they want to do a deal", adding: "If they are sincere, I'm sure we will be on the road to an agreement."Trump has threatened strikes against Iran if a deal to curb its nuclear programme cannot be reached, with the US building up its military presence in the region.This followed Iran's violent repression of nationwide anti-government protests last month, which human rights groups say killed many thousands of people.The US and Iran held indirect talks in the Gulf state of Oman earlier in February, and Takht-Ravanchi, who confirmed a second round was set to take place in Geneva on Tuesday, said they had been "more or less in a positive direction but it is too early to judge". Trump has also described those talks as positive.The deputy foreign minister pointed to Tehran's offer to dilute its 60%-enriched uranium as evidence of its willingness to compromise.At near weapons-grade level, it has deepened suspicion that the Islamic Republic is moving towards the development of a nuclear weapon, something it has always denied."We are ready to discuss this and other issues related to our programme if they are ready to talk about sanctions," Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC. He would not confirm whether this meant lifting all or some sanctions.As to whether Iran would agree to ship its stockpile of more than 400kg of highly enriched uranium out of Iran, as it did in the 2015 nuclear deal, Takht-Ravanchi said "it was too early to say what will happen in the course of negotiations".Russia, which accepted 11,000kg of uranium enriched to a low level as part of the 2015 multilateral accord that Trump pulled out of three years later, has offered to accept this material again.Other proposals previously reported in the media include an offer from Tehran to temporarily suspend nuclear enrichment.One of Iran's main demands has been that talks should focus only on the nuclear file, and Takht-Ravanchi said: "Our understanding is that they have come to the conclusion that if you want to have a deal you have to focus on the nuclear issue."If confirmed, this would represent a key step forward for Iran. It has viewed Washington's maximalist demands for zero enrichment as an obstacle to any deal.Iran regards that as a red line, a violation of its rights under the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.Takht-Ravanchi told the BBC the "issue of zero enrichment is not an issue anymore and as far as Iran is concerned, it is not on the table anymore". This contradicts comments made by Trump to reporters as recently as Friday that "we don't want any enrichment".Iran's negotiator also reiterated Tehran's refusal to discuss its ballistic missile programme with American negotiators – which has been a key demand of Israel, a country targeted by these rockets. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265679.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 21:53:00 +0400 Russia will not end the militarisation of its economy after fighting in Ukraine ends, the head of Latvia’s intelligence agency told AFP on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference which ends Sunday, AzerNEWS reports.“The potential aggressiveness of Russia when the Ukraine war stops will depend of many factors: How the war ends, if it’s frozen or not, and if the sanctions remain,” Egils Zviedris, director of the Latvian intelligence service SAB, told AFP.Some observers believe that Russia has so thoroughly embraced a war economy and full military mobilisation that it will be difficult for it to reverse course, and that this could push Moscow to launch further offensives against European territories.Zviedris said that lifting current sanctions “would allow Russia to develop its military capacities” more quickly.He acknowledged that Russia has drawn up military plans to potentially attack Latvia and its Baltic neighbours, but also said that “Russia does not pose a military threat to Latvia at the moment”.“The fact that Russia has made plans to invade the Baltics, as they have plans for many things, does not mean Russia is going to attack,” Zviedris told AFP.However, the country is subject to other types of threats from Moscow, particularly cyber attacks, according to the agency he leads.The SAB recently wrote in its 2025 annual report that Russia poses the main cyber threat to Latvia, because of broader strategic goals as well as Latvia’s staunch support of Ukraine.The threat has “considerably increased” since Moscow’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, it said.The agency has also warned that Russia is seeking to exploit alleged grievances of Russian-speaking minorities in the Baltics -- and in Latvia in particular.Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has repeatedly claimed to be preparing cases against Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia at the UN International Court of Justice over the rights of their Russian-speaking minorities.“The aim of litigation: to discredit Latvia on an international level and ensure long-term international pressure on Latvia to change its policy towards Russia and the Russian-speaking population,” the report said.In 2025, approximately 23 percent of Latvia’s 1.8 million residents identified as being of Russian ethnicity, according to the national statistics office.Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Latvian authorities decided to require Russian speakers residing in the country to take an exam to assess their knowledge of the Latvian language -- with those failing at potential risk of deportation. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265678.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 21:21:00 +0400 In his last annual assessment before elections, the Hungarian prime minister promised to take action against 'Brussels agents.' He praised his party's achievements and accused his political opponents of wanting to be the viceroy not only of Brussels but of multinational corporations, AzerNEWS reports."The 21st century will be the century of humiliation for Europe," the Hungarian Prime Minister began his traditional annual assessment speech at Várkert Bazár, after his introduction. Orbán said that, for the first time since the invention of the steam engine, Europe is not part of the world's transformation, but he believes Hungary has a chance to come out of it well."They have done 'half a job' in ousting Brussels agents"Referring back to his speech last year in which he predicted that the Hungarian government, as an ally of Donald Trump, would be on the "main street of history" while their political opponents "wander down muddy side streets," Orbán said all that had come true.He argued that the US president had carried out a revolution against the former liberal elites, and that Hungary had joined him and that this is why he had said a year earlier they would oust from Hungary those NGOs, opposition newspapers and judges who had been labelled "bugged" by Orbán, and who had been classified as foreign agents by the government."That was the plan, but I have to admit that we have only done half the job: the Brussels repressive machine is still at work in Hungary, and we will clean it up after the April elections. Disguised civil organisations, bought journalists, judges, politicians, algorithms, bureaucrats, rolling Euro-millions - that's what Brussels means here in Hungary today."He did not mention from his last year's speech that he promised an economic recovery and significant growth, the so-called "flight to recovery", which turned out to be 0.3% growth in 2025, or that after promising to ban 'Pride Day', hundreds of thousands of people turned up and celebrated in Budapest, despite the ban.However, Orbán highlighted welfare measures introduced immediately before the 2026 elections and those promised for later. He said the source for these measures will be a system of special taxes on big business.Orbán introduced the phrase 'Putining'"We must come to terms with the idea that those who love freedom should fear Brussels and not the East, and cast their anxious eyes on Brussels," the Hungarian prime minister underlined."Putining is primitive and frivolous," Orbán said, by which he portrays the Western practice of framing Russia and Putin as a threat. "Brussels is a tangible reality and a direct threat," he added.The Hungarian prime minister deduced this from a US report stating that the European Commission had put pressure on social media providers to "censor" content, including during European Parliament elections, in Romania and Moldova.Orbán said that America's friendship should be appreciated because, in his view, the United States is currently exposing the European Commission's "censorship".The adversary has been bought not only by Brussels but also by global big businessThe prime minister said Hungarian domestic rivals are puppets, but not only in Brussels' hands.After the Tisza Party presented several of its leading experts who could play an important role in a possible Tisza government, Viktor Orbán also referred to their former employers in his speech."One of the main winners of the war is Shell", Orbán referred to the former job of István Kapitány, Tisza's candidate for economic leader. According to him, Shell made tens of billions of dollars from the war, and their aim is to cut Hungary off from Russian oil.In fact, a sanctions regime of this kind was introduced by Donald Trump's administration, and Hungary was given a one-year reprieve. Moreover, the two biggest winners in the Russia-Ukraine war are the Hungarian national oil company MOL, which has made significant profits from buying cheap Russian oil, as it is exempt from European and US sanctions for the time being.The Hungarian prime minister also mentioned ERSTE Bank, where another Tisza economist, András Kármán, had worked. According to the prime minister, ERSTE wants to plant its agent in the Tisza government in order to get the special banking taxes out. Kármán was state secretary in the second Orbán government between 2010-14.Europe is going to engage in war, Orbán claims"Europe has decided to go to war by 2030. This will be the last election before war," the Hungarian prime minister said. "Brussels has decided to defeat the Russians in Ukraine, and outside Hungary, war is being prepared everywhere in Europe."Orbán also said that Europe is arming itself and sending instructions to the population on what to do in the event of war, while sending Ukraine a lot of money on credit."Ukraine is just swallowing money," the Hungarian prime minister said. "No one can answer the question of how to defeat a nuclear power without using its nuclear weapons."Orbán stressed that Hungary would not send money or weapons to Ukraine, and that Hungarian young people would not be taken to Ukraine, although NATO's charter does not require member states to use military force in the event of a conflict. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/265677.html Analytics Sun, 15 Feb 2026 20:50:00 +0400 Efforts to reopen the Alican–Margara border crossing between Türkiye and Armenia have accelerated, signaling a potentially significant shift in regional dynamics.According to reports by Turkish media, I?d?r Governor F?rat Ta?olar has personally inspected the ongoing reconstruction and modernization works at the Alican checkpoint, with technical preparations expected to be completed in the near term.The momentum around the Alican–Margara crossing also coincides with the construction of the Kars–I?d?r–Aral?k–Dilucu railway, a project designed to establish a direct land connection between Türkiye and Azerbaijan via Nakhchivan. Stretching 224 kilometres, the line is planned to carry 5.5 million passengers and 15 million tonnes of cargo annually, a capacity that would significantly strengthen regional transport and logistics networks and reinforce long-term connectivity across the South Caucasus.While no official opening date has been announced, Ankara has repeatedly stated that once technical work is finalized and political conditions align, the process is ready to move forward. But what would reopening this border really mean, for Türkiye-Armenia relations, for regional connectivity, and for the broader South Caucasus?To explore these questions in greater depth, AzerNEWS spoke with Dr Kerem Karabulut, an economic expert at Atatürk University, who offered a comprehensive and nuanced assessment of the evolving dynamics.Responding to a question on the potential impact of reopening the Alican–Margara border crossing on Türkiye–Armenia relations, Dr Karabulut began by situating the issue within its broader historical and political context:“After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, despite Türkiye’s goodwill efforts, Armenia’s aggressive policies against Azerbaijan—including the occupation of Karabakh, the seizure of roughly twenty percent of Azerbaijani territories, and the Khojaly massacre in which six hundred thirteen women, children, and elderly civilians were killed—led Türkiye to close its borders.”He stresses that the closure was not only about solidarity with Azerbaijan:“Armenia also raised territorial claims against Türkiye, made genocide allegations, and demanded compensation. Because of these factors, Türkiye did not develop relations with Armenia and closed its border crossings.”Dr Karabulut also touched on Ankara's potion that has been clear for years, according to him:“Türkiye consistently stated that borders could only be opened if Armenia withdrew from Karabakh and abandoned baseless propaganda against Türkiye and Azerbaijan. Before the Karabakh Victory, opening the border was not rational—it would have caused serious political and economic damage to Türkiye and harmed Türkiye–Azerbaijan relations.”Besides, according to Karabulut, the post-Karabakh Victory environment fundamentally altered this calculation. He argues that the turning point was decisive:“After the Karabakh Victory, the situation changed. Even if Armenia was not fully willing, Azerbaijan—through the strength of its army and state strategy—regained its territories. Türkiye strongly supported Azerbaijan throughout this process.”This victory elevated one issue above all others:“One of the most important outcomes of the Karabakh Victory was the Zangezur Corridor. In my view, it is among the most critical gains of that victory.”Although Armenia formally accepted the corridor under Russian mediation:“Subsequent developments unfortunately slowed the process. However, both Azerbaijan and Türkiye have repeatedly stated that they remain determined.”This determination, he says, directly shaped current policies.However, the Zangezur Corridor is still central to the opening of the Alican–Margara crossing. The expert explains that infrastructure and diplomacy are now moving in parallel:“Azerbaijan has already initiated work on the Zangezur Corridor. Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan has also stated that he wants good relations with Türkiye and Azerbaijan and that Armenia no longer has claims over Karabakh.”Türkiye’s response followed swiftly:“Within this framework, Türkiye began constructing the Kars–I?d?r–Nakhchivan railway. Construction is progressing rapidly.”These developments made reopening border crossings logical:“Under these conditions, opening Armenia’s border gates—both Akyaka in Kars and the Alican crossing in I?d?r—has become a rational option. Türkiye is pursuing this process in coordination with Azerbaijan.”Still, Karabulut underlines a red line:“If any political development emerges that harms Azerbaijan or Türkiye, Türkiye can reverse its stance immediately and keep the borders closed.”Building on his earlier remarks, Dr Karabulut also highlighted the economic opportunities that could emerge from reopening the border, particularly in light of the new transport and connectivity projects currently underway. In his comment, the expert was realistic about market size, but optimistic about long-term effects:“Armenia is not a large market—around two and a half million people, with a territory smaller than Konya. On its own, it is not economically significant.”Yet geography matters:“Because Armenia borders both Türkiye and Azerbaijan, good relations would benefit Armenia most, but they would also add economic vitality to Türkiye’s border regions.”He adds a longer-term vision:“If Armenia avoids repeating historical mistakes, this relationship could evolve into one between friendly states. That would accelerate regional peace, stability, and sustainability.”Again, the corridor remains key:“The opening of the Zangezur Corridor should be seen as the linchpin. Once it opens, Türkiye will act much faster and more decisively in opening border gates. Most likely, the borders will open immediately afterward.”As the discussion turned to the Zangezur Corridor, attention shifted to the wider regional and geopolitical complexities, particularly the role of Iran in shaping this emerging framework of connectivity.Karabulut introduced a broader regional perspective:“Another critical factor is Iran. Iran was initially slow and not fully constructive regarding Zangezur, which may have contributed to increased American involvement later.”If Tehran adjusts its approach, new possibilities emerge:“In the long term, regional railway networks could be developed. A comprehensive regional development corridor could be established—such as Tabriz–Erzurum–Trabzon railways, or even extending lines from Tabriz eastward toward Pakistan.”Such projects, he argued, would have global implications:“This would create a regional development corridor of rail networks. Regional and global economies would benefit from the resulting stability and connectivity.”In conclusion, the economic expert underscored Azerbaijan’s growing strategic significance amid rising global demand for security, highlighting what this evolving role means not only for the country itself but also for the broader balance of power among regional actors.“This corridor would also guarantee the secure transportation of Azerbaijan’s oil and natural gas to Europe and beyond. Stability here is essential for Azerbaijan’s energy links with Europe.”Even Russia, he noted, would not be excluded:“Russia is a major regional power and would also benefit from political and economic developments in the region.”He concluded with a clear takeaway:“In short, this is not a zero-sum game. There would be many winners, not losers.” http://www.today.az/news/regions/265675.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 20:32:00 +0400 United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated on Sunday that Washington has no intention to leave the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Speaking at a joint press conference with Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, Rubio underlined that the US already has "thousands and thousands of troops" deployed in NATO countries, AzerNEWS reports.He went on to say that Washington isn't threatened to see the alliance grow its own capabilities, "in conjunction with the US," adding that that is a positive thing. Rubio noted that the US doesn't want Europe to be dependent. "The stronger the NATO members, the stronger the alliance.We want the alliance to be so strong that no one will ever challenge it," he underscored. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265673.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 20:11:00 +0400 New sanctions against Moscow could follow from Britain and its allies blaming the Kremlin for poisoning Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has suggested, AzerNEWS reports via British outlet ITV.The UK and its allies on Saturday pinned the blame for Mr Navalny’s death on the Russian state, adding he was likely poisoned using a dart frog toxin.The Foreign Office, and four of the UK’s allies – Sweden, France, Germany and the Netherlands – made the announcement two years on from Mr Navalny’s death in a Siberian penal colony.The Russian embassy in London has denied Moscow was involved in Mr Navalny’s death and described the announcement as “feeble-mindedness of Western fabulists”.Speaking to the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, the Foreign Secretary hit back at the Russians, insisting the accusation was “deeply serious”.She added: “The statement that we made yesterday shows that we have the evidence.”Analysis of samples from Mr Navalny’s body revealed the presence of a toxin called Epibatidine – which is produced by wild dart frogs in South America.The UK and its allies said there was no innocent explanation for it being there, as it is not found in Russia, and is generally only produced by the frogs in the wild.The Foreign Secretary was also asked by the BBC what the consequences for Russia would be following the revelation.The five European nations who called out Russia for using the toxin have already reported the Kremlin to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons after accusing Moscow of breaching its conventions.Ms Cooper suggested further sanctions could follow, telling the BBC: “We continue to look at co-ordinated action, including increasing sanctions on the Russian regime.“As you know, we have been pursuing this as part of our response to the brutal invasion of Ukraine, where we are also coming up to the fourth anniversary of that invasion as well.“We believe that it is the partnerships that we build abroad that make us stronger at home. It is by acting alongside our European allies, alongside allies across the world, that we do maintain that pressure on the Russian regime.”She added: “The other thing that I would say specifically about Alexei Navalny is one of the things he said was ‘tell the truth, spread the truth’, because that is the most dangerous weapon of all.“That was his comment about the Russian regime. He is no longer able to do that, but that is why we are continuing to do that for him, and for his widow as well.”Elsewhere, senior Conservative Dame Priti Patel warned of an “axis of authoritarianism” faced by the UK and other Western nations.The shadow foreign secretary spoke to Sky News’s Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips ahead of making a speech at the Munich Security Conference.She told the broadcaster: “We face major challenges on the axis of authoritarianism – that is Russia, China, North Korea and Iran.”The USA remains a “natural ally” and a “partner” for European powers, Dame Priti added.A statement from the Russian embassy in London has denied all involvement in Mr Navalny’s death.It said: “There is no reason whatsoever to credit such ‘findings’ by Western ‘experts’. As with the Skripal case, there are strident accusations, media hysteria, zero evidence, and a host of questions the accusers would rather ignore. So what was it in the end – poison derived from the skin of a South American frog or Novichok?”The statement added: “We have become accustomed to the feeble-mindedness of Western fabulists. One must ask what kind of person would believe this nonsense about a frog.“Yet what truly shocks is the method now favoured by Western politicians – necro-propaganda. This is not a quest for justice but a mockery of the dead.“Even after the death of the Russian citizen, London and the European capitals cannot allow him to rest in peace – a fact that speaks volumes about those who instigated this campaign.” http://www.today.az/news/society/265672.html Society Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:47:00 +0400 A high-level discussion on the future of global cooperation was held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference as part of MSC 2026, bringing together political leaders, diplomats, and strategic thinkers amid growing geopolitical fragmentation.The roundtable, titled “Multilateralism in a Fractured Global Order,” was organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center and focused on how multilateral institutions can preserve their effectiveness and legitimacy at a time when global consensus is increasingly elusive. Particular attention was paid to possible reforms of the United Nations system as it marks eight decades of existence.According to AzerNEWS, the event gathered around 40 high-level participants from more than 15 countries, including senior UN officials, former heads of state and government, ministers, leaders of regional organizations, and prominent international experts.Among the speakers were Prince Turki Al Faisal, Chairman of the Board of the King Faisal Center for Islamic Studies; former Serbian President Boris Tadi?; former Senegalese President Macky Sall; EU Special Representative for Central Asia Eduards Stiprais; and former Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz.The discussion also featured Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijan’s presidential representative on climate issues and President of COP29, as well as María Fernanda Espinosa and Sodiq Safoyev.During a dedicated lunch session, participants exchanged views on the evolving architecture of global governance. Contributions came from UN Under-Secretary-General Miguel Ángel Moratinos, former Arab League Secretary-General Amr Moussa, former Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni, former Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou, and former UN General Assembly President Miroslav Laj?ák, alongside senior officials from Uzbekistan and the Nizami Ganjavi International Center.The debate highlighted emerging cooperation formats in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, the growing strategic importance of the Trans-Caspian connection, and the role of post-conflict normalization processes. Speakers emphasized that regional initiatives, rather than competing with global institutions, could complement and reinforce multilateral frameworks at a time when the international order is under strain. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265671.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:19:00 +0400 Ukraine’s former Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko was detained Sunday while attempting to cross the country’s border, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) said, AzerNEWS reports.“Today, while crossing the state border, NABU detectives have detained the former Minister of Energy as part of the ‘Midas’ case,” the agency said in a statement, referring to a giant corruption scandal in the country’s energy sector that rocked Ukraine last year.NABU did not name Halushchenko in its statement, but he served as the country’s energy minister and resigned in November.“Initial investigative proceedings are ongoing, carried out in accordance with the requirements of the law and court sanctions. Details to follow,” the NABU added.According to Ukrainska Pravda, Halushchenko was pulled from a train after border authorities acted on requests from NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO).Halushchenko was one of several ministers who resigned in 2025 as NABU unveiled a massive money-laundering scheme, which investigators say was orchestrated by Tymur Mindich, an ally of President Volodymyr Zelensky.Authorities allege the plotters ran a $100-million kickback scheme at Energoatom, siphoning off funds and prompting public outrage amid widespread power outages caused by Russian attacks. Investigators said Halushchenko personally benefited from the scheme. http://www.today.az/news/regions/265670.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:50:00 +0400 British and Canadian nationals will be able to travel to mainland China for up to 30 days without a visa from 17 February, AzerNEWS reports via BBC.China's foreign ministry said visa-free entry would be permitted for tourism, business or visits to family and friends, with the policy set to stay in effect initially until 31 December.It follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's official visit to China last month, where he and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed travel rules would be relaxed.Starmer said the agreement would make it easier for businesses to expand to China, though critics say Downing Street's push to reset relations with Beijing overlooks human rights and national security concerns.Announcing the policy's start date on Sunday, China's foreign ministry said the scheme would "further facilitate people-to-people exchanges between China and other countries".The move brings rules for UK and Canada passport holders into line with 50 other countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Australia and Japan.Hundreds of thousands of British people could potentially benefit from the change, with around 620,000 travelling to China in 2024 according to the Office for National Statistics.During his official visit to China in January, Starmer said British businesses had been "crying out for ways to grow their footprints in China".Xi and Starmer also agreed to deepen trade relations in services, healthcare, green technology and finance - though no sweeping trade free trade agreement was announced.The visit, which was the first by a British prime minister since Theresa May in 2018, was criticised by some opposition figures.Shortly before heading to China, Starmer's government approved plans for a major new Chinese embassy in central London, despite opponents claiming it could be used as a base for spying and pose security risks. http://www.today.az/news/society/265669.html Society Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:18:00 +0400 In line with the training plan for 2026 approved by the Minister of Defense, Colonel General Zakir Hasanov, the military oath-taking ceremonies for new recruits were held across the Azerbaijan Army on February 15, AzerNEWS reports.The oath-taking ceremonies were declared open after the battle flags were brought to the parade grounds in accompaniment of military bands.The ceremonies commenced with a tribute to the National Leader Heydar Aliyev, and Martyrs, who sacrificed their lives for the Motherland. The National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was performed.The new recruits solemnly took the military oath and pledged to be loyal to the Motherland.Representatives of the Ministry of Defense and commanders of military units delivered speeches, congratulating the new soldiers on the occasion of this significant day. They recommended them to remain loyal to the Motherland, the state, and the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, as well as to their military oath, to continuously enhance their combat readiness, to execute the orders and instructions of their commanding officers accurately and in a timely manner, and to be prepared at all times to defend the territorial integrity of the country.Parents of the new soldiers who also addressed the gathering expressed their pride in their sons’ honorable service to the Motherland and conveyed their gratitude to the Head of State, as well as to the leadership of the Ministry of Defense, for the conditions created for the servicemen.The ceremonies ended with servicemen's solemn marches in front of the grandstand. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265668.html Politics Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:08:00 +0400 President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Serbia Aleksandar Vu?i? delivered press statements in Belgrade on February 15, AzerNEWS reports.The President of Serbia made the statement first.Statement by President Aleksandar Vu?i?- Dear President Aliyev, my dear friend,Thank you for this visit. I know how important and busy your work schedule is. So I would kindly ask you to feel at home here.Our Chinese friends say that when it rains like this, it is always a good sign that something big is about to begin. I do hope that, despite the unfavorable weather, we will view this event in the best possible way for ourselves and see what a bright future lies ahead for both Serbia and Azerbaijan. At least when it comes to our bilateral relations.I would like to express my great respect to the people of Azerbaijan and to you personally, dear Mr. President. I would also like to say to the people of Serbia and, of course, to the people of Azerbaijan that every time I talk to you, I learn a lot, I manage to observe many things from a different perspective of an experienced statesman and a true leader. Therefore, I would like to thank you very much for always sharing your knowledge with me and for establishing such relations with us, from which my country, the country I lead, has a lot to learn.President Ilham Aliyev and I spoke about all the important issues in the world and in Europe today. We consulted each other and I learned from him. I understood some processes better, and more deeply than before. We have such relations that whenever a crisis occurs, we are open and talk to each other. Our cooperation is developing in every sphere of life. Compared to 2012, our trade in the field of services is 16 times higher, not 16 percent, but 16 times. Also, thanks to the strategic partnership, we have established new relations with Azerbaijan, the closest possible relations. I believe that this is extremely important for the Republic of Serbia and its people.Our cooperation in various spheres of social life can and should be more important and greater. I do believe that with more work and effort, and indeed with a more diligent approach on our part, we will achieve even better results in the future. So far, we have signed 57 documents, and we can add to this the dozens of other documents we signed today. These documents should serve as a solid foundation for improving our relations in all areas of social life.We have also discussed participation in the investment forum to be held in Azerbaijan in September, and before that, I will visit Azerbaijan. I believe that this is an opportunity for our business circles, bankers and other representatives to visit Azerbaijan, and this will be an opportunity for our country to present EXPO. Because in the run-up to that, there will be a few months left for EXPO. This event is the largest event that will be held in Serbia in 2027, and it is also the most important event for us. We are grateful to Azerbaijan for confirming its participation in EXPO 2027, and I am sure that they will represent their beautiful country in the best possible way here in Belgrade in 2027.At the same time, I would like to draw your attention to some facts. The increase in tourism between the two countries and the opening of a direct flight between Belgrade and Baku by Air Serbia on May 3 will make a special contribution to this. I can personally say to all the people of Serbia that Baku is a beautiful city. They can see a lot of innovations there. The city is located on the shores of the Caspian Sea. It is a clean and tidy city. Whenever I visit Baku, I see new wonders, new and beautiful places that President Ilham Aliyev has built together with the Government of Azerbaijan. There are magnificent museums there. There are boulevards, there are friendly people, security is at the highest possible level. So this is an open invitation to Serbian citizens to visit Azerbaijan. I want to invite the people of Azerbaijan to visit Serbia and love this country. Serbia is among the countries with the highest level of security on the European continent. We have brotherly and friendly relations with the people of Azerbaijan. I think that there are many places in our country you can visit. I mean not only Belgrade but also other cities, mountain resorts, lakes and other places.We talked about economic cooperation and agriculture, as well as the exchange of agricultural products. I really liked when I first tasted tomatoes and cucumbers grown in the settlement of Zira in Azerbaijan, and even before that, when I tasted products from the special region of Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan. I like them very much and I have heard that compared to products from other sources, Azerbaijan supplies them at a significant discount. I wonder if it is possible to provide our people with these products at such a low price? If those sitting in the government have not thought about this, let them think about it. I urge you to solve the issue of providing citizens with quality goods at more affordable prices from our friends in Azerbaijan. At the same time, we should also provide our own goods in this way. So far, this is not happening. I am sure that we can also provide Azerbaijan with many products. However, we have not done this yet and have not approached it carefully enough. This is the attitude. Time passes, but we do not seem to think about anything.One of the most important issues is the fact that we are entering the era of electricity. I asked President Ilham Aliyev to personally participate in this project to help us. If so, we can finish the work faster. People here may think that electricity existed 20 years ago. But back then you bought fuel in containers. Then electricity was supplied for six hours, and then for the next six hours it was provided with interruptions. As for today, there is discipline that has never been seen in our country before. However, the situation may not be the same tomorrow. The era of electricity is beginning, and we need many sources of electricity. We need to produce more electricity. Azerbaijan will have electricity measuring gigawatts. But the question is: will there be the necessary transmission lines for its import? We have reached an agreement with the Azerbaijani side on important issues. Today, the Serbian gas company and SOCAR held talks on this issue and a cooperation agreement was signed. We will try to resolve each issue within two or three months, so that the project documentation can be prepared and construction can begin immediately after that. The construction will take more than two years. We believe that we will open a gas-fired power plant by 2029. Three sites have been selected around the city of Nis. We are talking about clean energy. The European Union also recognizes this. In short, the construction is expected to take place in Tripale, Krusti, or Niška Banja. However, I think Krusti is the most suitable place. The plant will have a power generation capacity of 500 megawatts. President Ilham Aliyev has promised me that he would personally deal with this issue. You may not believe it, but in two years they managed to create a total power generation capacity of 1,890 megawatts.The people of Azerbaijan may not know this, these capacities were created in the shortest possible time. Azerbaijani companies will exercise control here. Serbian companies will join the work. Both sides will work with 50 percent. A 500-megawatt gas-fired power plant will be built. This will be a good example. In the future, we should build more gas-fired power plants. Small modular reactors will be installed. There will be data centers and other issues will be resolved. I have started discussions with the Americans, and it would be good if they, starting from the port of Bar in Montenegro, laid oil and gas pipelines, built data centers, carried out these works from Prijepolje through the Zlatibor mountains to Belgrade. Data centers should be created. If we do not use the capabilities of artificial intelligence, we will lag behind as a country. Elon Musk says that in two months everything will change dramatically. It is just that people do not see and do not know this yet. Therefore, the pace of the work should be accelerated, and we are grateful to our Azerbaijani friends for their support.We have taken up a lot of your time. We have also discussed military and technical cooperation. Cooperation is going well. Consultations are held at the level of our foreign ministries. Agreements and constant support are evident. Even in the most difficult issues, Serbia has been on Azerbaijan's side, and they have supported us as well. This will continue to be the case in the future. We have resolved very difficult issues. We fully believe in President Ilham Aliyev's words. I think that he also treats our country with the same sincere sentiments. We will continue this relationship as it is. Today and tomorrow, there will be an opportunity for additional discussions. Tomorrow, we are expected to have a working breakfast, and I am very pleased that we were able to spend so much time with my friend and a friend of Serbia, President Ilham Aliyev. You see, I am not always satisfied with our flexibility. We must work with more enthusiasm and speed up everything. We have been able to do more work than before and have achieved good results. I want to congratulate every citizen of Serbia on the occasion of Statehood Day. Today Serbia celebrates one of the most important holidays on its calendar. This is a great holiday for us. I am grateful for your congratulations.Dear Mr. President, thank you very much for honoring us with this visit. I do believe that through our joint work we will achieve the best results for the interests of the peoples of Azerbaijan and Serbia. Thank you very much. Long live the Serbian-Azerbaijani friendship!Dear Mr. President, I am grateful to you, welcome to your home.x x xThen, the President of Azerbaijan made the statement.Statement by President Ilham Aliyev- Dear Mr. President, my dear friend,Dear ladies and gentlemen,Mr. President, first of all, I would like to express my gratitude to you for the invitation and hospitality. It is your national holiday today, Statehood Day, and yet, you are welcoming the Azerbaijani delegation. We view this as a manifestation of the high level of our relations. Serbia and Azerbaijan are two friendly countries that always stand by each other.Taking this opportunity, I would like to congratulate you and all the friendly people of Serbia on the occasion of Statehood Day. It is not by chance that this holiday is called as such. I am well aware that the Serbian people have always made great efforts and sacrifices to protect and strengthen their state sovereignty. My dear friend, as the President of Serbia, you have always put statehood and state interests above all else. That is why Serbia is developing successfully under your leadership, and your country has gained tremendous respect internationally. At the same time, major reforms have been carried out in the economic and social spheres. As a result, Serbia, a country without natural resources, has been developing economically with great success, relying on its own strength and without receiving assistance from anywhere. In present-day circumstances, especially for a country located in Europe, this should be viewed as a significant factor. I would like to note the very high leadership qualities of President Vu?i?. As you may know, our contacts have been ongoing for many years. We know each other well, we have sincere conversations, and friendly relations. I know how much President Vu?i? is committed to the Serbian people, state, and public interests, and it is precisely these factors that underpin the success of any country. Of course, as friends of Serbia, we highly appreciate this and are happy about it.My dear friend has touched upon the issues we discussed, so I do not want to repeat them. Indeed, many issues were discussed at the first meeting of the Serbia-Azerbaijan Strategic Council today. Before that, we reviewed a wide range of issues in our one-on-one meeting. We also have clear plans for the future, which consist of further strengthening our relations in the political, economic, and energy sectors, continuing to support each other's territorial integrity and sovereignty on international platforms and within international organizations, implementing joint investment projects, taking advantage of newly created opportunities in the energy and transport sectors, and creating a very strong synergy by looking further ahead.President Vu?i? has already touched upon the future of the power plant to be built jointly. As the President has said, we have decided to keep this issue under the presidents’ oversight. The process of creating this power plant is based on the investment opportunities that exist in Serbia. Because if the investment climate were not positive, Serbia would not be so attractive to foreign investors. It is precisely as a result of the reforms that many countries, including Azerbaijan, are ready to invest substantially in Serbia.The construction and reconstruction of power plants, as well as their rehabilitation, pave the way for the future development of any country. In particular, countries without natural resources often fall into dependence. Therefore, the presence of domestic energy and generation capacities ensures the energy security of each country, and I would like to note the special role of President Vu?i? in the implementation of this project.In general, our relations in the energy sector are now developing in a diversified manner. Some time ago, we started exporting natural gas to Serbia, and today we decided to increase the volume of our exports. Now Serbia will also convert the gas to be exported into electricity, thereby acquiring clean electricity. This will create opportunities for both the Serbian market and for future exports. Today, Azerbaijan's export potential in the energy sector is 2 gigawatts. This figure will only increase because we are now engaged in the construction of many renewable energy plants and are ready to cooperate with Serbia in this area.We will generate an additional 8 gigawatts of energy capacity by 2032, and a large part of it will be exported. To achieve this, we need new and larger transmission capacities because our main export destination is Europe.As for other issues, let me repeat, my friend has already spoken about them. I do not want to take up too much of your time. I believe that the results of my official visit will not be long in coming. We will meet again in the near future. I have invited President Vu?i? and members of the Serbian delegation to Azerbaijan. I am sure that we will meet several times this year – both in Azerbaijan and, perhaps, again in Serbia. Both I and, I am sure, the rest of the Azerbaijani delegation feel absolutely at home here. I have been to Serbia many times and have witnessed first hand the development taking place in Serbia under the leadership of President Vu?i?. Therefore, I would like to once again sincerely congratulate our Serbian friends and join President Vu?i? in his slogan: Long live Serbia! Long live Azerbaijan! Long live Serbian-Azerbaijani friendship! http://www.today.az/news/politics/265666.html Politics Sun, 15 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0400 A ceremony for the exchange of Azerbaijan–Serbia documents was held in Belgrade, with the participation of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Serbia Aleksandar Vu?i?, AzerNEWS reports.Azerbaijan’s Minister of Finance Sahil Babayev and Serbia’s Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management Dragan Glamo?i? exchanged the “Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Serbia on Cooperation in the Field of Food Security.”Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov and Serbia’s Minister of Mining and Energy Dubravka ?edovi? exchanged the “Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Republic of Serbia on the Design, Construction and Operation of a Gas-Turbine Power Plant in the Republic of Serbia.”Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov and Serbia’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Adrijana Mesarovi? exchanged the “Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Serbia.”Azerbaijan’s Minister of Finance Sahil Babayev and Serbia’s Minister of Information and Telecommunications Boris Bratina exchanged the “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Media and Communications between the Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Information and Telecommunications of the Republic of Serbia.”Azerbaijan’s Minister of Culture Adil Karimli and Serbia’s Minister of Culture Nikola Selakovi? exchanged the “Memorandum of Cooperation in the Field of Culture for 2026-2030 between the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Serbia.”Azerbaijan’s Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov and Serbia’s Minister of Sports Zoran Gaji? exchanged the “Memorandum of Understanding in the Field of Sports between the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Sports of the Republic of Serbia.”Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Serbia Kamil Khasiyev and Director of Serbia’s National Health Insurance Fund Sanja Radojevi? exchanged the “Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Health Insurance Systems between the State Agency for Mandatory Health Insurance of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the National Health Insurance Fund of the Republic of Serbia.” http://www.today.az/news/regions/265665.html World news Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:21:00 +0400 The Syrian Arab Army has taken control of the al-Shaddadi military base in Hasakah province, northeastern Syria, following coordination with US officials, the Defense Ministry’s media department announced, AzerNEWS reports.The handover was completed after formal arrangements were made with US authorities.This follows a similar development at the al-Tanf military base in southeastern Syria.On February 12, the Defense Ministry announced that Syrian forces had assumed control of al-Tanf after coordinating with US officials, with army units securing the facility and its surrounding area.The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the withdrawal of US troops from al-Tanf after nearly ten years of presence, while emphasising that US forces remain ready to respond to any ISIS threats and continue supporting partner-led efforts to prevent the group’s resurgence. http://www.today.az/news/politics/265664.html Politics Sun, 15 Feb 2026 17:06:00 +0400 The first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Serbia was held in Belgrade on February 15, with the participation of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of Serbia Aleksandar Vu?i?.First, the President of the Republic of Serbia delivered a speech.Speech by President Aleksandar Vu?i?- Distinguished President and dear friend, Mr. Ilham Aliyev,Distinguished ministers in the Government of Azerbaijan and ministers in the Government of Serbia,Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends,It gives me an honor to open the first session of the Strategic Partnership Council between the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Azerbaijan. The special symbolism of today's meeting and Council session is that it is taking place on the most important day for the Republic of Serbia – national holiday, the Statehood Day – which we celebrate with our closest friends, President Ilham Aliyev, and the guests from Azerbaijan.This session is a turning point in our bilateral relations and a clear proof of the joint political will to put the relations between our two countries at the highest strategic level. Let me remind you that this Council stemmed from the joint vision and the agreement with my dear friend, President Ilham Aliyev. The Republic of Serbia has meetings in such a format with only a few countries.Allow me to particularly underline that the presence of President Aliyev, as well as high-level officials and ministers in both the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Serbia, speaks clearly about the importance that both sides attach to this Council. I am convinced that our work today will be aimed at concrete results, clear arrangements, and a vision of long-term cooperation. I'll make my introductory speech much shorter, and I'm begging at least Serbian ministers to do the same, because we cannot be late with our addresses to journalists. And please be respectful of that. I wanted to add just a few things.Dear friend, Mr. President, and dear friends from Azerbaijan, we are very much determined to develop the very best strategic partnership with our friendly country, Azerbaijan. And we'll devote ourselves to that, which means that we'll work diligently in order to improve our relations in all different fields, in all different spheres. And, as it always goes with friends, we'll face some hurdles, we'll face some issues, but we'll always be able to resolve them. And what will never expire is our desire for friendship, for creating better relationships, and for interconnecting with each other much faster and much stronger.We are going to open a direct flight line very soon between Belgrade and Baku, which will connect us much better than it used to be in the past. At the same time, in all different fields – culture, sports, economy, agriculture, industry, military-technical cooperation – I'm absolutely sure that we'll reach the ceiling of possible relationships between any two countries in the world. I also wanted to add just one more thing. I learned a lot from Ilham Aliyev, my dear friend, not only today, but that’s why I spent more time than expected even today. I always use that opportunity to learn more from him, and I plan to do so in the future as well. I know that he's a very dedicated friend, and I know that we can expect many good things from Azerbaijan. I believe that Azerbaijani people can always expect only good things from Serbia and the Serbian people. And I'm begging you, Serbian ministers, to be as diligent and dedicated as our Azerbaijani counterparts. I wish you good work.I'm going to visit Azerbaijan relatively soon again, and before that, we need to deliver many results. I was discussing, Dubravka in particular, the issue of the gas-fired power plant with President Aliyev. And I was begging the President to participate personally in that issue, because I was saying very honestly what we are able to do and what we are not able to deliver on. I got guarantees from Mr. President that he himself will be very helpful on this. After we finish this pre-feasibility study, we need to speed up all the other procedures and everything else.Dear friends from Azerbaijan, please feel at home here in Serbia. You are very welcome. Dear President, I wish you, your family, your people, and your nation all the best, and hope to host you as often as possible. And it has to be more often. Many thanks, and very welcome to Serbia. Thank you.x x xThen, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan made a speech.Speech by President Ilham Aliyev- Thank you. Dear Mr. President, dear friends. First of all, thank you for the invitation. I am very glad to be back in Serbia, and also grateful to my friend Aleksandar for taking the time for me, not only on Sunday, but also on the day of the national holiday. By the way, congratulations on the Statehood Day.The very fact of that really demonstrates the level of sincerity between us: we don't have any borders, we don't have any time limits, and we don't have any reservations when we talk about our friendship and how to strengthen our cooperation.I had an extensive discussion with my friend, the President. As always, I am very impressed with his vision, knowledge, and expertise about different aspects of today’s geopolitical situation in the Balkans and the Caucasus. The broader region is developing very rapidly, with a lot of unexpected scenarios. So we must be prepared, and we must also be in permanent contact in order to exchange views, exchange information, and share analyses about what is happening in order to achieve our targets to the maximum degree.By the way, today, the Statehood Day is a day when we reflect on statehood. I want to congratulate the Serbian people and the President on their achievements in strengthening Serbian statehood. The country is developing successfully under the leadership of the President, strengthening its statehood and its state institutions. We are very glad to observe this because Azerbaijan and Serbia are very friendly countries. Today’s inaugural meeting of the Strategic Council is also a great illustration of the fact that what has been decided and agreed is being implemented. I am accompanied today by almost half of the members of the government. This in itself demonstrates that there are many things to discuss between members of delegations, between all of us. Prior to the visit of my friend Aleksandar to Azerbaijan, soon this year, we need to already have results from today’s visit. I ask all members of the Azerbaijani delegation to treat this with the maximum level of seriousness, so that, as always, what we agree on, we implement in a relatively short period of time.Aleksandar has already identified the areas of partnership. If we look at the agenda, and also at today’s agenda of our session and the presentations by the corresponding ministers, we see that the agenda is getting broader. We not only work closely on the political track, on the international arena, but we also implement important projects for our economies and industries. President Vu?i? mentioned the construction of the power plant. I think this is an important indicator of how we diversify cooperation in the energy sector. We started with gas cooperation, and now we are moving toward the next stage – how to utilize this gas with maximum efficiency for both of us and convert it into the final product, electric energy. This will be one of the major Azerbaijani investments in Europe in recent years. This is also a demonstration of a high level of mutual trust, because you invest only in a country where you have good relations and trust your partners. You know that stability and development in Serbia under the wise leadership of Aleksandar Vu?i? will be an important factor for a long time. Taking into account that we need to be on time for the press statements, I also want to limit my comments to what I have said and give the opportunity to our teams to make their presentations. Once again, thank you for your hospitality and invitation.x x xDuring the meeting, the co-chairs of the intergovernmental commissions and other relevant ministers presented their reports.Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Serbia in the fields of energy, investments, renewable energy, tourism, agriculture, culture, and other areas was discussed.The heads of state issued instructions to expand collaboration in these sectors and to present specific projects.It was noted with satisfaction that direct Baku–Belgrade flights will commence in May of this year, with hopes that they will further promote humanitarian contacts and tourism between the two countries.Subsequently, Presidents Ilham Aliyev and Aleksandar Vu?i? signed the Decision of the first meeting of the Strategic Partnership Council between the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Azerbaijan.