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/politics/270945.html Politics Wed, 21 Oct 2026 15:15:00 +0400 Holding international events is not an easy task. The most difficult thing is not even the organization, but the ability to create an atmosphere, provide all the nuances and not allow discussions to stray from their agenda.   Two years ago, outside circles tried to take the COP29 climate conference in Baku off the agenda and dilute the climate issue with issues that have nothing to do with it. These attempts were thwarted, and the conference was more than successful and completed its task.   The same thing is observed today in Armenia, where the COP17 Biodiversity conference is taking place. Only in her case, it is not external, but internal destructive forces that are trying to divert an international meeting from the agenda.   During the years of independence of the Republic of Armenia, such large-scale and significant events as COP17 have not been held in the country. Top officials of states, influential people, and heads of international organizations came to Yerevan to discuss the problems of biodiversity and look for ways out. The revanchist opposition tried to take advantage of this, but the authorities blocked its ability to turn a serious event into a farce. COP17 is very important for Armenia's image, as stated by Nikol Pashinyan, so they try to keep this fraternity away.   The opposition is perplexed - how could it not take advantage of such an opportunity to "protect national interests"? According to opposition experts, sovereign states do just that. In their opinion, Pashinyan, instead of strictly censoring the topic of "Artsakh," should have used the presence of UNESCO Director General Khaled El-Enani to talk about the fate of "refugees" and "Armenian heritage." Revanchists believe that COP17 is an "ideal diplomatic springboard" to shout about the alleged destruction of the non-existent "Armenian cultural heritage" in liberated Karabakh. Moreover, Azerbaijan, it turns out, is "destroying" the unique natural environment of Karabakh, while the liberation of the region has just saved its biodiversity from extinction.   As always, the notorious Artak Beglaryan became the mouthpiece of the screamers. Beglaryan was offended. He applied for the opening of the Artsakh pavilion in the green zone of COP17 to talk about its biodiversity, but he was refused. The Government has taken measures to prevent provocations and not spoil the atmosphere. Beglaryan believes that the conference on biodiversity is the right place to talk about "Artsakh" and the "Armenian tragedy," because the issue of the role of indigenous peoples and local communities in preserving biodiversity is on the agenda.   "There have been many appropriate moments, and this case is also a great opportunity not only to raise the issue of cultural heritage, but also to address the issue of indigenous peoples' rights in general. This is a chance," Beglaryan said.   Indeed, one of the key themes of the conference is the expansion of the role of indigenous peoples and local communities (IPLC) in the management of natural territories and the protection of traditional knowledge affecting their lands. But what does this have to do with the Armenians who voluntarily left the Azerbaijani territories? They are not the indigenous people of Karabakh, and this is no secret to anyone. Even for Beglarian.   Discussions on this issue are based around the first global assessment of the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Framework (adopted in 2022), where the rights and contributions of the IPLC are recognized as critical to achieving the goals of preserving 30 percent of land and oceans by 2030 (the "30×30" goal). Within the framework of this program, discussions are taking place around the world around the terminology and status of indigenous peoples and local communities, their access to international funding for environmental programs and the protection of their cultural and natural environment. The conference includes specialized working groups and spaces on article 8 (j) of the Convention on Biological Diversity, which regulates the preservation of traditional knowledge, innovations and practices of indigenous peoples.   It's a wonderful topic. But, again, what does it have to do with the Armenians of Karabakh? We are talking about the traditional knowledge and practices of indigenous peoples, for example, North America or island States. And the Armenian ethnic group is not indigenous not only to Azerbaijan, but also to the South Caucasus as a whole. By saying this, we do not mean any claims. We are simply stating a fact, the distorted understanding of which by our neighbors has been disturbing the region for almost two hundred years. These distortions have led to both bloodshed and damage to the natural environment.   Until October 2023, the Armenian ethnic group had the status of a local community in the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. This community was mono-ethnic, which was the result of the expulsion of the indigenous population. The former Karabagh residents did not have any traditional practices or knowledge about the natural environment of the Karabakh region. Therefore, since the beginning of the 90s, they have been engaged only in destruction, having accumulated considerable experience in this matter. Apparently, Beglaryan had these practices and traditions in mind, claiming that the "Artsakhs" have something to share.   The first Karabakh war and the Armenian occupation led to a large-scale degradation of the ecosystem of this region. The invaders exploited the land uncontrollably and without adhering to any agrarian norms, which led to soil depletion and erosion. The forest fund was particularly affected. In 2014-2018 alone, according to reports by Armenian environmentalists, more than 400,000 cubic meters of forest were cut down in the occupied territories, almost three times more than in the same period in Armenia itself. Before the occupation, the total area of forests in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur was about 220-230 thousand hectares, of which 54 thousand hectares were destroyed. A significant part of the forests of the Terter region were cut down when the invaders decided to build a water channel from the Sarsang reservoir in order to deprive the Azerbaijani regions located downstream of the Terter River of water. The forest fund of Kalbajar, Lachin and Zangilan districts suffered the most. Relict and valuable tree species were cut down: oriental oak, Caucasian hornbeam and unique plane trees. The "indigenous" Armenians had no idea what kind of natural wealth they had seized, they were only interested in the dollars for which they sold precious timber to third countries. They had no practices or traditions in handling and preserving the local natural environment. Before the occupation, these issues were handled by Baku.   Deforestation has affected, among other things, changes in the microclimate and soil conditions. During the years of occupation, the Armenian media reported that there are about 450,000 hectares of agricultural land in Armenia itself, but only half are under cultivation. It was much cheaper and more convenient to drain the arable land resources in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan.   During the conflict, the state reserves and sanctuaries on the lands occupied by Armenia, with a total area of about 43,000 hectares, actually ceased to function as protected areas. Their ecosystems were severely devastated, and valuable tree species were cut down.   More than 110,000 hectares of land were affected by deliberate arson and the use of ammunition. Intensive uncontrolled mining in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur has led to the release of millions of tons of toxic waste and environmental damage. Mining of territories, destruction of habitats and poaching have led to a sharp decline in populations of large mammals (Caucasian brown bear, bezoar goat, roe deer, leopard) and birds in the lands occupied by Armenia.   All this was done by representatives of an ethnic group claiming to be indigenous to this part of the Caucasus.   It is noteworthy that international organizations were aware of all these crimes, but no measures were taken. For example, in October 2004, the OSCE, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) prepared the report "Environment and Security: Transforming Risks into Cooperation using the example of the South Caucasus." According to the report, the occupation posed serious difficulties for the ecology and security of Azerbaijan and caused certain problems, such as the long-term consequences of overgrazing, deforestation, waste accumulation and irrational land use in Nagorno-Karabakh.   In October 2006, a mission to the occupied territories was organized under the auspices of the OSCE to assess the consequences of the fires set by the Armenians, which concluded that the burned-out territories were extensive and their impact on people, the economy and the environment was great. And that's it.   For almost thirty years, the "indigenous" population has been destroying the environment they declared their ancestral homeland. According to preliminary estimates by experts, the damage caused by the Armenian occupation to the environment and natural resources of Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur is estimated at about $265.3 billion.   With the return of the true owners to these lands, the restoration of the natural environment began.   In his address to the participants of the 6th Azerbaijan International Exhibition "Restoration, Reconstruction and Development of Karabakh" - Rebuild Garabagh, President Ilham Aliyev noted that the revival of the region includes the elimination of the environmental consequences of the occupation. According to him, "to date, 600 hectares of forest have been restored. After all, the restoration of forests and aquatic ecosystems, and the use of construction solutions that are resistant to the effects of climate change are of particular importance for the long-term development of the region."   In general, 30,000 hectares of forest are planned to be restored in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur. New forests have been established, and measures have been launched in Agdera, Lachyn, Zangilan and Jabrayil to restore the forest fund on an area of 240 hectares.   On the first anniversary of the Victory, the restoration of the Topkhan forest, which occupies 20 percent of the territory of the Shusha region, was launched. It was a relict forest. Before the Armenian occupation, centuries-old oaks, elms and beech trees grew here, and many species of animals and birds were found. The Armenians began destroying the Shusha forest back in the Soviet period, in November 1988. With the support of the central authorities, a significant area of forest was burned down and cut down as a territory for a branch of an aluminum plant operating in Armenia. It was a deliberate ecocide, an act aimed at destroying the unique natural environment and creating a long-term threat to the ecology of the region.   The "indigenous" people continued to mock the natural environment of Karabakh during the years of occupation. And he did it with great skill and professionalism, showing that he had the skills and practices in such matters.   Maybe Beglaryan wanted to talk about this at COP17? Then it's a pity that he wasn't allowed to open his mouth. http://www.today.az/news/society/270944.html Society Wed, 21 Oct 2026 13:54:00 +0400 On October 21, President of the Republic of North Macedonia Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova called President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev.This was reported by the Press Service of the President of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270941.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 13:00:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesSix vans belonging to the CRS riot police unit were deployed to guard a chocolate shop owned by the family of French First Lady Brigitte Macron in the city of Amiens during unrest, sparking widespread public outrage and criticism, Le Figaro reported.According to the newspaper, the officers were deployed on October 17, at the height of protests that escalated into riots and looting.The Alliance Police Nationale union criticized French President Emmanuel Macron over the deployment."While shops are being looted, police officers are being injured, and there is a shortage of personnel everywhere, half a company is stationed in front of the Trogneux family’s chocolate shop," the union said, questioning whether all French citizens were entitled to equal protection.Nicolas Dupont-Aignan, leader of the France Arise party, also expressed solidarity with those criticizing the decision. According to him, owners of other shops were left defenceless against looters.Mass protests and unrest have been taking place across France since late September 2026. What began with student demonstrations escalated into large-scale rallies involving hundreds of thousands of people on October 17. The protesters are voicing opposition to the rising cost of living, inflation, and austerity policies. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270942.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:47:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesRussian President Vladimir Putin will meet with United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff in St. Petersburg on Wednesday, Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov announced."Yes, Putin will receive Witkoff. At the Constantine Palace. The event is scheduled for this morning," Ushakov told reporters, adding that Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF) CEO and Putin's Special Envoy Kirill Dmitriev will also attend the meeting.The Ukrainian conflict will be the main topic of discussion, Ushakov noted, adding that US President Donald Trump's envoy and son-in-law Jared Kushner may join the meeting remotely.Witkoff arrived in St. Petersburg this morning and is expected to present Putin with an updated peace proposal after talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Oslo the day before. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270943.html Arts & Entertainment Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:26:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesAn international forum titled Belt and Road Museums International Forum, themed "Interactive Museums: Advancing Digital Technology, Education and Community Engagement," has been held in Tbilisi, Georgia.The forum brought together museum professionals, curators, researchers and experts in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage from around the world. It provided a platform for professional dialogue, the exchange of international experience and discussions on contemporary approaches to museum practice amid the rapid development of digital technologies.Shirin Malikova, director of the Azerbaijan National Art Museum, Honored Art Worker, PhD in Art History and associate professor, took part in the forum. Her participation offered an opportunity to present Azerbaijan's museum practices to the international professional community and highlight current directions in the development of modern museums.During the forum, Shirin Malikova delivered a presentation titled "Museums, Artificial Intelligence, and the Changing Authority of Knowledge." She explored how museums interact with emerging technologies and examined the changes artificial intelligence is bringing to the ways knowledge about art and cultural heritage is acquired, interpreted and shared.Particular attention was given to the impact of artificial intelligence and digital tools on museums' educational activities, the wider accessibility of information about artworks, and the role of museums in developing visual literacy. In this context, a museum is viewed not merely as a place for preserving and displaying works of art, but also as an important educational environment that encourages independent observation, understanding and interpretation of artistic imagery.Participants were also introduced to the concept behind the permanent exhibitions at the Azerbaijan National Museum of Art, which reflects the museum's approach to presenting artistic heritage and engaging with visitors. The discussion also addressed the use of digital tools in museum practice to enhance educational activities.The forum marked an important milestone in international professional cooperation, bringing together specialists to discuss contemporary approaches to museum practice and explore how digital technologies can support the preservation, study and promotion of cultural heritage. http://www.today.az/news/sports/270940.html Sports Wed, 21 Oct 2026 11:45:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesAzerbaijan has announced its squad for the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival, which will take place in Baku from October 22 to 30.The national team will open its campaign against Timor-Leste on October 24 at 19:30 at Crystal Hall.The team will play two matches on October 25 at Pitch 10A of the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex, facing Andorra at 12:45 and Australia at 19:30.Azerbaijan will then meet Israel at 11:30 and Haiti at 18:15 on October 26, with both matches scheduled to take place at the same venue.The international tournament is expected to bring together young footballers from around the world, with teams from 189 countries set to participate in nearly 1,000 matches.Goalkeepers Oktay Mehraliyev of Qarabag and Said Bayramov of Neftchi have been included in the squad.Defenders Mahammad Aghamaliyev of Qarabag and Emil Guliyev, Akbar Nagiyev and Kenan Azimov of Neftchi have also been selected.The midfielders are Gafar Babayev and Subhan Alizade of Neftchi, Hasan Mahmadov and Hasan Ramazanov of Sabah, and Asif Allahverdiyev and Mushfig Zamanov of Ulduz Football Academy.The forward line comprises Murad Mammad zade of Sabah and Yusif Alizade of Ulduz Football Academy. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270939.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 11:38:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesUnited States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday that Ukraine would not without military assistance from his country."If there were not for the assistance of the United States, including under the Trump administration, there would be no Ukraine right now. Ukraine as a sovereign state would not exist," Rubio told reporters in India, stressing that Washington has allocated billions of dollars in aid for Kyiv.He also praised Ukrainian soldiers and "their bravery" in fighting against Russia.The day before, Rubio rejected media reports suggesting that the US is delaying the transfer of Patriot interceptor missiles, and emphasized that Washington is trying to find "a balance between commitments to other partners and our own needs." http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270938.html Arts & Entertainment Wed, 21 Oct 2026 11:24:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesThe International Mugham Center has hosted an Azerbaijan-Turkiye concert organized with the support of the Baku Yunus Emre Institute.The concert featured works by Azerbaijani and Turkish composers, including two pieces by Azerbaijani composer Jeyhun Yazlarli, "The Voice of the Flute" and "Pages of Life."One of the highlights was the premiere of two compositions by Azerbaijani composer Jeyhun Yazlarli, "The Voice of the Flute" and "Pages of Life."The concert offered a rich mix of musical styles and moods. Flute, piano, violin and percussion came together in performances that reflected the distinct character of Azerbaijani and Turkish music while revealing the artistic connections between them. The evening was a reminder that music can cross linguistic and cultural boundaries, speaking directly to its listeners.For Yazlarli, the concert was a particularly meaningful occasion, as both of his works were presented to the public for the first time.The programme opened with "The Voice of the Flute," dedicated to Turkish flautist Leyla Bayramogullari. She performed the piece alongside pianist Narmin Iskandarova and percussionist Sema Ganbayeva, bringing out the flute's expressive range through a performance that set the tone for the evening.The programme also featured works by Yalcin Turan, Arif Malikov, Ahmet Sait Karabulut, Jalal Abbasov, Ozgur Gulbey, Fikrat Amirov, Ismail Karcilioglu, Ismail Mirzoyev and S. Ethem. Amirov's "Six Pieces" was among the works that added further variety to the concert, with each composer bringing a different musical colour to the programme.The evening concluded with the premiere of Yazlarli's second composition, "Pages of Life," dedicated to the memory of Azerbaijan's National Leader Heydar Aliyev. The tribute gave the concert a thoughtful and symbolic ending, adding a note of remembrance to an evening otherwise centred on musical exchange and artistic discovery.The audience warmly received the performances, responding with applause and appreciation for the musicians.The premieres were especially significant, offering listeners the chance to discover Yazlarli's music for the first time.The concert highlighted the musical traditions of Azerbaijan and Türkiye, while underscoring the cultural connections shared by the two countries. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270937.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 10:16:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesIsraeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s plan to launch a new large-scale military operation against Iran in early October was halted by US President Donald Trump.According to the Financial Times, citing three sources familiar with the operational plans, Trump was concerned that a renewed war with Iran could undermine the Republican Party’s prospects ahead of the US congressional midterm elections scheduled for November 3.The report said Netanyahu had instructed the Israeli military to prepare a bombing campaign lasting several days over the weekend of October 10. The plan envisaged strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, power plants, other civilian infrastructure and sites associated with the Iranian regime.The proposed operation was expected to be more intensive than the US-Israeli military campaign launched in February.The plan was postponed after Trump withheld his approval. However, both leaders have continued to threaten new military action against Tehran.One source told the newspaper that further strikes in the coming weeks remained a realistic possibility. According to the source, a potential operation could involve both Israel and the United States.“Either there will be a deal or there will be an attack,” the source said.Washington is seeking to reach an agreement covering Iran’s nuclear programme and the issue of control over the Strait of Hormuz, according to the report.The Financial Times also reported that Israeli officials had provided their US counterparts with an updated list of Iranian targets based on intelligence assessments. The list reportedly includes civilian infrastructure facilities that were not struck during the previous military campaign.The United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28 this year. The conflict is currently continuing in a lower-intensity, largely inactive phase. http://www.today.az/news/society/270936.html Society Wed, 21 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesElchin Amirbayov, the Azerbaijani President’s Representative for Special Assignments, has met with Kevin Hamilton, NATO Secretary General’s Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia, in Brussels.The Azerbaijani Mission to NATO announced the meeting in a post on its official X account.The two officials discussed the current state of Azerbaijan-NATO cooperation and its future prospects, expressing mutual interest in deepening the partnership.“During the meeting, the sides exchanged views on developing mutually beneficial cooperation in the political, military and humanitarian spheres. They reaffirmed their intention to further expand the partnership between Azerbaijan and NATO and advance cooperation across various areas,” the statement said. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270935.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesUnited States President Donald Trump is set to announce a $25 million Fraud Whistleblower Incentive Program (WHIP) later today, with Vice President JD Vance by his side, Fox News reported on Tuesday, citing a White House official.The initiative comes as part of the US president's Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The official revealed that under the program, those with relevant information that could lead to "a successful fraud conviction or a significant federal enforcement action" will be offered up to $30,000."Every day, President Trump's Task Force to Eliminate Fraud is zeroing in on the rampant abuse of taxpayer dollars and giving Americans the accountability they deserve. This administration has zero tolerance for individuals who steal from Americans," White House spokesperson Lauren Bis told the media outlet http://www.today.az/news/regions/270934.html World news Wed, 21 Oct 2026 08:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesEuropean Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Tuesday that the European Union has adopted the Arctic Strategy to protect its "northern neighborhood."Von der Leyen said the EU sees Russia restoring Arctic military presence, reshaping regional security, and using hybrid tactics against neighbors, and stressed that it "affects the EU as a whole." "Rules that have underpinned stability in the Arctic can no longer be taken for granted," she said, adding that the EU must shift its strategic posture.Finally, the official pointed out that the new strategy "is about" the EU's main Arctic allies, such as Canada, who will jointly work to build a "peaceful, stable and resilient Arctic." http://www.today.az/news/politics/270933.html Politics Tue, 20 Oct 2026 15:15:00 +0400 What happened last weekend in a number of French cities shocked and frightened the authorities of this country so much that they finally began to take action. Before that, "democratic" France had only watched as the rebellion was gradually maturing, as passions were heating up and forces were being concentrated in the emigrant community for a traditional pogrom. But what about democracy?   Although it all started under the pretext of dissatisfaction with the field of education, it was clear from the very beginning that teenagers who break windows and set fire to schools are least concerned about their intellectual development. Nevertheless, the authorities did nothing to prevent the unrest from spreading, but only waved the flag of "democracy and freedom of speech." France has once again stepped on the same rake as in previous years. In this country, mass riots and pogroms have already become something like a traditional show that takes place every few years. The show always starts under plausible pretexts, and then escalates into pogroms, mass robberies and arson. Peaceful protests necessarily end in such a way that the stated reason for the actions is blurred, and only the destroyed city remains. The French authorities themselves must figure out why the peaceful protest has once again turned into an outrage. It seems that in reality they don't want to know what's going on in the country and are always waiting for it to resolve itself. They'll shout, make noise, and thrash, and they'll get over it.   Recall that it all started on September 21 with the blocking of the Lycée Saint-Exupery in the suburbs of Paris, whose students demanded to solve the problem of the shortage of teachers and provide schools with social workers and psychologists. These seemingly innocent protests have disrupted the educational process in many cities across the country. Then the students who were having fun were joined by trade unions and members of the Yellow Vests movement, which has extensive experience in such matters. The reasons for the protests were supplemented by the rising cost of living and the poor state of public services.   And what is characteristic is that France's much-loved mass protests, peaceful and non-peaceful, have never led to a solution to one problem or another. They won't bring you now either. There are certainly problems in the educational sphere or with the rising cost of living in France, but what has happened will not help solve them.   Everyone remembers the "yellow vests" movement, which began in 2018 as a protest against pension reform and lasted for two years. The "vests" turned from a peaceful action into pogroms and looting and turned French cities into war zones. However, the retirement age in France was not lowered as a result of the protests. Moreover, in March 2023, the country adopted a new pension reform that raised the retirement age from 62 to 64 by 2030.   In fact, French democracy boils down only to the right to protest, riots and damage to the property of citizens and the state, but not to solving the problems that arise. And this is a system that dates back to the time of the Great French Revolution.   According to Euronews, the footage of Saturday's violence stunned the French. Limoges City Hall burned to the ground, as did the iconic tourist office building on Bellecourt Square in Lyon. Vandals broke into the city halls of Marseille, Lille, Angers and Bordeaux, where the prefect's residence was vandalized. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire says that "entire streets were methodically demolished." The French capital was literally engulfed in flames. By the middle of the day, Republic Square was littered with various shells, police clashed with rioters in a cloud of tear gas, and a thick column of black smoke from burning fire trucks rose over the city, Euronews writes. The robbers did not spare the Champs-Elysees, and clashes with the police approached the centers of power - the Elysee Palace and the National Assembly.   The morning after a terrible day and a nightmarish night, residents of Paris, according to French media, went out to clean the streets. The center of the capital was brought to such a state after the battles between the police and the rioters that the utilities needed help. However, according to another version, these dozens of people did not come to clean the streets, but responded to a call on social networks to gather again for a protest.   The French Interior Ministry reported that police detained 2,397 people during the mass protests that took place on October 17 and were accompanied by riots and pogroms. 997 police and gendarmerie officers were injured during the events, seven of them were seriously injured.   The French authorities blamed the violence on radical leftist groups and participants in the pogroms. President Emmanuel Macron said on the social network X that violence has no place in the country and promised to bring the perpetrators to justice. Macron also promised to oblige the rioters to compensate for the damage caused to shops and buildings. "Those who destroyed must pay. Those who robbed must compensate for the damage," he said. In an eight-minute speech, the French president identified as the organizers of the riots "rioters from radical ultra-leftist groups, joined by numerous criminal elements." The President promised that the owners of the destroyed shops and cafes will receive compensation.   Of course, the rioters must answer for the pogroms and pay the damages. But how are the authorities going to collect these payments from young people from the emigrant community, who mostly have no income? Although, judging by the celebration in the ultra-right camp, it can be said that these forces are also involved in the riots.   The head of the far-left front, Macron's rival in the election, Jean-Luc Melenchon, in addition to emotions, expressed a fairly reasonable idea that the authorities had demonstrated unprofessionalism and had done nothing to prevent riots. He pointed out, as quoted by Interfax, that "250,000 people are called upon to ensure that no riots occur," referring to law enforcement forces. He accused the Interior minister of "not noticing anything," reasonably pointing out that the Interior minister "is capable of gathering 14,000 police officers for the Pope," while he was able to gather only 10,000 throughout France. "What an unprofessionalism!", Melenchon was indignant.   Perhaps those who are supposed to notice the growing threat would have "noticed" that what happened on Saturday would not have happened. Democracy is democracy, and the maintenance of public order, the protection of State facilities and national wealth are among the functions of the State. Watching what is happening in France, it seems that its authorities have no idea what is going on in the country. More precisely, they don't want to see it. Given the serious complication of geopolitical processes, any state should think about how to protect itself from the coming chaos. This chaos, which has been successfully created and maintained in other parts of the world for many years, has now reached Europe itself, and France should get rid of the vestige of sovereignty, remove the "insignia" and delve into solving its internal problems. These problems and their consequences will no longer be offset by the great past, because the world is changing, and no one's former greatness matters anymore.   Of course, Macron cannot influence the rise in fuel prices in the world and, as a result, in his own country. He cannot make the lives of his citizens cheaper, because the global crisis does not allow this. It also cannot affect climate change, although France pompously acted as a skirmisher in this process with its Paris Agreement. But Macron could restore order, at least in those areas that are available to him. Instead of waving the flag of "democracy" under the noses of other countries, he should have focused on the affairs of his native France. Then we wouldn't have to organize a massacre with the participation of the police in order to save the city from complete destruction.   By the way, I remembered that the day before the pogroms in the city of Lyon, its mayor made a video speech at a conference in Yerevan and demanded the release of Armenian criminals convicted in Baku. And he didn't just demand it - the Lyon Mayor's office supports a certain initiative of the Armenian diaspora to put pressure on Azerbaijan and organize an international campaign against Baku.  We think that now he will find something to do, and for a while he will forget about his obligations to the Armenians and remember his obligations to the French.   In theory, using the enormous law enforcement potential, the French authorities could have prevented what happened on October 17 and prevented a peaceful protest from turning into riots. A peaceful protest began to turn into riots at the end of September. Even the readers of the news on the Internet noticed this, but the French law enforcement agencies did not notice it. The French authorities were too distracted by the internal affairs of other states and overlooked their own problems. Now, after Saturday's massacre and more than two thousand detainees, let's see how Paris will turn its tongue to teach democracy to someone.     And in general, recently there have been more and more doubts about whether the French need to pay taxes for the maintenance of a huge army of police, if in this old democracy, the second economy of the European Union and so on they are not able to protect what is considered not only national, but also world heritage. A series of high-profile thefts from French museums speaks for itself. The high-profile theft of Napoleon-era jewelry from the Louvre is still shaking France. And in recent months, no less high-profile thefts have been added to this. In early October, France's most expensive 210-kilogram book, The Apocalypse, with a bronze cover by Salvador Dali worth several million euros, was stolen from a museum in Issoir. Ici Radio reports that the museum's creator said of the incident: "France was killed last night, the French cultural heritage was killed."   Major thefts have also occurred in recent months at the Renoir and jewelry museums.   These are not just isolated incidents, they are evidence of the incapacity of the mechanisms that make up the concept of the State.    Meanwhile, as Bloomberg reported on Monday, the European currency lost 0.5% against the dollar in Asian trading on October 19. At the same time, there was a decline in prices for French government bonds and shares of European companies. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270929.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:41:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesRegional electricity interconnections are becoming increasingly important, linking countries with surplus power to markets with high demand, strengthening energy security and helping balance the variable output of solar and wind power, Azerbaijan’s Energy Minister Parviz Shahbazov said.In an article titled "Modern Azerbaijan’s Energy Policy: From National Energy Security to Global Energy Partnership," published in the Azerbaijan newspaper, Shahbazov noted that the 21st century is increasingly being described as the "century of connectivity."He said such links are no longer merely physical infrastructure connecting countries and markets, but also strategic factors shaping new economic and geopolitical relations.According to the minister, one of the key projects in this area is the Caspian-Black Sea-Europe Green Energy Corridor.The project aims to bring the Caspian region’s substantial renewable energy potential to European markets. It is expected to expand Azerbaijan’s role in regional electricity trade while contributing to Europe’s energy supply diversification and green transition.The corridor is planned to begin operating in stages from 2032, connecting Azerbaijan and Georgia with Romania, Hungary and other European energy markets via an undersea cable across the Black Sea.The approximately 3,000-kilometer corridor is expected to gradually reach a transmission capacity of 4 gigawatts.The project could also facilitate the development of at least 8 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity in the region and enable the annual transmission of around 20 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity to Europe from 2040.In addition, the corridor is expected to reduce carbon emissions by up to 3.6 million tonnes annually, the minister added. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270928.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:33:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesArmenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan has dismissed Gagik Vanoyan, head of the State Protocol Service, following a mistake he made during a press conference with Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov.The dismissal decision was published on the Armenian government’s official website.According to Armenian media reports, Vanoyan, who had held the position since December 2022, was dismissed following Pashinyan’s remarks to the press after talks with Japarov in Yerevan on October 17.During the statement, Pashinyan mistakenly referred to Japarov as the president of Kazakhstan."First of all, I would like to welcome the President of Kazakhstan, Sadyr Japarov, back to Armenia," the Armenian prime minister said while reading from a prepared statement. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270930.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:39:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesA trilateral meeting was held in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, on October 20, bringing together Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Oguljahan Atabayeva, Vice-President for Medical Affairs of the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Assistance to Children in Need of Care; and Saida Mirziyoyeva, Head of the Presidential Administration of Uzbekistan.Oguljahan Atabayeva said the international MAMA "Mother Nature" art exhibition, which will be held in Ashgabat, is an important event that brings countries together through shared spiritual and cultural values and similar approaches to social and humanitarian issues.Highlighting environmental protection and cooperation within regional and international organisations, Atabayeva expressed confidence that the exhibition would also lead to practical steps towards safeguarding the environment.Leyla Aliyeva emphasized that joint efforts could make it possible to implement many important environmental projects. Recalling her visit to the Charitable Foundation, she said she had personally witnessed the high level of care provided to children. She added that the exhibition would mark another step towards promoting kindness.Saida Mirziyoyeva noted that meetings of this kind open up new opportunities, particularly by bringing people together around a shared desire to care for others and build the future on this foundation.She stressed that, for every child, the most important thing is to feel safe and cared for alongside their mother, to know they are loved and to be confident that they will always be heard. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270932.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:19:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesIsraeli military forces arrested a civilian during an incursion into the northern countryside of Syria's Quneitra governorate, according to Syrian state news agency SANA.During the operation, forces set up a temporary checkpoint, inspected residents and carried out the detention, following a similar sweep in the nearby village of Al-Hurriya that resulted in two other arrests.Syria's Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the incursions as a clear violation of national sovereignty in response to the ongoing military operations. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270931.html Arts & Entertainment Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:51:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesAn exhibition titled "Oil and Icon" and a concert celebrating the 35th anniversary of Azerbaijan's restoration of independence were held in Washington, D.C.The event took place at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS). It was jointly organised by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the United States and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, with the support of the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry. Attendees included US government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of the cultural and artistic communities.Speaking at the opening ceremony, Azerbaijan's Ambassador to the United States and Permanent Observer to the OAS, Khazar Ibrahim, emphasized the historical significance of the 35th anniversary of the restoration of the country's state independence. He noted that the modern Azerbaijani state is the political and spiritual successor to the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, established in 1918.Khazar Ibrahim highlighted that the value of Azerbaijan's oil heritage lies not only in its abundant natural resources but also in how these resources contribute to the country's development, particularly through education and investment in human capital. He also noted that relations between Azerbaijan and the United States have reached the level of a strategic partnership.Panama's Ambassador to the OAS, Ana Irene Delgado, spoke about the importance of cultural diplomacy, noting that art and music play a vital role in strengthening mutual understanding among peoples.Amina Malikova, Director of the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, described carpet weaving as an integral part of the Azerbaijani people's national and cultural identity. She noted that a carpet is more than a work of decorative art; it is a form of heritage that preserves the worldview and spiritual values shaped over centuries.The exhibition features nearly 20 works by Irina Eldarova, Honoured Artist of Azerbaijan.The display includes new compositions that continue the project presented at the 2024 Venice Biennale, as well as a relief carpet portrait of Marilyn Monroe created at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum.Two gurama (patchwork) panels made from men's neckties are also on display. They are dedicated to Sattar Bahlulzade's painting Beauty of the Caspian Sea and Marilyn Monroe.Amina Malikova thanked the Embassy of Azerbaijan in the United States, the Ministry of Culture, and all partners for their support in bringing the project to fruition.Paul Michael Taylor, a research anthropologist and curator at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, spoke about the relationship between Azerbaijan's oil industry and the preservation of its cultural heritage.The event also featured presentations of Amina Malikova's book Happiness in Carpets: 10 Reasons Why a Carpet Can Make You Happy; the Smithsonian Institution publication Past and Future Heritage in the Pipeline Corridor: Azerbaijan, Georgia, Türkiye; and the project Art Therapy: On Guard of Culture and Health, curated by Lala Sardarly.The official programme concluded with a concert by Nargiz Aliyarova, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan and pianist.The programme featured works by Gara Garayev, Fikrat Amirov, Faig Sujaddinov and Frédéric Chopin, as well as a piano arrangement of the Azerbaijani folk song "Sar? G?lin". http://www.today.az/news/society/270927.html Society Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:48:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesThe Ganja Open 2026 International Chess Festival has concluded with the awarding of the tournament's winners and prize recipients.The event was organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in cooperation with the Azerbaijan Chess Federation (ACF) as part of the Azerbaijan Chess Tour.The festival featured several competitions, including the main tournaments in Groups A and B, as well as rapid and blitz events, bringing together chess players from Azerbaijan and abroad. The main tournament results were determined over nine rounds, with players competing for top positions and prize awards.In Tournament A, FIDE Master Farid Orujov claimed first place with 6.5 points out of a possible nine. Candidate Master Islam Hajialiyev also scored 6.5 points but finished second following the application of tie-break criteria. International Master Pavel Shkapenko, representing FIDE, took third place with the same score, making for a closely contested finish at the top of the standings.In Tournament B, Natiq Mahmud secured first place with 7.5 points. Yusif Abasov and Umid Alasgarov also finished with 7.5 points, taking second and third places, respectively, according to the final standings and tie-break criteria.The festival also included rapid and blitz competitions, adding shorter time-control formats to the week-long chess programme. Azerbaijani chess player Suleyman Suleymanli delivered an outstanding performance, winning both events and completing a double victory in the faster formats.The closing ceremony marked the conclusion of the festival, with the winners and prize recipients receiving their awards.The competition formed part of the Azerbaijan Chess Tour, a series of events designed to provide competitive opportunities for chess players and promote the development of the sport in the country.The next stop on the tour is the Shirvan Open 2026, scheduled to take place in Shirvan from October 20 to 26.The event will continue the tour's programme of competitive chess across Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270924.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 11:35:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesRelations between Tehran and Moscow have never been closer, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said.According to Iran’s ISNA news agency, Araghchi made the remarks in a social media post following his meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Tehran.He said relations between Iran and Russia, as well as cooperation in the economic and nuclear fields, had reached unprecedented levels.“We discussed a wide range of issues, from Europe to West Asia, including Lebanon, Palestine, Ukraine and Yemen. We also focused on expanding cooperation in the economic and nuclear fields,” Araghchi wrote.Lavrov arrived in Tehran on October 19. During his visit, he also met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for talks. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270925.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 10:33:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesUS Vice President JD Vance said he does not believe Ukraine should become a member of NATO.He made the remarks in an interview with the 2WAY media outlet.“As far as I know, we do not have a formal alliance treaty with Ukraine. Ukraine is not in NATO. I do not think it should be in NATO. I think it is an amazing country, full of amazing people. We will cooperate on some issues, but we will disagree on others,” Vance said.As an example of conflicting interests, he cited Ukraine’s strikes on Russian oil refineries.“Do I think they should be striking facilities on Russian territory that produce diesel fuel and, as a result, drive up energy prices for Americans? No,” he said.At the same time, the vice president stressed that Washington continues to cooperate with Kyiv in several areas.NATO was established in 1949 and currently has 32 member states. http://www.today.az/news/business/270926.html Business Tue, 20 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesA conference on Sustainable Business, Corporate Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) is being held in Baku.The conference will address key issues related to enhancing transparency in the business environment, implementing sustainable governance principles, managing risks and strengthening compliance practices.According to the conference programme, the event brings together representatives of government agencies, the financial sector and experts in relevant fields.One of the panel discussions focuses on global and local challenges in compliance. Participants will examine emerging compliance risks and challenges, their impact on businesses and the regulatory environment, existing difficulties in risk management, and potential areas for future development.Another panel is dedicated to enhancing transparency in the business environment. Discussions will focus on the role of compliance functions in strengthening sustainable governance, the impact of this approach on businesses, and practical experiences in implementing compliance practices across various sectors.The conference aims to provide a platform for discussing current approaches to sustainable business and corporate governance, while facilitating the exchange of expertise in risk management and compliance. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270923.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesThe United States-initiated Board of Peace may seek greater participation from Israel after the Knesset elections on October 27, an official from the organization told Times of Israel on Monday."We need to move beyond constructive conversations to constructive implementation," the official told the outlet, adding that the "limitations on what can be done" are present due to the elections.The report claimed that the board is "still advancing the plan ... after the election, we'd hope to accelerate that at a much faster speed."The Board of Peace, launched by U.S. President Donald Trump, has 26 founding member countries, chaired by the United States.The founding member countries and their respective leaders include Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Belarus, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Egypt, El Salvador, Hungary, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Mongolia, Morocco, Pakistan, Paraguay, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, United Arab Emirates, United States, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. For the complete list of specific leaders corresponding to each nation, please refer to the referenced document. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270922.html World news Tue, 20 Oct 2026 08:00:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with a team from the United States defense and aerospace manufacturer Lockheed Martin Co. in Kyiv on Monday.In a post on X, Zelensky claimed that the company "helps us save lives" with its Patriot defense systems and F-16 aircraft. "We discussed how we can expand and increase supplies," he wrote, claiming that Lockheed Martin is "currently ramping up production of ballistic missile interceptors."Zelensky expressed hope that Ukraine will be able to purchase some of these supplies in future. "It is important that Lockheed Martin has a presence in Ukraine," he concluded. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270921.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 14:39:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesGermany’s Foreign Ministry has summoned Iran’s ambassador to Berlin following reports of alleged assassination plots targeting Josef Schuster, president of the Central Council of Jews in Germany, and Volker Beck, president of the German-Israeli Society."We will not tolerate attacks on the lives of Jews or those who defend them - anywhere, and certainly not in Germany. The malicious assassination attempts against Josef Schuster and Volker Beck will have legal consequences. We condemn Iran’s actions in the strongest possible terms," the German Foreign Ministry said in a statement posted on X.According to the information, the Iranian ambassador was summoned to the German Foreign Ministry today.The German Foreign Ministry also noted that Berlin had previously advocated for the inclusion of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), an elite branch of Iran’s armed forces, on the European Union’s list of terrorist organizations.The summons comes four days after a German court handed two men prison sentences of up to 8-1/2 years for planning to kill Stchuster, saying one man had been steered by Iran's intelligence service. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270916.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 13:25:00 +0400 Akbar NovruzRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesLatvia has prohibited the entry of a 57.6-kilogram shipment of green tea declared as originating from Armenia into the European Union after laboratory tests detected pesticide residues that violated EU food safety requirements.According to Latvia's Food and Veterinary Service (PVD), the shipment was stopped during border inspections after laboratory analysis identified residues of tolfenpyrad, a pesticide not approved for use in the European Union.The tests also revealed that concentrations of two other pesticides, lambda-cyhalothrin and thiamethoxam, exceeded the maximum permitted residue levels.The affected shipment, identified as batch No. 8810, was subsequently denied entry into the EU market.Latvian authorities said the consignment would either be destroyed or returned to a country outside the European Union.The PVD confirmed that information about the violations had been submitted to the EU's Rapid Alert System for Food and Feed (RASFF), which enables member states to exchange information about potentially unsafe food products.The findings were announced by the Latvian regulator on October 14 and subsequently reported by Armenian media, including News Armenia.However, Armenia's Food Safety Inspection Body has reportedly disputed the shipment's origin. According to Armenian media outlet Aurora News, an official from the agency's border control division stated on October 19 that the affected batch of tea did not originate from Armenia.The discrepancy between the Latvian and Armenian accounts has not yet been resolved. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270917.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 13:16:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesNordovy Island in the Caspian Sea could eventually become connected to the mainland due to the continued decline in the sea’s water level.According to RBC, citing Russian scientists, the Caspian Sea’s water level has fallen by an average of 23 centimetres per year over the past five years.The decline is particularly noticeable in the shallow northern part of the Caspian Sea. In 2025, the sea level dropped by a record 29.4 centimetres.Scientists believe that if the current rate of decline continues, the Caspian Sea’s water level could fall by a further 4.5 metres over the next 20 years. In that scenario, Nordovy Island would become connected to the mainland, turning into a peninsula.Experts identify the main causes of the decline as a reduction in the volume of water flowing into the Caspian Sea from the Volga River and increased evaporation.The falling water level is already having a negative impact on the Caspian Sea’s ecosystem, shrinking fish spawning grounds and creating risks for shipping and port operations.Nordovy is an uninhabited island that serves as a habitat for seabirds. It is located in Kizlyar Bay, in the western part of the Caspian Sea, and administratively belongs to Russia’s Republic of Dagestan. The island is 0.4 kilometres wide and 2.2 kilometres long. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270920.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:58:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesMusic that preserves the memory of heroes, songs about the homeland and peace, masterpieces of world opera, and beloved Azerbaijani melodies came together on the stage of the International Mugham Center in Baku.The concert "Q?lbimizd? ya?ayanlar" ("Those Who Live in Our Hearts"), held as part of the 3rd International Opera Festival organized by People's Artist of Azerbaijan Fidan Hajiyeva, was an evening where art attained a profound emotional depth. The voices of young performers resonated in harmony with memory, hope, and love for the homeland.The concert was one of the highlights of the festival, which celebrates both the 50th birthday of the People's Artist of Azerbaijan and the 30th anniversary of her professional career.The significance of the festival as an important cultural and educational project was underscored by speakers at the event: Konul Huseynova, Director of the Gara Garayev Central School of Arts and a professor at the Baku Music Academy, and Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Dilara Aliyeva.The festival is envisioned not merely as a series of concerts, but as a large-scale platform for the development of musical art and for introducing a broad audience to classical music. Its program encompasses opera and chamber music evenings, symphonic concerts, masterclasses, literary and artistic gatherings, and educational initiatives. Certain projects will be hosted at the country's leading higher education institutions, offering the younger generation new opportunities to engage with the academic musical heritage.A special place in the program is held by the project "Young Voices Resonating Toward the Future," which aims to support emerging vocalists and discover new talent. Participants are given the opportunity to perform on the same stage as established masters, present solo programs, and showcase their performance skills before a professional audience.One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the performance by the "Q?hr?man övladlar?" (Children of Heroes) choir, which brings together the talented children of shehids (martyrs). Through their singing, songs about their homeland, heroism, and love for Azerbaijan took on a special resonance, becoming a heartfelt musical message to the audience. Several of the pieces performed by the group were composed—with both music and lyrics by Professor Konul Huseynova, the widow of the martyr, Lieutenant Colonel Rashad Atakishiyev. The choir also performed alongside People's Artist Fidan Hajiyeva, presenting works dedicated to Azerbaijan and its heroes.The Mezzo Children's Choir and the Mezzo Women's Chamber Orchestra both founded by Fidan Hajiyeva, added a unique atmosphere to the evening. Their participation underscored the concert's core theme: the continuity between generations, a deep respect for cultural heritage, and the power of music to unite people. Banu Alibayli served as the host for the evening.The rich program, featuring young vocalists, showcased works by both Azerbaijani and international classical composers. Classical vocal pieces blended seamlessly with melodies that celebrate Azerbaijan. The themes of peace, hope, and the future served as a central narrative thread, lending the evening a distinct sense of cohesion and emotional depth. The program featured works by Georges Bizet, Uzeyir Hajibayli, Giacomo Puccini, Sergei Rachmaninoff, Gioachino Rossini, George Frideric Handel, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Tofig Guliyev, Fikrat Amirov, Vasif Adigozalov, Giulio Caccini, Vincenzo Di Chiara, and other composers.The concert featured performances by Charles Emin Naylor, Aisha Mammadova, Ayan Bayramova, Laman Babazade, Huseyn Ahmadov, Nuray Rahmanova, Fidan Aliyeva, Roya Aliyeva, Gunay Kubishova, Elyar Aliyev, Liliya Khalilova, Zahrakhanim Abdullayeva, Syada Tagiyeva, Yasamen Hasanli, Anar Khanmammadli, Maryam Babayeva, Elmira Ragimova, and Murad Hajiyev.Musical accompaniment was provided by accompanists Rafiga Guluzade, Rahima Gurbanova, Arzu Aslan, Leyla Javadova, Syamra Hasanli, and Aliheydar Aydin.The evening concluded with the famous song "Azerbaijan" by Muslim Magomayev. Its performance lent a special solemnity to the end of the concert, uniting the audience in a shared love for their homeland.The evening, titled "Q?lbimizd? ya?ayanlar" (Those Who Live in Our Hearts), served as a reminder that music has the power to preserve memory, transmit spiritual values, and bridge generations. Through it, the voices of those who have passed, a deep love for the Motherland, and faith in the future continue to live on—sentiments that never lose their strength with the passage of time.The festival runs for three months, from September 7 to December 7. For the first time in the history of Azerbaijan, a classical arts project of this scale is being implemented, encompassing around 30 musical and other cultural events.The program spans both Baku and various regions of the country, while also reaching the international stage, with events scheduled in Paris, London, Milan, and Minsk.Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, and Milli.Az. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270919.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:27:00 +0400 Ulviyya PoladovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesA possible meeting between US President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Vietnam is under discussion.US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told journalists that discussions about the meeting were underway, adding that he did not know whether any agreement had been reached."I think there are discussions about a meeting. I don't know whether any agreement has been reached," Rubio said.He also stressed that Trump wanted to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.Meanwhile, Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov told The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) that Vladimir Putin had discussed the possibility of holding a trilateral meeting with Trump and Xi Jinping. However, no final agreement has been reached so far."There is currently no clear understanding regarding the meeting itself or its potential agenda, although all three sides acknowledge the hypothetical possibility of such a meeting," Peskov noted.In early September, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said that the leaders of the United States, Russia and China could hold a trilateral meeting on the sidelines of the upcoming APEC summit, which will take place in Shenzhen, China, on November 18-19, 2026. http://www.today.az/news/entertainment/270918.html Arts & Entertainment Mon, 19 Oct 2026 11:35:00 +0400 Laman IsmayilovaRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesThe Seaside National Park warmly invites everyone to celebrate the Olive Festival from October 23–25.The festive event will not only introduce visitors to a variety of olive products but also feature an engaging concert program.Well-known singers and musical groups will bring a festive autumn atmosphere to the Baku Boulevard through afternoon and evening concerts.On October 23, DJ Kamo, known for his dynamic rhythms, will take the stage.The following day, October 24, the musical program will begin with a performance by the popular artist Rilaya, followed by a set from another well-known singer, Mardan Kazimov.That same evening, the concert will feature rapper and songwriter Orkhan Zeynalli, Honored Artist Khayyam Nisanov, and People's Artist Zulfiyya Khanbabayeva.On October 25, the afternoon concert will open with a performance by the group "Wave Band," followed by sets from Teymur Suleymanbayli and the "Excellent Band."On the final evening of the festival, Azad Shabanov and Zamiq Huseynov will take the stage, while People's Artist Aygun Kazimova will conclude the festival's musical program with her performance. Thus, the festival will offer city residents and visitors to the capital an opportunity to explore olive products, enjoy open-air concerts, and spend a pleasant time with family and friends.Coinciding with the start of the olive season, the festival aims to promote Azerbaijan’s ancient olive-growing traditions, showcase and support local producers, and contribute to the development of a national brand in this sector.The festival is organized with the support of the State Tourism Agency and the Seaside Boulevard Administration, and is sponsored by the olive brands "Absheron Olive Gardens" and "Olivea."Admission to the three-day festival is free of charge.Detailed information regarding the festival's operating hours and the concert schedule will be announced on the Instagram page. http://www.today.az/news/business/270914.html Business Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:16:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesAzerbaijan exported 15,829,589.9 tonnes of crude oil and petroleum products obtained from bituminous minerals in January-September 2026, according to customs declarations.According to the State Customs Committee,the value of the country's crude oil exports reached $10.103 billion during the nine-month period.Compared with January-September 2025, crude oil export volumes declined by 6.86%, while their value increased by 13.02%.Crude oil and petroleum products obtained from bituminous minerals accounted for 48.04% of Azerbaijan's total exports during the first nine months of 2026. http://www.today.az/news/politics/270915.html Politics Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:10:00 +0400 The 17th Conference of the Parties (COP-17) on Biodiversity will be held in Armenia from October 19 to 30. The leaders' summit was held at the end of last week.   The very fact of holding an international event in Yerevan does not raise any questions. Other things raise questions. It is noteworthy that this event is hardly mentioned in the international media space, and moreover, no one criticizes the holding of such a conference in a country that has a lot of environmental problems, leading to problems with biodiversity. Armenia itself has a lot of problems, and Armenia creates a lot of problems for neighboring countries.   It is impossible not to recall what a hysterical international campaign has unfolded around the holding of the COP29 conference in Baku. It started almost as soon as Azerbaijan was chosen as the venue, and did not stop for a long time after the end of the event. Which, by the way, was very successful and productive. All this is in the past, but it's still hard to forget how sophisticated the Western media were in their criticism, exposing oil and gas-producing Azerbaijan as almost the main culprit of climate change. At the same time, our country accounts for 0.11 percent of emissions.     This is a very remarkable situation, which proves once again that the true essence of international campaigns is not to support international law and solve real problems.   Due to the fact that no one else wants to recall the problems of the country hosting COP17, we consider it necessary to say a few words about this. Armenia's environmental problems are her problems and she has to solve them herself. Almost all countries have such problems. We are not going to interfere in the affairs of our neighbor, but we cannot but remind you how much the ecological environment and biodiversity of Azerbaijan have suffered from his actions. It is impossible to assess what Armenia did during the conflict in the occupied territories in any other way than ecocide.   Recently, the Environmental Protection First coalition addressed representatives of civil society, states and international environmental organizations in connection with the holding of COP17 in Armenia - the 17th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity.   The organization pointed out that genuine concern for nature should be free from double standards, selective approach and a feigned, insincere commitment to environmental values. In this regard, the coalition called on all COP17 participants and delegates to go beyond the standard theses and question Armenia's activities that damage the environment both inside the country and in the region through pollution of transboundary rivers. These include: chemical destruction of transboundary rivers by Armenia, environmental pollution and damage to biodiversity in the territories of Azerbaijan during the Armenian occupation, environmentally harmful industries on the borders with Azerbaijan, uncontrolled mining and non-adherence to the UN Water Convention.   In 2023, the Environmental Protection First coalition issued a statement about Armenia's transformation of the ecology of the South Caucasus into a "tragedy of public resources." The statement was made in connection with the start of construction by Armenia of a metallurgical plant in Yeraskh (Ararat region). The enterprise began to be built 800 meters from the Azerbaijani border on the banks of the Araz River. This location threatened serious problems for both the Azerbaijani territory and the transboundary river, to which Armenia had already made an "invaluable" contribution. It should be noted that due to the noise raised by Azerbaijan, the plant was moved to another location. It is unknown whether it was built or not.   If the company had started working, another hotbed of environmental tension would have been created. Over the years of the occupation of the territories of Azerbaijan, Armenia has turned them into an environmental disaster zone, and now the Azerbaijani side has to solve these problems, among other things. Some rivers originating in Armenia and flowing to Azerbaijan still remain in poor condition.   Azerbaijani experts were particularly impressed by the condition of the Okhchuchai River. Chromium, nickel, copper, molybdenum, zinc and other metal-containing waste from the Zangezur copper-molybdenum Combine and the Gafan Mining and Processing Plant, discharged into the Okhchuchai River, turned it into a chemical swamp. The river that appeared to the Azerbaijanis after the liberation of the Zangilan region was bright yellow with rusty banks. All the biodiversity in the reservoir was destroyed. The worst thing is that for several decades, the Okhchuchai, which flows into the Araz River, polluted and infected the wider water basin of the region.   Azerbaijani environmentalists once sent an open letter to Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, listing Armenian enterprises that pollute the environment. The letter noted that the destruction of the ecosystem as a result of ongoing mining operations at upstream mines in Armenia poses a threat not only to the environment of Armenia, but also to neighboring countries.   The transboundary water flows coming from Armenia and flowing into the Araz River have become a real collector of industrial waste from upstream enterprises. Not only Azerbaijan, but also the Iranian side has repeatedly raised this issue with Yerevan. A few years ago, there was talk of setting up a special commission to investigate the pollution of the Araz River. The issue was also raised in the Iranian parliament. The reports of experts noted that the reason for the increase in cancer among the population of the Mugan district of the Ardabil region is the pollution of the Araz River from Armenia, including radioactive waste. If this continues, it may lead to a ban on the use of river water as irrigation and drinking water, which will lead to water shortages, economic crisis and social explosion.   It should be noted that several transboundary rivers flowing from Armenia flow into the Araz.    Armenia pollutes rivers not only with human waste and wastewater, but also with metals that are dangerous to the entire ecosystem and human health. The most polluted tributaries of the Araz are the Khakaryichay and the Okhchuchay. Mining enterprises in Armenia are located on these tributaries. Unfortunately, the neighbors never bothered to take care of their own environment, and even less so were they concerned about the state of the previously occupied territories of Azerbaijan and the water problems of Iran. The waste accumulated in tailings dumps was discharged into rivers, from where the already contaminated water flowed into the Araz.   It should be noted that Armenia, unlike Azerbaijan, has not joined the Helsinki Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes, adopted on March 17, 1992. Azerbaijan ratified the document back in 2002, while Armenia remained on the sidelines. The Armenian side knew what it was doing and feared liability for ecocide. However, it still has obligations under the Helsinki Rules of 1966 and the Berlin Rules of 2004 on the use of waters of international rivers, under the UN General Assembly resolution on transboundary waters, under the PACE resolution on transboundary water basins in Europe, and under other international documents.   For many years, Armenian environmentalists have been sounding the alarm, protesting against the operations of the mining and metallurgical industries. In 2019, the non?governmental organization Environmental Front of Armenia conducted studies and found that resuming mining at the Amulsar gold deposit would lead to the discharge of harmful substances into the Arpachay and Bazarchay rivers (Armenian: Vorotan). The Arpa flows into Nakhchivan, and the Bazarchay flows into the Araz. The Bazarchay begins in the mountains of Armenia, flows through the territory of the Kalbajar, Gubadli, and Zangilan districts, and then flows into the Araz River. During the years of Armenian occupation, this river carried harmful waste to the borders of Iran, also from the mines of Kalbajar and Zangilan that were illegally developed by Armenians.   As for the Amulsar mine, located in Jemruk, it lay idle for several years after work was suspended in 2018 due to protests. The possibility of resuming operations at the mine was discussed after the war, and in February 2025, the Armenian Cabinet of Ministers decided to provide Lydian Armenia with up to 150 million dollars in budget guarantees for the development of the Amulsar gold deposit.   Armenia has also violated other rules. Thus, there is an official expert opinion stating that it is inadmissible to build tailings dumps in landslide?prone areas; however, the tailings dump of the Tekhut mine is located precisely in such a place — in an 8?point seismic hazard zone. Furthermore, Armenian environmentalists have pointed out that instead of a proper dam, a surface dam has been built in the area, which will not be able to prevent the release of millions of tons of waste in an emergency situation.   In 2020, scientists from the National Polytechnic University of Armenia published the results of research conducted on the contamination of river water and coastal soil with heavy metals in the area near the tailings storage facility. The article, published in a scientific journal, indicates that the operation of the Tekhut copper?molybdenum enterprise in 2016 caused a ??????????? load on the environment in terms of the content of a number of heavy metals, the migration of which continued after the enterprise ceased operations in 2018. That is, even after the mine and the plant were closed, the harmful substances released into the environment continued to circulate in the atmosphere, water, and soil.   The ecological state of water bodies affects all areas. Including biodiversity.   But biodiversity suffers not only from man?made problems, but also directly from human actions.   Before the occupation, there were 260 thousand hectares of forest on the territory of Karabakh, and in thirty years this figure has decreased by almost half - by 110 thousand hectares! The furniture industry flourished in Armenia due to the forests of Azerbaijan, and meanwhile valuable tree species and other flora, 70 species of which are endemic, meaning they do not grow anywhere else on the planet, were on the verge of complete extinction as a result of logging and deliberate arson.   Back in the early 2000s, a UN mission, in accordance with the resolution “The Situation in the Occupied Territories of Azerbaijan,” conducted a ten?day assessment visit to the region and was horrified by what it saw: vast areas of scorched land, degrading soils, and a devastated ecological environment.    Armenia is also not sparing its own biodiversity. In 2023, 8,000 trees burned in the Sevan National Park, and another 10,000 were at risk of being destroyed by fire. The proximity of the region to the border means there is a risk of environmental consequences for the border areas of Azerbaijan as well.    Armenia is currently facing a water shortage problem. The extraction of groundwater for commercial fish farming and irrigation in the Ararat Valley exceeds the rate of its annual natural replenishment. The volume of water permitted to be discharged from Lake Sevan for irrigation purposes significantly exceeds historical levels of natural inflow. As a result, the risk of Lake Sevan drying up increases, which has a negative impact on its biodiversity.   By the way, about Lake Sevan. Several years ago, there was a livestock die?off on the lake shore. It was believed that the lake water might have been the cause. In recent years, the lake has repeatedly “bloomed” — the water turned green due to an increase in the amount of certain organic substances.   There are quite a few problems. But they are unlikely to be discussed at the conference in Yerevan. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270913.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 10:00:00 +0400 Qabil AshirovRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesIranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has warned that Tehran will take retaliatory measures if the United States launches new attacks against the Islamic Republic.Araghchi made the remarks in a post on the social media platform X, warning Washington about the potential consequences of further military action.The Iranian foreign minister also accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of attempting to draw the United States into a new war. According to Araghchi, Netanyahu is pushing Washington towards further military action to divert attention from his own political problems.Araghchi's statement followed US President Donald Trump's warning that Washington could bring its conflict with Iran to an end relatively quickly if Tehran changes its policies.Trump also expressed support for Netanyahu's re-election as Israeli prime minister. http://www.today.az/news/sports/270912.html Sports Mon, 19 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0400 AzerNEWS StaffRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesAzerbaijani gymnasts Seljan Mahsudova and Magsud Mahsudov have snatched a gold medal in the mixed synchronized routine at the 2026 FIG Trampoline World Cup in Cottbus, Germany.The Azerbaijani duo completed their performance with a score of 51.510 points to claim the top spot on the podium.This marks the national team's second gold medal at the tournament.Earlier, Azerbaijani gymnast Seljan Mahsudova claimed a gold medal in the individual program, scoring 55.540 points. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270911.html World news Mon, 19 Oct 2026 08:00:00 +0400 AzerNEWS StaffRead moreAdd to Preferred SourcesFrench President condemns “unbridled” violence after nearly 2,400 arrests, hundreds of police injuries and widespread lootingFrench President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to strengthen security and hold those responsible for violence accountable after cost-of-living protests swept across the country, leaving nearly 2,400 people arrested and almost 1,000 police officers and gendarmes injured, according to the interior ministry.Speaking in a televised address to the nation on Sunday, Macron condemned what he described as “unbridled” violence, while acknowledging that protesters had legitimate grievances over the rising cost of living and the prospects facing young people.“Tonight, we all feel anger and shame,” he said, drawing a distinction between demonstrators with legitimate demands and those who had engaged in destruction, vandalism and looting.“Those who have destroyed must pay,” Macron declared, vowing that the government would take an uncompromising stance towards those responsible for the unrest.The interior ministry said almost 1,000 members of the police and gendarmerie had been injured, seven of them seriously, during Saturday's clashes. The violence was described as among the worst episodes of urban unrest France had experienced in years.Fresh clashes in Paris and LyonTensions remained high on Sunday, with police deploying tear gas and stun grenades against hundreds of people gathered in a Paris square following calls on social media for an unauthorised demonstration, AFP journalists reported.Some demonstrators threw bottles and rocks at officers, while police made several arrests. Shops were also looted around Place de la République, prompting the deployment of specialist riot police for a second consecutive day.Violence also broke out in the south-eastern city of Lyon, where police intervened to prevent young people from smashing the windows of a luxury clothing store.The unrest caused extensive damage elsewhere. In Limoges, a fire destroyed the city's 19th-century town hall. Local prefect Maurice Barate told French broadcaster LCI that the blaze had been deliberately started.In Lyon, a tourist office in the city centre was also set ablaze amid clashes and looting.The violence had serious consequences for young people caught up in the unrest. A 17-year-old boy lost his right hand after a crowd-control grenade exploded in Saint-Étienne, while a 17-year-old girl lost an eye in Mulhouse, according to prosecutors.Macron faces pressure over police responseMacron pledged to increase security and work with local mayors to protect public buildings, businesses and urban centres. He also promised support for businesses affected by the destruction.However, the president stopped short of announcing exceptional measures such as a state of emergency or a curfew.He promised full transparency over the security forces' response, following criticism that preparations for the demonstrations had been inadequate.Macron said he had asked Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez to draw “all necessary lessons”, particularly regarding intelligence gathering and the authorities' ability to anticipate violence. He said he expected clear answers.Opposition politicians have called for the interior minister to be dismissed, adding to the political pressure on the government.Political divisions deepenThe unrest has intensified political tensions ahead of France's presidential election, with Macron constitutionally barred from seeking another consecutive term and far-right National Rally leader Marine Le Pen positioning herself as a leading challenger.Le Pen said the crisis showed that Macron's administration was “running on fumes, exhausted and disoriented”. Jordan Bardella, her party's president, dismissed Macron's address as “lamentable”, arguing that the authorities had nothing more to offer the country.Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of the left-wing France Unbowed party and another presidential contender, urged the government to address protesters' demands, saying young people needed the crisis to reach a positive conclusion.The demonstrations brought together trade unions, members of the Yellow Vests movement and school students, uniting groups angered by the cost of living and the limited prospects facing younger generations.The unrest has also attracted international attention. US President Donald Trump blamed immigration for the violence, writing on social media that France was burning and claiming that immigration had shattered the country. His remarks added an international political dimension to a crisis rooted in domestic economic and social tensions.Macron, meanwhile, called for the presidential election campaign to be conducted through political debate rather than street violence, saying France deserved a proper electoral contest.For the French government, the immediate challenge is to restore order while addressing public anger over living costs and opportunities for young people. The scale of the destruction, the injuries sustained by security personnel and the criticism of the police response have left Macron facing mounting pressure to demonstrate that his administration can regain control of the situation. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270899.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 23:25:00 +0400 The League of Arab States on Saturday condemned Houthi attacks on Maashiq Palace, the Yemeni government headquarters in Aden, Aden International Airport and residential areas in Marib, which caused casualties and injuries.The League described the attacks as a "highly dangerous escalation" and a "flagrant violation" of international law, warning they threaten Yemen's security and stability and undermine efforts toward a political settlement.It reaffirmed its support for Yemen’s unity, sovereignty and government, urging the international community "to assume its responsibilities and take decisive stances and measures to stop these attacks and hold those responsible accountable." The League also welcomed a UN Security Council statement issued on October 15 condemning the escalation. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270898.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 22:53:00 +0400 A tourist office was set on fire on Place Bellecour square in Lyon amid the ongoing unrest and demonstrations in France, French BFMTV reported on Saturday.According to the outlet, the building was set ablaze by "hooded individuals," who smashed the windows and vandalized the place. "Looting is underway. Police and firefighters are expected to arrive soon," the channel reported.France has been facing widespread unrest for a month, after a group of students on the outskirts of Paris rose over the alleged poor conditions in educational institutions. Today's march in Paris was delayed due to clashes with police and several arrests. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270897.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 22:13:00 +0400 Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed on Saturday that Tehran rejects "coercion, threats and intimidation," and will not surrender its sovereignty under pressure.However, he added that Iran remains "ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and credible guarantees."During his speech at the 52nd Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Baghdad, Araghchi noted that Tehran negotiated "in good faith" over the last two years. He claimed that the repeated "aggression" of the United States and Israel created "deep distrust about renewed negotiations," but that "even so, Iran has kept a door open" for diplomacy.Araghchi stressed the importance of unity of the Muslim nations, noting that the "Palestinian cause remains the central cause of the Islamic world." http://www.today.az/news/regions/270896.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 21:41:00 +0400 The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) condemned on Saturday "the severe act of violence that took place in the area of Taybeh," where Israeli settlers attacked a European diplomatic delegation.The IDF stressed that "the consulate's visit was not coordinated with the IDF," adding that such coordination is "important to prevent incidents of this kind."A preliminary inquiry revealed that no IDF soldiers were present at the scene when the attack occurred. "Police forces and forensic investigators from the Judea and Samaria District are entering the area accompanied by IDF soldiers and will begin collecting findings and evidence, as well as taking testimonies, in support of an investigation that has been opened," the statement read. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270910.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 21:05:00 +0400 Ukrainian forces have reported significant territorial gains in the Lyman direction of Donetsk Oblast, recapturing several settlements and pushing back Russian troops as part of an ongoing counteroffensive.According to Ukraine's Third Army Corps, its troops have liberated Zelena Dolyna, Lypove and Kolodyazi during the latest phase of Operation Vivaldi, an offensive aimed at reversing Russian advances in the northern part of Donetsk Oblast.Corps commander Andrii Biletskyi said on October 14 that Ukrainian forces had regained another 101 square kilometres of territory, bringing the number of settlements reportedly recovered since the summer to 16.The operation has also involved the recapture of Ridkodub, Nove and Katerynivka, alongside Ukrainian advances in several neighbouring areas.Independent battlefield assessments have documented substantial Ukrainian progress in the Lyman sector.The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) assessed in September that Ukrainian forces had recovered at least 125 square kilometres north of Lyman, disrupting Russian efforts to advance towards the strategically important Sloviansk-Kramatorsk area.Ukrainian forces have also reportedly advanced towards the Zherebets River, including areas between Yampolivka and Zarichne.Reports circulating online claim that Ukrainian troops have completely cleared Yampolivka of Russian forces. However, the village's full liberation has not yet been independently confirmed.Although Russian military positions have come under increasing pressure, claims that the entire Russian defensive line in the Lyman direction has collapsed remain unsubstantiated.Russian forces have continued to maintain positions in parts of the wider area, while Ukrainian and Russian units have reportedly remained intermixed in certain contested locations.The latest developments nevertheless indicate a substantial shift in the local battlefield situation, with Ukrainian forces reclaiming territory and disrupting Russian offensive operations.The precise extent of Ukrainian control around Yampolivka and other contested settlements remains subject to further verification. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270909.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 20:36:00 +0400 The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Saturday that a liquified natural gas (LNG) tanker came under fire approximately 140 nautical miles southwest of Al Mukalla, Yemen."A Master of an LNG Tanker has reported being approached by a small skiff with seven persons onboard. The skiff fired two shots at the tanker whose armed Security Team fired 2 warning shots at the small craft which forced them to alter course," the statement read.UKMTO said authorities were investigating the incident and urged vessels travelling through the area to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity. Earlier, it reported that two tankers were attacked near Al Jubayl, Saudi Arabia. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270908.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 20:03:00 +0400 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked late Senator Lindsey Graham on Saturday, amid his ongoing clash with United States President Donald Trump.Zelensky posted a picture with Graham on his X profile, adding, "Thank you for everything, Lindsey!" Graham, who died of heart failure in July, was a staunch supporter of Zelensky and Ukraine and continuously urged strong pressure on Russia. On the other hand, Trump has recently strengthened cooperation with Moscow and called for a new leader in Ukraine, leaving Zelensky feeling "betrayed." http://www.today.az/news/regions/270907.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 19:38:00 +0400 Billionaire and Tesla Inc. and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk said artificial intelligence (AI) and robots are the only way to address the United States' national debt, Axios reported on Saturday, citing his interview with biographer Walter Isaacson.In the interview, which is set to premiere on Tuesday, Musk acknowledged that his efforts to cut government spending through the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) had fallen short, saying there was "no way" to resolve the deficit from within the government. "The only way we're going to solve the national debt is with AI and robots," Musk said, adding, "We're not gonna solve it by trying to save our way there."Musk also admitted spending too much time in the White House, saying he should have returned to his companies sooner. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270906.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 19:09:00 +0400 Leader of the left-wing La France Insoumise party, Jean-Luc Melenchon, claimed on Saturday that Parisian prefect Georges-Francois Leclerc and the police are the ones inciting the violence on the streets by throwing gas and banning the protesters from the Place de la Republique."The confrontation seems to be the goal of this 'maintaining order' strategy. Pathetic," Melenchon wrote on X, adding that "everywhere there are no police, it's calm and good spirits!" Earlier, French media reported that a tourist office in Lyon was set ablaze by protesters. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270905.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 18:42:00 +0400 Hamas called for restructuring Palestinian political institutions, including the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), the main body representing Palestinians internationally, to allow broader participation by Palestinian factions, the group said in a statement on Saturday.Hamas also called for elections when forming official Palestinian institutions and described talks between factions as the "only gateway" to resolving Palestinian issues.The statement came after a Hamas delegation, led by senior official Zaher Jabarin, concluded a round of talks in Cairo with representatives of Fatah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) and other factions. According to Hamas, participants discussed obstacles that have hindered previous negotiations and agreed to continue talks. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270904.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 18:13:00 +0400 Training flights have been conducted within the next phase of the “Falcons Meet - 2026” joint tactical flight exercise held in Azerbaijan with the participation of military personnel from Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates, as well as aviation assets and air defence systems from both countries.This was reported by the Press Service of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense.During the flights, military personnel performed complex aerobatic manoeuvres and demonstrated their practical skills in airborne coordination and the execution of combat tasks.The military pilots demonstrated a high level of professionalism and carried out their assigned tasks with precision. http://www.today.az/news/business/270903.html Business Sat, 17 Oct 2026 17:40:00 +0400 Air passenger transportation in Azerbaijan increased by 5.9% during January–September 2026, reaching approximately 3.29 million passengers, according to the State Statistical Committee.The number of passengers travelling by air rose by 183,500 compared with the corresponding period of 2025, reaching 3,288,400 during the first nine months of the year.Meanwhile, air cargo transportation remained unchanged year-on-year, with 288,300 tonnes of freight carried during the reporting period.According to the committee, transport operators in Azerbaijan handled a total of 183.073 million tonnes of cargo across all modes of transport between January and September 2026.Air transport accounted for 0.2% of the country's total freight transportation volume.Passenger transportation across Azerbaijan's entire transport sector also recorded growth during the reporting period.A total of 1.771 billion passenger journeys were registered across all modes of transport in the first nine months of 2026, representing an increase of 156.793 million, or 9.7%, compared with the same period last year.The figures indicate that passenger transportation continued to expand across the country's transport sector, while air freight volumes remained stable. http://www.today.az/news/politics/270902.html Politics Sat, 17 Oct 2026 17:09:00 +0400 Valeh Alasgarov has been awarded the "Sharaf" Order for his long-term, effective service in the political and economic life of the Republic of Azerbaijan.President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has signed the relevant decree.The text of the document has been published on the official website of the President of Azerbaijan. http://www.today.az/news/analytics/270901.html Analytics Sat, 17 Oct 2026 17:00:00 +0400 by Ulviyya PoladovaA few weeks after US President Donald Trump signed a law expanding sanctions on Russia [hell sanctions] his administration issued a general license allowing American companies to buy Russian diesel. The agreement Trump reached with Russian leader Vladimir Putin on diesel purchases drew sharp criticism from both Republicans and Democrats in Congress.So what pushed the United States into such an abrupt move?The root cause is a global diesel shortage. Since February, after the war against Iran began, only about a quarter of the usual volumes have passed through the Strait of Hormuz, which in peacetime handled roughly 20 percent of the world's oil and gas supplies. At the same time, strikes on Russian refineries knocked out a large share of capacity. For the United States, the consequences were immediate. The country is still the world's largest diesel exporter, but its stocks fell sharply, and the retail price reached a record $6.53 per gallon on September 22, almost double the level a year earlier. Because diesel powers freight transport and farm equipment, higher prices feed straight into the cost of food and logistics.According to Pew Research Center, the economy is the top issue for 84 percent of registered voters. The midterm elections on November 3 are only weeks away, and traditionally Republican farm states such as Iowa and Kansas have ended up among the contested ones. Hence the administration's desire to demonstrate to voters a concrete result regarding fuel prices.Added concern over energy supplies comes from the situation in the Middle East. This past Sunday, Yemen's Houthis reportedly struck King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, twice with missiles. Twelve people were killed. Because foreign nationals were reportedly among the dead, a number of states led by the United States urged their citizens to avoid travel to Middle Eastern countries. The way events are unfolding points to a further deterioration of the military and political situation in the region. It also raises the likelihood that the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed and that world fuel prices will remain high.Meanwhile, Ukraine, unhappy with Washington's decision to ease restrictions on Russian fuel exports, has said it intends to keep up drone strikes on Russian refineries. Senior Ukrainian officials have stressed that Kyiv has no intention of halting its attacks on Russian oil refineries, arguing that a "refinery for refinery" arrangement is unequal and demanding an end to Russian strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in an interview with Fox News that the agreement between the United States and Russia to supply Russian diesel fuel to global markets serves the interests of American consumers, as it could help bring prices down. Commenting on the easing of sanctions against Russia, Bessent stressed that President Donald Trump intends to pursue policies that serve the interests of the American people.Europe has predictably opposed the US decision to suspend sanctions. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said over the weekend that the move would provide Moscow with additional revenue amid the ongoing war."Now is not the time to ease pressure on Russia, and Europe will not do so," Kallas wrote on social media platform X.On October 12, EU foreign ministers instead decided to add another 1,600 individuals and entities to the bloc’s Russia sanctions lists, targeting those the EU considers linked to Russia’s military-industrial complex. Kallas said this was the largest expansion of the sanctions lists against Russia since the start of the war in Ukraine.A temporary easing of sanctions on Russia is unlikely to produce a sharp drop in diesel prices on the world market. The US Treasury's decision to lift certain restrictions on Russian diesel exports until April 7, 2027, will of course affect prices. But Russia itself faces serious problems in producing petroleum products. Russian refineries hit by drone strikes have had to cut crude processing by more than half. Revenue from domestic sales of petroleum products is being channeled into repairing more than 20 damaged refineries. Some plants have halted production entirely, while others are running with limits or have partially suspended operations.The United States produces more diesel than it consumes, yet prices on the American market are rising all the same, because they are coming into line with world prices. There are no export bans on diesel in the US, nor any export duties on it. So the only way to bring prices down at home is to influence world markets by increasing supply.The most reliable and radical way to put new volumes of diesel on the world market is to settle the question of the Strait of Hormuz. Increased supplies from Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE would quickly ease market tension. But Trump cannot win a quick victory over Iran right now, and signing a peace deal on Iranian terms would be an even greater loss of face and standing. So he has taken up another war - Russia's with Ukraine.Will the Russian-American arrangements actually help bring prices down? In principle, oil and petroleum products are goods with inelastic demand. Even a small shortfall can send prices soaring, and even a slight easing of it can, in turn, start pulling prices lower. But 300,000 tonnes a month is still far too little for a world market of 120 million tonnes a month and its internationally traded share of 30 million tonnes. And there will be nothing more before November 3, election day.Market participants might start to reconsider if there were a sense that Russia's refining volumes could return from the current 3.8-4.0 million barrels a day to 5.5 million. But for that, Ukraine would have to stop its strikes on Russian refineries. And Kyiv is unlikely to make such a concession, because for it those attacks are one of the few effective levers in its efforts to force Moscow. http://www.today.az/news/regions/270900.html World news Sat, 17 Oct 2026 16:37:00 +0400 Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said on Saturday that Cairo is prepared to take any action requested by Saudi Arabia to safeguard its security and sovereignty."We will take any measure to protect Saudi Arabia," Sisi said during a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy, adding that he would ask parliament to hold an emergency session to authorize such action if requested. "We stand firmly to protect and defend the territories of our brothers in the Gulf," he added.Sisi also confirmed that his presidential term would end in 2030, stating, "The year 2030 will mark the end of my presidential term. This matter is completely settled."