Azerbaijan 2018

AZERBAIJAN

100 Anniversary Of The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic th

AZERBAIJAN

100 Anniversary Of The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic th

PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN ILHAM ALIYEV

The announcement of 2018 as the Year of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) is of great importance for the Azerbaijani people, state and society. The state established a century ago played an important role in the recognition of modern Azerbaijan as a democratic republic all over the world.This year Azerbaijan will mark the 100th anniversary of its creation.

By the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr Ilham Aliyev, the year 2018 has been declared in Azerbaijan as the “Year of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic”. During the whole year, solemn events will to take place not only in the country, but also abroad

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he creation of the ADR and its activities for two years was a historic event, Azerbaijan is a country that not only declared

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high democratic values 100 years ago, but also applied them. Today’s independent Azerbaijan is the successor of the ADR. In February 1917, the monarchic regime

in Russia was overthrown. The Provisional Government that replaced the monarchy held elections to the Constituent Assembly.

However the Provisional Government was

quite short-lived. The coup d’etat took place in October 1917. As a result, the members of parliament to the Russian Constituent Assembly from the Southern Caucasus could not go Russia. Instead, on 14th February 1918, in Tiflis, they founded the Supreme Power of the Transcaucasia, the Transcaucasian Seym - the Transcaucasian Parliament.

The Muslim faction of the Seym comprised 44 delegates elected to the Constituent Assembly from the region. Together they represented more than a million TurkoMuslim residents of Azerbaijan and the whole of the Southern Caucasus. In fact, the Muslim faction or the Council of Muslims was executing the functions of the Muslim

THE FIRST SITTING OF THE PARLIAMENT OF THE AZERBAIJAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC

By the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr Ilham Aliyev, the year 2018 has been declared in Azerbaijan as the “Year of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic”. During the whole year, solemn events will take place not only in the country, but also abroad Parliament of Transcaucasia. The Azerbaijanian representatives were among the most consistent members of the Transcaucasian Seym. It was following their insistent claims that the Transcaucasian Seym proclaimed the independence of Transcaucasia on 9th April 1918. This indicated the foundation of the United Republic of Transcaucasia. However, serious contradictions and conflicts of national interests hampered the abilities of both the Transcaucasian Seym and the Republic of Transcaucasia to undertake any specific steps.

On 27th May 1918, members of the Muslim Faction, i.e. of the Council of Muslims of Transcaucasia, also held a separate meeting

and decided to pass a decision to proclaim the independence of Azerbaijan. With this purpose, the Transcaucasian Muslim Council proclaimed itself the National Council of Azerbaijan, or more precisely the Parliament of Azerbaijan. This actually indicated the formation of the first Parliament in Azerbaijan and the foundation of the first parliamentary republic was laid.

During that meeting, the Presidium and chairman of the National Council of Azerbaijan were elected, with M.A.Rasulzadeh becoming the first chairman of the National Council. An historic meeting of the National Council of Azerbaijan, chaired by Hassan bay Aghayev, was held on 28th May 1918.

The meeting adopted the Declaration of Independence of Azerbaijan.

Shortly after the proclamation of the ADR, the country’s borders were defined.

The territory of the ADR was mentioned for the first time in the Declaration of Independence. The document says that Azerbaijan, located in the south and east Trans-Caucasus, is an independent state.

The Declaration of Independence of the ADR stated that the lands of Northern Azerbaijan, once occupied by Russia in accordance with the Gulistan (1813) and Turkmenchay (1828) agreements, are the legal heritage of the Azerbaijani people.

The ADR issued its politically and legally substantiated map. It tried to spread its power over the entire historical area of Karabakh. At that time, the newly established Republic of Armenia laid its groundless claims to Karabakh, but the government of the ADR opposed those claims.

Armenians also continued previously committed acts of genocide for the occupation of Karabakh in the period of the ADR. APRIL

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BETWEEN TRADITION AND MODERNITY

The last assembly of the Parliament was held on 27 th April 1920. The Parliament held 155 meetings, ten while the National Council was still operating, from 27th May to 19th November 1918, and the other 145 from 7th December 1918 to 27th April 1920. There were 11 factions in the Parliament. The Parliamentary chairman was Alimardan bey Topchubashov, while his deputies were Hasan bey Agayev and Mammadyusif Jafarov.

During the 17 months of its uninterrupted activities, the Parliament of the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan left an indelible mark on the history of Azerbaijani statehood in general, and parliamentary culture in particular, with its valuable experience of independent state building and the adoption of a number of highly professional legislative documents.

For the first time, all citizens of the country were granted equal rights regard4 |

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less of social status, gender and religion.

Women received the right to vote on an equal basis with men, earlier than in some countries of Europe and the U.S. Despite functioning in a very non-benefi-

libraries. The network of clinics and aid posts for medical assistance was foreseen in rural areas, with a view to preventing infectious diseases. The Law on the Foundation of Baku State University, adopted by the Parliament

The establishment of the Democratic Republic of Azerbaijan on 28th May 1918 was an historic event and one of the glorious pages of Azerbaijan history cial situation, with the view of perpetuating the spirit of national upsurge, the Government and the Parliament permanently paid serious attention to the promotion of science, public education and healthcare. A number of secondary and high schools, including schools for girls, were opened across almost the whole country, together with nursery schools, pedagogical training courses and

on 1st September 1919, deserves a special note in this respect. The establishment of the national university was a tremendous historic achievement of the Republic.

However, the young republic remained unrecognised by the world community. In January 1919, the delegation of the first Azerbaijani Republic, headed by chairman of the parliament AlimaerdanbeyTopchubashev,

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was sent to the Paris Peace Conference.

The main purpose of the delegation was to achieve worldwide recognition of the full and unconditional independence of the ADR as a sovereign state. The result of the efforts of

Despite the occupation of Azerbaijan by the 11th Red Army of Soviet Russia a result of a bloody military operation, the ADR left a remarkable trace on the history of the national liberation movement. Within 23

On 27th May 1918, members of the Muslim Faction, i.e. of the Council of Muslims of Transcaucasia, also held a separate meeting and decided to pass a decision to proclaim the independence of Azerbaijan Azerbaijani diplomats was the fact that the ADR was de facto recognised by the international community. In the history of Azerbaijani diplomacy, this event is very important. Additionally, in 1919, the ADR established its ministry of foreign affairs, and the date of its creation - 9th July - is celebrated as the “Day of the Diplomatic Worker”.

months of its existence, the ADR became clear evidence of the fact that even the most atrocious and oppressive colonial regimes were unable to eradicate the ideas of liberty and independent statehood traditions of the Azerbaijani nation.

The ADR, as the first parliamentary republic in the history of Azerbaijan, was

the first model of a democratic secular state based on the rule of law at the same time all over the East, including the TurkicMuslim world. At the same time, today an independent and strong Azerbaijan is a worthy successor of the ADR. At the end of the 1980s, the national liberation movement was revived in all of the republics of the Union, especially in Azerbaijan, as the collapse of the Soviet Union began to accelerate. On 20th January 1990, a massacre was committed in Baku against people striving for independence.

Despite all of this, on 18th October 1991, Azerbaijan restored its independence, two months prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union. The ADR was already quite up to the level of traditional European democracies in terms of its political structure, steps undertaken in the state-building process, as well as the level of its ultimate objectives and goals. ■ APRIL

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INTERVIEW

H.E. ELDAR HASANOV Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Serbia

Balkan Bridges Of Friendship

The date of 28th May is one of the brightest and most unforgettable days in the history of Azerbaijani statehood. On 28th May 2018 we will mark the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the first parliamentary republic in the Muslim East – the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic

A

zerbaijan and Serbia marked the 20th anniversary of the establishing of direct bilateral diplomatic relations in 2017. H.E Eldar Hasanov

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stresses the importance of mutual visits by high-level officials as an indicator of common interests for expanding bilateral cooperation.

It is with this in mind that the two countries

are preparing for the official visit of Republic of Serbia President Aleksandar Vučić to Azerbaijan, which is planned for May 2018.

Currently, Ambassador Hasanov adds, the

RELATIONS

PARTNERSHIP

COOPERATION

Our state gives great importance to the establishment of friendly, equal and good relations with all countries of the world

Relations between our countries are well developed in all fields and are at a very high level – that of strategic partnership

As for Azerbaijan, our country is always open to cooperation with Serbia in this field, as it is in other fields

drafts of bilateral documents are being harmonised, with the aim for them to be signed during the visit. In this interview for CorD Magazine, Ambassador Hasanov talks about his impressions of the Western Balkans, which he also expressed in his book “Balkan bridges of friendship” • This year sees Azerbaijan celebrate the 100th anniversary of its independence Republic Day. Will this significant date be widely celebrated and are you planning the organisation of cultural events in the countries to which you are accredited?

- The date of 28th May is one of the brightest and most unforgettable days in the history of Azerbaijani statehood. On 28th May 2018 we will mark the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the first parliamentary republic in the Muslim East – the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. The Azerbaijani people, having ancient and rich traditions of statehood, were forced by the will of

of a national theatre, school and printing, prepared the groundwork for the realisation of our national identity. With the Bolshevik seizure of power after the fall of tsarism in Russia, a complicated geopolitical situation

TEXT OF THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE OF THE AZERBAIJAN DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC, SIGNED ON 28TH MAY 1918

Relations between our countries have risen to the level of a strategic partnership in a short period, which was enshrined by the 2013 Declaration on Friendly Relations and Strategic Partnership history to be part of different empires at certain stages in the past, but they have always fought for freedom and independence. The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic was founded precisely during the period of the reorganisation of the political world order, as a logical result of the bright cultural progress that Azerbaijan experienced in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Radical socio-political and cultural transformations that started happening in Azerbaijan during the first half of 19th century, with the spread of educational ideas ensuring the emergence

arose on the territory of the Empire. Under conditions of even greater aggravation of political discord among the world’s leading states, caused by interest in Baku’s oil, the progressive political elite and intellectuals of Azerbaijan united in the name of creating independent national statehood.

On 27th May 1918, members of the Muslim fraction, or more precisely the Muslim Council of the Transcaucasian Sejm, held a special meeting and decided to proclaim the independence of Azerbaijan. For this purpose, the Transcaucasian Muslim Council

proclaimed itself as the National Council of Azerbaijan, aka the Parliament of Azerbaijan. Thus, the first parliament was created, laying the foundations of the parliamentary republic. The presidium and Chairman of the National Council of Azerbaijan were elected at this meeting. Mammad Amin Rasulzadeh became the Chairman of the National Council. On 28th May 1918, the historic session of the National Council of Azerbaijan was held under the Chairmanship of Hasan bey Aghayev. The participants of the meeting included Hasan bey Aghayev (chairman), Mustafa Mahmudov (secretary), Fatali khan Hoysky, Nasib bey Usubbekov, Nariman bey Narimanbekov, Mehdi bey Hajinski, Hamid bey Shahtakhtinski, Firidun bey Kocharlinski and other distinguished sons of our nation, who adopted the Declaration of Independence of Azerbaijan.

The newly created Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, working to the limit of its capabilities, honourably fulfilled its complicated historic task. The first Parliament, Government and state administration were formed, borders were established, the flag, anthem and coat-of-arms of the country were created, the native tongue was declared as the state language, and serious measures were taken in the sphere of state construction. The territorial integrity and national security of the country were ensured, with military units of high combat capability created in a short period of time, and state bodies that meet national requirements and democratic principles were formed.

The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, based on the principles of democracy and equality of people, granting equal rights to all citizens of the country, ensured racial, national, class, and religious equality. It is important to note that it was the ADR Parliament that granted women the right to participate in elections for the first time in the East. The laws adopted by the Parliament APRIL

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of the Republic during the one and a half years of its activity created an opportunity to strengthen the independence of the national state, political and economic development, and make rapid progress in all fields. The Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, constantly pursuing peaceful politics, tried to ensure mutual cooperation with all countries and establish relations based on the principles of

Unfortunately, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic, following the occupation by the Bolshevik 11th Red Army in April 1920, failed to fully achieve its goals. However, the idea of independence, enshrined in the minds of the people, was not forgotten.

Over the past period, the Azerbaijani people managed to preserve many attributes of national statehood, including religion,

and anthem. Since that time, our people have formally celebrated Republic Day on 28th May, when Azerbaijan proclaimed its independence the first time. By the order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr Ilham Aliyev, the year 2018 has been declared in Azerbaijan as the “Year of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic”. According to this, various events will be organised and held within the country and abroad. In this regard, the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro will also organise and conduct various scientific and cultural events.

PROTOCOL ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF DIPOLMATIC RELATIONS BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF AZERBAIJAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF YOUGOSLAVIA

• Your Excellency, last year saw our countries mark the 20 th anniversary of the establishment of direct diplomatic relations. In brief, how would you evaluate the current level of bilateral relations between our two countries?

- On 21 st August 1997, the document on establishing diplomatic relations between our two countries was signed, the 20th anniversary of which was celebrated at a high level in 2017. In this regard, the respective heads of our states, Mr Ilham Aliyev and Mr Aleksandar Vučić, as well as foreign ministers Mr Elmar Mammadyarov and Mr Ivica Dačić, exchanged letters of congratulations.

Our state gives great importance to the establishment of friendly, equal and good

mutual respect for rights. The Government and Parliament of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic carried out extensive work in order to achieve international recognition of the young republic among other countries, including the great powers of the world.

With this goal in mind, the Parliament of the Republic decided to send a special delegation, led by Parliamentary Chairman Alimardan bey Topchubashov, to the Paris Peace Conference of 28th December 1918.

Outstanding statesman A.M. Topchubashov, having overcome great difficulties, successfully achieved the de facto recognition of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic by a number of great powers. Thanks to the activities of the internationally recognised Democratic Republic, Azerbaijan became a subject of international law.

relations with all countries of the world. In this regard, Azerbaijan is also interested in expanding ties and comprehensive cooperation with Serbia. Relations between Azerbaijan and Serbia are developing dynamically and on an ascending line. Mutual visits of high-level officials are an indicator of the common interests in expanding bilateral cooperation. And it is no coincidence that relations between our countries have risen to the level of a strategic partnership in a

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The main problem of the Azerbaijani state and people today still remains the unsettled Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the occupation of 20 per cent of our historical territory by neighbouring Armenia language, culture, tradition and customs.

All these facts prevented the destruction of Azerbaijan as a state and its removal from the political map of the world after the Bolshevik occupation.

Having achieved the restoration of independence in 1991, the modern Republic of Azerbaijan demonstrated its adherence to ancient traditions of statehood and – as the successor of the Democratic Republic – adopted its tri-colour flag, state emblem

short period, which was enshrined by the 2013 Declaration on Friendly Relations and Strategic Partnership. The signed bilateral documents create a solid legal basis for expanding this cooperation. The activities of the joint intergovernmental commission on trade and economic cooperation, as well as inter-parliamentary ties, also play a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations. The Azerbaijani Culture Centre in Belgrade also contributes to the development of humanitarian and cultural ties between our peoples.

• The Serbian President is due to visit Azerbaijan in 2018. At what stage is work on the organisation of the visit, and can you now mention the topics that are to be discussed during the visit?

- I can say that an official visit of the President of the Republic of Serbia, H.E. A. Vučić, to our country will take place in May 2018, upon the invitation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev, which has already been agreed between both sides. I would like to emphasise that this will be the first visit of Mr Vučić to Azerbaijan since he has held the post of the President of Serbia. At present, we are working actively on harmonising the drafts of bilateral documents, with the aim of them being signed during the visit.

relations between our two countries are characterised by mutual support within the framework of international organisations.

In this sense, does Azerbaijan’s position remain unchanged when it comes to the non-recognition of Kosovo’s independence?

- As you noted correctly, Azerbaijan unequivocally recognises and stands for the support of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and

IN FEBRUARY 2015, PRESIDENT ILHAM ALIYEV MET WITH SERBIAN PRIME MINISTER ALEKSANDAR VUČIĆ IN MUNICH

I can say that an official visit of the President of the Republic of Serbia, H.E. A. Vučić, to our country will take place in May 2018, upon the invitation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, H.E. Ilham Aliyev With regard to the topics that are to be discussed, I can state confidently a wide range of issues of mutual interest, covering various areas of cooperation, will be again discussed this time, as they were during previous visits.

• According to basic norms and principles of international law, such as sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of internationally recognised borders,

• Considering that Azerbaijan also suffers from separatist issues and that 20 per cent of its lands are under occupation, what can you say about the current situation in negotiations towards a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict?

- With a feeling of great regret, I would like to note that the main problem of the Azerbaijani state and people today still

inviolability of the borders of the Republic of Serbia. Azerbaijan, as a country that has suffered from separatism in NagornoKarabakh and was exposed to aggression of neighbouring Armenia, understands this problem of Serbia and the Serbian people like no one else. Proceeding on this, I can say that, since 2008, our country, within the framework of all international organisations, has always rendered its support to Serbia.

Our position on this issue remains unchanged.

remains the unsettled Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the occupation of 20 per cent of our historical territory by neighbouring Armenia. The basis of this conflict is military aggression and the fact of the occupation. Aggressive separatism, which started in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan in the late 1980s and was followed by terrorist acts, gained the form of open military aggression after the collapse of the SSSR. Through the use of military force, Armenia occupied the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts of Azerbaijan, committing acts of ethnic cleansing against more than a million Azerbaijanis. Thousands of monuments to the historical and cultural heritage of the Azerbaijani people, as well as religious monuments, were cruelly and APRIL

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barbarously destroyed in our territories occupied by Armenia. Despite that, the Armenian-Gregorian church in the city centre of the Azerbaijan capital has been preserved as a holy house of God, even being restored and placed under state protection.

The continuation of the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia and the presence of Armenian military forces in the occupied territories of our country is the most serious threat to the peace and security

conflict. Despite the fact that almost 25 years have passed since that moment, this group achieved no results. Nonetheless, all fundamental bases for the settlement of the conflict are enshrined in United Nations Security Council’s resolutions 822 (1993), 853 (1993), 874 (1993) and 884 (1993) and UN General Assembly resolution 62/243 (2008), which condemn the use of force against Azerbaijan and the occupation of its territory, and which confirm the sovereignty

The continuation of the occupation of Azerbaijani territories

by Armenia and the presence of Armenian military forces in the occupied territories of our country is the most serious threat to the peace and security of Azerbaijan and region of Azerbaijan and region. Along the line of contact between armies, trenches have been dug and soldiers stand face to face, with the potential for the conflict to flare up at any moment with new vigour and turn into a large-scale war. In order to prevent this, a Budapest meeting of heads of states and governments of OSCE member countries in 1994 saw the decision to establish an institute of co-presidents, consisting of the U.S., Russia and France, who are engaged directly in the peaceful settlement of this 10 |

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and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and the inviolability of its internationally recognised borders. These resolutions confirm that the Nagorno-Karabakh region is an integral part of Azerbaijan and demand an immediate, complete and unconditional withdrawal of Armenian armed forces from all occupied territories of Azerbaijan. These resolutions form the basis of the mandate of the cochairs of the OSCE Minsk Group.

The unresolved nature of this conflict also impedes the full-scale development of

the entire region. Armenia must understand that its military occupation of the territory of Azerbaijan and preservation of the existing status quo is not a solution and will never produce the political result that Armenia wants. Instead, Armenia forcibly continues to violate the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Azerbaijan and contradicts the will and position of the international community, pursuing a policy of violating negotiations. Settlement of the conflict according to the principles of respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states will pave the way for sustainable development and full cooperation in the South Caucasus.

I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the political leadership and the people of Serbia for their support of the sovereignty, territorial integrity and inviolability of the borders of our country. • Despite good relations between our countries in the political and humanitarian fields, it seems that economic cooperation between Azerbaijan and Serbia does not correspond to the potential capabilities of both countries. How can the trade exchange be increased; is there a possibility of concluding a free trade agreement?

- Yes, I agree. Replying to your previous question, I noted that relations between our countries are well developed in all fields and are at a very high level – that of strategic partnership. At the same time, our relations in the field of the economy and trade links leave a lot to be desired, as you well noted, since they do not correspond to their potential. Despite the presence of a number of mutual investments in different spheres of the economies of our countries, several factors have a negative impact on our trade and economic relations. These are primarily due to the geographical factor. The distance between our countries and the lack of necessary logistics, i.e. large transport costs and high tariffs for the transportation of goods, have a direct impact on the final price of goods, rendering trade unprofitable. Since our countries are located along the route of the ancient Silk Road, several proposals are being considered today between our

Since our countries are located along the route of the ancient Silk Road, several proposals are being considered today between our countries that could expand economic ties and increase trade turnover countries that could expand economic ties and increase trade turnover, including the reduction of tariffs for transportation and the use of profitable routes. A free trade agreement could also be one of the options to address this issue.

• Is there a possibility for serious cooperation between Azerbaijan and Serbia in the energy sector, and what is the probability of Serbia being supplied with natural gas via the Trans-Anatolian Natural gas pipeline (TANAP) and Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP)?

- This primarily depends on Serbia itself.

That’s because, following the final decision on the South Stream project, Serbia faces the challenge of finding an alternative option for providing the country with the required energy resources. As for Azerbaijan, our country is always open to cooperation with Serbia in this field, as it is in other fields. I would just like to note that the construction of the TANAP gas pipeline, the opening of which is planned for 2018, is nearing completion. In parallel, construction work is being carried out on the TAP project, which is supported by the EU and the U.S., and which provides for the export of Azerbaijani gas to European markets. The completion of this project’s construction is planned for late 2019 – early 2020.

• You served as Prosecutor General in Azerbaijan and were decorated with high rewards for courage in the fight against crime, particularly for investigating serious crimes in the state. Taking into consideration the fact that combatting against organised crime and corruption is among Serbia’s priorities, have you had the opportunity to share your experiences with partners in Serbia?

- Yes, I was the Prosecutor General in Azerbaijan during my country’s most compli-

cated period. The country was seized by the threat of a loss of sovereignty and the outbreak of civil war. This is what would have happened to the country if Heydar Aliyev hadn’t come to power, shown incredible courage and prevented civilian bloodshed and put an end to all these afflictions. It is thanks to his political experience, foresight and wisdom that we have achieved everything we have today. In that time, together with the experienced and professional personnel of Azerbaijan’s law enforcement bodies, we uncovered and prevented a number of particularly serious crimes directed against the constitutional foundations of our state and citizens, thereby contributing to stability and protecting the constitutional order of the state. The fight against organised crime and corruption is the main factor in the development of a society and the strengthening of a state.

During my stay in Serbia I have met with many Serbian scientists and specialists in this field, we have had interesting and fruitful conversations, discussions and exchanges of experience. I would like to note that in the last few years huge and purposeful works have been undertaken in Serbia to combat organised crime and corruption, while legislative reforms are being implemented successfully. These works are highly appreciated by the majority of international organisations and countries of the world.

• We know that in recent years the Azerbaijani Culture Centre has been functioning in Belgrade. Are you satisfied with its work?

- The Azerbaijani Culture Centre in Belgrade was founded in July 2010. The main areas of its activities are work on bringing the Azerbaijani and Serbian peoples closer together by familiarising them with each other’s rich cultural heritage, promoting the expansion

of cooperation in culture. The Director of the Centre is our compatriot and Serbian citizen Zarifa Ali-Zade, a professor at the Academy of Arts in Novi Sad. To answer your question, I would like to note that I am more than satisfied with the work of this Centre. During the last seven years, at the initiative of this Centre, various cultural events have been organised in Serbia, including conferences, concerts, exhibitions, meetings with writers, artists, poets, direc-

OPENING CEREMONY OF GENIUS COMPOSER UZEYIR HAJIBEYOV'S BUST IN NOVI SAD, SERBIA

tors and actors of theatre and cinema. At the initiative of the Centre, and with the support of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Serbia, books from the Life of Remarkable People series – “Heydar Aliyev”, which is dedicated to the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people, and “Uzeyir Hajibeyli” - by Zemfira Safarova, also “The colours” by Rasul Rza, “The Death Sentence” by Elchin Efendiyev, the book by B. Mekhtiev on the 223rd Belgrade Division, APRIL

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which was formed by Azerbaijanis during World War II and participated actively in the liberation of Belgrade, Chingiz Abdullayev’s detective novel “Opponents of Europe”, selected works of Jalil Mammadguluzadeh were translated into language, while Milorad Pavić’s “Dictionary of the Khazars” was translated from Serbian to Azerbaijani and a Serbian-Azerbaijani dictionary and Serbian-

- As ambassador of Azerbaijan to Serbia, and also to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro, I was more closely acquainted not only with the histories and cultures of these countries, but also with the whole history and culture of the Balkan region. In this regard, I can say with confidence that I don’t agree with statements and opinions suggesting that the Balkans is a “powder

THE OPENING CEREMONY OF THE MONUMENT TO THE GREAT SON OF THE SERBIAN PEOPLE, OUTSTANDING SCIENTIST NIKOLA TESLA WAS HELD IN THE CENTER OF BAKU

Azerbaijani phrasebook for tourists were published. A book on famous Azerbaijani and Serbian women was also published, while many other significant projects were also realised. There are many ideas and projects planned for realisation in the near future. The Azerbaijani Culture Centre today has a rich library, which contains fictional and scientific works of Azerbaijani writers in Serbian and other foreign languages.

• Over the past few years, you have been serving as the ambassador of Azerbaijan to Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina, resident in Belgrade. As a person who knows our region well, how would you assess the statements of some analysts that dub the Balkans as still being some sort of “powder keg”?

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between countries. Everyone knows well that conflicts and wars don’t bring anything except trouble, destruction and suffering, but they ultimately all end with peace. In this regard, I think that the countries of the Western Balkans, as an integral and important part of Europe, must leave all the bad things in the past and take the path of cooperation and integration, and through that transform this region into a space of sustainable peace, security, economic progress, wellbeing and prosperity. During the last few years, the political leaders of Western Balkans countries have been taking concrete measures to strengthen cooperation and these steps are, of course, fully supported by the region’s peoples.

• Finally, your excellency, the last question.

Presidential elections will be held in Azerbaijan on April, 11 this year. Briefly, what can you tell about this important event in the life of your country and people?

- Indeed, at the moment all of the attention of our people is focused on this important event for us, which will be held on 11th April.

Eight candidates are officially registered, among whom are representatives of various political parties and independent candidates.

The necessary conditions for the elections to be objective, fair and democratic have been provided. Representatives of such

The Azerbaijani Culture Centre in Belgrade was founded in July 2010. The main areas of its activities are work on bringing the Azerbaijani and Serbian peoples closer together by familiarising them with each other’s rich cultural heritage keg”. I wrote about this in more detail in my book “Balkan Bridges of Friendship”, the purpose of which is to inform readers about the positive traditions, values and historic junctures that connect the peoples of the Western Balkans. Yes, it is true that during the collapse of Yugoslavia there was war, problems and difficulties in that beautiful region of Europe, and that this has today resulted in some disagreements emerging

prestigious international organisations as the Council of Europe, the OSCE ODIHR, the OIC, the Interparliamentary Assembly of the CIS countries and the Parliamentary Assembly of the BSEC have been invited, and consented, to observe the elections. There is reason to believe that in this election the Azerbaijani people will vote for the candidate who earned their trust and respect through his activities. ■

WOMEN IN AZERBAIJAN

The important Role Of Women In Society The Azerbaijan Democartic Republic, which existed for 23 months, was the first Muslim and secular republic in the Muslim East and the first Muslim state to grant women the right to vote

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y this, women gained more privileges. Azerbaijani women have always been active in public-political processes. Among them are prominent state, science, culture and socio-political figures. After gaining independence, the role of women in society increased and their activities expanded. Our national leader, Heydar Aliyev, attached importance to the role of women in society and the policy of the state. As a result of this policy, our women are today well known not only within the framework of our republic, but also beyond the country representing us in esteemed international organisations. The best example of this is Mrs Mehriban Aliyeva, the First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Goodwill Ambassador of UNESCO and ISESCO. â– APRIL

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SOCIETY

Multiculturalism In Azerbaijan

PRESIDENT ALIYEV WITH THE RELIGIOUS LEADERS OF AZERBAIJAN

Azerbaijan is perceived as a model of multiculturalism and tolerance throughout the world, and Muslim, Christian, Jewish and other communities currently function freely in our country 14 |

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he values of multiculturalism are promoted in Azerbaijan through education, the press and the society, while religious and cultural diversity is protected by the state.

The concept of multiculturalism can

7TH GLOBAL FORUM OF THE UNITED NATIONS ALLIANCE OF CIVILISATIONS

The World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, the World Summit of Religious Leaders, the Baku International Humanitarian Forum and the 7th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations were successfully held in Baku be described as a set of values that can be evaluated, recognised and promoted by people with contrasting religious, ethnic, cultural and racial affiliations. Multiculturalism is today a state policy and lifestyle in Azerbaijan.

As the first secular democratic state in the Muslim world, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic created conditions for the active participation of all citizens in the social life of the country, irrespective of their religion, ethnicity, gender or race.

Azerbaijan is perceived as a model of multiculturalism and tolerance throughout the world, and Muslim, Christian, Jewish and other communities currently function freely in our country.

In 2008, Azerbaijan initiated the “Baku Process”, which united the culture ministers of member states of the Council of Europe and member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation to establish dialogue between cultures, becoming a useful

platform for progressive dialogue.

The World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, the World Summit of Religious Leaders, the Baku International Humanitarian Forum and the 7th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilisations were successfully held in Baku.

The Azerbaijani government provides financial support to all religious institutions and sanctuaries in the country. Resources from the reserve fund of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan are allocated to support existing religious confessions in the country and improve their financial situation.

As a result of Armenia’s military aggression, 876 historical, cultural and religious monuments in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan were destroyed. ■ APRIL

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TOURISM

The Land Of Fire

ATESHGAH (FIRE) TEMPLE, APSHERON PENINSULA, SURAKHANI VILLAGE

Breathtaking natural beauty, deeply hospitable people, quaint rural backwaters and cosmopolitan capital Baku together make Azerbaijan offbeat discovery. Azerbaijan or 'Land of Fire', is a tangle of contradictions and contrasts. Neither Europe nor Asia, it's a nexus of ancient historical empires, but also a ‘new’ nation rapidly transforming itself with a super-charged gust of petro-spending

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zerbaijan is one of the most ancient sites of human civilisation.

People have been present here at every stage of their historical

development. There were developed settlements in Azerbaijan even at the earliest stages of civilisation.

Time has preserved a range of an-

KOROGLU CASTLE, GADABAY REGION

SHAHDAG WINTER TOURISM CENTER

KHINALIG VILLAGE. GUBA REGION, NORTHEAST AZERBAIJAN

cient archeological and architectural monuments for our generation. Ancient headstones, manuscripts and examples of carpets, preserved to the present day from ancient ages, can provide much insight to those who can and want to read them. If you wish to understand Azerbaijan and know of its fascinating history and culture, you need to look at this country and its

people through the eyes of an old friend.

The policy of “Open Doors” carried out by the Azerbaijan government, as well as the social and economic reformation and democratisation of society carried out in the Republic, have allowed many more citizens of independent Azerbaijan to expand the scope of their worldview, and to receive wonderful opportunities to visit foreign APRIL

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BAKU - FOUNTAIN SQUARE

YANAR DAG ("FIRE MOUNTAIN�) WITH ITS 10 METER WALL OF FIRE IS STILL AN IMPRESSIVE SIGHT

countries. Visits of foreign travelers to Azerbaijan are also increasing day by day.

Azerbaijan has great potential for the development of the tourism industry - with such fascinating sights as ancient cities, palaces, fortresses, mausoleums, and mosques.

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In Surakhani, there is a site of eternal flame. From ancient times, fire worshippers from remote places, and even Indian priests, came to Absheron in search of fire, and found it here. They built large temples here in Surakhani and in Ateshgah.

There are more than six thousand historical architectural monuments on the territory of Azerbaijan. The natural climatic conditions of Azerbaijan are also unique.

As is well known, 9 climate zones exist in Azerbaijan, out of the 11 in the world.

The Shahdag Mountain Resort Complex was open to the public in 2012. It is located in the Azerbaijan’s Greater Caucasus range, the site is located near Shahdag National Park, which is known for having an intact ecological system and an untouched flora and fauna.

Azerbaijan is mixture of picturesque natural landscapes, monuments of culture and modern tourist resorts. The most attractive areas for Alpinism and winter sports are Shamakhi and Gusar. Many types of animals and birds are objects of licensed hunting, and in the reserves they

KHACHMAZ - POPULAR RESORT ZONE OF AZERBAIJAN

are very easy to watch and photograph.

Baku and the Absheron peninsula; Nakhchivan, Guba-Khachmaz, Sheki-Zagatala, and Lankaran-Astara regions; and the historical areas of Shirvan and Ganjabasar are the most attractive for travelers in Azerbaijan. The lovely nature of these places, numerous ancient ruins, wonderful ethnographic variety and the astonishing skills of local craftsmen will leave an unforgettable impression of Azerbaijan upon its guests.

HUNTING Azerbaijan is the exclusive destination for Tur (wild goat native to the Caucasian mountains) You will be hunting in the Sheki, Ismailly and Guba regions. You can expect to find billies from 26-39", with the biggest billies being found by way of spot and stalk. wild goat native to the Caucasian mountains.

The Caucasian mountains are famous for being some of the steepest and most dangerous around. You’ll find yourself climbing nearly vertical rock. Climbing up and down such steep slopes is the main challenge of this truly adventurous mountain goat hunt.

Local guides use wooden sticks for climbing. They use them for support while constantly shifting weight for balance and are quite apt. We recommend using those instead of climbing sticks.

Instead of walking straight up, try climbing in zig-zag trails. This will put less pressure on your feet and ankles, and you won’t get tired as fast. ■

TRADITIONAL MEALS IN QUBA'S CUISINE

TUR HUNTS IN AZERBAIJAN

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CORRIDORS

Energy And Transport Corridors

The International North-South Transport Corridor is a multi-modal network of waterway, rail and road routes for moving freight between India, Iran, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Russia, Central Asia and Europe.

It is planned for the corridor to transport six million tonnes of cargo annually during the initial phase, and 15-20 million tonnes of cargo in the future

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he route primarily involves the transport of freight, via ship, rail and road, from India, Iran, Azerbaijan and Russia. The objective of the corridor is to increase trade connectivity between major cities like Mumbai, Moscow, Tehran, Baku, Bandar Abbas, Astrakhan, Bandar-e Anzali etc.

The international rail route from Astara (Azerbaijan) to Astara (Iran) became operational in March 2018.

The first freight train departed from the Azerbaijani city of Astara to the Iranian city of Astara.

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South, which will connect the railway routes of Iran and Russia via Azerbaijan.

OPENING CEREMONY OF THE BAKU-TBILISI-KARS RAILWAY On 30th October 2017, the Baku International Sea Trade Port at Alyat hosted the opening ceremony dedicated to the official launch of the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway, with the participation of Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of the Republic of Turkey, Bakytzhan Sagintayev, Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Giorgi Kvirikashvili, Prime Minister of Georgia, and Abdulla Aripov, Prime Minister of Uzbekistan. The ceremony was also at-

tended by official delegations of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, as well as leading representatives of international organisations, international structures, programmes and financial institutions.

The Baku–Tbilisi–Kars (BTK) railway is a regional rail link project that aims to connect Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey directly via the South Caucasus, which becomes an integral part of international transport corridors and offers, via Turkey, a unique opportunity for uninterrupted and reliable rail communication with the European continent.

As the most advantageous transit option and short haul route between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea, the BTK rail line

OPENING CEREMONY DEDICATED TO THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE BAKU-TBILISI-KARS RAILWAY

According to forecasts, this rail line is intended to transport a million passengers and 6.5 million tonnes of freight during the initial phase, after which the capacity will expand to reach three million passengers and 17 million tonnes of cargo creates an alternative at intersections both between West and East and between numerous northern and southern countries. This rail link is designed to become a key part of the southern route of the emerging new Silk Road network of trade and transport corridors that are being created to bring together China and Europe.

New opportunities will emerge, conditions will be created to develop the attractiveness of the corridor. This will significantly reduce the time required to deliver goods, thereby easing transportation procedures.

And, consequently, the presence of these factors will lead to intensive growth in freight and passenger traffic, increased trade and tourism potential, and ensure increased budget revenues for the countries involved in the project. And this is important for the dynamic growth of the economies of all participants in the process.

According to forecasts, this rail line is intended to transport a million passengers and 6.5 million tonnes of freight during the initial phase, after which the capacity will

expand to reach three million passengers and 17 million tonnes of cargo.

At the same time, the BTK will provide physical access to the rail networks of European Union countries and a number of Mediterranean countries. This route will enable the transport of goods from Central Asia, primarily of oil and oil derivatives, to the ports of the Mediterranean Sea in Turkey and, subsequently, to the world markets.

The new route will ensure a smooth turnover of goods not only between the countries of the region, but also between countries located on opposite shores of the Caspian Sea. One of the main goals in particular, when it comes to freight transportation along the BTK railway, is the creation of powerful port infrastructure. The conceptual design and complex construction of ports along the Caspian Sea will become an important link in the forming of modern transport infrastructure that will lead to a new level of economic and trade cooperation between the countries of Asia and Europe.

It should be mentioned that the BTK railway was built on the basis of the Azerbaijan-Georgia-Turkey intergovernmental agreement, which was signed in February 2007.

OPENING CEREMONY DEDICATED TO THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF THE BAKU-TBILISI-KARS RAILWAY

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The process of conducting the technical-economic feasibility study was launched in spring 2012, and on 26th June 2012, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and then Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan signed a binding intergovernmental agreement on the pipeline ENERGY

Signing Ceremony For ACG Oil & Gas Field

In September 2017 a signing ceremony was held in Baku to confirm a new contract for the extension of the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) on the development of Azeri-ChiragGuneshli block of oil and gas field until 2050.

On 23rd December 2016, SOCAR, the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and AIOC, the Azerbaijan International Operating Company, signed a letter of intent for the future development of the Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli (ACG) field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. The agreement will cover the development of the field until 2050 and will add significant resource development potential up to the middle of the century.

ACG is a super-giant field located about 100 km east of Baku. The biggest producing oil field in the Caspian Sea, it covers an area of more than 432 square kilometres and lies in depths of water between 120 and 170 metres. The depth of the reservoir is 2,000-3,500 metres.

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field began in November 1997. The field has to date produced more than three billion barrels of oil with around $33 billion of investment.

BP is the operator acting on behalf of AIOC and the Contractor Parties to the ACG Production Sharing Agreement.

The shareholders in AIOC are BP, Chevron, INPEX, Statoil, ExxonMobil, TPAO, ITOCHU and ONGC Videsh.

The Southern Gas Corridor

The Southern Gas Corridor, worth $41.5 billion, is among the EU’s priority projects and provides for the transportation of 10 billion cubic metres of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region to Europe, via Georgia and Turkey

The Southern Gas Corridor, worth $41.5 billion, is among the EU’s priority projects and provides for the transportation of 10 billion cubic metres of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian region to Europe, via Georgia and Turkey.

As part of Stage Two of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by way of expansion of the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) and Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

The TANAP project envisages transportation of gas from Azerbaijan’s Shah Deniz field to the western borders of Turkey. The gas will be delivered to Turkey in 2018 and, following completion of the construction of the TAP, natural gas will be delivered to Europe in early 2020.

TANAP covers a length of 1,850 kilometres, with an initial capacity of 16 billion cubic metres of gas. Around six billion cubic metres of this gas is meant to be delivered to Turkey, with the remaining volume to be supplied to Europe.

TAP will connect to TANAP on the Turkish-Greek border, then traverse Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in southern Italy.

TAP will cover a length of 878 kilometres (Greece - 550 kilometres, Albania - 215 kilometres, Adriatic Sea - 105 kilometres and Italy - 8 kilometres).

TAP’s shareholding is comprised of BP (20%), SOCAR (20%), Snam S.p.A. (20%), Fluxys (19%), Enagás (16%) and Axpo (5%).

The project was announced on 17th November 2011 at the Third Black Sea Energy and Economic Forum in Istanbul. Turkey and Azerbaijan went on to sign a memorandum of understanding on 26th December that year, thus establishing a consortium to build and operate the pipeline.

The process of conducting the technicaleconomic feasibility study was launched in spring 2012, and on 26th June 2012, Azerbaijani

The new Port of Baku will also have a Free Trade Zone and manufacturing industries, using raw or semi-finished materials sourced in the region. Manufacturers can utilise this location as a critical node to establish a modern supply chain along the 21st Century Silk Road, as part of China’s Belt & Road Initiative, serving the vast inland region between China and Europe. Through the establishment of the e-platform, the Port Community System, it will be possible

TAP

President Ilham Aliyev and then Turkish Prime Minister RecepTayyip Erdoğan signed a binding intergovernmental agreement on the pipeline.

On 17th March 2015, both R.T. Erdoğan and I. Aliyev met with Georgian Presidnet Giorgi Margvelashvili in the city of Kars, Eastern Turkey, to formally lay the foundations for the pipeline and mark the commencement of work.

PORTS

New Baku International Sea Trade Port

The new Port of Baku at Alat is a transportation hub linking west (Turkey & the EU), south (Iran & India) and north (Russia & Northern Europe).

In addition, the location of the new port links it naturally to existing highways and railways, connecting the port to the country’s inland regions

The new Port of Baku at Alat is a transportation hub linking west (Turkey & the EU), south (Iran & India) and north (Russia & Northern Europe). In addition, the location of the new port links it naturally to existing highways and railways, connecting the port to the country’s inland regions.

There are three international rail routes into Azerbaijan, all of which converge at Alat: • To the northwest, passing through Baku to Russia • To the west, passing through Georgia to the shores of the Black Sea and Turkey.

• To the south and the border with Iran.

Following completion of the first phase (first half of 2018), the Baku International Sea Trade Port will be able to annually receive up to 15 million tonnes of cargo and handle up to 100,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) The new Port of Baku at Alat will be capable of handling vessels up to 150–160 metres long, with a capacity of 10,000 tonnes, as well as ferries and all other types of vessels serving the Caspian Sea. Once cargo turnover increases, the port’s location enables a modular expansion of all facilities for different cargo segments (rail ferry, general cargo, container and bulk). Phase One of the new port at Alat comprises a ferry terminal, general cargo berth, Ro-Ro berth, service berth, rail lines, various administrative buildings, a customs’ holding area, an open storage yard, warehouses, a container yard, rail and road access to berths, a Ro-Ro ramp, a passenger service building, a heavy lift landing area and a truck amenities area.

to link with all stakeholders of the Eurasian supply chain via a single Logistics IT window.

With such a developed network, many valueadded services will be produced, creating new markets that the New FTZ will serve, via good intermodal facilities for rail, road and water, covering all directions and routes.

Following completion of the first phase (first half of 2018), the Baku International Sea Trade Port will be able to annually receive up to 15 million tonnes of cargo and handle up to 100,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU).

During the second phase, the port’s cargo handling capacity will expand to reach 25 million tonnes of cargo and 500,000 TEUs annually. ■

THE NEW PORT OF BAKU AT ALAT

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AZERBAIJAN