TEAS Magazine May 2013 (English)

MOVING KHOJALY MASSACRE FILM SCREENED TO A LONDON AUDIENCE Also in this issue: French religious leaders visit Azerbaijan Azerbaijani and Armenian sides discuss economic collaboration IDP documentary screened to Parisian cinephiles Mugham to be heard at BBC Promenade Concerts IFC to invest $28.8m in Azerbaijan www.teas.eu

05 / 2013

www.teas.eu May 2013

Welcome to The European Azerbaijan Society The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) is a pan-European organisation dedicated to promoting Azerbaijani culture, business and public affairs to international audiences. TEAS is also actively involved in helping create a sense of community amongst expatriate Azerbaijanis.

TEAS was launched in November 2008, having initially been established as the London Azerbaijan Society four years earlier. The organisation now has offices in the UK, Belgium, France and Germany, together with a representative office in Azerbaijan.

TEAS has three main façets to its operations: •

•

•

Culture – TEAS raises awareness of Azerbaijan’s rich and vibrant culture to a worldwide audience by organising cultural events and operating as a networking centre.

Business – TEAS supports its membership of European and Azerbaijani businesses. It provides a platform for organisations to establish links and strengthen their existing business relationships via a programme of networking opportunities across the region.

Public Affairs – TEAS works to increase awareness about Azerbaijan amongst key opinion formers, key decision-makers and other political, academic and civil society stakeholders.

TEAS is focused on achieving the following: •

• •

• •

The establishment of strong links between key Azerbaijani and European stakeholders, thereby helping Azerbaijan to integrate fully into the European family of nations.

Strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and key economic, political and social structures across Europe.

The promotion of Azerbaijan as a modern, secular, Western-facing country with tremendous economic opportunities and a strong cultural heritage.

Creating a community spirit amongst expatriate Azerbaijanis in Europe.

Increasing awareness of the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the plight of the 875,000 refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

Newsletter

TEAS is always bringing the latest news, views and interviews on all aspects of Azerbaijan, and is launching a biweekly free e-newsletter. To find out more, please sign up at www.teas.eu.

Forthcoming Azerbaijani event

For full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming-events 24–28 June 2013 Azerbaijan Through the Lens: Photography Exhibition (Belgium) European Parliament, Rue Wiertz 60, B–1047 Brussels | Mezzanine Yehudi Menuhin (2nd floor), Paul Henry Spaak Building 09.00–18.00hrs. Free admission.

Following the successful Azerbaijan Through the Lens presentations in London, Paris and Berlin, featuring photographs from TEAS’ photography competition of the same name, the exhibition continues its European tour at the heart of Europe – in the European Parliament in Brussels. The photographs give an excellent introduction to Azerbaijan, showcasing many aspects of Azerbaijani life, culture, nature and history.

Organised in collaboration with Katarína Neved’alová MEP (S&D, Slovakia).

For more information, e-mail: brussels@teas.eu

Outreach and Engagement

The TEAS Facebook page is your chance to learn about the latest TEAS news, events, campaigns and other items of interest to the Azerbaijani community. Please ‘like’ the page at http://bit.ly/TEASFB

Latest Members

Membership

TEAS offers a range of corporate and individual membership packages, providing such benefits as advertising, networking, travel discounts and assistance with visas. To find out more, e-mail: membership@teas.eu

Media Partner printed by www.turquoisemedia.eu

Please see website for more members May 2013

www.teas.eu

Politics and News Head of the Mountain Jews Community in Baku; and Catholic Father Vladimir Fekete.

The French religious leaders meet Shneor Segal, Great Rabbi, Ashkenazi and Georgian Jews of Azerbaijan (third from left) during their visit to the Synagogue for Ashkenazi and Georgian Jews in Baku

French religious leaders experience secularism and religious tolerance

A delegation of religious leaders from Bordeaux, France, travelled to Azerbaijan from 14–19 April to experience Azerbaijan’s longstanding secularism and religious tolerance, as part of a visit organised by TEAS. This delegation was headed by Tareq Oubrou, Head, Bordeaux Mosque, and Mufti to the South-Western region of France.

The delegation also included Mouslim Charaffedine, Secretary-General, Muslim Federation of Gironde; Khadija Oubrou, Secretary-General, Islam Relief France and Head of its Bordeaux office; Didier Guedj, Representative, Regional Antenna Bordeaux Aquitaine Council of French Jewish Institutions and Central Consistory, administering Jewish worship in France; and Guy-Antoine Castex, Co-founder, Fils de France think-tank. The visit was designed so the French delegation could understand Azerbaijani religious tolerance, particularly relating to the Jewish, Catholic, Orthodox and Muslim communities.

During the visit, the delegation met Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Minister of Foreign Affairs, who presented the current state of Azerbaijani–French relations. He described the Azerbaijani separation between faith and state, stressing the need to maintain a peaceful atmosphere where all religious communities can coexist. The delegation also met Elshad Iskandarov, Head, Azerbaijani State Committee for Work with Religious Organisations. He answered practical questions regarding the implementation of secularism in Azerbaijan, including an explanation of the framework provided for the training of Imams.

The delegation also participated in the conference CIS Muslims for Peace and Sustainable Development, where Mr Oubrou had the opportunity to meet Allahshukur Pashazadeh, Head of the Caucasian Muslims’ Council and Sheikh-ul-Islam for Azerbaijan and the Caucasus. During a lunch organised

by H.E. Pascal Meunier, French Ambassador to Azerbaijan, the delegation went on to meet other religious representatives, including Alexander Ishein, Orthodox Bishop of Baku and Azerbaijan; Yevdayev Milikh Ilhanovich, www.teas.eu

A trip to Quba was also organised, where the Bordeaux representatives met local authorities and visited the Red Settlement, a neighbourhood mainly populated by the Mountain Jews community, headed by Boris Simonduyev, who accompanied the delegation during a visit to the neighbourhood and local synagogues. This trip is a preliminary step towards a series of conferences that will be organised by TEAS in France during the coming year focusing on the Azerbaijani model of secularism and religious tolerance.

03

way, simply put, to where they shouldn’t be.”

A key factor in nonproliferation, Suleymanov said, is to ensure that no dangerous materials “become available to destructive forces, be they states or nonstate actors.”

Ambassador Suleymanov continued: “We have worked very closely with regional partners and the US regarding the nonproliferation issue, along our maritime and land borders. Azerbaijan is no longer just a consumer of security. It’s now a provider of security and an equal partner in that.

Azerbaijan is a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, so we face these kinds of global issues on a daily basis and deal with these, together with the US and other partners, trying to minimise potential damage by biological weapons.”

TEAS screens Xoca in London

H.E. Elin Suleymanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the US

US Defence Department acknowledges successful co-operation

The US Defence Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) has hosted H.E. Elin Suleymanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the US, to discuss its collaboration with Azerbaijan over the Cooperative Threat Reduction. Following the meeting, Kenneth Myers, Director, DTRA, spoke to the American Forces Press Service, commenting: “Azerbaijan has some very difficult and unique security challenges, and many of the processes we use here could be of help, providing additional opportunities for partnership.” He added that ongoing work on a central reference laboratory has been facilitated by the unique US–Azerbaijani relationship. He said: “It’s a real model for the future. We’re there to provide some technical expertise, and they’re providing the funding for the construction. It’s a true partnership... and an opportunity to take an important step forward on the threat posed by biological issues and pathogens. Our relationship with Azerbaijan on these projects is very good, and we have a long record of success.”

Ambassador Suleymanov replied: “Azerbaijan is a strong supporter of the nonproliferation issue. My government’s commitment to this is absolute and unshakeable. We need to work with the Americans and, of course, with the international community as well, to ensure that no weapons of mass destruction find their

On 30 April, the new Azerbaijani film Xoca (Khoja) was screened in two auditoria at the Soho Hotel to over 130 Londoners during an event organised by TEAS and the ANS Group.

The Khojaly Massacre remains the single greatest tragedy of the Armenian–Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. On the night of 26 February 1992, 613 civilians were massacred in the Azerbaijani town of Khojaly, NagornoKarabakh, when it was forcibly occupied by Armenian armed forces, supported by the No. 366 Soviet Infantry Regiment.

Although numerous documentaries have been made about this tragedy, Xoca (Khoja), directed by Vahid Mustafayev, is the first feature film to focus on this event. Telling a personal story, the film’s protagonists are Aliakbar and Gunel, a young couple betrothed for marriage in Baku on 25 February 1992.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is raging, and Aliakbar is an officer who has been posted to his hometown of Khojaly. As he is about to leave for Baku, it becomes apparent that the Armenians are about to surround Khojaly and he must remain to protect the townspeople.

The film clearly depicts the chaos and confusion of war, and the frantic efforts of the Azerbaijani authorities and military to save the lives of as many civilians as possible.

Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS, said: “This is the most important film to be made about the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict during the past decade. It tells the truth about what happened at the time of the Khojaly Massacre in 1992. Many women and children were brutally killed, and this is shown in the film. However, unlike the conflict in the former Yugoslavia, the perpetrators were never brought to justice. The occupation of NagornoKarabakh and the seven surrounding regions continues to this day.”

Lord Laird stated: “I have personal experience May 2013

04

Politics and News

A television film crew from the ANS Group covered the filming

Lord Laird outlined the Azerbaijani perspective on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue

of the conflict in Northern Ireland, and understand what has happened in Azerbaijan regarding territory. During my multiple visits to Azerbaijan in recent years, I have come to realise that the ongoing Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territory is a far greater issue than was the case in Northern Ireland. It must be remembered that four UN Security Council resolutions have been passed against the occupation, yet remain unimplemented.”

“Xoca is dedicated to the memory of Vahid’s brother Chingiz Mustafayev, a television journalist who covered the conflict. He was only able to film the aftermath of the Khojaly Massacre, but his footage showed the reality of this atrocity. Chingiz was killed in 1992 whilst he was covering the conflict.”

Mirshahin Aghayev explained the factual basis of Xoca and the significance of the Khojaly Massacre to Azerbaijanis

NEWS IN BRIEF Details of 2015 European Games announced Azad Ragimov, Azerbaijani Sports Minister, has announced that the inaugural European Games will be held in Baku from 12–28 June 2015. The General Assembly of European National Olympic Committees announced the launch of the games in December

Mirshahin Aghayev, Vice-President, ANS Group and Main Producer, Xoca, spoke about the genus of the film and its factual basis.

He said: “This film was directed by Vahid Mustafayev, who was a military journalist during the Nagorno-Karabakh war, and reflects the reality and truth of the Khojaly Massacre. It also acknowledges the impact of conflict on everyday lives. Xoca has achieved considerable success in several festivals in Turkey, Iran and Egypt, and is the first Azerbaijani film to reflect the emotions of the entire nation.

2012, which will complement the Asian and Pan-American Games. Ragimov went on to explain that around 6,300 athletes would participate, and that the featured sports would be archery, swimming, water polo, diving,

basketball,

rhythmic gymnastics, judo, karate, shooting, trapshooting, triathlon, An expectant audience awaits the screening

beach

table

beach soccer,

tennis,

and

taekwando,

court

wrestling

and

volleyball, fencing.

e-mail: brussels@teas.eu

During his visit to Baku on 3 May, Štefan Füle, European Commissioner responsible for Enlargement and European Neighbourhood Policy, stated that the European Union (EU) remains committed to the further development of bilateral relations with Azerbaijan.

In this framework, we have agreed with President Aliyev to make every effort to raise the EU–Azerbaijani relationship to an even higher level and to further enhance its quality – based on our mutual interests and shared values.”

Commissioner Füle met Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to discuss the broadening of the mutual relationship, both in the framework of the EU Eastern Partnership, and in terms of supporting Azerbaijan in its modernisation and reform efforts. The Commissioner welcomed Azerbaijani efforts to increase its partnership commitment to EU.

TEAS welcomes Commissioner Füle’s significant trip to the South Caucasus, as such visits are always the catalyst for increased co-operation. This should provide a chance to share ideas and highlight mutual opportunities for co-operation. During the visit, many issues were raised, including visa facilitation, energy and the forthcoming presidential elections.

May 2013

badminton,

mountain and road bicycles – gymnastics,

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Commissioner Füle stated: “This is an important year, [...] (as) the Vilnius Summit in November 2013 will highlight the achievements of the EU Eastern Partnership.

athletics,

boxing, canoeing, cycling – including BMX,

Dr Roman Huna, Head, TEAS Belgium, commented: “The visit of Commissioner Füle means a great deal for Azerbaijan and its

people. In particular, the negotiations on the visa facilitation and readmission agreements appear to be very close to conclusion. This will permit Azerbaijani citizens to take advantage of the simplified procedures regarding travel to Europe. At the same time, the topics of energy and the presidential elections have been discussed in a remarkably open way.”

Dr Huna continued: “The visit provided a great opportunity to raise the issue of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the need for a quick and sustainable solution of this conflict at Europe’s border. During his visit, he stated that continuance of the status quo remains unacceptable. We do hope that, in the forthcoming months, this important issue will be raised again.”

www.teas.eu

Politics and News The ECR Group delegation was led by Martin Callanan, British MEP

European Parliament ECR Group visits Azerbaijan

TEAS Belgium reports that the Bureau of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group in the European Parliament has recently visited Azerbaijan and its capital Baku. Azerbaijani President Aliyev received a delegation led by Martin Callanan MEP, Chair, ECR Group, European Parliament. Callanan stated that the European Union (EU) remains interested in expanding its co-operation with Azerbaijan, and the current state and prospects for resolving the Armenian– Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict were outlined.

The delegation was also received by Ogtay Asadov, Speaker, Azerbaijani Parliament (Milli Majlis), who said that Azerbaijan remains supportive of the EU Eastern Partnership and is currently implementing measures to assist with its expansion, particularly regarding trade relations. Callanan said that Azerbaijan remains an important partner for the EU, and that the organisation is interested in extending its co-operation with the country.

with the members of the International and Interparliamentary Relations Committee of the Milli Majlis. Sevinj Fataliyeva, Deputy Chairperson, Interparliamentary Relations Committee, went on to speak about Azerbaijan’s rapid development and the reforms currently being implemented. She also stressed the significance of political stability in the achievement of economic development, and attributed Azerbaijan’s leading economic position in the South Caucasus to its ongoing global energy projects.

Dr Roman Huna, Head, TEAS Belgium, commented: “The latest visit to Baku by the ECR Bureau is a sign that European officials are showing an increased interest in the country. We can only welcome this type of visit, as they contribute to a constructive exchange of ideas and information.”

EU–Azerbaijani Association Agreement continues momentum

During his meeting with the ECR Group, Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Minister of Economic Development, commented that Azerbaijan has now gained international recognition as a reliable partner in ensuring European energy security. Mustafayev said that implementation of a successful social and economic policy had ensured political and macroeconomic stability in Azerbaijan, resulting in the creation of a favourable business and investment climate. Mustafayev also pointed out that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to its co-operation with overseas countries, and particularly those in the EU. He noted that Azerbaijan is actively involved in global energy and transport projects, and stressed the importance of interparliamentary ties and reciprocal visits in boosting bilateral co-operation.

The ECR Group also exchanged dialogue www.teas.eu

Ambassador Roland Kobia acknowledged the strength of EU–Azerbaijani relations

H.E. Ambassador Roland Kobia, Head, EU Delegation to Azerbaijan, has revealed that progress in EU–Azerbaijani relations across a range of sectors has been achieved at the plenary session on the EU–Azerbaijani

05

Association Agreement. Ambassador Kobia stated that developments were made in relation to legal issues, in particular, and that negotiations will be completed at the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius in November. Ambassador Kobia added: “We have also made progress in the economic field, and some questions have been closed.”

He stressed that negotiations on foreign policy and security are still underway.

EU–Azerbaijani relations have been developed under the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, which was signed in 1996 and came into effect three years later.

In 2009, the EU passed a decision to sanction negotiations regarding bilateral association agreements with all the South Caucasus countries. Azerbaijan is also part of the EU Eastern Partnership Programme, aimed at developing political and economic relations between the six post-Soviet states and the EU.

Military systems to be upgraded to NATO standards

Daniel Cristian Ciobanu, Romanian Ambassador to Azerbaijan and NATO Coordinator in Azerbaijan, has urged Azerbaijan to upgrade its military systems so they are commensurate with NATO standards. The comments were made during a conference jointly organised by the Azerbaijani Centre for Strategic Studies and the Romanian Embassy in Azerbaijan.

He said that Azerbaijan and NATO are cooperating in the military sphere, and this will be intensified during several projects. Ciobanu said: “Baku is interested in co-operation with NATO and, in turn, NATO supports and will support Azerbaijan with its projects in the military sphere.” Ciobanu acknowledged that the successful Azerbaijani–NATO relationship is indicative of successful integration into Euro-Atlantic organisations. He commented: “Calls to ensure security, including cyber security and the fight against terrorism, are the most important issues within NATO. Azerbaijan has established very active cooperation with NATO, and defence and security reforms are being supported.”

Elnur Aslanov, Head, Political Analysis and Information Provision Department, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, said that relations between Azerbaijan and NATO had developed dynamically, and that the expansion of relations with NATO ranks amongst the foremost priorities of his country’s foreign policy, commenting: “Azerbaijan is interested in bringing its army up to NATO standards.” Aslanov continued: “According to reports produced by the World Economic Forum, Azerbaijan’s economy ranks at 46th in the world, and first amongst CIS countries.”

May 2013

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Culture This told the life story of Lev Nussimbaum (1905– 42), an Ashkenazi Jewish author who converted to Islam in 1922. After having spent his childhood in Azerbaijan, he and his father fled the country in 1918, the remainder of his life being spent in Germany and other European countries. Writing in German, his first book was entitled Blood and Oil in the Orient (1929). He also wrote under the pseudonym of Kurban Said, who was the author of the acclaimed Ali and Nino: A Love Story (1937).

Enfield resident Fidan Hajiyeva will team up with Gochag Askarov for the historic mugham performance at the Royal Albert Hall (Photo: BBC/Mark Allan)

Mystical mugham at the Proms

As listeners to BBC Radio 3 will be aware, World Routes is the leading ‘world’ music programme in the UK, and is also broadcast internationally from the BBC website. In 2009, the World Routes team, led by broadcaster and academic Lucy Duran, recorded and broadcast two special programmes from Azerbaijan. Since that time, recordings of Azerbaijani mugham and ashiq music have been regularly featured, particularly focusing on the performances of mugham singer Gochag Askarov.

The programme also organises the World Routes Academy, where an established singer is paired with a young singer of the same genre who is resident in the UK. In January, a concert took place at the BBC Radio Theatre, where it was announced that the 18-year-old Enfield resident Fidan Hajiyeva would be this year’s protégé, studying under the tutelage of Gochag Askarov.

The development of her talent has subsequently included two trips to Baku.

On 22 August, the Royal Albert Hall will resonate to the captivating sound of Azerbaijani mugham for the first time, when Fidan and Gochag team up for a late night concert in the BBC Promenade Concert series. Regarded as one of the most prestigious classical music concert series in the world, the season now includes a diverse strand of ‘world’ and jazz music. All concerts are broadcast ‘live’ on BBC Radio 3 and televised on BBC 4. To book tickets, call the box office on 020 7070 4408, where tickets can be purchased for £12–16, with groups of ten people or more receiving a 10 per cent discount.

IDP documentary screened in Paris

TEAS France organised a screening of the new documentary, The Waiting, directed by Lucy Bailey and Andrew Thompson, which addresses the ongoing tragedy of Azerbaijani Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The film was shown as part of the L’Europe autour de l’Europe (Europe around Europe) festival. The audience included historians and MPs, such as Deputy Thierry Mariani, President, France–Azerbaijan Friendship Group, French National Assembly.

May 2013

Eliza Pieter, Head, TEAS France, congratulated the festival organisers for this initiative and stressed the importance of such events for the promotion of diverse European culture.

She reminded the audience of the plight of the Azerbaijani IDPs who were forced to flee their lands and homes during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and remain unable to return home, due to the lack of an international settlement. She then introduced Chingiz Abdullayev, Executive Producer, The Waiting, who travelled from Azerbaijan to attend the event. He is a writer, Secretary of the Union of Azerbaijani Writers and President of the PEN club.

About 350 people attended the screening, which was introduced by Nourida Ateshi, Chairwoman, Ganjavi Institute for Azerbaijani Culture. Ralf Marschalleck, Director, Die Schmerzen des Essad Bey, outlined the background to the film, and explained that it took six years to complete.

Following this, German saxophonist Conny Bauer, who composed some of the soundtrack music, gave an astonishing solo performance that attracted great applause.

The film included impressive scenes of contemporary Azerbaijan, juxtaposed with footage from the beginning of the 20th Century, showing the hard, dangerous work of oil extraction. The film focused on the places in which Essad Bey resided during his short lifetime, including Postano, Berlin and Vienna.

In interviews, many contemporary witnesses recalled their encounters with Essad Bey, remembering his immense psychological strength.

Chingiz Abdullayev introduced the film alongside Eliza Pieter (left) and Ulkar Muller, TEAS France

Irena Bilic, Director, L’Europe autour de l’Europe Festival, said: “It is important to show such films where the producers try to present the realities of a complex situation through artistic expression.”

Abdullayev added: “Around the world, millions of people are displaced within their own country.

We often see articles and films about refugees, but less attention is given to IDPs, whose living conditions can sometimes be extreme. With this film, I wanted to put a spotlight on the situation of the IDPs in Azerbaijan, which is particularly critical, as there is no prospect of them returning home whilst the conflict remains unresolved.”

Following the screening, Chingiz Abdullayev signed copies of his books for some of his avid readers. Go to http://bit.ly/thewaitingfilm to view the trailer.

Mohammad Essad Bey documentary screened in Berlin

The documentary Die Schmerzen des Essad Bey (The Sufferings of Essad Bey) was premiéred at the Babylon Cinema in central Berlin on 2 May.

A first edition of Ali and Nino: A Love Story, together with part of Essad Bey’s original manuscript

The audience learnt that, through his many books, Essad Bey tried to construct bridges between Europe and Asia during a very volatile period. As a child, he experienced the impact of the Bolsheviks in Azerbaijan. He then moved to Germany in the early 1920s, and began to think of himself as a German author, although he was eventually forced to leave the country due to his Jewish ethnicity. All of those in attendance were delighted to learn more about the life and work of this cosmopolitan author. Much of his work is only now being translated into Azerbaijani, and it is hoped his books will receive widespread appreciation across Azerbaijan. www.teas.eu

Culture

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replacement of the seats and other furniture, and reconstruction of the rotating stage.

All offices, dressing rooms, and rehearsal rooms have also been refurbished. To see the programme for the theatre, go to http://bit.ly/ musicalcomedytheatre.

This surreal and humorous production captured the paranoia of the immediate post-Soviet period

Madman acclaimed in London

The UK premiere of My Favourite Madman has taken place at the Tristan Bates Theatre, Covent Garden, London, directed by Matthew Gould and produced by ALOFF Theatre. Written by the prolific Professor Elchin Afandiyev, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister and author of over 100 books since 1959, this absurdist play is set in a newspaper office in the wake of the news that a mentally ill person has escaped from an institution. Set in Baku in 1995, Azerbaijan had only regained its independence four years earlier, and the play captures some of the paranoia and altered state of reality that pervaded during the post-Soviet period.

Working on numerous levels, ranging from a secretary who is convinced she transforming into a pheasant, through to a journalist who claims that everyone – including Bill Clinton and Fidel Castro – are actually KGB agents in disguise, this was a frantic and most enjoyable evening.

The evening generated considerable critical acclaim, achieving several four-star reviews. A reviewer on the Views from the Gods website commented: “At 90 minutes the play feels just right; the intensity of the script means that much longer, and the audience may also be joining the birdlike-flapping, conspiracy-theorising, poetry-writing characters onstage.” Karl O’Doherty on The Public Reviews site said: “It is a funny play, one that shows off cracking talent and will entertain. Between them, Afandiyev and the director Matthew Gould have created a funny, memorable and worthwhile farce with depth. If this is an example of the humour and theatre that can come from Azerbaijani–UK collaboration, then we should welcome more examples like it with open arms.” My Favourite Madman is now set to travel to the Edinburgh Festival.

Elchin play receives UK premiére in Camden Another play by Professor Elchin Afandiyev is also set to receive its UK premiére in July, produced by Whtye Tracks Allting Ltd. Written

www.teas.eu

in 2007, Citizens of Hell is set in Baku during the Stalinist purges of 1937. In this era of paranoia, a woman awaits the return of her husband to celebrate the New Year, and a reveller from the streets talks his way into her life. During the course of the evening, he manages to extract numerous confessions.

The UK premiére run of this remarkable work will take place at Theatro Technis, 26 Crowndale Road, London, NW1 1TT from 24– 27 July. Early bird tickets may be purchased by 28 June for £5 by PayPal at gruntlerstheatre@ gmail.com. Standard adult tickets are £10 (£8 concessions), and children’s tickets are £5.

They may be purchased on the door.

The neoclassical exterior of the reconstructed Azerbaijan State Musical Comedy Theatre

Musical comedy theatre reopened after extensive renovation

The 460-seater Azerbaijan State Musical Comedy Theatre building in Baku has been reopened, following an extensive overhaul and reconstruction project. On 25 January 1908, the theatre hosted the premiére of the opera Leyli and Majnun by Uzeyir Hajibeyli, which was the first opera of the Muslim East.

In 1922, the building was transformed into the Academic National Drama Theatre, eventually becoming the Azerbaijan State Musical Comedy Theatre in 1938. In 1988, the building was reconstructed, and the recent renovation began in 2010, with particular emphasis being placed upon retaining the unique historic architectural details. The works have included installation of the latest audio and acoustic equipment, air-conditioning systems,

World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue comes to Baku

Azerbaijan and the UN Alliance of Civilisations (UNAOC) have announced a competition complementing the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue, to be held in Baku from 29 May–1 June in support of the concepts of cultural diversity and coexistence. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism reported that non-governmental organisations (NGOs) across the world have been invited to participate, including members of the League of Arab States and representatives from Central Asian countries, charity organisations, research institutions and universities, religious organisations, trade unions, industry associations, foundations and local communities.

The major partners of the World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue are UNESCO, the UN Alliance of Civilisations, the NorthSouth Centre of the Council of Europe, the Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) and the UN World Tourism Organisation. The forum will highlight those issues hindering the development of intercultural relations, and will facilitate meetings between cultural ministries of the East and West. It is expected that more than 100 people will attend the event, including the heads of international organisations and thinktanks, ministers, experts, and academicians.

For more information, go to www.unaoc.org.

NEWS IN BRIEF UNESCO session to take place in Baku It has been announced that the eighth session of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee

on

Protection

of

Intangible

Cultural Heritage is to be held in Baku on 2–8 December. The decision follows the visit of an UNESCO delegation to the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Literature Festival in Ganja postponed The Open Central Asia (OCA) Book Forum and

Literature

Festival

2013,

originally

scheduled to take place at the Nizami Ganjavi International Centre in Ganja from 3–5 May, has been postponed. It is anticipated that the event will be rescheduled for Autumn 2013. For more information on the new dates, e-mail: bookforum@ocamagazine.com.

May 2013

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Personalities – Chingiz Abdullayev create their works, they produce a unique synthesis of both worlds, which amounts to something new.

You are particularly known for your detective and spy fiction. Did your experiences in the Soviet intelligence service have an immediate impact on your plots?

My whole life experience has shaped my writing – it could not have been otherwise.

Chingiz Abdullayev, the best-selling Azerbaijani contemporary author

Chingiz Abdullayev – a literary success story

Chingiz Abdullayev is an Azerbaijani writer, and Secretary of the Azerbaijani Writers’ Union. He has a legal background, and gained a Doctorate in Law from Baku State University in 1991, having graduated from there a decade earlier. He previously worked in intelligence for the Soviet Defence Ministry, where he received the Order of the Red Banner, Order of the Red Star and other medals.

Abdullayev wrote his first novel in 1985, which was banned from publication for three years due to the secrets it revealed. By 1988, Soviet censorship was relaxed, and his book was published. He quit the intelligence service a year later. Since then, Abdullayev’s writing has been very successful, particularly in the former Soviet Union, and he has sold around 20,000 books, to date. He does not earn any money from speeches or lectures, preferring to donate any payments to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who cannot return home due to the continuing Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions. Abdullayev travelled to Paris to attend the screening, organised by TEAS, of a new documentary film entitled The Waiting, for which he was the Executive Producer. The directors were Lucy Bailey and Andrew Thompson.

You are visiting Paris to attend the screening of The Waiting, concerning the plight of IDPs and refugees from the Armenian-occupied Azerbaijani region of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions. What prompted you to become Executive Producer on this film? What is the significance of this film?

This is not my first time in Paris, as my books have been published here, and I have frequently visited France for other reasons.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict started more

May 2013

Why did the Soviet authorities ban your first book?

My book was not published for three years, as the authorities considered that it shed too much light on many aspects that should remain hidden. After three years of negotiation, it was finally published.

than 20 years ago. The Khojaly Massacre claimed the lives of over 600 victims, and The Waiting will play an absolutely essential role in increasing awareness of what happened in Azerbaijan and the ongoing impact of its occupation.

To what factors do you attribute the success of your works?

I would say because I am an Easterner with a Western style of writing and thinking. The critics also frequently notice this, and it probably attracts them to my works.

You are also Secretary of the Azerbaijani Writers’ Union. How does this organisation support Azerbaijani writers?

The Azerbaijani Writers’ Union is a voluntary organisation, the 1800 members of which include writers, poets, literary critics and translators. There are currently around 2000 pending Union members. We issue eight journals and newspapers, publish our authors frequently, provide them with salaries, and support them on regular basis.

Was the narrator character of Drongo based on a particular person?

He is a character combining many personas.

To a certain extent, my own personality transcended into him, such as his height, habits, family history and clothing style, for instance.

What is the Union doing to promote contemporary Azerbaijani literature, both in the original language and in translation?

We have an extensive translation centre which handles works by Azerbaijani and foreign authors. We have established a benefits system to assist writers in need, making it possible for them to work and be creative.

Are there any particular Azerbaijani authors that you feel are worthy of greater acclaim on an international level?

Rustam Ibragimbekov is one of the Azerbaijani authors who received such acclaim. He wrote the screenplay to Burnt by the Sun, which received an Oscar for the Best Foreign Language film of 1994. Several writers’ works have been translated into foreign languages, including a number of authors who aspire towards international recognition.

Do you believe that Azerbaijani contemporary literature is maintaining a unique national voice, or is it absorbing influences from the West?

Please be assured that our authors are maintaining their own unique voice. Our authors have an Eastern mentality, combined with Western thinking. When these writers

Do you still write every day? To what extent do you plan and rewrite your books?

I do not currently write every day, but continue to write a lot. I have already published more than 170 works. I enjoy the writing process, and am delighted that people are interested in this and that they buy and read my books.

Have you been involved in the film treatments of your books, and what challenges does this present?

Two television serials have created from my books, of 13 and 20 episodes, respectively, in addition to seven film adaptations. In each instance, I have almost always created or assisted in writing the screenplay. However, screenplay writing is very different from the actual writing of the book. It is necessary to trust the director of the film to interpret your vision.

Do you have any advice for young authors who are starting on their literary careers?

It is necessary to work a lot and believe in yourself. The Azerbaijan Writers’ Union can help promote young, talented authors.

Success comprises an immense amount of work, talent and a drop of luck.

To find out more on the Azerbaijan Writers’ Union, go to http://bit.ly/writersunion (in Azerbaijani).

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Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

09

Mammadyarov meets OSCE Chairmanin-Office Special Representative

All perspectives were presented during the course of the debate

Economic collaboration suggested for conflict resolution

All perspectives regarding the NagornoKarabakh conflict were highlighted during an event at the headquarters of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in Whitehall, London, attended by around 50 delegates. The event was jointly organised by TEAS and RUSI. The discussion centred on the previously unexplored option of Azerbaijani–Armenian economic collaboration as a conflict resolution method. This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the passing of four UN Security Council Resolutions against the Armenian occupation, yet these remain unimplemented. In his initial address, Dr Jonathan Eyal, Director, International Security Studies, RUSI, said: “Nagorno-Karabakh is sometimes described as a ‘frozen’ conflict but, as the conflict between Russia and Georgia demonstrated, such conflicts can easily reignite. The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains a threat to European security, and is currently blocking the economic development of the South Caucasus.”

In the keynote address, Dr Marat Terterov, Principal Director, European Geopolitical Forum (EGF), examined whether economic incentives could provide the key to bringing about an end to the impasse. He referred to the new EGF Research Paper A Pragmatic Review of Nagorno-Karabakh Resolution: Could Economic Incentives Help Break the Current Stalemate? in which the results of questioning 50 international experts and other stakeholders are published. Dr Terterov said: “Azerbaijan clearly considers the conflict to be ‘unresolved’ and not ‘frozen’, and the OSCE Minsk Group, tasked with attaining a negotiated peace, has achieved little progress over nearly 20 years. Similarly, I am not optimistic about achieving a political settlement on the basis of the Madrid Principles.

“Economic drivers need to enter the equation, as both Azerbaijan and Armenia continue to

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build their nations. It has been proven that conflict does not necessarily stop economic co-operation, and economic pragmatism is essential. The total economic development of the region – benefiting both countries – should be supported, and economic incentives should be provided. However, such incentives cannot achieve movement alone – they must be combined with a political settlement – although they can serve to ‘tone down’ the heat.”

Dr Elkan Nuriyev, Counsellor, Caucasus Institute for Democratic Integration, Tbilisi, and former Director of the Centre for Strategic Studies (SAM), Baku, said: “We need to involve local and international business leaders on both sides, amidst fears of reigniting hostilities and a potential economic decline across the region. Economic gain would reshape mindsets. An Armenian–Azerbaijani organisation for reconciliatory affairs should be established, and a new-found economic pragmatism must be pursued. A free economic zone in Nagorno-Karabakh should be established, with the Armenian and Azerbaijani communities working together on internationally-supported projects.”

Dr Sevak Sarukhanyan, Deputy Director, Noravank Foundation, Yerevan, replied: “Azerbaijan and Armenia were economically linked during Soviet times. However, there are questions as to what Armenia would gain economically. Actual projects must be discussed. Armenian gas pipelines are under Russian ownership, so any profits from collaboration on energy projects with Azerbaijan would go to Russia. The Armenian economy has insufficient resources to invest in joint ventures. The EGF report should form the basis of further research, which would indicate the rationale behind Armenian and Azerbaijani economic collaboration and the type of projects that could be undertaken.”

The presentations concluded with a questionand-answer session. The remainder of the day’s polemical discussions took place behind closed doors, enabling a frank and honest exchange of views to take place.

Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister has received a delegation in Baku led by Andrii Deshchytsia, Special Representative of the OSCE Chairman-inOffice for Conflicts. During the meeting, they exchanged views on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and discussed the planned visit

by Leonid Kozhara, Ukrainian Minister for Foreign Affairs and OSCE Chairman-in-Office to Azerbaijan, amongst other items on the OSCE agenda.

Mammadyarov stressed that the protracted Armenian–Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains the main barrier to efforts aimed at restoring durable peace and stability

Andrii Deshchytsia was briefed on the current state of Nagorno-Karabakh negotiations (Photo: OSCE/Igor Schimbător)

in the region. He reiterated that Armenian armed forces must initially withdraw from the occupied Azerbaijani territories to facilitate final resolution. Mammadyarov remarked that the Armenian political leadership retains an unconstructive stance at the peace talks, underlining how important it is for OSCE to increase pressure on the sides, towards resolving the conflict. Commenting on the proposed reopening of Khojaly Airport by the unrecognised authorities in NagornoKarabakh, Mammadyarov explained that this move would contravene the Chicago Convention, and that international law reflects the Azerbaijani position in this issue.

Previously, the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry has highlighted that this reopening also represents an open violation of the Convention on International Civil Aviation (ICAO), with the ICAO and European Civil Aviation Conference (ICAC) supporting the Azerbaijani position on this issue.

May 2013

10

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Question on arms race Azerbaijani Lieutenant raised in UK House of and soldier seriously Lords wounded

Didier Burkhalter has stressed continuing Swiss support for Nagorno-Karabakh settlement via the OSCE Minsk Group

Swiss support for OSCE Minsk Group resolution

Speaking to Trend News during the spring session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), Didier Burkhalter, Swiss Foreign Minister, commented that Switzerland supports Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement via the OSCE Minsk Group negotiations. The comments were made in advance of the Swiss chairmanship of the OSCE in 2014. He said: “It is clear that Switzerland will be able to play a more significant role during its chairmanship of the OSCE. In other matters, the direct role of Switzerland in the South Caucasus will be linked with the idea of Russia’s interests in Georgia and Georgia’s interests in Russia.

“The OSCE Minsk Group is engaged in settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and it is important not to create a new format that is parallel with this process. We support the process within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group.” Burkhalter said that security and stability in Europe and the neighbouring regions would be the main priorities for Switzerland during the next four years.

Lord Hylton has posed a question in the UK House of Lords highlighting the steps being undertaken by the UK Government to prevent an Azerbaijani–Armenian ‘arms race’ and whether other governments are being alerted to the risks involved. An answer was provided on behalf of the government by Lord Newby, Deputy Government Chief Whip, who explained that the OSCE countries have, for many years, implemented an embargo on the delivery of weapons and munitions to both sides in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

He commented: “The UK Government strictly implements this arms embargo, and will issue licences for export to Armenia or Azerbaijan only where these are consistent with the terms of the OSCE embargo.

“The Government continues to call on all sides to use diplomatic means to reach a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and urges them to refrain from behaviour and rhetoric which would increase tension. It strongly supports the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to mediate in negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the conflict.”

Provocative military exercises undertaken in Nagorno-Karabakh

On 12 April, Bako Sahakyan, so-called President of the unrecognised occupying authorities in the Azerbaijani region of Nagorno-Karabakh, was present during military exercises undertaken by several subdivisions of the occupying army in the eastern part of the territories. In a provocative comment, Sahakyan stressed the importance of such activities, noting their contribution towards the maintenance of the armed forces’ combat readiness. The Central Information Department of the unrecognised republic went on to reveal that Seyran Ohanyan, Armenian Acting Defence Minister, was also present during the exercises.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS TEAS has strongly condemned a visit to

On 13 April, the Armenian army seriously wounded Ramil Huseynov, a Second Lieutenant of the Azerbaijani army. Reports from the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry indicated that he was caught in a hail of bullets fired by Armenian large-calibre machine guns, resulting in a severe gunshot wound to his lower body. He was subsequently transferred to hospital in Baku by helicopter, where he was described as being in a ‘severe’ condition. Three days earlier, the Azerbaijani Defence Ministry revealed that 19-year-old Farhad Shikhsafiyev had been wounded by an Armenian sniper near the Fizuli region. His condition was described as ‘serious’.

Presidential meeting with Minsk Group planned for May

The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair country representatives – Igor Popov (Russian Federation), Jacques Fauré (France) and Ian Kelly (USA) – met Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, and Edward Nalbandian, his Armenian counterpart, in Krakow on 17 May. Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, was also present. Throughout, the Co-Chairs and Foreign Ministers discussed possible methods of advancing the peace process.

They also exchanged views on the current situation and reaffirmed their commitment towards promoting regional peace.

The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs stressed the need to avoid actions or rhetoric that could raise tensions or damage the peace process.

They also discussed numerous confidencebuilding measures aimed at creating an atmosphere conducive to reconciliation.

Later in May, the Co-Chairs will travel to the region to undertake further discussions of these issues with the Azerbaijani and Armenian Presidents.

E-mail: brussels@teas.eu

Kyriakos Triantaphyllides (EUL/NGL, Cyprus).

of Azerbaijan, which is an important partner of the EU, and a member of the UN Security

Nagorno-Karabakh on 26 April by several

Council.”

Parliament

Dr Roman Huna, Head, TEAS Belgium, said:

(MEPs). TEAS regards this provocative visit

“Over the past few years, the European Union

as detrimental to the peace process, since

and

that

Dr Huna said: “TEAS remains committed to

it undermines the work of the OSCE Minsk

they are constructive partners. In particular,

its goal – a peaceful settlement – as the one

Group, which calls on Armenia to leave

they have established constructive dialogue

and only guarantee for the economic and

Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding

regarding energy security, cultural exchange

social stability of the entire South Caucasus

Azerbaijani

was

and political rapprochement. We believe

region. In the meantime, TEAS will continue to

headed by MEP Eleni Theocharous (EPP,

that the recent MEPs’ mission to Nagorno-

contribute towards a constructive exchange

Cyprus), and included MEPs Frank Engel (EPP,

Karabakh is contrary to international law, and

of information between its stakeholders in

Luxembourg), Ewald Stadler (NI, Austria) and

shows disrespect to the national sovereignty

Azerbaijan and European institutions.”

Members

May 2013

of

the

regions.

European

The

delegation

Azerbaijan

have

demonstrated

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11

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict During his recent visit to Turkey, Kerry and Ahmet Davutoǧ l u, Turkish Foreign Minister, discussed the strengthening of the OSCE Minsk Goup. He said: “The OSCE Minsk Group process should be provided with ever-increasing momentum, and the invaded territory of Azerbaijan is an issue that requires certain advancement.” He added that Turkey and the US would continue to discuss these issues.

John Kerry (right) points to the Bosphorus alongside Ahmet Davutoğlu, Turkish Foreign Minister

Armenian lobby criticises Kerry

The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has criticised John Kerry, US Secretary-of-State, for recognising the need to expand the Turkish role in resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Armenpress claimed that Kerry’s support for greater Turkish involvement was having a negative impact on the prospects for conflict resolution, and he was “pouring fuel on the fire”, according to ANCA. The comments came in wake of Kerry’s statement in the US House of Representatives on 18 April that Turkey would be a constructive player in the settlement of the NagornoKarabakh and Cyprus issues. According to the Anadolu News Agency, Kerry said: “Turkey is holding talks with us on the two unresolved conflicts – the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and resolution of the Cyprus problem.

Turkey plays a constructive role in resolving these issues.”

US rules out military solution to NagornoKarabakh

The US, an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, has again dismissed the possibility of any military solution to the NagornoKarabakh conflict. During a briefing in Washington D.C., Patrick Ventrell, Acting Deputy Spokesman, US State Department, commented: “The tragic loss of life in the war between Azerbaijan and Armenia reminds us that there cannot be a military solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.”

He went on to say that only a peaceful, lasting settlement could bring stability, prosperity, and reconciliation to the region, saying: “The US is an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, and remains firmly committed to working with both sides to achieve peace.” After taking up his position in February, John Kerry, US Secretary-ofState, reiterated that the status quo in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains unacceptable, and the US will continue its commitment towards establishing a peaceful, sustainable settlement through the OSCE Minsk Group.

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Foreign Minister during a press conference in Moscow, then Armenia must immediately withdraw its troops from the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. Abdullayev said: “The OSCE Minsk Group called for the withdrawal of occupying forces from the territory of Azerbaijan in its resolutions of 1993.”

EU indicates lack of unanimity over occupation condemnation

Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Belgium and Luxembourg and Head of the Azerbaijani Mission to the European Union (EU) has stated that the EU institutions lack a uniform position on the future resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Speaking to Trend News, he said: “The European Commission (EC), which is the executive structure of the EU, in addition to operating its External Action Service, which is responsible for issues of EC foreign policy, generally say that they support the mediatory efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group regarding conflict resolution. As for the legislative structure in the European Parliament, the situation is different.”

He said that the numerous European Parliament resolutions, such as those in connection with the South Caucasus region adopted in 2010, and the negotiations on Association Agreements with Azerbaijan and Armenia held last year, acknowledge the Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territories and state the need for immediate withdrawal.

Martin Schulz, President, European Parliament, voiced his position to a local news agency, saying: “Our position is respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan within internationally recognised borders. Therefore, the European Parliament has repeatedly demanded the withdrawal of forces from the occupied territories, in accordance with the resolutions of the UN Security Council. I believe that this open position of the European Parliament may become an impetus, leading the executive structures of the EU to take a more active position on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.”

Baku urges Yerevan to follow OSCE Minsk Group calls

Speaking to Trend News, Elman Abdullayev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, commented that if official Yerevan’s position reflects that of the OSCE Minsk Group, as stated by Edward Nalbandian, Armenian

Elman Abdullayev reminded Armenia of its commitment to withdrawal from the occupied territories

Abdullayev acknowledged that Yerevan must remember that the heads of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries – the Presidents of France, the US and Russia – repeatedly reaffirmed that maintaining the status quo in the region is unacceptable in their statements signed in L’Aquila, Moscow and Deauville.

MP Mirzazade acknowledges OSCE failings

Speaking to Azernews, Aydin Mirzazade, Azerbaijani MP, has indicated Azerbaijan’s frustration with the lack of movement towards peace achieved by the OSCE Minsk Group CoChairs, stating that Azerbaijan does not support the organisation of meetings with no obvious objective. The comments were made following the proposal by the Co-Chair representatives to organise a meeting of the Azerbaijani and Armenian Foreign Ministers in the near future, the purpose being to advance the peace process.

Meanwhile, Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, has accepted the invitation to attend such a meeting, saying: “There were no new proposals during the recent visit to the region, other than that regarding holding a meeting of Foreign Ministers. Baku gave a positive response to this proposal.”

According to Mirzazade, the organisation of this meeting is indicative that the visits by the Co-Chair representatives are of a political character, and that OSCE is more interested in organising meetings without a discernible outcome, rather than achieving any serious movement. He said: “The Co-Chairs’ efforts to organise meetings and to bring together the conflict sides can be evaluated as solely diplomatic activity. In fact, the key task is not to normalise the relations between the conflict sides, but to end the Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani lands.”

May 2013

12

Personalities – Arif Aziz

Arif Aziz stands against a backdrop his work at the opening of the Transmutations exhibition (Photos: Stylin’CO)

Arif Aziz – force of nature in contemporary art

Born in the Absheron region of Baku in 1943, Arif Aziz remains one of the leading Azerbaijani contemporary artists. He initially studied at the Azim Azimzadeh State Art School, from which he graduated in 1962, and then went on study graphic design at the Count Strogonov University in Moscow and at the College of Fine Arts in Warsaw. His work was first exhibited during his studies, and he became a teacher in 1971 at the University of Culture and Art in Baku, where he was the Vice-Director from 1983–2001. From 2005–09 he taught at the Beykend University in Turkey. Since 2010, he has chaired the Decorative Arts division at the University of Culture and Fine Arts in Baku. In 2011, he became a member of the New Era World Academy for Artists, and has headed the Azerbaijani branch since 2012.

He has exhibited extensively in Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Finland, Germany, India, Iran, Lithuania, Russia, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Turkey and the USA. Arif was appointed in Azerbaijan as an Honoured Art Worker in 1985. His work, much of which features unique abstract forms, can now be seen in public and private collections around the world. TEAS caught up with Arif at the opening of his exhibition Transmutations at the Galerie RTR in Paris.

What prompted your initial interest in becoming an artist? Do your works incorporate any symbolism taken from your Azerbaijani heritage? Is there a narrative in your works?

I drew my inspiration from my childhood – from the patchworks and embroideries of my mother and grandmother, the tales of my childhood, and the work of my greatuncle, who was a stonemason. I have also been greatly inspired by my life in Absheron, which is the region where I was born and raised. I loved to contemplate the sea, the

May 2013

wind, the landscapes, and the golden sand of Absheron.

What tuition do you undertake as Professor at the Azerbaijan State University of Art and Culture?

At the end of my studies in 1971, I decided to return to Baku – the city I love the most, and am very attached to. Since my return from Moscow, 42 years ago, I have been working at the University of Culture and Art, where I have taught graphic design and advertising.

I’ve trained dozens of students, some of whom have since become renowned artists.

I also taught in Istanbul, Turkey, for five years.

Did you come from an artistic family?

I didn’t come from an artistic background, and there were no painters, sculptors or architects in my family. However, my three daughters became painters, and exhibit regularly.

You began your studies in the late 1950s at the Azim Azimzadeh State Art School.

Were you forced to embrace Social Realism under the Soviet regime? When and why did you decide to move towards abstraction?

Social realism was an academic style, and everybody drew in this manner at that time at university. I admired works of Picasso, Dali, and Matisse but, after my return from Moscow, I started to seek my own way and create my own artistic style, as I had no wish to imitate other artists. Thus, since the 1990s, I have used a great deal of white in my work – this symbolises the purity of the human being, in my opinion. As you will notice in my paintings exhibited here, this colour is omnipresent in my work. I have also painted many portraits, but abstract dominant white paintings are more characteristic of my style.

Do you take inspiration from music whilst you are painting?

I always listen to music whilst I paint. I love listening to traditional Azerbaijani music and also to jazz. In my opinion, no artist can work without music.

Where have you exhibited?

My work has already been exhibited in Russia, Turkey, Senegal, India and Bulgaria, amongst other countries. This is the first time that I have had a solo exhibition in France, although six of my works were exhibited in France during the Soviet era, as part of a group exhibition.

At that time, group exhibitions were very common. Last December, I came to Paris with my family to celebrate my forthcoming 70th birthday, and an exhibition was proposed.

This exhibition has been realised with the help of my friends Ayten Gracco and Kamala Muradova.

Was Wassily Kandinsky a major influence on your work?

Of course, Kandinsky has had a great influence on my work, and I’ve also been interested by other artists, such as Picasso and Vrubel. However, I’ve always tried to follow my own artistic style. I’ve been inspired by their works, without trying to imitate them.

Arif Aziz’s evocation of the Colours of Absheron

When and where were your works first exhibited?

My first exhibition took place in Baku, during my studies at the Azim Azimzadeh State Art School.

Have you always focused on painting, or have you undertaken sculpture and drawing?

I had a keen interest in photography, when I was 12–13 years old. However, I subsequently turned to painting and have always used this medium since that time.

My Village, painted in 2006

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Personalities – Anmary times, and each of these was an adventure.

In particular, the Old City (Icheri Sherer) of Baku is amazing! Have you paid attention to the doors? They are real art works, featuring wonderful engravings.

The cover of Sari Gelin, Anmary’s CD of Azerbaijani songs

Sari Gelin – Anmary sings the Azerbaijani songbook

Classically-trained Anmary ranks amongst the leading Latvian pop singers. Following her graduation from the Jazeps Vitols Latvian Academy of Music, she became a star after winning a television talent show.

Subsequently, she was the lead singer in two Latvian groups. In 2012, she won the Latvian Eurovision National Selection Contest and performed the entry Beautiful Song in Baku.

Anmary developed an appreciation of Azerbaijani music, and gave her first solo concert in Azerbaijan on 27 November, followed by a performance at the Gochay Pomegranate Festival. She has now recorded a CD, which includes such well-known favourites as Sari Gelin (Blonde Bride), Gel ey Seher (Come Morning) and Üzüyümün Qasi (The Gemstone of My Ring). TEAS spoke to her at home in Riga to find out more: Did you have any prior experience of Azerbaijan or Azerbaijani music before you visited the country as the Latvian Eurovision entry?

Naturally, I had ideas about Azerbaijani music and the country itself prior to my first visit. I first became aware of the country during my childhood in Latvia, when I was exposed to Azerbaijan’s fairy tales during the Soviet period. For me, these stimulated my awareness of the landscape and natural beauty of the country, combined with the hospitality and wisdom of the Azerbaijani people. Books, films and television programes formed my knowledge of Azerbaijani culture, music, architecture and nature.

What was the reaction to the country when you first saw it?

I became aware that the country was familiar and close to my consciousness, yet with many unexpected aspects. I flew to Baku at night, and I can only describe it as magical, akin to a fairytale. My emotions exploded with joy and amazement, and it is hard to describe my feelings in words. There is so much to explore in Azerbaijan. The culture is very rich, and each time I visit Azerbaijan, I discover more. Last year, I visited the country four www.teas.eu

The cities of Gabala, Gobustan, Masalli and Gochay are real pearls of nature. Each is very different, but has its own brilliance. The people I have met in Azerbaijan are extremely attentive and lovely. I have some friends in Azerbaijan, and am really happy that our paths crossed. I fell completely in love with Azerbaijan.

What do you think of mugham and ashiq music?

It is wonderful that Azerbaijan has retained its ancient musical traditions and maintained their popularity. Mugham is a great challenge for any singer.

13

Which is your favourite song on the CD? I believe you have predicted the answer – it is Sari Gelin, of course. I also like Sen Gelmez Oldun (You Have Not Come). We made new arrangements of all the Azerbaijani songs, and Sen Gelmez Oldun is now a tango.

Was it recorded in Azerbaijan with Azerbaijani musicians?

The CD was recorded in Latvia, and Latvian musicians played all the instruments.

The arrangements of the songs were also undertaken in Latvia.

What was the reaction to your first concert in Azerbaijan on 27 November?

Music is my oxygen, and I am delighted that I could perform my concert in Baku and share my happiness and emotions with the audience. I felt that people liked my performance, and the concert generated considerable applause. The audience seemed very happy, and joined in with the Azerbaijani songs and other well-known songs, including international hits, songs by Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls, and other compositions. I received many plaudits for the Sari Gelin concert, and the entire audience responded very positively.

Did you write the song entitled Your Voice?

Yes, I wrote this song, although I am a singer, and not a composer. However, I write when inspiration comes to me. My friends have indicated their appreciation of Your Voice.

Anmary and Aqshin Nazarov, Director of the Sari Gelin music video

How did you come to make the video for Sari Gelin? When was it shot in the Old City?

I love this song, and it means a great deal for me. I would like to thank thank Ismayil Omarov, Director, Ictimai Television (ITV) for his support in making this lovely music video.

Have you performed Azerbaijani songs in Latvia?

Yes, I have done so, and my performances were well-received, particularly regarding the song Sari Gelin. I gave my CD of Azerbaijani songs to my Latvian friends, and they advised that they liked this. I hope I will record further Azerbaijani songs – as Azerbaijanis say: “Inshallah (God willing).”

Inese Krumina, my manager, had the initial concept for this video. Then Aqshin Nazarov, Director of Music Videos, ITV shot a fantastic video clip. This was filmed in Autumn 2012 at the Shirvanshah’s Palace, Baku and I have the warmest memories of our co-operation.

I greatly appreciate the professionalism of these people.

Who suggested that you should make a CD of Azerbaijani songs?

The CD of Sari Gelin is a present for my Azerbaijani friends – it is not commercially available, and can only be obtained as a gift from myself. As Martin Luther King said: “One of the most beautiful and marvellous presents of God is music.” I am happy to welcome people with singing and music. The CD also contains some other Azerbaijani songs that were included in my solo concert programme.

My first Azerbaijani concert – also entitled Sari Gelin – took place in November at the Heydar Aliyev Palace in Baku.

Anmary in one of the scenes from the Sari Gelin video

Anmary’s promotional film for Sari Gelin may be viewed at http://bit.ly/sarigelinanmary.

May 2013

14

Business News Actor, a mixed-use office and retail complex, located on Pushkin Square in Moscow, which sits in its portfolio alongside an office complex in London’s West End, purchased for £177.4m, and a €135m (£113.7m) property in Paris.

According to the SOFAZ investment strategy, a maximum of five per cent of the investment portfolio may be placed in stocks, real estate and gold, respectively.

Johann Schneider-Ammann, Swiss Economics Minister, acknowledged the extent of SOCAR investment in the Azerbaijani economy

Swiss companies invest over $87m in non-oil sector

Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Minister of Economic Development, commented: “More than 70 companies with Swiss capital are registered in Azerbaijan, and they have invested $87.7m (£56.3m) in the Azerbaijani non-oil sector.” Speaking in Baku alongside Johann Schneider-Ammann, Swiss Economics Minister, he explained that the two countries have signed over 20 agreements, to date.

During the meeting, Mustafayev stressed the interest of Azerbaijani companies in the Swiss economy. He explained that SOCAR had already invested CHF380m (£261.8m) in the country, and that a SOCAR representative office is already active in Switzerland. He stated that, when compared year-on-year, Swiss– Azerbaijani trade turnover grew 2.9 times during January–February 2013.

Mustafayev said: “Azerbaijan is actively co-operating with the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs of Switzerland (SECO). To date, SECO has undertaken 25 projects in Azerbaijan, of which 17 are now complete. In 2012, SECO launched four new projects in the country.”

SOFAZ funds equate to half of Azerbaijani GDP

Speaking at the World Economic Forum (Davos Forum) in Baku, Shahmar Movsumov, Executive Director, SOFAZ, announced that the volume of funds in SOFAZ now equates to half of all Azerbaijani GDP. Movsumov said: “The economic strategy of the country is directed towards investment in infrastructure projects.” SOFAZ has recently indicated its interest in purchasing real estate in Turkey, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia.

SOFAZ is currently focusing on the purchase of office real estate in order to obtain revenues from property leasing. Recently, it has purchased the $133m (£85.5m) Gallery May 2013

One of the major projects to be financed this year by SOFAZ will be the development of broadband internet across Azerbaijan, creating opportunities for the private sector.

In February, it was reported that SOFAZ allocated around AZN103m (£84.4m) to implement the ‘fibre-to-home’ project for developing broadband internet. The main objective is to provide remote regions of the country with broadband internet at speeds ranging from 10–100Mbit/s, expanding the proportion of web users to 85 per cent, reaching the level of penetration in developed countries by 2015.

IFC plans to invest $28.8m in Azerbaijan

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank (WB), is to invest $28.8m (£18.5m) in five projects in Azerbaijan during 2013, according to the WB Baku Office. Since Azerbaijan became an IFC member in 1995, the IFC has invested nearly $393m (£252.8m) in 67 projects in Azerbaijan, together with attracting around $73m (£47m) from other sources. The IFC mainly invests in the financial sector, the leasing industry, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and trade finance and housing, in addition to the oil and gas industry, hotel business and retail trade. To date, SOFAZ has invested $100m (£64.3m) in the IFC African, Latin American and Caribbean Fund, and $50m (£32.2m) in the IFC Catalyst Fund.

project, which is one of the two projects competing to bring Caspian gas to Europe.

Media reports about the sale were confirmed by an OMV spokesperson, but no financial details were disclosed on either side.

The Nabucco West and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) schemes are currently competing for selection to bring gas from Azerbaijan and Central Asia to Europe, a large proportion of which will be from the Shah Deniz II full-field development. The final decision will be made by the Shah Deniz Consortium during the next few months. The four other shareholders in Nabucco West are BEH (Romania), BOTAS (Turkey), MOL (Hungary) and Transgaz (Romania).

TANAP described as ‘Energy Silk Road’

Kenan Yavuz, Head, SOCAR Turkey Enerji and Board Member, Petkim Petrochemical Holding, has described the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) as the “Silk Road of the energy sector”, in comments made to the Cihan agency. He also commented that TANAP marks a revolution in Azerbaijani and Turkish energy history.

It is expected that construction of the TANAP project will start in 2014, with the first deliveries of Azerbaijani gas beginning in 2017. Currently, a 20 per cent share in TANAP belongs to Turkish BOTAS and the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), with 80 per cent being owned by SOCAR. The SOCAR partners in the Shah Deniz II development project have also indicated their intention to acquire a stake in the TANAP project. According to preliminary data, the partners intend to distribute a 29 per cent share in TANAP, with Statoil and BP receiving 12 per cent each and Total having five per cent. TANAP will convey Azerbaijani and Central Asian gas through Turkey to the borders of Europe. The initial pipeline capacity is expected to be 16bn m3 (bcm) a year, of which around 6bcm will be delivered to Turkey, with the remainder going to Europe via either the TAP or Nabucco West pipeline.

NEWS IN BRIEF Oettinger calls for energy resource diversification Günther Oettinger, EU Energy Commissioner, OMV has confirmed its purchase of the RWE stake in Nabucco West (Photo: OMV)

OMV buys RWE’s Nabucco stake

The Austrian OMV energy group has bought German utility RWE’s stake of nearly 17 per cent stake in the Nabucco West pipeline

has reiterated calls for reduced European dependency on Russian gas resources. He expressed his support for the construction of the Southern Corridor, stating that Europe should be able to purchase gas from Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan. He commented: “We want to see Russia as a Russian gas transporter, but not as a wholesaler of blue gas across the world.”

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Business News

15

schemes and the creation of an e-registration system for farmers, together with the enhancement of food security, self-sufficiency, and the more efficient allocation of subsidies.

The Crans Montana Forum 2012 underway in Baku

2013 Crans Montana Forum to be held in Baku

The 24th annual Crans Montana Forum will be held in Baku from 27–30 June, entitled The Post-Crisis World: Can We Rebuild Confidence, Dynamism and Entrepreneurship in a Sustainable Framework? According to the Forum website, around 600 representatives from across the world will attend the event.

The programme will include the session 2013 – Year of ICT in Azerbaijan: Challenges and Opportunities and the plenary session Azerbaijan and its International Connections: Towards International and Regional Strategies.

Baku port to become largest in the Caspian Sea

A CNN television report has highlighted how the new Baku International Sea Port in the Alat Settlement is set to become the largest container port between the South Caucasus and Central Asia. It will handle goods from Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and China, amongst other countries, which will be transported to Georgia, Turkey and Western European countries.

According to the report, many investors are currently backing improvements in the transport infrastructure passing through the region.

The Ministry also reported that the programme would focus on economic diversification, the development of healthy competition, domestic production, the internal market for local products, increased ICT usage, and personnel training. Artur Rasizade, Azerbaijani Prime Minister, explained that AZN4.7bn (£3.9bn) had been allocated in 2012 to finance the programme. He explained that over AZN2.1bn (£1.7bn) had been allocated last year regarding implementation of the State Programme on the Social and Economic Development of Baku and its suburbs. Rasizade explained: “The two State Programmes on the regional development implemented in Azerbaijan are yielding positive results. AZN16bn (£13.1bn) was allocated to finance the State Programme during 2009– 12, which exceeds the cost of the first State Programme by 2.4 times.”

NEWS IN BRIEF Azerspace–1 transferred to Azerbaijani management Management communications

of

Azerbaijan’s satellite,

first

Azerspace–1,

has been transferred to Azercosmos OJSC, following

successful

completion

of

the

testing process from 15 March–2 April. The Azercosmos scientists will control the satellite

The Crans Montana Forum is an international organisation created in Crans Montana, Switzerland, in 1986. The Forum is working closely with such partner agencies as the UN, UNESCO, the UN Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the EU, and the Council of Europe. To find out more, go to http://bit.ly/ cransmontana2013.

Azerbaijani GDP expansion driven by non-oil sector

Reuters reports that the Azerbaijani economy expanded by 3.1 per cent during the first quarter of 2013, driven by growth of 11.4 per cent outside its dominant oil sector, according to official data. The expansion was considerably faster than that experienced a year earlier, when the economy grew by a mere 0.5 per cent and the non-oil sector by 7.7 per cent.

In February, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan cut its key refinancing rate to 4.75 per cent from 5 per cent, citing such factors as low annual inflation and “priorities for diversification of the national economy.” Azerbaijani GDP is predicted to grow at an annual average rate of 5.1 per cent during 2013–17, although it expanded by just 2.2 per cent in 2012. www.teas.eu

from the Main Home Ground Satellite Control Centre, located near Baku. The Alternative Ground Satellite Control Centre is situated in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

Vessels in the current Baku harbour (Photo: Harry Purwanto)

During the report, Larisa Leshchenko, Country Manager for Azerbaijan, World Bank, stated that the port would operate as a transit corridor and cross-border point for the implementation of customs procedures. In the near future, the construction of the port will be completed, the Azerbaijani naval fleet will be updated and expanded, a transport and logistics centre will be built, and the Baku–Boyuk–Kesik and the Baku–Yalama railways will be rebuilt and modernised, in addition to the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway being made operational. Reconstruction of the main railway lines will also be undertaken, and trucks and locomotives will be upgraded.

Regional programme set for launch in late 2013

Shahin Mustafayev, Azerbaijani Minister of Economic Development, has revealed that the Third State Programme on Socio-Economic development of the Azerbaijani regions will be launched in late 2013. Mustafayev said that training would relate to intensive crop and livestock production methods, e-agriculture

First Absheron gas expected in 2020 Christian Giudicelli, General Manager, TOTAL Azerbaijan, has revealed that his company will extract its first natural gas from the Absheron field in the Caspian Sea in 2020, as reported

by Bloomberg. The deposit is expected to produce 3–5bcm of gas per annum during its initial phase. Discovered in 2011, the Absheron field is thought to contain 300bcm of gas and 4m of condensate, according to SOCAR estimates. Total and SOCAR each hold 40 per cent of the project, whilst GDF Suez has the remaining 20 per cent.

Latest technology to be incorporated in new steel mill A new state-run steel production complex is to be constructed in Ganja, following the launch of a new joint stock company. The company will incorporate the entire steel supply chain, ranging from iron ore mining to steel production.

Dashkesan Mining will extract the iron ore, and the production process will incorporate the latest technologies in order to maximise efficiency. The Azerbaijani government will prepare the draft bylaws and propose the company structure by the end of June.

May 2013

May 2013

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