A nation is known, recognized and distinguished among the world nations by certain characteristic features. The highest and the greatest of these features is culture.

HEYDAR ALIYEV

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Varazgun Temple

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19.11.2020

19.11.2020 01:24

Varazgun Temple is an ancient Albanian monument located in Lachin district.

Around the temple are the ruins of a village called Varazkhan.

It is believed that the first name of the temple was Varazkhan or Varazgun. The monument was built in the II-V centuries during the Caucasian Albania period and ruins has remained until today.

Remains of an ancient Albanian cemetery dating back to the 7th century, as well as coins belonging to the 16th century Safavid state had been found in the area of the temple built in the highland.

NEWS

05.12.2023 09:43

The Days of Kazakh Culture ended with an exhibition and a gala-concertAn exhibition and a gala-concert were held at the Heydar Aliyev Center on December 4 within the framework of Days of Kazakh Culture held in Baku. Speaker of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan Sahiba Gafarova, Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan Aida Balayeva and other officials, culture and art figures of the two countries took part in the event. First, an exhibition featuring Kazakh culture was opened in the center. Minister Aida Balayeva spoke about the cultural relations between our countries. She said that as friendly countries, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan have always tried to achieve each other's well-being and peace in the region:“Today, the exhibition of Kazakh artists reflecting our history and culture is a journey into the past of our nation. Culture, sometimes even stronger than politics, plays an important role in people's lives. I thank everyone who participated in the exhibition.“ After the speech, the minister presented the carpet with the painting of the famous Azerbaijani poet Khurshidbanu Natavan to the Speaker of the Milli Majlis Sahiba Gafarova. Later, there was a gala-concert of cultural days in the big hall of the Heydar Aliyev Center. Aida Balayeva, Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, who appeared first on the stage, said that relations between the two countries are based on the brotherhood of our peoples, as well as the friendly relations of our heads of state. This friendship and comprehensive cooperation will continue and will bring our peoples closer to each other. The minister said that the memory of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people, Heydar Aliyev, is cherished and his name is immortalized in Kazakhstan. At the same time, the minister pointed out that there are streets named after the genius poet Mahammad Fuzuli and great Kazakh political and literary figures in Azerbaijan. Later, a concert program performed by Kazakh artists was presented. The program consisting of dance, vocals and national music was greeted with applause by the audience. Thus, the Days of Kazakh Culture held in our country on December 2-4 have ended. ..

04.12.2023 17:01

Winners of Creative marathon “Come, Create!” determinedA Creative Marathon titled “ COME, CREATE” was organized with the support from the Ministry of Culture at YARAT Modern Art Space on December 1-3. The final stage of the marathon took place on December 03 and the products prepared by 25 participating teams were presented along five directions (animation, cinema, graphic design, theater and videgraphy). In the end, winning teams were selected and presented awards along the following directions by decision of the jury: Cinema - “Alfa” Theater - “Voiceless” Design - “The last of us” Videography - “The pulse of innovator” Animation - “Spell” Marathon “COME, CREATE!” was realized within the “Creative Week” framework thanks to mentoring of the cinema and theater direction of Azerbaijan Film Academy, graphic design of Baku Design Academy, and animation direction of the Azerbaijan Animation Association. ..

04.12.2023 12:55

Minister of Culture met his Kazakhstani counterpartOn December 4, the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Adil Karimli, met with the Minister of Culture and Information of Kazakhstan, Aida Balayeva, who is visiting our country. The delegation led by Minister Aida Balayeva visited our country in connection with the Kazakhstan Culture Days held in Baku on December 2-4. At the meeting, Minister Adil Karimli talked about the cooperative relations of our countries and said that the friendship and brotherly relations between the presidents of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, Ilham Aliyev and Kasim-Jomart Tokayev, and the strategic partnership established by our heads of state, have a positive effect on the cultural field as well as in all fields. Adil Karimli emphasized the importance of implementing joint projects to further strengthen cooperation in various fields of culture and art. Minister Aida Balayeva also expressed her satisfaction with the high level of relations between the two countries and noted that friendly relations between our countries have created a fertile ground for deepening cooperation in the field of culture. In this sense, in the successful development of bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, the reliable and lasting friendship of our peoples, especially our heads of state, who historically live by the principles of friendship and brotherhood, plays an important role. We see the impact of intensive bilateral and multilateral cooperation on dynamic development in the cultural field. During the meeting, other issues of mutual interest were exchanged. ..

04.12.2023 10:23

The Humor Festival of the Turkish World was heldOn December 2, the Turkish World Humor Festival was held at the Nizami Cinema Center as part of the “Creative Week“ with the support of the Ministry of Culture. The main goal of the festival is mutual cultural integration, exchange of experience, creative and professional interaction, strengthening the development path, preparation of joint international creative projects in the field of show business. Kayrat Mukanov, adviser to the general secretary of TURKSOY, delivered the opening speech and conveyed the greetings of the general secretary Sultan Raev to the guests. He noted that the Humor Festival of the Turkish World is being held for the first time. It is gratifying to hold this festival in Azerbaijan. Well-known figures of the creative industry representing the field of humor from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tatarstan (RF) take part in the festival. This evening, masters of humor from the Turkish world will perform in the “stand-up“ genre, and at the end, based on the evaluation of the jury, one of the countries will be chosen as the winner. Later, humor masters Erkin Ergin, Javid Gurbanov, Rustam Ahmadov (all Azerbaijan), Oguljan Bektash, Doruk Kaparlar (both Turkey), Ayrat Mavlyutov, Bulat Khanmurzin (both Tatarstan), Medet Kalibekov, Aubakir Emilbay (both Kazakhstan), Taras Kosimbarov, Indira Miftakhova (both Uzbekistan), Azimkhan Rakhatov, Anzor Borzayev (both Kyrgyzstan) demonstrated their talents. According to the decision of the jury, Bulat Khanmurzin, a member of the Kazan stand-up club representing Tatarstan, won the title. The winner was presented with the trophy of the festival. In the end, the members of the jury gave a speech and thanked the organizers of the festival. ..

01.11.2023 16:34

Several days left the biggest book fair in the regionThe 9th Baku International Book Fair (Baku International Book Fair 2023) dedicated to the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev will be held at the Baku Expo Center from November 11 to November 15, 2023 under the organization of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan. More than 30 foreign organizations from 11 countries, 109 local publishing houses, and enterprises related to printing and book art have registered to participate in the exhibition. Applications for participation from more than 30 foreign and domestic organizations are considered by the Organizing Committee of the exhibition. People's writers and poets of Azerbaijan, well-known young writers, and famous foreign writers and actors will take part in the book fair. Within the framework of the fair, master classes for children and adults, book presentations on inclusion and other relevant topics, book-signing days, conferences, symposia, reading and music hours, and cooperation platforms between the actors of the book industry will be organized. More than 220 events in various formats are planned within the framework of the exhibition.The honorary guest of the exhibition is the Russian Federation. A series of events in various formats will be held by the Russian Federation in the exhibition hall and in a number of our cultural institutions in order to present the book art and literary and cultural heritage of the honorary guest country. At the same time, well-known Russian writers, historians and scientists will participate in the exhibition. At the same time, the Republic of Turkiye will be represented at the exhibition by prominent writers, scientists, well-known actors, and a program of special events. Free transportation of visitors from “Academy of Sciences“, “May 28“ and “Koroghlu“ metro stations to the Baku Expo Center will be provided by special buses. Exhibition opening hours: 10:00 to 20:00. Entry to the exhibition is free. ..

01.11.2023 16:18

Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers on the transfer of the State Symphony Orchestra named after Niyazi, the Orchestra of Folk Instruments named after Said Rustamov, and the Choir named after Jahangir Jahangirov under the Recording House of the Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint Stock Company to the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of AzerbaijanGuided by the eighth clause of Article 119 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, upon the suggestion of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan coordinated with the Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint Stock Company, hereby resolves: 1. The State Symphony Orchestra named after Niyazi, currently operating within the Recording House of the Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint-Stock Company, along with its staff units shall be transferred to the Heydar Aliyev Palace under the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Folk Instrument Orchestra named after Said Rustamov and the Choir named after Jahangir Jahangirov along with their respective staff units shall be transferred to the International Mugham Center under the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan. 2. According to the 1st part of this Resolution, the funding of those collectives in the current year be carried out on the basis of the the order of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan within the limits stipulated for the financing of these musical ensembles as part of the financial assistance provided to the Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint Stock Company from the 2023 state budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan. 3. The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Azerbaijan shall take into account the reforms carried out during the elaboration of the draft state budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2024 and subsequent three years and resolve other issues arising from this resolution. Ali Asadov Prime Minister of the Republic of Azerbaijan Baku city, October 31, 2023 No. 390 ..

01.11.2023 11:35

The final declaration of the 9th meeting of the Council of Directors of State Theaters of TURKSOY member countries was signed in ShushaOn the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and the declaration of the city of Shusha as the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ for 2023, the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the professional national theater of Azerbaijan, and the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY, theFirst International TURKSOY Theater Festival was held in Shusha and Baku from October 31 to November 4. Within the framework of the festival, the 9th meeting of the Council of Directors of State Theaters of TURKSOY member countries took place in Shusha on October 31. Heads of state theaters of TURKSOY member countries such as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkiye, and Turkmenistan, as well as observer members of the organization, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Gagauzia (Moldova) participated in the meeting. Oleg Amirbayov, advisor to the Minister of Culture, made a speech, greeted the participants, and wished success to the work of the meeting. Later, a video dedicated to the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY was screened. It was noted during the event that the international theater festival held with the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan made a great contribution to the promotion of the stage art, language, and traditions of the Turkic people. After listening to the speeches of the representatives of other republics, the joint declaration of the 9th meeting of the Council of Directors of State Theaters of TURKSOY member countries was signed. The issues of the expansion of the cooperation of the Turkic peoples in the field of theater, the exchange of art on stage, etc.are reflected in the document. It was noted that the 10th meeting of the Council of Directors of State Theaters of TURKSOY member countries will be held in Anev, Turkmenistan, which has been declared the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ for 2024. In the end, certificates were presented to the representatives of the participating countries. ..

01.11.2023 11:25

The 1st International TURKSOY Theater Festival will be held in Shusha and Baku from October 31 to November 4.The festival is held on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and the declaration of the city of Shusha as the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic world“ for 2023, the 150th anniversary of the establishment of the professional national theater of Azerbaijan, and the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY. Within the framework of the festival, the 9th meeting of the Council of Directors of State Theaters of TURKSOY member countries will be held in Shusha on October 31. Directors of state theatres of TURKSOY member countries such as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkiye, Turkmenistan, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and Gagauzia (Moldova) are participating in the meeting. The guests got acquainted with the historical places and mysterious nature of Shusha city before the meeting. The guests who visited the Shusha fortress walls were informed about the history of Shusha city and the construction of the fortress walls. It was reported that the fortress built by Karabakh Khan Panahali Khan protected the city from foreign interference for a long time and was a symbol of invincibility. During the occupation, the fortress walls were subjected to Armenian vandalism. The guide of Shusha City State Reserve Department informed the guests about the city. He spoke about Shusha's neighborhoods, Khan Gizi Spring, Ganja Gate of Shusha Castle, Yukhari Govhar Agha Mosque, the Mehmandarovs' Estate Complex ,and Gazanchi Church. The guests visited the museum-floor complex of Molla Panah Vagif and shared their thoughts about our common literary values. During the tour, information was also given about the damage done to our cultural monuments by the Armenians during the occupation period, as well as the falsification of our ancient artifacts. It was reported that, after the liberation of Shusha from the occupation, large-scale reconstruction works were started here. In addition to the construction of the infrastructure, the restoration of the city's true face and historical and cultural monuments has been started in Shusha. In the end, the guests visiting the Jıdır plain watched the mysterious nature and scenery. ..

01.11.2023 10:51

The first Music Forum held in our country endedAs part of the events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of national leader Heydar Aliyev, the Music Forum organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture at the “Gulustan“ Palace ended its work on October 31 with the VI panel meeting on the topic “Choreography art: national dance, ballet, modern dance forms“. In the last panel of the forum moderated by choreographer Akif Karimli, topics such as “Protection of national dance traditions and resistance to threats of distortion“, “Enhancement of dance promotion infrastructire“, “Introduction of modern dance systems in Azerbaijan: opportunities and challenges“, “Guiding towards the profession of a dancer: education, career opportunities, and social security mechanisms”, “children's dance studios, edcatin“ were put to discussion. horeographer, acting rector of the Baku Choreography Academy and honored artist Naila Mammadzade, spoke about the problems of the educational center headed by her, and the issues of social security for dancers and ballet artists. The artistic director of the Azerbaijan State Dance Ensemble, choreographer, and people’s artist Rufat Khalilzadeh, after recalling the famous artists who contributed to the formation of the national dance art of Azerbaijan, drew attention to the “patchwork“ elements and distortions in the costumes introduced into the national dance art in the modern period. R. Khalilzadeh also said that those who work in the field of choreography should retire after the age of 40. He stated that financial support, which is not provided in time, keeps young people and parents away from the art of dance. Ballet master, people’s artist Medina Aliyeva said that there is a need to restore the conditions created for ballet artists during the Soviet era. She also recalled that the national leader Heydar Aliyev saved Azerbaijani ballet art from decline in the 1990s. Musicologist and associate professor Rauf Bahmanli emphasized the importance of collecting forgotten dance tunes and taking measures to protect our dances from plagiarism and forgery. He said that it would be appropriate to start this process at children's art schools. Ballet artist, Deputy Director of the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater, Honored artist Farid Ibrahimov said that ballets by Azerbaijani composers are performed in world theaters, but our ballet artists are experiencing problems. It is a serious problem that male actors cannot return to the stage after serving in the army. For this purpose, F.Ibrahimov suggested that they should work in a military ensemble, and the military chair at the Academy of Choreography should be restored. Choreographer Nigar Ibrahimbayli made a proposal to teach dance in secondary schools up to the 7th grade. She said that modern dance art has broad possibilities, and it would be promising to develop this genre along with national dance art. Then there were discussions around the speeches. Sevda Akhundova, a teacher at the Academy of Choreography, Farhad Badalbayli, the rector of the Baku Music Academy, Roza Jalilova, an elderly master of dance, People's Artist, Vugar Jamalzade, composer, honored artist, Aytaj Valiyeva, a student of the BMA, and others expressed their concerns and made suggestions. ..

19.10.2023 17:06

Course registration continuesUnder the organization of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a Game Developers Workshop section is established in the Educational and Incubation Center for Culture and Creative Industries. Applications are still being accepted for the “Game Animation“ and “Game Design“ courses included in this section. For the first time in Azerbaijan, the basics of such subjects as level design, resource management, game monetization, story creation, correct balancing of games will be taught, and practical skills will be acquired. In the “Game Animation“ course, participants will be taught the basics of animation used in video games, the creation of game character animations, and the application of these animations in the game engine. The course will be completed in 3 months. At the end of the course, all participants will prepare a diploma thesis and have their first professional portfolio. Registration closes on October 20. Those who want to participate in the course can visit the link edu.creative.az and apply for registration in the “Game Developers Workshop“ section. ..

19.10.2023 11:05

The documentary film "Son" was presented at the Nizami Cinema CenterOn October 18, a screening of the documentary film “Son“ produced by the British company “Broken Pot Media“ was held at the Nizami Cinema Center with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture, with the organizational support of the “LIBRAFF“ bookstore network and the “TEAS Press“ publishing house. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice President of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Arzu Aliyeva, Head of Baku Media Center, officials, well-known artists, and other guests took part in the event. The documentary film “Son“, which was made over three years, is about the Azerbaijani soldier Natig Gasimov, who was captured by the Armenians during the First Karabakh War. ..

18.10.2023 14:33

The first stage of the "Rise of Producers" program has been completedOn October 9-13, 2023, the first stage of the “Rise of Producers“ program, organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ARKA) and the Azerbaijan Producers Guild, was completed. The training was conducted by the famous European producers Martin Hagemann and Titus Kreyenberg. Training participants will acquire basic knowledge in the field of preparation of film project documents according to European standards, and by the end of the year, they will prepare new film projects under the supervision and advice of foreign mentors through practical mentoring. 30 people successfully completed the first stage of the training. Participants will continue working on new projects for 7 weeks in contact with foreign mentors. Project leader Martin Hagemann, emphasized that the training was organized at a high level and that among the participants were both experienced people and people taking their first steps in the field of cinema, that he believes that such training will serve to create stable relationships, establish modern management of traditional practices, and generally create more effective projects in the future. It should be noted that special awards will be given by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan to projects selected by local and foreign experts. ..

18.10.2023 11:16

Fuzuli City Day ended with fireworksThe City Day, organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and the Special Representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Karabakh economic region, held in Fuzuli on October 17, was remembered with interesting concerts and performances. As part of the event, at the end of the day, concert programs for the residents of Fuzuli were presented by the “Natig“ rhythm group and singer Murad Arif. The audience warmly welcomed the performances. Fuzuli City Day ended with spectacular fireworks display. ..

18.10.2023 10:22

Fuzuli City Day was solemnly celebratedBy the order signed by President Ilham Aliyev on July 31, 2023, city days were established to honor the liberated territories of the Republic of Azerbaijan. According to the order, October 17 is Fuzuli City Day. On this occasion, a solemn city day event was held in Fuzuli on October 17, jointly organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture, and the Special Representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Karabakh economic region. The event was attended by state and government officials, MPs, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and other guests. President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with a group of Fuzuli residents who had returned to their native land since August of this year and had a sincere conversation on Fuzuli City Day. After that, a big gala concert was held on the occasion of Fuzuli Day. Folk and composer songs were performed by well-known artists. Familiarization with the exhibitions where these exhibits were displayed took place: “Motherland, motherland, motherland!“ dedicated to the genius Azerbaijani poet Muhammad Fuzuli, “National leader Heydar Aliyev and Fuzuli“, “Fuzuli district - before and after occupation“, as well as samples of material culture found on the territory of Fuzuli from the archaeological monument “Yedditapa mounds“. Later, the guests visited the “Fuzuli“ corner. Compositions based on various works of Muhammad Fuzuli were exhibited here, and the poet's poems were recited. The portrait of the genius poet was created by the artist. The composition titled “100 tars“ was presented at the venue of the event. The performance of 100 people, consisting of master tar performers, children, teenagers, and young people, was received with interest. Afterwards, the event participants and guests tasted samples of Azerbaijani national cuisine. ..

16.10.2023 10:00

A gala concert titled "We are Together" was held in celebration of the 30th anniversary of TURKSOYA gala concert titled “We are Together” was held in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the International Organization of Turkic Culture – TURKSOY at the Heydar Aliyev Center on October 15. The significance of October 15 and the hoisting of the Azerbaijani flag in Khankandi by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev as a continuation of the historic victory of our people were specially noted on this night. The fulfillment of all the promises made by President Ilham Aliyev to the people of Azerbaijan when he was elected head of state 20 years ago and the feeling of pride with the Azerbaijani flag flying all over Karabakh were also emphasized. Ms. Farah Aliyeva, Head of the Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora, Multiculturalism, and Religious Affairs Department of the President Administration, read out the congratulation letter addressed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Ilham Aliyev to the participants of the event devoted to the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY. The Secretary General of TURKSOY, Sultan Raev, took the floor and provided a concise overview of the organization's journey, expressing his satisfaction that the next significant ceremony commemorating the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY was taking place in Baku city. In a special moment, distinguished figures of culture and art in Azerbaijan were honored with the “Sharaf“ order for their remarkable contributions to the promotion of Turkic world culture. The recipients included People's Artist Nuraddin Mehdikhanli (theatre), People's Artists Farhad Khalilov and Sakit Mammadov (fine arts), People's Writer Elchin (literature), People's Artist Faig Sujaddinov (music), People's Artist Shafiga Mammadova (cinema), and People's Artist, composer Polad Bulbuloghlu. The event continued with the concert program presented by the art collectives from the member states and regions of the organization. Interesting performances such as “Together”, “TURKSOY 30 years”, “The Caravanserai Center on Shaki – Silk way)”, “Karabakh” vocal – choreographic composition, as well as “The Altercation of the National Instruments of the Turkic World” were presented during the program. Art collectives from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Northern Cyprus, and Khakassia (RF) took the stage during the program. The concert program ended with the “Azerbaijan – the Land of Fires” composition, in which all collectives and soloists participated. The event participants also got acquainted with the exhibition organized on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY at the Heydar Aliyev Center. It should be noted, that the International Organization of Turkic Culture, known as TURKSOY, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. In 1993, a treaty was signed during the meeting held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, by the ministers of culture from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkiye, and Turkmenistan. This treaty led to the establishment of the “Common Administration of Turkic Culture and Arts,“ or TÜRKSOY. In 2009, the organization was renamed as the International Organization of Turkic Culture, and its headquarters are located in Ankara, Turkiye. ..

14.10.2023 20:00

An excursion to the Shusha City State Reserve Department was organized for the Forum participants An excursion to the Shusha City State Reserve Department was organized by the Ministry of Culture for the participants and visitors of the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World devoted to the 100th anniversary of the national leader Heydar Aliyev in Shusha city. During the excursion, the visitors visited the “Shot Statues”, Shirin Su bathhouse, the House of Sadigjan, the House of Khurshidbanu Natavan, the Palace of the Karabakh Khans spring, Shusha Castle, the Jidir Plain, the Mehmandarovs' Estate Complex, Yukhari Govhar Agha Mosque, and familiarized themselves with the renovation and restoration works performed on some historical monuments. It should be noted that the Shusha City State Reserve Department is a public legal entity engaged in restoring, preserving, studying, using, and promoting the monuments located in the city territory. The areas of activity of the Department include preserving and ensuring the integrity of the volumetric-design structure, as well as restoring, studying, and purposefully using the monuments in the territory of Shusha city, promoting cultural activity and cultural services in the area, creating favorable conditions for fully benefiting from the historical, cultural, touristic, and recreational potential of the city, etc. ..

14.10.2023 17:00

A panel on the development of creative industries and innovations in the field of culture was held within the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic WorldThe panel was attended by representative of various countries, creative industries, association members, managers, and the private sector. Mr. Rashad Azizov, Head of the Department of Creative Industries and Digital Transformation at the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, shared with AZERTAG the information on the panel session on the topic “Prospects of Cooperation among Turkic States in the Field of Culture and Creative industries”. He stressed that the development of the creative industries is an extremely important direction. Culture is being promoted, experience in its development is being exchanged, and information on projects of interest is being shared at present. The First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World held in Shusha has already kicked off new projects and initiatives. Rashad Azizov also stressed the particular importance attached to innovation. The introduction of new technologies, in particular the artificial intelligence, takes its place also in culture and creative fields as in all other fields. “The cooperation in this field shall be enhanced, and the Ministry of Culture attaches special importance to such processes at present. Plans are in place to implement joint projects both inside the country and with other Turkic states,” the head of the department said. ..

14.10.2023 16:13

The 40th session of the Permanent Council of TURKSOY is overThe 40th session of the Permanent Council of TURKSOY Ministers of Culture, co-organized by the Ministry of Culture and TURKSOY, ended on October 13-14. The final event of the 40th session of the TURKSOY Permanent Council was held on October 14. Mr. Adil Karimli, the Minister of Culture, noted that the session was very successful and that the decisions adopted at the session would be beneficial for both TURKSOY and its member states. During the session, major decisions were made on the regulation of financial issues, staffing rules, job and work regulations,etc. Then Mr. Adil Karimli, the Minister of Culture, Sultan Raev, the Secretary General of TURKSOY, and the representatives of its member countries put their signatures in the documents of decisions adopted at the session. A number of meetings were held, and ideas were exchanged around the matters of concern during the session lasting for two days. Take note that the next 41st session of the Permanent Council of TURKSOY will be held in Turkmenistan in November next year. ..

14.10.2023 14:00

Shusha Declaration was adopted at the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic WorldThe First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World held on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the National leader Heydar Aliyev organized by the Ministry of Culture is underway in Shusha city. The Shusha Declaration was adopted by the Forum participants on October 14. The Declaration reads as follows: 1. On behalf of all the participants, we express our gratitude to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mr. Ilham Aliyev for his support to the first cultural forum of the Turkic World. 2. We welcome the Great Return to the territories of Azerbaijan liberated from the occupation, including to the cultural capital 2023 of the Turkic World Shusha city, the wide-scale restoration andconstruction works speedily carried out in this direction, and the revitalization of the cultural environment. 3. We strongly condemn such gross violations of international humanitarian law as large-scale destruction of the historical and cultural monuments forming an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Turkic World in the Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur regions of Azerbaijan during the 30-year occupation period, as well as the trafficking and illegal circulation of cultural property, and demand the relevant international institutions to take a serious stance on this matter. 4. Considering the past, present, and future of the Turkic culture within the discussions and broad exchange of ideas held in Shusha, we support the creation of new tools to address such challenges through joint cooperation. 5. We deem it necessary to strengthen our common cultural position through the Turkic languages and literature and encourage the transformation of this heritage into the digital domain. 6. Given the positive outcomes achieved within the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World, we welcome the creation of a network of the heritage managers of the Turkic World who would jointly work to explore, restore, preserve, and promote the Turkic historical-cultural heritage, and share the best experiences and recommend the establishment of a regular platform. 7. We highly appreciate the establishment of the cultural routes program in the Turkic World and the initiative to establish the first cultural route as a prospective joint project, and call upon all the stakeholders to expedite this initiative. 8. We encourage cultural digitalization, as well as the generation of common solutions that will address the challenges faced by the Turkic culture in the XXI century and propose to intensify the discussions towards the creation of common markets of creative industries in the cultural field. 9. We note that the Cultural Forum of the Turkic World established by the initiative of the Republic of Azerbaijan as a key universal platform bringing together the representatives of all the stakeholders is successful and offer to hold the Forum once every two years. Then the event participants had memory photos taken. ..

14.10.2023 12:03

A postage stamp was issued to commemorate the declaration of Shusha city as the "Cultural Capital of the Turkic World" in 2023A postage stamp was issued to commemorate the declaration of Shusha city as the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ in 2023 by the decision of TURKSOY Permanent Council. A ceremony took place during the Cultural Forum of the Turkic World on October 14 to officially seal the postage stamp titled “Shusha - the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ on a “First Day Envelope.“ Sitara Huseynova, head of the stamps department at “Azerpocht” LLC, provided information about the post stamp. She noted that the stamp was issued in a block of 1 stamp with an edition of 5,000 copies. The block bears the “Shusha-2023” logo, the flags of TURKSOY member states, and Shusha attributes. Its author is the artist Orkhan Garayev. She further stated that 21 various post stamps were put in circulation on occasion of the 270th anniversary of Shusha city. The stamps bear information about Shusha’s history, culture, its prominent figures, and a book titled “Shusha in Post Stamps” comprising the stamps was issued. Then the Minister of Culture Adil Karimli, and the Secretary General of TURKSOY Sultan Raev sealed and signed the stamps. Then memory photos were taken at the end. ..

14.10.2023 11:00

The First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World continuesThe First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World, organized by the Ministry of Culture to commemorate the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, is ongoing in Shusha city. A noteworthy event within the forum was the panel session titled “Best Practices in Preserving and Restoring Cultural and Historical Heritage,“ conducted on October 14. Before the session commenced, Sabina Hajiyeva, Head of the Department of Architectural Constructions and Monuments Restoration, delivered a speech shedding light on Azerbaijan's and Shusha's rich cultural heritage. Dr. Fuad Mammadov, a professor with a Ph.D. in historical sciences and a culture expert, inaugurated the session by introducing the panel members to the attendees. Krim Altinbekov, the founder of the Scientific Restoration Laboratory in Kazakhstan and an accomplished restoration scientist and academician, provided insights into his ongoing activities. Aidai Sulaimanova, a scientific researcher at the Institute of History, Archeology, and Ethnology named after B. Chamgerchinov of the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, discussed the significance of the Saymalitash rock carvings, emphasizing their importance in both Turkic and universal history. Zeynep Gul Unal, Head of the Directorate for Cultural Heritage and Museums at the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, addressed the audience with a presentation titled “Rapidly Developing Disasters and Crises.“ She highlighted the unifying power of cultural heritage during times of crisis. Mavlyuda Yusupova, an expert from the Culture Department and Head of the Architecture Department at the Institute of Descriptive Art of the Uzbekistan National Academy of Sciences, presented a report on Uzbekistan's architectural monuments. The panel session continued with other presentations on a variety of topics. ..

13.10.2023 19:00

The first day of the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World has concludedThe opening day of the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the national leader Heydar Aliyev, and organized by the Ministry of Culture in Shusha city, hasended. To conclude the day, a concert called “Dovri Sada“ was organized for the Forum participants and guests at the Shusha Hotel-Congress Center. The concert was well received by the audience. It is worth mentioning that the Forum will continue its work on October 14 in Shusha. ..

13.10.2023 16:30

The 40th session of the Permanent Council of TURKSOY Ministers of Culture took place in Shusha cityDuring the opening of the Cultural Forum of the Turkic World, Minister of Culture Adil Karimli emphasized the significance of the meeting, highlighting the numerous topics that will be discussed. He encouraged the active participation of the participants in the decision-making process. Sultan Rayev, Secretary General of TURKSOY, noted the importance of this meeting coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkiye and the 30th anniversary of TURKSOY's establishment. Kubanichbek Omuraliyev, Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States, expected that the meeting would be remembered for its important decisions. Aydin Karimov, the special representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Shusha region, highlighted that during an extraordinary meeting of the Permanent Council of Ministers of Culture of TURKSOY member countries in Bursa, Turkiye, on March 31, 2022, the city of Shusha was bestowed with the title of “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ for the year 2023. Subsequently, President Ilham Aliyev signed an order outlining a number of measures to be implemented in Shusha in support of this designation. Kayrat Imanaliyev, the Deputy Minister of Culture, Information, Sports, and Youth Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic, expressed satisfaction with being in Shusha and highlighted the potential for the meeting's decisions to enhance future cooperation between our countries. Bahodir Akhmedov, the First Deputy Minister of Culture of Uzbekistan, praised the various important projects signed within the Turkic World in recent years, anticipating that they will further strengthen the unity among our peoples. The Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkiye, Sardar Cham, praised the decision to host the meeting in Shusha, a city liberated from occupation through the valour of the Azerbaijani Army. He also noted that he had visited Shusha two years ago and was impressed by the city's transformation, describing it as notably beautiful. Fikri Ataoglu, Deputy Prime Minister of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Living, and Environment, expressed pride in Northern Cyprus being part of the Turkic World and commended TURKSOY's mission for promoting Turkic unity. The meeting continued with speeches by Mehmet Sureyya Er, Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA), President of the International Turkic Academy Shahin Mustafayev, and others. Subsequently, the meeting proceeded in a closed format, where discussions took place on various mutual interests. ..

13.10.2023 16:00

The First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World commenced with the opening ceremony held in ShushaAs we have informed earlier, the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World as organized by the Ministry of Culture is being held on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in Shusha city on October 13-14. The opening ceremony of the forum took place on October 13. The ceremony was attended by public officials, representatives from the competent authorities of the Turkic World, and other visitors. During the event, a video clip celebrating Shusha city as one of the cradles of Azerbaijani mugham art, and carrying out its role as “The Cultural Capital of the Turkic World,“ was presented. This was followed by a literary and artistic composition titled “Dervishes.“ Making an opening speech, the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan Adil Karimli welcomed the guests and noted that the holding of the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World in Shusha city is a significant event: “This forum is of particular importance for the whole Turkic world. Today, our Shusha, Karabakh, and Azerbaijan as a whole celebrate their Victory. The wide-scale reconstruction works have been carried out in Shusha city for three years, and no fires are being heard in today’s Karabakh. During the past September 19-20, our glorious army put an end to the acts of terrorism by the illegal military of Armenia in Karabakh within just 24 hours under the leadership of the President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev. In this way, Azerbaijan ensured its territorial integrity. Azerbaijan acts as a proponent of peace and stability in the whole world and not only in the South Caucasus region alone, taking practical steps in this direction“. Highly valuing the importance of the forum, the Minister stressed the importance of founding a common platform in order to promote the Turkic culture around the world: “We think this forum will contribute to the deepening of the cultural cooperation between our brotherly peoples, and mutual promotion of our ancient heritage. The National Leader of Azerbaijan Heydar Aliyev tirelessly worked towards the unity of the Turkic nations, and it is no coincidence that the forum is devoted to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev“. The Minister concluded his speech by wishing the Forum success in its work.TURKSOY Secretary General Sultan Raev expressed his satisfaction with his visit to Shusha for the next time and described Shusha as a home to many literary figures such as Khurshidbanu Natavan, Uzeyir Hajibayli, Bulbul, etc.: “Shusha is also “the cultural capital of the Turkic World”. Shusha is Azerbaijan! Shusha is the Turkic World!“. Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) Kubanichbek Omuraliyev said that the Victory of Azerbaijan in the 44-day Patriotic War and the liberation of Karabakh and East Zangezur from occupation are of great importance not only for Azerbaijan, but for the entire Turkic World. K. Omuraliyev noted that the Turkic states have common roots in terms of language and culture and said that he will spare no effort to strengthen cooperation. Mehmet Sureyya Er, Secretary General of the Parliamentary Assembly of Turkic States (TURKPA), emphasized that Shusha's bringing together Turkic organizations and leaders of relevant institutions of our brotherly republics has a symbolic meaning: “Shortly after the liberation from occupation, extensive restoration and construction works are bringing Shusha back to its former glory. This charming city already hosts prestigious events and art projects. The President of the International Turkic Academy (ITA) Shahin Mustafayev said that the victory achieved in Karabakh is not only a victory for Azerbaijan, but for the entire Turkic World. These lands, which were destroyed by the enemy during the almost 30-year occupation, are being rebuilt by their real owners - the state of Azerbaijan. We do this together with the Turkic states. This forum, currently held in Shusha, will be an important contribution to the promotion of our common cultural values.“ Academician Isa Habibbeyli, the President of ANAS, said that the National Leader Heydar Aliyev has done important things for the unity of the Turkic peoples: “I can say that the Turkic states are now successfully moving towards a single nation, 6 states. This is the greatest that can be achieved in the light of Heydar Aliyev’s genius. I believe that devoting the forum to the 100th anniversary of our National Leader is an important contribution to the “Year of Heydar Aliyev“. People's writer Anar, the Chairman of the Writers' Union of Azerbaijan, said in his speech that even though he was not born in Shusha, he felt like a Shusha citizen: “I am very glad that at this age I saw the day when Shusha was liberated. Currently, Shusha is becoming more beautiful and flourishing day by day. I always say that this Victory has a grandfather and a father. The grandfather is Heydar Aliyev, and the father is President Ilham Aliyev. At the end, memory photos were taken. After the opening ceremony, the forum continued its work with panel sessions. ..

12.10.2023 09:59

The III "Korkut Ata" Turkic World Film Festival has endedThe III “Korkut Ata“ Turkic World Film Festival arranged by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Center, the International Organization of Turkic Culture - TURKSOY, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Baku Media Center, held in our capital on October 8-11, has ended. On October 11, the closing ceremony of the festival was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center. The ceremony was attended by officials, well-known artists of the Turkic World, and other guests. First, a video dedicated to the four-day festival was shown. The Secretary General of TURKSOY, Sultan Raev, who delivered the opening speech, welcomed the guests. S. Raev expressed his impressions about the festival and his satisfaction with being in Azerbaijan. The III “Korkut Ata“ Turkic World Film Festival is a great opportunity to promote Turkic World films. We will continue to support this festival in the future.“ At the end of his speech, Sultan Raev presented the special award of TURKSOY to People's Artist Fakhreddin Manafov. The chairman of the jury, People's Artist Vagif Mustafayev, spoke about the importance of the Festival. Later, the jury for the documentary and feature films competition was presented to the guests. Hojagulu Narliyev, Mayagozel Aymedova, Charliyar Seyidli (all three from Turkmenistan), Serdar Gökhan, Metin Gunay (both from Turkey), Hamida Omarova, Ogtay Mirgasimov, Orman Aliyev, Aghasi Mammadli (all from Azerbaijan), Firdavs Abdukhalikov (Uzbekistan) and Azamat Satybaldi (Kazakhstan) received honorary awards for their contributions to cinematography in the Turkic World. Kazakh director Dosjan Janbotaev for the film “Jambyl“ and Turkish director Murat Pay for the film “Hep 33 yaşında“ received a special jury prize. Ahmet Amandurdiyev (“Golden Apple“, Turkmenistan) won the “Best Actor“ award, and Tahmina Rafaella (“Maryam“, Azerbaijan) won the “Best Actress“ award. The film “Abdulla Oripov“ (Uzbekistan) receivedthe “Best Screenplay“ award. Zhuraeva Asel Talibzhanova (“Tanrıverdi“, Kyrgyzstan) won the “Best Director“ nomination. In the “Best Documentary“ nomination, the 3rd prize was awarded to “My Circle“ (Uzbekistan), the 2nd prize to “Argau“ (Kazakhstan), and the 1st and main prize to “The Last“ (Azerbaijan). “Stardust“ (Turkey, directed by Ahmet Sonmez) won the “Best Feature Film“ nomination. The award was presented by the President of the Baku Media Center, Arzu Aliyeva. The Minister of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Adil Karimli, presented the “Crane“ award to the representative of the Republic of Turkmenistan, symbolizing the transfer of the next “Korkut Ata“ festival to the city of Anev, Turkmenistan, and that it will be held there. In his speech, Adil Karimli highly appreciated the importance of the III “Korkut Ata“ Turkic World Film Festival. He expressed his gratitude to those who contributed to the organization of the festival. Later, a literary and artistic composition based on the motifs of the “Dada Gorgud“ epic was shown on the stage. ..

11.10.2023 14:58

Azerbaijan to hold the II Meeting of Museums of the Turkic WorldOn October 11-14, 2023, Baku and Shusha will hold the II Meeting of Museums of the Turkic World. The event is organized jointly by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan Republic, International Organization of Turkic Culture (TURKSOY) and the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. The event aims to host the discussion of new projects and innovations in the museum field of the Turkic world, as well as exchange of experience and knowledge. The I Meeting of Museums of the Turkic World was held in Bursa, Turkey in 2022. On October 11-12, 2023, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum will hold the international conference Carpet as a Symbol of the Turkic World within the framework of the II Meeting of Museums of the Turkic World, where heads and representatives of museums, museologists, TURKSOY executives and other officials will participate. The academic sessions will include the following topics: Carpet: Common Turkic Heritage; Tamgas: The Language of Carpet; Methods of Preservation, Conservation, and Displaying of Carpets in Museums. More than 30 specialists from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia (Moldova) will deliver their reports at the conference. The Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum will sign the Memorandum of Understanding with the State Museum of the History of Uzbekistan and the Ankara Ethnography Museum within the framework of the conference. On October 11, the conference participants will take part in opening ceremony of the exhibition of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan held at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. On October 13-14, the guests will join the First Cultural Forum of the Turkic World dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the National Leader Heydar Aliyev held in Shusha. The Meeting of TURKSOY Museums Union will be held in Shusha. The guests will visit the historical sites of Shusha. ..

11.10.2023 12:48

Our country was represented at international cultural policy events organized in MaltaThe Republic of Azerbaijan was represented by Yashar Huseynli, Deputy Director of the Strategic Development and Project Management Department of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and expert of the Compendium Association for the Republic of Azerbaijan at the 6th General Assembly of the Compendium Association, Assembly of Compendium Experts, International Cultural Policy Conference and Symposium organized by the Compendium Association of Cultural Policy and Trends in cooperation with the Arts Council of Malta on October 5-7 of the current year in Valletta, Republic of Malta. Helena Dalli, European Commissioner for Equality, Terje Hovland, Chairman of the Council of Europe Steering Committee for Culture, Heritage, and Landscape (CDCPP), Association of Compendium of Cultural Policy and Trends, Arts Council of Malta, International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA), European Institute for Comparative Cultural Researchers (ERICarts), International Network for Contemporary Performing arts (IETM), Culture Action Europe (CAE), other influential international organizations in the field of cultural policy, and leading European specialists participated at the International Cultural Policy Conference organized under the title “Right to Culture“. What are the roles of government, civil society, and the cultural sector in promoting and strengthening creative freedom, and cultural policies to ensure cultural diversity and equal opportunities and what should be done by civil society, the ways to enable individuals and communities to actively participate in cultural activities, governance, and shaping decision-making processes were discussed in the panel discussions of the International Conference on “Creative Freedom“, “Cultural Diversity and Accessibility“ and “Cultural Democracy“. Albania, Germany, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bulgaria, Great Britain, the Czech Republic, Armenia, Estonia, Finland, France, Croatia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Lithuania, Experts from Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, founding and permanent members of the European Council of the Compendium Association and ERICarts, and representatives of the organizing member countries participated in the 6th General Assembly of the Compendium Association of Cultural Policy and Trends and Assembly of Compendium Experts. The annual activity report for 2022-2023 of the Cultural Policy and Trends Compendium Association, financial statements, project audience, new social media formats, other organizational issues, and future perspectives were discussed. During the event, the representative of Armenia resorted to provocation and tried to confuse the audience of the international event, noting that the Azerbaijani side faced difficulties in settling the population that migrated to Armenia as a result of the 24-hour anti-terrorist operation. This provocation attempt was resolutely prevented by the Azerbaijani expert and the real essence of the issue was brought to the attention of the participants of the event. Within the framework of the 2nd Malta National International Symposium entitled “Current State of Art“ with the participation of prominent representatives of the Maltese cultural community and Compendium experts, panel discussions were held on “Contextualization of Culture Law in Malta“, “Arts Council of Malta“, “Autism Advisory Council“, “Unfinished Art Space“ and related projects of other Maltese organizations were presented. During the visit to the University of Malta, presentations were made on cultural topics such as “Art for Health and Well-being“, “Gestalt Approach to Expressive arts and Community“, “Using Artificial Intelligence in Cultural Policy and Cultural Participation“ and so on. For your information, the Compendium of Cultural Policy and Trends is the leading international platform for comparative analysis in the field of cultural policy. According to the compendium methodology, the national reports regularly prepared by European countries are posted on the relevant web portal and are widely used as an authoritative reference source by cultural politicians, researchers, and the cultural community. The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan has been actively participating in this platform since 1999 and is currently an organizing member of the Compendium of Culture Policy and Trends Association. ..

10.10.2023 15:18

The exhibition The Beauty of Patterns Motifs will open in the Azerbaijan National Carpet MuseumOn October 12, an exhibition of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan The Beauty of Patterns Motifs will open at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum. More than 40 exhibits from the ethnographic collection of the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan will be displayed at the exhibition held within the framework of the II Meeting of Museums of the Turkic World on the theme Carpet as a Symbol of the Turkic World. Pile- and flat-woven carpets, carpet and felt products, samples of clothing and jewellery, weaving tools, household items, decorations for horses and other things that reflect the rich culture and worldview of the Kazakh people, the unique traditions formed by the nomadic way of life for millennia are to be featured. A special place at the exhibition will be occupied by small-sized kilem, traditional Kazakh carpets and carpet products of high artistic and historical value, distinguished by texture, beauty and richness of ornaments. The exhibits reflecting the uniqueness of Kazakh culture, aesthetically pleasing and giving special harmony to the interior will be organized in the same way as in the alachig. In this way, the exhibition visitors will experience the special atmosphere inside the traditional Kazakh tent. The exhibition will be organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan, the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan with the support by TURKSOY. The Beauty of Patterns Motifs exhibition will be on until October 18. ..

10.10.2023 13:45

A summit meeting was held within the framework of the III Turkic World Film Festival "Korkut Ata"As we reported, the III Turkic World Film Festival “Korkut Ata“ is being held in our capital under the joint organization of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Center, the International Organization of Turkish Culture - TURKSOY, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Baku Media Center. Within the framework of the festival, a summit meeting was organized on October 10 at the “Baku Marriott Hotel Boulevard“ with the participation of representatives from the Turkic republics and institutions participating in the event. Sultan Raev, Secretary General of TURKSOY, representatives of the organization, officials of relevant ministries from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan, officials of relevant institutions related to the field of cinematography, and well-known film personalities took part in the meeting. Orkhan Fikretoghlu, adviser to the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, who delivered the opening speech, welcomed the guests. He noted that the unification of the Turkic world is already bringing an ancient culture back to the world agenda in the region, and at the international level: “Undoubtedly, culture is one of the main factors inthis integration. I think no one doubts the fulfillment of this mission through cinematography, which is one of the most important branches of culture. As the Ministry of Culture, we attach importance to the formation of public-private relations, and we prioritize integration with the Turkic people and, in general, world cinematography schools. Recently, the films we created and shot together with a number of countries are already on screens. Today we will review the projects presented by the production companies of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and other countries. The creation of this platform will serve the integration of the Turkic world in the field of cinematography“. Then “113 days“, “Project 2602“, “Where are you from, crane?“, “Marble cold“, “Patron“, “30 seasons away“, “Hadrut, you are free“, “Nobel brothers“, “Ruffian“ , “Blue bird“, “Heritage“, “Landfall“, “Human being“, “Sofia“, “Dream bird“, “Gulmira“ and other films were presented. Ihsan Kabil, chairman of the festival committee, spoke about the importance of the III Turkic World Film Festival “Korkut Ata“. Faruk Guvan, head of “TRT Cinema“, provided information about the working principles of the institution. Erkin Yılmaz, head of the Film Department of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, expressed his views on the development of Turkish cinema. The well-known Turkish actor Serdar Gokhan expressed his satisfaction with his participation in the event. At the end, commemorative photos were taken. It should be noted that the purpose of the event is to reflect the common values and culture of the Turkic people in cinema, and to encourage the development of joint film production with the independent Turkic republics and other autonomous Turkic republics. ..

10.10.2023 10:23

Film personalities from the Turkic World visited ShushaAs we reported, the III Turkic World Film Festival “Korkut Ata“ is being held in our country on October 8-11 under the joint organization of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Center, TURKSOY, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Baku Media Center. On October 9, the jury members, participants, and other guests of the festival with a rich program visited Shusha, one of the ancient cradles of music and art of our country, fulfilling the mission of “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ in 2023. The purpose of the trip is to get acquainted with the historical places and mysterious nature of the city of Shusha, which gave an outstanding personality to Azerbaijani culture and literary science. Film actors from the Turkic world visited the city's “Shot Statues“ square, Khurshidbanu Natavan's house destroyed by Armenians, the “Khan Gizi“ spring, Seyidli Mosque (18th century), and Molla Panah Vagif's tomb, and took photos in front of the walls of Shusha Castle and on the Jidir Plain. The employee of the special representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Shusha region informed the guests about the history of the city, the situation during the occupation, and the reconstruction works carried out here. He noted that historical buildings, mosques, and monuments in the city of Shusha were subjected to Armenian vandalism during the nearly 30-year occupation. After the liberation of Shusha from the occupation, large-scale restoration and construction works were started here by Azerbaijan state. In addition to the construction of social infrastructure in the city, restoration of the original historical image, and historical and cultural monuments is being carried out. Our castle-city left an unforgettable impression on the guests. ..

09.10.2023 15:56

The training program "Rise of Producers" was launchedA training program called “Rise of Producers“ is being implemented with the support of the Ministry of Culture, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ARKA), and the Azerbaijan Producers Guild. The trainings are organized by expert-ttutors of the most advanced film school in Europe, well-known German producers Martin Hagemann and Titus Kreyenberg. On October 9, the opening ceremony of the training program was held at the “Hyatt Regency Baku“ hotel. Fikrin Bektashi, chairman of the Azerbaijan Producers Guild, made a speech and gave information about the project. He noted that the purpose of the program is to train a new generation of producers in Azerbaijan: “Today, in addition to experienced producers, there are also producers who have taken their first steps in this field. The training will be held in two stages. The first stage (intensive stage) will last until October 13. In the second stage, work will be done on the film project based on the ideas of the training participants. During this stage, the trainers will be in contact with the participants through “Zoom“. Producer Martin Hagemann talked about the structure of the training. He said that during the 8-week training, information will be provided about the production industry and the basics of this field: “During the training, the participants will be divided into two groups of 15 people each. But we will often change groups with Titus Kreyenberg. This will create conditions for efficient training.“ Producer Titus Kreyenberg spoke about the importance of the training. Following the speeches, the participants got acquainted. It should be noted that the training provides participants with the opportunity to acquire basic knowledge on the creation and management of a competitive film business, the involvement of domestic and foreign financial sources in film production, the organization of local and foreign sales of films, as well as other areas. At the same time, during the training, the participants will have the opportunity to prepare film projects that meet modern international standards. At the end of the program, certificates will be awarded to the participants. The authors of the best film projects will be awarded a certificate of distinction and the right to preferential participation in film project competitions and other projects organized by ARKA. The trainings are organized according to the relevant subsection of the action plan of the “Socio-Economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022-2026 “ approved by the Order of President Ilham Aliyev dated July 22, 2022. ..

09.10.2023 09:58

Azerbaijan hosts the III Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic World On October 8-11, the III Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic World will be held in Baku and Shusha cities of Azerbaijan. The festival is being co-organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Center, TURKSOY, the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Baku Media Center. The festival aims to develop the unity of the Turkic world and cultural cooperation among the Turkic peoples and contribute to the integration of the Turkic peoples into a joint audiovisual space created with the participation of the Turkic states. The first of the festivals that have been organized since 2021 was held in Istanbul city of brotherly Türkiye, and the second one in Bursa last year. In addition to the films from Azerbaijan, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan, 32 feature, documentary, and animation films were presented by Gagauzia-Yeri (Moldova), Tatarstan, Sakha-Yakutia, Dagestan (Nogai), Kabardino-Balkaria, Chuvashia, Karachay-Cherkessia, Tuva, and Bashkortostan (Russian Federation) in the festival organized for the third time. The films will be screened at Nizami Cinema Center from October 9 to 11. In addition to well-known artists of the Turkic world, officials also visited the festival. In total, more than 100 guests, consisting of cinematographers of the Turkic peoples, are participating in the film festival. One of the main features of the film festival is a summit held in Baku and the organization of a familiarization trip of renowned cinematographers from the Turkic states to the city of Shusha, which was declared the “Cultural Capital of the Turkic World“ for 2023 by TURKSOY. An event dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the outstanding Kyrgyz theater and film actress, People's Artist of the USSR Baken Kidekeyeva (1923-1993) will be held within the framework of the festival on October 10. The anniversary event was organized by the Kyrgyz delegation and TURKSOY. The official opening and closing ceremonies of the III Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic World will be held at the Heydar Aliyev Center on October 8 and 11, respectively. We bring to your attention the program of the festival: cutt.ly/iwnEBZpm ..

06.10.2023 17:37

Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the establishment of a cultural center under the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of TürkiyeGoverned by clause 32 of Article 109 of the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan and with the aim of enhancing the promotion of Azerbaijani culture, history, and language, I hereby resolve: To establish a cultural center in the city of Ankara under the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Türkiye. The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan shall implement the necessary measures to enable the functioning of the Cultural Center established under Part 1 of this Order. Ilham Aliyev President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Baku city, October 6, 2023 ..

06.10.2023 11:30

The art competition titled “Zafarin rangi” was announcedThe “Culture Volunteers” Public Union announces the art competition titled “Zafarin rangi” devoted to November 8 – Victory Day on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the national leader of Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev. As a symbol of our glorious Victory during the 44 day Patriotic War, November 8 is written in the history of Azerbaijan in golden letters. Our invincible army was able to end the thirty-year occupation of our lands thanks to the leadership, courage, and political will of our President, Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev. The goal of “Zafarin rangi” art competition is to see this glorious page of our history, which gave our nation the spirit of Victory through the eyes of our youth, support their development, educatethem in the national-moral spirit, and further strengthen their patriotic spirit. The competition is held both in amateur and professional categories. Young citizens between the ages of 16-25 may take part in the project. The potential participants must present their framed pieces of art to the Museum Center until October 25 from 1000 to 1700 every day. The size of the pieces is to be at least 50x60. The painting technique is free. The winners will be determined in two categories and 3 winners are anticipated for each category. The results of the competition will be announced during the exhibition organized at the Museum Center. For further information, please contact +994507175755 or +994557175755. ..

05.10.2023 11:34

XVIII Baku International Jazz Festival to be held with the support of the Ministry of CultureThe XVIII Baku International Jazz Festival comes to meet its fans with its diverse program on October 6. Held with the support of the Ministry of Culture and lasting until October 15, this year’s program of the festival is expected to be very rich. The festival will entertain jazz lovers with the concerts by jazz performers and other interesting events. Musicians from 15 countries, including Grammy Award winners and nominees, American jazz and rap performer Theo Croker, jazz harpist Edmar Castaneda and Gregoire Maret will go on stage with their special programs at the Baku International Jazz Festival. Brazilian vocalist Mario Bakuna will hold his concert at the Heydar Aliyev Center on October 14. This year’s jazz program includes the traditional “I am Jazzman!” international contest among young jazz performers. The program also includes meetings with the “Jazz & Vinyl” and “Grammy” award winners, researcher Fuad Akhundov, and the exhibition “White Birds of Jazz” by artist Eldar Gurbanov. Note that detailed information about the Baku International Jazz Festival can be accessed at the official site of the festival (www.bakujazzfestival.com). ..

04.10.2023 14:37

Opening ceremony of the“A-hub Acceleration Program” was heldThe opening ceremony of the “A-hub Acceleration Program” was held with the support of the Ministry of Culture, the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – ICESCO, under the organization of “New Space Innovation” LLC, and the partnership of “Kapital Bank” and the Baku State University at Yarat Modern Art Space on October 4. Taking the floor with an opening speech, the general director of ICESCO Salim bin Mahammad al-Malik, and Deputy Minister of Culture Farid Jafarov welcomed the guests and wished success to the program participants. After that, speeches were made around different topics, and the video presentation of ''A-hub Azerbaijan – 2023“ participants was shown. It is worth noting that this project is being implemented in order to support the initiatives in the innovative development area, raise the interest of business entities and the youth in this area, and link the culture field with the private creative entities since 2021 in the ICESCO member countries. 14 teams have applied to this program from Baku, Sumgayit, and Ganja cities this year. Those teams will present their startups in the national final after undergoing a 6-week acceleration process. The teams winning in the national final will be entitled to take part in the grand final. ..

04.10.2023 12:06

Music forum will be held in our country for the first timeMusic forum will be co-organized by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation and the Ministry of Culture for the first time in our country. To be held on October 29 to 31 as part of the events devoted to the 100th anniversary of the national leader Heydar Aliyev, this forum will be organized with the support of the Baku Music Academy named after U. Hajibayli, the Azerbaijan National Conservatory, the Azerbaijan State Culture and Art University, and the Composers Union of Azerbaijan. The opening ceremony of the forum, which will be attended by renowned musicologists, composers, conductors, and singers, will be held on October 29 at the Gulustan Palace. . Panels will be organized around musical creativity, musical traditions and their passing on to future generations, musical production and promotion, studies in this field, choreography, etc., at the forum, where broad discussions are expected to be held with the participation of the people of art. The ideas and suggestions of the specialists within the forum will be generalized and will be included in the “Azerbaijani culture-2040” concept. Persons wishing to take part in the musical forum can register via online application until October 26. ..

03.10.2023 15:47

The Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan finalized the 1st phase of the contests of film projectsThe first phase of the contest organized by the Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan for supporting the cinema industry, promoting the cinematography work, raising the qualification of local cinematographers, achieving production of films promoting national-moral and universal values, as well as backing the private sector engaged in this area, is completed. 87 project applications in various genres were accepted at the initial phase, and the Selection Commission has already started the initial appraisal and artistic selection process. The total fund of the contest this year is 5 500 000 AZN and the projects were accepted in four main directions: the films to be produced on the state order; commercial films; author films; debut and student films. Note that the 1st phase of the competition started on July 18. The Selection Commission will conduct initial appraisal and artistic selection during the already started 2nd phase. In the final 3rd phase of the contest, the pitching of the projects by the contest finalists will be organized before the Expert Council. ..

02.10.2023 13:33

Azerbaijan will host the III Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic WorldThe 3rd Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic Worldwill be held in Baku and Shusha cities of Azerbaijan on October 8-11. The festival will be co-organized by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan, the Heydar Aliyev Center, TURKSOY, Cinema Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Baku Media Center. The festival aims to foster the unity of the Turkic world and cultural cooperation among Turkic nations and, by creating a joint audiovisual space together with the Turkic states, contribute to the integration of the Turkic nations into it. The first of the festivals organized since 2021 was held in Istanbul city of Turkiye and in Bursa city of the brotherly country, last year. This festival is expected to be attended by Turkish Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Batuhan Mumju, Director of the Cinematography Agency under the Ministry of Culture of Uzbekistan Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Chairman of the Union of Cinematographers of Uzbekistan Matyakub Matchanov, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the “Center for State Support to National Cinema” CJSC of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kurmanbek Jumagali, President of “Gazakhfilm“ Azamat Satıbaldı, other competent officials of other Turkic states, TURKSOY management, as well as the renowned Turkic film producer Semih Kaplanoghlu – in total more than 100 foreign guests comprising cinematographers from Turkic nations. Around 40 feature, documentary, and animation films presented by Gagauz Yeri (Moldova), Tatarstan, Altay, and Bashkiria (Russian Federation), including minority Turkic nations, will be screened at Nizami Cinema Center alongside films from Azerbaijan, Turkiye, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan from October 8 to 11. The plan is in place to organize an introductory trip of the renowned cinematographers from the Turkic states to Shusha city declared by TURKSOY as “the Cultural Capital of the Turkic World” in 2023, and hold their summit in Baku city. The solemn opening ceremony of the 3rd Korkut Ata Film Festival of the Turkic World will be held on October 8 and the closing ceremony on October 11 at the Heydar Aliyev Center. Festival Program: cutt.ly/iwnEBZpm ..

29.09.2023 14:53

Minister of Culture visits institutions in MingachevirAs we reported, on September 28, Minister of Culture Adil Karimli received citizens at the Heydar Aliyev Center in Mingachevir. After the reception, the Minister got acquainted with the activities of a number of cultural institutions in the city. First, he visited the Mingachevir State Drama Theater and was informed about the history, material and technical facilities, current situation, and the repertoire of the cultural center. Later, the Minister visited eleven-year Music School No. 1 named after U. Hajibayli, Mingachevir City Central Library of the Centralized Library System (CLS), the History Museum, the Cultural Center, and Branch No. 9 of the CLS. During the review, appropriate instructions and recommendations were given regarding the elimination of existing problems in the institutions and the efficient organization of activities. Lastly, the Minister visited the House-Museum of Ali and Islam Ahmadovs, the martyred brothers of the 44-day Patriotic War, which resulted in the historic victory. Sevinj Ahmadova, the mother of the martyred brothers, gave information about the way of fighting of her sons, as well as the exhibits stored in the museum. ..

29.09.2023 14:48

To the attention of experienced and beginning producersWith the support of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Cinema Agency of the Azerbaijan Republic (ARKA), together with the Guild of Producers of Azerbaijan, started application announcement for the trainings of the “Producers Elevator” program. The training will be conducted with the participation of the film producer Martina Hagemann, of an expert and teacher from one of the leading film schools in Europe – and with the participation of an expert and teacher of the film school - film producer Titus Kreinenberg. The training will begin on 9th of October and will last 8 weeks. As part of the program, participants will have the opportunity to acquire fundamental knowledge in areas such as creating and managing a competitive film business, attracting local and foreign financial resources for film production, organizing local and international film sales, and others. In addition, during the training, participants will have the opportunity to develop film projects that meet modern international standards. All participants will be awarded certificates, and the authors of the best film projects will be awarded certificates of honor and will receive a guaranteed right to participate in film competitions organized by ARKA and in other projects. In accordance with subsection 1.1.14 of the Action Plan “Strategy for the socio-economic development of the Azerbaijan Republic for 2022-2026”, approved by Order of the President of the Azerbaijan Republic dated July 22, 2022 No. 3378. Registration will last until 8th of October. Willing to participate in the training can send their resume and filmography (if any) to the email address: kino@creative.az. ..

28.09.2023 15:48

The Minister of Culture received the citizens in MingachevirSubject to the schedule of reception of citizens in cities and regions by the heads of central executive power bodies and other administrative bodies, the Minister of Culture Adil Karimli received citizens in Mingachevir on September 28. Before the reception, the Minister and the Head of the Mingachevir City Executive Power, Ilham Ismayilov, honored the memory of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani Nation by placing flowers in front of the monument erected in front of the Mingachevir Heydar Aliyev Center. Then they viewed the Center. Mainly citizens from Mingachevir City, Aghdash, Goychay, Kurdemir, Ujar, Yevlakh, and Zardab regions took part in the reception held at the Mingachevir Heydar Aliyev Center. At the meeting held with the participation of the officials of the Ministry of Culture, citizens' appeals on various topics were heard. The appeals were mainly related to employment, proposals for the cultural sector, solutions to emerging problems, and other matters. Listening to the citizens individually, the Minister gave relevant instructions to review all appeals and resolve the raised issues subject to the legislation. To treat the issues raised by the families of martyrs and veterans with special sensitivity and consider them in a timely and objective manner, every appeal was registered and taken under control. ..