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Culture | Public Affairs Business | Philanthropy

(Photo: Alex Ridley)

Please see inside for how to win £100 of Amazon vouchers

HARD-HITTING MANY HAPPY RETURNS CAMPAIGN COMES TO LONDON Also in this issue: Baku Declaration adopted by the OSCE President Aliyev addresses PACE Heydar Aliyev Museum wins Design Museum award OIC adopts resolution on Nagorno-Karabakh Ed Kashi’s moving IDP images brought to Paris www.teas.eu

7 / 2014

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Welcome to the TEAS Magazine The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) is a UK-registered pan-European organisation dedicated to raising awareness of Azerbaijan and fostering closer economic, political and cultural links between that country and the nations of Europe.

As well as promoting the positive aspects of Azerbaijan, TEAS also highlights the plight of the 875,000 refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) within the country. These people are unable to return to their homes and lands because of the illegal occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding districts by Armenia’s armed forces – in defiance of four UN Security Council resolutions.

TEAS has three main facets 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 regions.

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

In pursuit of its objectives TEAS: • Organises meetings with interested parties, opinion-formers and decision-makers • Arranges roundtables, seminars, lectures and conferences • Publishes pamphlets, reports, bulletins, books and produces films • Facilitates fact-finding trips by politicians and business people.

Mailing List

TEAS is always bringing the latest news, views and interviews from Azerbaijan. Sign up to our mailing-list to receive the latest information straight to your inbox: www.teas.eu

Facebook

The TEAS Facebook page is your chance to learn about the latest news, events, campaigns and other Azerbaijan-related items. Visit and ‘like’ our page at: http://bit.ly/TEASFB.

Membership and Sponsorship

TEAS offers a range of corporate and individual membership packages, providing such benefits as advertising, trade missions, networking, business sector advice and hotel discounts.

TEAS also offers numerous sponsorship opportunities throughout the year for its events and conferences. To find out more, e-mail: membership@teas.eu.

Win £100 of Amazon vouchers!

Firstly, congratulations to James Butler, who won the competition in the June issue of the TEAS Magazine. To stand a chance of winning £100 of Amazon vouchers, simply answer the following 10 questions, the answers to which will be found in this issue of the TEAS Magazine. In the case of a tie, a draw will be made. Previous winners are ineligible to answer, as are TEAS employees and their families. Please send all entries to editor@ teas.eu by the end of 14 August: 1.

What date is UN World Refugee Day?

2.

Name one of the celebrity managers for the Gala Charity Boxing Night.

3.

What accreditation has the European Azerbaijan School achieved?

4.

Which award has the Heydar Aliyev Centre received?

5.

How many public services are provided by ASAN?

6.

Which classical piece did Isfar Sarabski perform in Berlin?

7.

According to the UNHCR estimates, how many IDPs are there in the world?

8.

What value of ICT equipment was imported by Azerbaijan in 2013?

9.

How long has Alstom been active in Azerbaijan?

10.

Who is the UK Energy Minister?

James Butler celebrates winning the June TEAS Magazine competition

Upcoming Events For full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming-events

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Politics and News

03

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

From the TEAS Director

Since 2000, 20 June has been designated as UN World Refugee Day. However, the past 14 years pales into insignificance against the 20 years since the ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the 27 years since the beginning of that conflict.

There are 875,000 refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Azerbaijan – the ongoing casualties of the NagornoKarabakh conflict. That is why, each year, TEAS offices across Europe commemorate the day.

Firstly, in London, more than 800 boxing fans travelled to East London to witness a brave battle between fighters from Gabala and the top UK club Repton. Managed respectively by former England football captain Tony Adams and former IBF middleweight champion Darren Barker, this star-studded occasion attracted a great deal of publicity for the Many Happy Returns (MHR) online campaign. You can add your support for a campaign to redesignate the day as World Refugee and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) day at www.manyhappyreturnsidp. com. This recognises the plight of all IDPs, including those spread across Azerbaijan.

In Paris, recognition took the form of the Unresolved Dreams exhibition of emotional photos by renowned US photojournalist Ed Kashi, who captured moments from the IDPs’ lives in four of the camps. These were displayed in the Galerie Joseph – one of the leading galleries in the heart of Paris.

The commemoration in Brussels took place in the European Parliament itself, with a roundtable that included three ambassadors and one IDP, who spoke movingly about his own experiences in Agdam, from which he and his family were expelled 21 years ago.

The month has also seen OSCE President Anne Brasseur and the OIC reiterate their support for the Azerbaijani position on Nagorno-Karabakh. On a lighter note, the Heydar Aliyev Centre, designed by the Iraqi–British architect Zaha Hadid, won the Design of the Year award from the Design Museum in London. In a further development, the benefits of the ASAN e-government service – spearheading the government’s anti-corruption drive – were highlighted during meetings in the UK Parliament.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

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Legendary England captain Tony Adams (left) and former WBC world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno flank longstanding sports pundit Gary Newbon

Charity boxing highlights plight of IDPs and refugees

On 27 June, TEAS organised a landmark Gala Charity Boxing Match at York Hall, the home of East London boxing. The match featured Repton – the UK’s oldest and most respected boxing club – against an Azerbaijani team from the Gabala Sports Club. The legendary Gary Newbon compered the evening – he was the face of ITV sport for nearly 40 years – and is now a mainstay of Sky Sports’ presenting team, which broadcast live interviews from the event.

The event was arranged in collaboration with Tony ‘Mr Arsenal’ Adams and Darren ‘Dazzling’ Barker and had dual objectives. The first was raising funds for the Mo Farah Foundation, and the second aim was to raise awareness of the plight of the estimated 875,000 Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees who are the ongoing victims of the NagornoKarabakh conflict. Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President, Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Syed Kamall MEP, leader of the Conservative Group in the European Parliament; and Lord Addington, Member, All-Party Parliamentary Group for Azerbaijan and keen sportsman attended the match, together with around 800 boxing fans and promoters, celebrities and pundits.

The main part of the evening saw eight thrilling bouts, with some of Repton’s brightest stars in various weight categories being pitted against their counterparts from Gabala.

The night saw the Gabala team demonstrate their considerable tactical skills, combined with tremendous stamina and tenacity. Despite this – and following some close splitpoints decisions – the overall victory was awarded to the home team of Repton. The starstudded audience included former WBC world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno and former WBC world light-heavyweight champion John Conteh.

Tony Adams, former England and Arsenal Captain, said: “Gabala Sports Club has got a fantastic boxing team that has been training very hard for tonight, and I am delighted to be their manager. It’s great to support the Mo Farah Foundation. Let’s also remember something that is dear to the hearts of the Azerbaijani guys – there are 875,000 refugees and IDPs and they should have the chance to return home.”

During the interval, a cheque for £10,000 was presented to the Mo Farah Foundation. The remaining proceeds were donated to charities assisting Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs.

The boxers square up to each other for the first time

Gabala’s Elvin Ganbarov catches Matthew Tinker with a masterful right cross

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04

Politics and News

President Aliyev spoke on positive developments and the unresolved Nagorno-Karabakh conflict

President Aliyev speaks to PACE Following the start of the Azerbaijani Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev addressed the Summer Session of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) in Strasbourg.

Anne Brasseur, President, PACE, opened the proceedings by saying: “The independence and secession of a regional territory may be achieved only through a lawful and peaceful process, not in the wake of armed conflict. Diplomatic efforts must be stepped up over the NagornoKarabakh conflict. I assure you that PACE stands ready to support this process, within the framework of the OSCE Minsk Group.

At the same time, we also stand ready to continue working with parliamentarians and PACE members from the Armenian and Azerbaijani delegations to foster dialogue and help build an atmosphere of trust – trust that is essential for making progress.”

President Aliyev reflected: “The reforms in Azerbaijan show that, when implemented in parallel, they can lead to substantial progress. The years of Azerbaijan’s membership of the Council of Europe have been those of very rapid economic and political transformation. Reforms in Azerbaijan started in the mid-1990s, some years after the restoration of our independence.

“Economic and political reforms have been conducted in parallel, which has led to the substantial progress that our country has achieved since independence. Joining the Council of Europe was a conscious choice. We wanted to be a member of this institution and to deepen our reforms.

We knew that joining the Council of Europe entailed commitments. We were ready to make those commitments. We have implemented our commitments and obligations. As Madam President said, we have joined almost 60 conventions. We have upgraded our legislation. The reforms we have implemented have created a very positive atmosphere in our society.”

He also outlined the pivotal geopolitical role of the nation, saying: “Europe is our main trading partner, and historic links between Azerbaijan and Europe have become strengthened during the years of independence. At the same time, Azerbaijan is a Muslim country and an active member of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC). We play an important role, not only geographically, but also as a cultural and political bridge in our region.

“Several important resolutions and decisions have been adopted by the UN Security Council, PACE, the European Parliament and the OSCE with regard

to the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, but none of them have been implemented. There should be a mechanism for the implementation of resolutions that are adopted by prominent international institutions. All must follow this mechanism, otherwise the resolutions will lose their substance.”

He concluded on a positive note: “Despite the conflict, Azerbaijan’s economy is growing. During the past 10 years, Azerbaijan has had the fastest-growing economy in the world. No other country increased its economic potential to the same extent as Azerbaijan. Our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) multiplied 3.4 times. We managed to diversify the economy and, as a result, the non-energy sector accounts for 55 per cent of our GDP. The international and financial institutions highly value our reforms. During the years of financial crisis, the main ratings agencies – Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch – upgraded Azerbaijan’s credit rating.

The Global Competitiveness Report, published by the World Economic Forum, ranks the Azerbaijani economy in 39th place. As a result, the level of poverty dropped in the past 10 years from 49 to 5.3 per cent; unemployment is 5 per cent; the budget deficit is at the limits accepted

by EU countries; and foreign debt is 8 per cent of GDP.”

European Azerbaijan School – IBDP candidate

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Organisation has issued the following statement regarding the European Azerbaijan School (EAS), founded by TEAS in 2011: “The European Azerbaijan School is a candidate school* for the Diploma Programme. This school is pursuing authorisation as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common philosophy – a commitment to high-quality, challenging, international education that the European Azerbaijan School believes is important for our students. “*Only schools authorised by the IB Organisation can offer any of its three academic programmes: the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme (MYP), or the Diploma Programme (and in addition the IB Career-related Certificate). Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorisation will be granted.

For further information about the IB and its programmes, visit www.ibo.org.”

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Politics and News

05

Baku Declaration hailed by the OSCE

Meeting in the Azerbaijani capital on 2 July, the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has adopted the Baku Declaration, lending political support to wide-ranging policy recommendations for the OSCE and its 57 participating states regarding political affairs and security, economics, the environment and human rights. One of the central themes was the ongoing Ukrainian crisis.

The Declaration was adopted after 97 parliamentarians voted in favour, with one against, at the conclusion of the Annual Session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly. There were nine abstentions, including those by members of the Russian Delegation.

The Baku Declaration comprises 140 clauses, relating to resolutions from the three General Committees of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly focusing on Political Affairs and Security; Economic Affairs, Science, Technology and Environment; and Democracy, Human Rights and

President Aliyev speaks to the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly in Baku

Humanitarian Questions.

Amongst its recommendations on political affairs and security, the Baku Declaration “Express[es] grave concern about the situation in Ukraine and emphasis[es] the role of the OSCE in engaging all parties in constructive dialogue, monitoring and supporting the implementation of all OSCE principles and commitments on the ground, preventing further escalation of the crisis and promoting a diplomatic process towards achieving a peaceful resolution to the

Fighting corruption is a ‘priority task’

Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, has acknowledged that combating corruption will be a priority task for Azerbaijan during its chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. Speaking at a PACE meeting, he said: “As a country that has made considerable strides at a national level, we intend to contribute to the efforts of PACE in this area, notably by organising, at the end of this month, a high-level conference in Baku in co-operation with the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) and the International Anti-

Corruption Academy.” He added that the manipulation of sports competitions, including football matches, constitutes an emerging challenge and a striking aspect of the corruption phenomenon.

Mr Mammadyarov continued: “In this respect, I am very pleased that PACE has given its green light, and provided comments on the current draft of the Convention on the Manipulation of Sport Competitions through Opinion 287 (2014), adopted in the Baku meeting of the Standing Committee, acting on behalf of

crisis.” It also calls on Russia to “reverse the annexation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the city of Sevastopol, Ukraine.”

The Declaration advocates enhanced confidence-building measures in the military sphere, the democratic control of armed forces, a comprehensive assessment of cyber threats, deplores ‘hate’ crimes and calls for a redoubled fight against anti-Semitism, amongst other clauses. To read the full text, go to http:// bit.ly/bakudeclaration.

PACE.” He stressed that the Azerbaijani chairmanship would do its best to ensure adoption of the Convention as soon as possible.

He commented: “For Azerbaijan – the host of the first European Games in 2015 – adoption of the Convention during our chairmanship would constitute a source of great satisfaction, privilege and honour.

Furthermore, my Government will support this by allocating financial support to the Council of Europe Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport (EPAS).”

Azerbaijan attends GRECO

500 Coventry-built cabs ordered

Dr Kamran Aliyev, Director, Anticorruption Department, Office of the Azerbaijani Prosecutor-General, participated in the 64th plenary meeting of GRECO in Strasbourg. Delegates from all GRECO member countries attended this, together with representatives from international organisations.

The Baku Taxi Company has placed an order for an additional 500 London taxis from the Coventry-based London Taxi Company (LTC). This follows the sale of 1000 damson-coloured taxis to the country in 2011. The 500 extra TX4 models will be delivered to Baku in three batches during the second half of 2014. The latest deal comes in advance of Baku hosting the first European Games next summer, when 300 cabs will be used for The first batch of LTC TX4 models soon after delivery to Baku, seen in front of Government House VIP transport.

plenary meeting

Dr Aliyev made reference to the international conference in Baku entitled Fight against Corruption: International Standards and National Experience, organised by the Azerbaijani government and Council of Europe with the participation of GRECO and the International Anti-Corruption Academy. The conference was held under the Azerbaijani chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. It brought together general prosecutors, heads of justice ministries and independent anticorruption organisations from the Council of Europe member states.

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by Baku

07 / 2014

06

Politics and News

Heydar Aliyev Centre wins ‘Design of the Year’ award

The Heydar Aliyev Centre in Baku has won the Design of the Year Award, organised by the Design Museum in London. The awards celebrate the best in cutting-edge innovation and original talent.

Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid – designer of the iconic building – is the first woman to win the top prize in the competition, which is now in its seventh year. The Heydar Aliyev Centre initially won the architectural category, but was then selected as overall winner by a panel of experts from more than 70 nominated designs in the categories of architecture, digital, fashion, furniture, graphics, products and transport.

Chair of the jury Ekow Eshun, a writer, journalist and broadcaster, commented: “It’s beautiful, it’s inspiring, it’s the clear vision of a singular genius and we thought it was a remarkable piece of work.” Zaha Hadid commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to receive the Design of the Year Award. The surface of the Heydar Aliyev Centre’s external plaza rises and folds to define a sequence of public event spaces within – welcoming, embracing

The remarkable undulating design of the Heydar Aliyev Centre (Photo: Iwan Baan)

and directing visitors throughout the building. It’s an architectural landscape where concepts of seamless spatial flow are made real – creating a whole new kind of civic space for the city.”

Mulhouse and Yevlakh sign ‘friendship’ charter

A ‘friendship’ charter has been signed in France between the French city of Mulhouse and Yevlakh. Speaking prior to the signing ceremony that took place in France, Mulhouse Mayor Jean Rottner described the charter as “a strong sign of developing co-operation between the two cities”. He expressed confidence that the charter would contribute towards strengthening the relations between Mulhouse and the city of Yevlakh in western Azerbaijan, particularly the links regarding economics, tourism, culture and education.

Azerbaijan increases e-government ranking

Azerbaijan has been ranked in 68th position out of 193 countries in the UN’s E-Government Development Index (EGDI) – an increase of 28 positions in one year – according to the UN E-Government Survey 2014: E-Government for the Future We Want report. The EGDI is a composite indicator that measures the willingness and ability of governments to use ICT to provide services to the public. Azerbaijan now leaves behind such countries as China, Turkey, and Serbia.

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

e-mail: brussels@teas.eu TEAS Belgium organised a landmark information seminar on 19 relevant to Europe. The young people gaining experience in June at its office, located in the diplomatic sector of Brussels. EU institutions are thinking in European terms, and speaking Its purpose was to make talented Azerbaijani students and European languages. Azerbaijan has a big vision, and they are young professionals working in the European Parliament aware part of that.” of the current excellent state of relations between the EU and Azerbaijan.

Counsellor Huseyn Huseynov, Deputy Head of the Azerbaijani Mission to NATO, commented: “Azerbaijani–NATO relations are H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the EU, said: at a high level, and all 28 member nations regard Azerbaijan as a “The $45bn (£26.3bn) project to bring Azerbaijani gas to Europe reliable and capable committed partner. NATO recently said that has made the country more relevant than ever before, and the it is supportive of peaceful resolution to the Nagorno-Karabakh recent visit of European Commission President Barroso to Baku conflict and respects Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. This is the signals the importance of Azerbaijan to the EU. The Association first time that a Euro-Atlantic organisation has expressed its Agreement between the EU and Azerbaijan is currently entering support, and I am pleased to report that the majority of NATO its final stages, and many joint projects are taking place. members are also EU members.”

“Azerbaijan is currently signing visa agreements that will make it very much easier for Azerbaijani students to study in the EU, amongst other benefits. Relations between Azerbaijan and the EU have a very practical basis, and the reason you are here is because we are creating a new generation that brings experience from European institutions and has the benefits of European education.”

H.E. Arif Mammadov, Ambassador of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) to the EU said: “We are an important partner to the EU in the energy sector. It is wonderful that there are now Azerbaijani students undertaking internships in European institutions. The Southern Corridor is making Azerbaijan

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The meeting focused on the evolving relevance of Azerbaijan to the EU

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Politics and News

07

ASAN successes

acknowledged in UK Parliament

The success of the Azerbaijani Service and Assessment Network (ASAN) – aimed at reducing corruption and increasing efficiency – was acknowledged in the UK Parliament during a roundtable on government technologies on 9 July.

This event was organised by TEAS in association with Total Politics magazine and hosted by Bob Blackman MP. Altogether, ASAN offers 29 private and 150 public services, with a central principle of bringing representatives from various government departments under one roof.

Kamran Agasi, Director, Innovations Centre, Azerbaijani State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations, explained: “The concept evolved from the top leadership in Azerbaijan. The first ASAN Centre was launched in January 2013, and the latest centre – the sixth – was launched in May 2014. Each centre provides services to at least 2000 people each day, and more than 2m people have used the facilities so far.

“We expect the entire country to be covered by the end of 2015. The ultimate goal is to provide satisfaction for Azerbaijani citizens by making services easy to access and ensuring efficiency.

ASAN centres represent corruption-free zones and are designed to be completely transparent. Our software engineers have also developed their own queuing systems, whereby appointments may be booked online, users have an accurate indication of how long they must wait to be seen, and even receive an SMS notification when they are nearing the front of the queue. This saves wasted time and frustration. Citizens may also undertake several services during one visit.

“All ASAN centres display fees on specially installed monitors and distribute leaflets that itemise all fees and the list of required documents in advance.

Innovation is a cornerstone of the concept.

Civil servants do not deal with payments, thereby eliminating any possibility of corruption. We also aim to constantly improve ASAN services. The staff in the

Kamran Agasi explains the innovative benefits of the ASAN system to members of the parliamentary roundtable (Photo: Jack Lawson)

centres – who have an average age of 25 years – are intensively trained on all systems. One of the main pillars of the concept is accountability, and citizens are encouraged to give feedback on ASAN performance using Skype kiosques, exit poll machines, Facebook and web pages, amongst others. ASAN employees must have the mindset to deliver, and are rewarded for good performance.

ASAN Centres run ‘Banks of Ideas’ where citizens can make suggestions on improvements, including perspectives on future development of the entire system.

An example has been the inclusion of free crèches and mothercare rooms in all centres, so parents may leave their children whilst they use ASAN services.”

Azad Jafarli, Head, International Relations Department, Azerbaijani State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations, continued: “ASAN is designed to minimise bureaucracy. Queries and suggestions can be made using freephone number 108 to a call centre, or via Twitter and Facebook.

Mobile ASAN services have been inaugurated and ASAN representatives can visit citizens back in their own homes – no fees are payable by disabled persons and the parents of sick children. ASAN Centres are open every day of the week, including lunchtimes, after work and weekends, enabling all citizens to visit.

Recently ASAN services have achieved ISO 9001:2008 certification, which guarantees the quality of the system. It is the only agency based on the ‘one-stopshop’ principle holding this certificate that constantly measures quality.

“We are currently working on the ASAN 2

concept, whereby we will move towards mobile provision of services. We have already initiated the concept of mobile e-signatures, known as mobile ASANimza. ASAN is constantly evolving in order to meet the best interests and satisfy the expectations of citizens – there are ongoing deliberations on how to issue a passport in one hour. In Azerbaijan, ASAN has set exemplary standards on public service delivery for other government departments.”

The attendees indicated their interest during a lively question session. Lord Kilclooney said: “I have visited many countries, and witnessed the ASAN centre for myself in Baku. It is the most impressive system of its type that I have seen in any country.” Baroness Mansoor commented: “The ASAN concept is an exciting vision that puts the citizen first.” Christopher Pincher MP, Chairman, Azerbaijan AllParty Parliamentary Group said: “I visited an ASAN centre in Baku, and saw people of all ages and genders using the systems. There is no doubt that the concept is driving down petty corruption and increasing public confidence. The model is undeniably transferable to other countries, and I encourage application of the system elsewhere, not least due to the emphasis on transparency.”

The delegation then went on to visit Westminster Council, where there was a mutual exchange of experiences regarding the provision of e-government services, and met Andy Sawford MP, Shadow Local Government Minister, who was previously Chief Executive at the Local Government Information Unit (LGiU).

Population exceeds 9.5m

The Azerbaijani population has reached 9,511,100 people, having increased by 34,000 people or 0.4 per cent since early 2014. The Azerbaijani State Statistics Committee revealed: “Some 53,600 children were born in Azerbaijan during January–February 2014, of whom 53.6 per cent are boys and 46.4 per cent are girls. The birthrate per 1000 people amounted to 17.4 people in Azerbaijan.” The report also states that population density has now reached 110 people/km 2.

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07 / 2014

08

Corporate Profile – ASCO

ASCO has trained and employed more than 460 Azerbaijanis

ASCO – attracted by Azerbaijan

ASCO is an international oilfield support services business, working in onshore and offshore oil and gas markets around the world. The company’s broad range of services is tailored to the specific needs of customers and local market conditions, usually through long-term contracts and master service agreements. Its seven key services cover offshore supply base management, onshore oilfield support, fuel services, environmental services, personnel and training, inventory and materials management, together with advisory and technical services.

The ASCO workforce in Azerbaijan currently comprises around 460 employees, of which 98.5 per cent are Azerbaijani nationals. In order to improve individual and team skills, together with consistently achieving safety and efficiency, training in more than 100 different subjects is offered to the local workforce. Numerous competency assurance initiatives have been implemented over the last few years, including those for Diesel Tank Farm (DTF) operators, warehouse teams, drivers, plant operators and health, safety, environmental and quality (HSEQ) advisors.

ASCO operates from 35 locations in 16 countries around the world, run through four regional businesses – the Americas, Europe, Australasia and Middle East and Africa. This ensures that management and support operations will be kept close to clients, enabling them to move quickly to meet their demands. The company currently employs around 2,500 people internationally.

This investment was rewarded in early June 2014, when ASCO operations in Azerbaijan achieved the milestone of four years without a lost time incident (LTI), during which more than three million man-hours were worked. The scale of the achievement can perhaps be best appreciated by the statistics – during that time, 360,000 crane lifts were conducted, one million tonnes of cargo were handled on the quayside, around 220,000m3 of diesel were despatched to offshore, and ASCO staff and contractors drove more than 4.5 million km.

ASCO’s global standards offering means that customers will be reassured that they implement the highest international standards during day-to-day operations, whether regarding health and safety practice, the use of the latest technology to deliver the highest quality logistics services, leadership development and training programmes, or a long-term commitment to the local communities in which ASCO is active.

This was only made possible by a great deal of effort, hard work and dedication by everyone at the base, and the diligence and professionalism of employees. The achievement was widely acknowledged, both internally and by customers.

Value-added services ASCO strives to deliver added value to customers and, particularly in these current times of austerity, clients are eager to maximise supply chain value. ASCO has been able to achieve this by being both proactive and flexible in its approach, providing a suite of integrated services managed under existing HSEQ policies and procedures, and delivered by experienced industry specialists.

ASCO’s operation in Azerbaijan is strategically important, acting as a springboard into the Georgian and Turkish on and offshore markets. Having aggressively pursued a policy of nationalisation, the company has developed a highly skilled national workforce. One of the measures of success in this training initiative is that ASCO is increasingly seeing Azerbaijani nationals taking up positions in other areas of its global business.

Beginning Azerbaijani operations Euan Lockhart, CEO, Middle East and Africa, ASCO, commented: “ASCO’s client base comprises many of the world’s leading independent oil companies and, as our clients have ventured into new territories, there has been a corresponding need for expanding the geographical provision of the services undertaken in the established European and US markets.”

Continued growth on the horizon Euan Lockhart is now looking to the future with confidence. He commented: “With future world-class reserves coming to the market through new and existing infrastructure, the outlook for the Azerbaijani energy sector in the short- and long-term is that of continued growth and success. A prime example of this is BP’s recent agreement with the Azerbaijani government regarding development of the giant Shah Deniz II gas field. This will see a budgeted investment of $45bn (£26.6bn) over the next six years.”

He continued: “With its proven world-class oil and gas reserves, their expected longevity and the country’s importance as an energy provider to Europe, Azerbaijan was always an attractive area for ASCO. In 2008, the acquisition of Consolidated Supply Management (CSM) enabled us to gain entry to the Azerbaijani marketplace.

“When entering any new region, the ASCO strategy has always been to provide core skills and service lines adapted to the specific local market. In Azerbaijan, we offer a range of integrated logistics services; including supply base management; warehousing; inventory management; pipe yard services; transportation and maintenance; and asset management, together with fuel and lubrication provision.”

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He stated: “We will continue to offer our global portfolio of integrated services for customers in the region, delivered to world-class standards by locally qualified personnel. We are widening our range of services in direct response to customer needs. This widening of service offerings is being complemented by the extension of our global footprint, enabling us to focus our growth strategy on four key global regions. Continued success and investment in Azerbaijan will be an important part of that growth strategy in the years to come.”

ASCO Group Ltd., No.133B, Safaroglu Street, SAT Plaza 13th Floor, Baku, AZ1009, Azerbaijan Tel: +994 12 4970466 Website: www.ascoworld.com

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Personalities – Nargiz Safarova

09

Nargiz Safarova – an Azerbaijani face on the catwalk The concept of fashion modelling in Azerbaijan remains a comparatively recent phenomenon, and currently very few models from that country grace the catwalks of the world. One exception is Nargiz Safarova, who has been a professional model for eight years. She is based in London, and has undertaken modelling assignments as far afield as Dubai. Nargiz was recently awarded the Miss Fitness 2014 award in the hotly-contested fifth edition of the Miss USSR UK beauty competition at Cadogan Hall, London, and visited the TEAS headquarters to speak about her career, to date:

How did you become a fashion model?

During my childhood and teenage years growing up in Baku, I attended various music and drama schools and have always been very interested in the performing arts.

Having a slim mother and a very tall father, some of my friends suggested I also try fashion modelling, but I wanted to graduate from high school before contacting any agents. I experienced good fortune on my 18th birthday, when the director of a modelling agency approached me on the street, and I felt this chance meeting indicated it was time to begin my modelling career.

Following in my father’s footsteps, I had ambitions to become a lawyer or diplomat and went on to study European Studies

at the University of Foreign Languages in Baku. During university, I simultaneously attended the first modelling school in Azerbaijan, and started appearing in local photo shoots and fashion weeks, in addition to working in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

My modelling took me to London, where I was placed as second runner-up in the coveted Top Model Worldwide Competition for 2012. I really enjoyed living and working in London, and decided to sign with some agents. Since then, I have visited for two to three months at a time, and then returned to Azerbaijan. Last year, I was fortunate to work in London, Dubai, and New York, amongst other cities.

For which fashion houses have you modelled?

I have participated in various fashion weeks – Roberto Cavalli, Escada, Kenzo and Ermano Scervino are amongst the more famous labels for which I have worked.

I have also represented Azerbaijani designers at biannual festivals and shows, featuring the work of some amazing talents, such as Fakhriya Khalafova, Nadiya Taziyeffa and Leyla Ahmadova, who have done very well in Azerbaijan. Local Azerbaijani culture is taking its influence from European styles, with more marketing of lifestyle and fashion magazines, and this is helping Azerbaijani designers push their labels towards international markets.

Are there more opportunities for models in Western Europe than in Azerbaijan?

Definitely, as modelling is well-advanced in Western Europe. Some other successful models from Azerbaijan that come to mind include Maya Jafarova and Inna Ivanova.

Traditionally, both male and female models from Azerbaijan found it difficult to push into the Western market, as agents usually tend towards tall, skinny, round-eyed models with lighter hair and skin tones.

However, there is now a trend for Eurasian and unique looks, and there will become more opportunities for models from my country than before. The reverse is true for models that appear in film and television commercials in my country, which are universally Azerbaijani. Personally, I prefer to shy away from this work, not endorsing a product that I would not use, and remain true to my individuality.

Nargiz models shoes and bags by Mo Ada in London (Photo: Ade Okelarin)

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Do you see any Azerbaijani fashions being taken up in Western Europe?

I know of some Azerbaijani stylists who have become quite famous in Russia, and others who are studying at reputable

Seen here dressed in Mango, Nargiz’ natural charm and beauty resulted in an agency director spotting her on Baku’s streets

design institutions in London. With their natural talent and enhanced development, Azerbaijani stylists and designers must now focus on cultivating their contacts, create effective brand websites, and focus on both haute couture as well as highstreet fashion that can appeal to the wider market.

In which direction do you see your career developing?

In addition to modelling, my career has developed into one of naturotherapy to reflect my love of healthy living and wellbeing. As I am a vegetarian, a good diet and overnight rest helps me achieve this. With my ‘mind, body and soul’ in harmony, I can achieve happiness and also help others to find that balance.

Last year, I travelled to northern India, and studied yoga teaching for three months to become a certified instructor. I am currently undergoing training on a pre/ post-natal yoga course to help women during pregnancy and following birth. Yoga also supplements my modelling, as being fit and healthy is the key to maintaining an active long-term modelling career.

As I am based in London, I can actively pursue both modelling assignments and teach yoga practice for my private clients.

For more information on her modelling and the yoga classes offered by Nargiz Safarova, e-mail: safarova.nargiz@gmail.com

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Culture

IDPs’ unresolved dreams brought to Paris New York-based Ed Kashi is one of the world’s leading photojournalists, having worked for the National Geographic, Newsweek, Time and The New York Times.

Co-founder of the VII Photo Agency, he has spent his life documenting areas of the world impacted by human tragedies.

Commissioned by TEAS, Ed recently pointed his lens towards some of the Azerbaijani Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees who are the ongoing casualties of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Charting their everyday lives in four displacement camps across Azerbaijan, the startling results were displayed at the Galerie Joseph (Froissart) in Paris, having previously been shown in London. The Unresolved Dreams exhibition, organised

by TEAS, ran from 19–25 June. On 18 June, around 90 people attended the opening in the presence of Ed Kashi himself, including fellow photographers, journalists, diplomats and musicians.

Melissa Regan Devogele, Head of Sales and Marketing, Galerie Joseph, said: “I am pleased to welcome TEAS back to the Galerie Joseph with another stunning collection of photographs. We frequently feature photography in this branch of the Galerie Joseph, and I am delighted that these emotional, creative photographs by the renowned Ed Kashi are displayed tonight.”

Marie-Laetitia Gourdin, Director, TEAS France, commented: “Tonight, we are presenting the works of Ed Kashi, the great American photojournalist. Amongst other awards, Ed was the winner of the World Press Photo competition in 2011, and in 2010 won both the UNICEF Photo of the Year award and the Prize Pictet, a global photographic prize. His seven books of photographs have been distributed across the world, and Photojournalism – his latest publication – is a reference book on the subject.

“Tonight we are presenting a series of photographs that illustrate the plight of the estimated 875,000 Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs as part of the commemoration of UN World Refugee Week. The country has one of the highest IDP populations per capita in the world. For more than 20 years, following the fall of the Soviet Union, the Armenian army occupied around 20 per cent of Azerbaijani territory, comprising Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding districts. Azerbaijan and Armenia have just commemorated the twentieth anniversary of the ceasefire

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Ed Kashi explains the motivation behind his work to reporters from AzTV (Photo: Stylin’CO)

between the two countries, but the conflict is always alight.

forgotten this, as it happened over 20 years ago.

“The photos in this exhibition illustrate the lives of those who have been displaced from their homeland over a long period.

All have one simple wish – to have the possibility of returning to their rightful land.

I hope this exhibition will serve to humanise the IDPs and refugees. It is my sincere wish that it will engage the international community with the understanding that the conflict urgently needs to be resolved so it is unnecessary for the men, women and children affected by this situation to suffer for another day. I hope that, one day, both Azerbaijan and Armenia will achieve peace and learn to respect each other.”

“It’s important to remember that these people are still in a limbo state. However, I note that the Azerbaijani government is building new settlements and realising that these people need their care and assistance. For Azerbaijan, this is a critically important issue.

Ed Kashi explained: “I had the privilege of visiting Azerbaijan to look at the refugee and IDP conditions. I have worked as a photojournalist for 30 years around the world. Sadly, I have seen too many refugee situations – unfortunately this is an ongoing and growing problem. As this is UN World Refugee Week, this is an important moment to think about this and to consider what can be done to resolve such issues.

“Photographing the IDPs and refugees in Azerbaijan was a learning experience.

I was already aware of the Armenian– Azerbaijani conflict over NagornoKarabakh that occurred during the fall of the Soviet Union, but many people have

“The scenes in the photos were almost entirely spontaneous. I like to work in close-up to capture the people’s emotions, and have come to understand the role that I play. I always explained to those portrayed what I was doing and informed them of how the images would be used. I found that the older people would often tell me their stories and be reduced to tears. TEAS was instrumental in ensuring that the subjects understood that these photographs would be displayed around the world to raise awareness that the conflict remains unresolved, and they are still unable to return home.” The speech was followed by a question-and-answer session.

Following the original exhibition in London, Ed was invited to participate in a Shoot Stories interview, published by The Daily Telegraph. Here, he spoke to Lucy Davies about the practicalities of such a commission, his approach to his subjects and his motivation. To read the interview, go to http://bit.ly/kashishootstories.

Young IDP boys play leapfrog in a camp in Aghjabedi (Photo: Ed Kashi)

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Culture

11

Jazz pianist Isfar

inspires Berlin audience

On 3 July, more than 300 people attended the Summer Jazz and Politics 2014 event at the invitation of TEAS Germany. The reception and concert by the talented young 24-year-old Azerbaijani pianist Isfar Sarabski took place only a few metres away from the historic ‘Checkpoint Charlie’ landmark and Berlin’s famous Gendarmenmarkt, The guests included Bundestag members, diplomats, music journalists and selected members of Berlin society.

Isfar Sarabski performed in Kunztschule, constructed in 1904, located in the former Michaelsen Palais, which combines the historic charm of Berlin with a contemporary minimalist ambience. Isfar won the Solo Jazz Piano Prize at the Montreux International Jazz Festival in 2009, and performed alongside the regular members of his trio – Alexander Mashin (drums) and Makar Novikov (bass) – in front of an enthusiastic audience. Recently, Isfar has been on the international stage again with his performance at the MIDEM Festival in Cannes, and the TEAS-sponsored concert at the Festival Jazz Saint-Germain-desPrés Paris.

Award-winning pianist Isfar Sarabski brought the spirit of his homeland to one of Europe’s jazz capitals

Sarabski’s programme included famous pieces such as his funky variations on Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Ballet, Azerbaijani classics by jazz-mugham pioneer Vagif Mustafazadeh and compositions by Sarabski himself.

Presenter Leslie Nachmann from JazzRadio Berlin and Pro7 TV guided the audience through the evening, commenting: “TEAS has hosted the Summer Jazz and Politics events since 2010. The concert has subsequently established itself as a highlight for German jazz fans who wish to experience the vibrancy and diversity of Azerbaijani music.”

Shahin Namati, Director, TEAS Germany, said: “I am glad to see that, following the Bundestag election at the end of 2013 and the subsequent changes in MPs and staff, so many guests have chosen to join us to

experience this evening of inspirational Azerbaijani jazz music. The connection of tradition and modernity that is apparent in the jazz can be seen as being symbolic of Azerbaijan. Due to its enormous natural resources, social prosperity has developed in Azerbaijan.

“Not all of the Azerbaijani population can benefit from this upswing, as there are more than 875,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees spread across Azerbaijan, due to the NagornoKarabakh conflict. The traditional mugham music – which forms the basis for tonight’s repertoire – originates from this region that has been unlawfully occupied by Armenia for 20 years. Therefore, music – a cultural treasure – represents home for those people who are still waiting to return. That is why we dedicate this concert to the IDPs and refugees from Nagorno-Karabakh.”

Sabina brings Azerbaijani spirit to Rome

Azerbaijani violinist Sabina Rakcheyeva and the London-based Deco Ensemble have given a landmark performance at the 19 th century Palazzo Brancaccio in Rome. Baku-born Sabina, Cultural Advisor, TEAS, was the first Azerbaijani graduate from the Juilliard School in New York and has performed in over 40 countries. During the concert, they performed eclectic music from around the world, combining traditional music with classical influences and jazz.

Following an introduction by H.E. Vaqif Sadiqov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy, the floor was passed to Professor Magda Pedace of La Sapienza University, Rome. The audience of 150 included Lamberto Dini, Former Italian Prime Minister; H.E. Themistoklis Demiris, Greek Ambassador to Italy; Daniela Traldi, President, Confederation of Italian National Opera; and Alfio

Sixth Gabala Music Festival to go live

The Caucasus mountains are set to resound to the sound of the very best in Azerbaijani and international classical music when the Gabala Music Festival begins on 23 July. Running until 1 August, the festival is hosted in the grounds of the Qafqaz Riverside Hotel, with chamber concerts and masterclasses taking place inside the hotel itself.

The resident orchestra will be the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, and soloists will include the crème of Azerbaijani

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Mongelli, Sculptor and Rector, Rome University of Fine Arts (RUFA).

The repertoire included vibrant tangos by the Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla, violin virtuoso Niccolo Paganini and jazz-mugham pioneer Vagif Mustafazadeh. The encore was the main theme to the classic film Cinema Paradiso, composed by Ennio Morricone.

Sabina and the Deco Ensemble performed an enthralling programme in the Eternal City

opera singers, including sopranos Farida Mammedova and Gulnaz Ismayilova; mezzo-soprano Sabina Asadova; tenor Azer Rzazade and bass Ali Asgarov. The guest orchestras will be the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra and soloists from the Vienna Academy Orchestra, and instrumentalists will include Russian pianist Oksana Yablonskaya; violinist Kamran Ömerli; clarinettist Seddam Novruzbeyov and pianist Aslan Aslanov. The mugham night will feature some of the leading exponents – khanandes Sabuhi Ibayev,

Kamila Nabiyeva, Sarkhan Bunyadzade and Sabina Arabli, accompanied by Sahib Pashazade (tar), Togrul Asadullayev (kamancha), Emin Cebrayilov (nagara) and Mehman Nuriyev (balaban).

As in previous years, the directors will be Farhad Badalbeyli, the Azerbaijani pianist, conductor, composer and Rector of Baku Music Academy and the Russian cellist and conductor Dmitry Yablonsky. Full details of the programme may be read at www. gabalamusicfestival.com.

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Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

The roundtable in the European Parliament featured three ambassadors and numerous experts in resolving international conflicts

IDPs and refugees highlighted in the European Parliament TEAS Brussels and The Association of Young Azerbaijani Professionals in Europe (AYAPE) organised a historic roundtable to commemorate UN World Refugee Day on 20 June – the only event in the European Parliament to recognise this date. The discussion, hosted by German MEP Hiltrud Breyer (Greens), focused on the ongoing plight of the estimated 875,000 Azerbaijani Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees who are the continuing victims of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the EU, said: “The Azerbaijani government is paying enormous attention to helping improve living conditions for Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs. Camps are spread across all 76 administrative districts of Azerbaijan.

Last year, AZN300m (£224.9m) from the coffers of the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ) was spent on improving the livelihoods of the refugees and IDPs. I urge the young Azerbaijanis here today to raise awareness of the continuing impact of the illegal Armenian occupation on Azerbaijan.

“It is our responsibility to keep the topic fresh in the minds of those working in European institutions. The rights of these people continue to be violated, and the European Parliament has passed resolutions condemning the occupation, yet it continues to do nothing. We want to create a better future for ourselves and for Armenia, our neighbour.”

Pascal Heyman, Former Deputy-General of the OSCE Conflict Prevention Centre, now in charge of Security Affairs, Belgian Foreign Ministry, examined the social problems arising from the conflict: “According to Azerbaijani statistics, poverty amongst

IDPs and refugees reduced from 75 to 18 per cent during the past decade, although they still fare worse than the remainder of the population. For OSCE, displacement has always been a concern, as it always leads to instability. The OSCE Minsk Group recognises the right of populations to return to their former places of residence.

However, there are limitations on what can be done, as the conflict remains unsettled and the situation cannot be resolved.”

whether in Nagorno-Karabakh, the seven surrounding districts, or to Armenia, if they previously lived there. There is always a risk of radicalisation amongst the dispossessed, but this is not the case amongst Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees.

I hope that, one day, they will represent my country at NATO. I also hope that there will be no need for events such as this roundtable as, by then, there will be no Azerbaijani IDPs or refugees.”

H.E. Arif Mammadov, Ambassador of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) to the EU said: “The OIC has passed more resolutions in support of the Azerbaijani position on Nagorno-Karabakh than any other organisation. When the conflict is resolved, it is hoped that refugees and IDPs will be reintegrated into society, and the EU has instigated projects to assist with their education. There are also EU projects for Azerbaijani–Armenian mixed families.

Atanas Baltov, Political Advisor, Office of the EU Special Representative for the South Caucasus and the Crisis in Georgia said: “The EU remains committed to resolving such crises and enabling refugees and IDPs around the world to return home.

However, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is being dealt with through the OSCE Minsk Group format.

“It is unacceptable for those who committed these crimes in NagornoKarabakh to rise to the highest levels in the Armenian government – almost all the Armenian leadership originates from Nagorno-Karabakh.

The international community should examine this situation more carefully. Azerbaijan has developed many state programmes for IDPs and refugees, but they still want to return home.

I am hoping the European Parliament will pay more attention to this situation, and will punish those that are responsible for this suffering. I am hoping the EU will work more closely with the OIC, particularly on this issue.”

HE Khazar Ibrahim, Azerbaijani Ambassador to NATO remarked: “These people must return to their lands –

UK Energy Minister supports Azerbaijan

Speaking to journalists in Baku, Michael Fallon, UK Energy and Business Minister, has reiterated UK support for the Azerbaijani position on NagornoKarabakh. He said: “The position of the UK on the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict is clear.

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The UK supports Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and wishes speedy resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This is also necessary for energy security.”

He acknowledged the role of the OSCE Minsk Group, which has been tasked with

“There is an opportunity for Azerbaijan to use EU mechanisms to improve the quality of education for the affected population.

It has also recognised that Civil Society programmes, such as the European Partnership for the Peaceful Settlement of the Conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh (EPNK) could be effective and that the status quo is unsustainable.”

Yalchin Mammadov, AYAPE Board Member, added: “I am an IDP – I was born in Aghdam, a small Azerbaijani town in Nagorno-Karabakh. It was devastated during the conflict. The UNHCR recently released its report that states that 51m people have been driven from their homes since the end of the Second World War. The proportion of IDPs and refugees in a country the size of Azerbaijan is very significant. No-one is an IDP or refugee out of choice, and the people who escape and survive are heroes.”

achieving a negotiated peace, saying: “We would like the OSCE Minsk Group to further increase their efforts to settle the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and to undertake negotiations that will soon bring about peace.”

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Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

13

Leyla Aliyeva, flanked by actor Iain Glen (left) and Co-Producer Gerald Rafshoon at the BAFTA premiere

Independent Khojaly film premiered in London

On 30 June, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President, Heydar Aliyev Foundation, attended the premiere in London at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) of the documentary film Endless Corridor – narrated by renowned British actor Jeremy Irons. This examines the events surrounding the Khojaly Massacre, the worst single incident of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, when 613 men, women and children were killed on 25–26 February 1992. The film is now being screened and distributed by international broadcasters.

Mrs Aliyeva, the initiator and driving force behind the Justice for Khojaly campaign, spoke about the importance of raising awareness of the tragedy. She said: “I am pleased that this film has been made.

Endless Corridor is a moving documentary recalling the unimaginable horrors of the Khojaly Massacre, shedding light on this awful chapter of Armenian aggression.

We must never see a repetition of such crimes.”

Aleksandras Brokas, the documentary’s Lithuanian Producer/Director, and Gerald Rafshoon, US Co-Producer, also attended the screening, as did Anne Archer (BAFTA winner from Fatal Attraction and leading actress in Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger) and Iain Glen, one of the stars of the popular television series Game of Thrones.

Mr Brokas, who worked for nearly five years on the documentary, collaborated with film professionals from 15 countries in order to provide an independent perspective on the situation in the region. He said: “The way to freedom and independence is very similar in all post-Soviet countries – it costs a lot.

The tragedy of Khojaly tells the story of how cynical and inhuman people decided on the destiny of others.”

Meanwhile, Gerald Rafshoon, White House Communications Director under the Jimmy Carter administration and producer of the successful play Camp David, currently being performed in Washington D.C., pointed out that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains unresolved, despite international efforts. He commented: “I hope the film will refocus attention about this besieged region that has been ravaged for more than two decades.”

The film follows Lithuanian journalist Ricardas Lapaitis on a return trip to Azerbaijan, 20 years after he covered the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and Khojaly Massacre as a war correspondent. It sees him reunite with survivors of the tragedy, who recall escaping Armenian bombardment and losing many loved ones along an Endless Corridor as they tried to reach safety. Unusually, it also hears from the former Armenian commanders, who planned the attack on Khojaly.

OIC adopts Nagorno-Karabakh resolution

Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) has adopted two resolutions on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The move took place during a session entitled Exploring Areas of Islamic Cooperation, when Iyad Ameen Madani, Secretary-General, OIC, touched upon the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. He reiterated his support for Azerbaijan, explaining that its lands remain under Armenian occupation, and called on the OIC member states to support the ‘just’ Azerbaijani position. Mr Madani also expressed

the preparedness of the OIC to participate in efforts to resolve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in order to ensure Azerbaijani territorial integrity and sovereignty.

The two resolutions relate to recognition of the Armenian invasion of Azerbaijani territory, and one includes details of the Justice for Khojaly campaign. The other concerns the systematic destruction and desecration of Islamic historical and cultural heritage and places of worship in the occupied territories.

Casualties and deaths on the ‘contact line’

On 16 June, an Armenian sniper killed Fazil Kerimov, a 20-yearold soldier, near the ‘contact line’. The Ministry extended its condolences to his family and relatives. Following this, Nurlan Hasanov, aged 19 years – a conscript from the Barda region – and Anar Naghiyev, a 25-year-old conscript from the Gazakh region, were hit by Armenian fire on 3 and 4 July, respectively. Their condition was described as ‘satisfactory’ and ‘serious’.

Sniper fire also seriously wounded an Azerbaijani farmer on 23

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June. On the same day, according to APA, Namig Aliyev, aged 27 years, was shot whilst ploughing fields on a tractor in the Gapanli village of the Terter region.

The Armenian snipers were posted in the occupied Shotlanli village in the Aghdam region and the Seyid Sulan village in the Terter region. Mr Aliyev was taken to the Central Hospital of the Terter Region, where doctors performed an operation to remove the bullets and described his condition as ‘critical’.

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14

Business News

ICT collaboration discussed in the UK

The inaugural British–Azerbaijani Technology Forum took place at the Dorchester Hotel in Mayfair, London on 25 June, attended by around 150 specialists. Professor Dr Ali Abbasov, Azerbaijani Minister for Communications and High Technologies, led the Azerbaijani delegation. The event was organised by UK Trade and Investment (UKTI).

The objective of the meeting was to strengthen co-operation between Azerbaijan and the UK in the communications and high technologies sectors. It aimed to demonstrate the range of opportunities available for UK companies in this area, and to outline the experiences of those that are already active in the country. In 2013, Azerbaijan imported nearly £260m of information and computer technology (ICT) equipment.

John Patterson, Chairman, British Business Group, Azerbaijan, and H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, opened the event. Charles Hendry MP, Prime Ministerial Trade Envoy to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, said: “Those who have been to Azerbaijan will be aware that the UK– Azerbaijani relationship has been firmly rooted in the oil and gas sector, and the largest investors have come out of London, led

by BP and their supply and support companies. However, the UK is also one of the biggest investors in the non-oil and gas sector, and this presents considerable growth potential.

“President Aliyev explained that he wants to see more British engagement in the non-oil sector, and we will deliver that. He asked me to establish a new forum to bring together businesses from both countries, and we need to look into formally developing the British Business Council into a Chamber of Commerce. It is undeniable that the ICT sector is where many opportunities lie.

It has been specified as a priority area for development, and it is clear that many British companies regard this sector as being extremely fertile.”

Professor Dr Ali Abbasov replied: “We are trying to take the relationship between Azerbaijan and the UK to a new level. In 2012, President Aliyev outlined the concept for future development. He stressed the objective of doubling Azerbaijani GDP from 2012– 20, emphasising the role of ICT and high technologies, tourism and agriculture.

“We want to transform our economy from reliance on oil and gas revenues to ICT. We need to develop human resources and build the knowledge capacity of Azerbaijan, and have initiated a special state programme on human resources and educational development. We are particularly collaborating with European and American universities. Healthy competition between businesses in Azerbaijan needs to develop, and we must increase the private sector and provide physical capital.

Azerbaijan is using capital from the oil and gas sector to fund the ICT sector. Azerbaijan is replete with radioactive elements, and is considering the construction of its first nuclear power station.

The country is looking to export to external markets, and we are seeking overseas partnerships.

Professor Dr Ali Abbasov, Azerbaijani Minister of Communications and High Technologies, outlined the subjects that are central to the Azerbaijani ICT revolution

“The Trans-Eurasian Information Superhighway (TASIM) project is central to Azerbaijani development, and has been supported by a special resolution of the UN General Assembly. Azerbaijan is looking to become an information hub for the region. Today is aimed at providing a forum for Azerbaijani and UK companies to discuss business collaboration in the country. Azerbaijani and UK governments can only provide a facilitative role – the delegates here today make the business.”

During the meeting, the main targets of the Azerbaijani government were outlined, including technology infrastructure; standardisation of services so they are commensurate with international requirements; and development of scientific and technological potential in the field of high technologies – including aerospace, nuclear energy, nanotechnology, biotechnology and electronics – and the benefits of the innovative ASAN e-government system were outlined (see p.7).

Attendees were also provided with information on development of the Sumgait High Technologies Park, the impact of the AzerSpace–1 communications satellite and the Azerbaijani space programme, and the Baku White City project.

During his visit to the UK, Professor Dr Abbasov attended the Ministerial Meeting of the Internet Governance Forum where he spoke on Azerbaijan’s burgeoning role as the ICT hub for the region. He also undertook meetings with Ed Vaizey, UK Minister for Culture, Communications and the Creative Industries; the Pakistani and French ICT Ministers; Lord Livingston, UK Minister for Trade and Investment; and Trudy Norris-Grey, Regional Manager for Central and Eastern Europe, Microsoft, with whom he discussed software licensing issues.

The Minister visited the chemical engineering laboratory of Imperial College, London, and stressed the importance of establishing such laboratories in relevant Azerbaijani universities to undertake personnel training.

Azerbaijan enters middle-income bracket

Mona Prasad, Senior Economist, World Bank, has delivered a speech at the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), during which she outlined recent World Bank analysis on the potential for Azerbaijan to develop from a middle-income economy into a high-income country. She stressed that oil revenues had dominated the Azerbaijani economy during the past decade,

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and that the country had entered the ranks of middle-income countries.

Ms Prasad explained that special attention is being paid to the provision of quality health and education services, in addition to making these services available for low-income families.

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Business News

15

French Alstom to supply 50 freight locos

The French Alstom Transport Company will supply 50 freight KZ8A locomotives to Azerbaijan Railways during 2016–18, according to Arif Asgarov, Head, Azerbaijan Railways. He explained that 11 contracts worth €300m (£238m) were signed during the Azerbaijani–French Business Forum held in Baku during May 2014, including those between Ziya Mammadov, Azerbaijani Transport Minister and Henri Poupart-Lafarge, President, Alstom Transport, accounting for half that figure. The contracts will include construction of a maintenance depot and a training centre for Azerbaijani Railways’ staff.

Alstom also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Azerbaijan Railways regarding reconstruction of the 28 May metro station and the second stretch of the Khatai-Hazi Aslanov-2 line.

Processing complex in the spotlight

The SOCAR Oil and Gas Processing Complex (OGPC) Forum will take place at the Fairmont Baku Hotel on 5–6 November at the initiative of the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR). Costing $14.4bn (£8.4bn), the OGPC is currently under construction on a site located 60km from Baku in the Garadagh district, and will process approximately 8.5–9m tonnes of oil and 12bn m 3 (bcm) of gas per annum from 2019.

This will be the second forum dedicated to the complex, the first having taken place in April 2012, which resulted in the signing of numerous contracts and business agreements. The OGPC directors are now entering the second engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) stage of the project. The OGPC Forum will offer an opportunity for leading global and local companies

A KZ8A locomotive is winched on the tracks in Kazakhstan (Photo: Alstom)

The MoU will include provision of metro trains for the new lines and the gradual replacement of existing metro trains, and both parties agreed to sign a final agreement during the next two months.

Alstom has been actively operating in Azerbaijan for over 20 years.

to present their experience, technologies and other resources to leading figures and officials involved in OGPC construction and operation.

The OGPC forum will cover engineering, procurement and construction; technological advancements; equipment, materials and services; financial, economic and legislative aspects; goods and raw materials; marketing and logistics; and the experience of local subcontractors. Speakers will include Rovnag Abdullayev, President, SOCAR; Tofig Gahramanov, Vice-President for Strategic Development, SOCAR; Kenan Yavuz, General Director, SOCAR; and Robert Storey, Managing Director of STAR Refinery, Turkey. For full details, go to www. ogpcforum.az.

UK Minister – Azerbaijan is

World Bank to provide $300m loan

Speaking to journalists in Baku, Michael Fallon, UK Energy and Business Minister, stated: “Azerbaijan can act as a leader in the energy security of the region and Europe.”

He explained that the Ukrainian and Iraqi events were making the EU consider new energy sources, adding that Azerbaijan is the one of the main partners of the UK and EU in the region. He noted that a number of British companies have invested in Azerbaijan.

On 9 July, the World Bank endorsed a co-ordinated $300m (£175m) loan package for Azerbaijan. This comes in the wake of the Azerbaijani government and the World Bank completing negotiations in May on additional financing for the National Water Supply and Sewage Services Programme (NWSSP) and the second Azerbaijan Rural Investments Projects (AzRIP-2), together with the Juridical Services and Smart Infrastructure Project (JSSIP), which supplements the Juridical Modernisation Project (JMP).

leading energy partner

He continued: “My visit aims to expand co-operation in this area and within existing projects. The meetings held as part of the visit are important to the energy security of the UK and EU. Azerbaijan may become a political and economic leader in the region, and the UK is ready to support Azerbaijan in this sphere.”

package

Altogether, the World Bank will allocate $150m (£87m) for the NWSSP, to which the Azerbaijani government will add $83m (£48m). It is also investing $50m (£29m) in AzRIP-2, to which the government will add $30m (£17.5m). The largest project will be JSSIP, for which both the World Bank and Azerbaijani government will each supply $100m (£58.3m)

New Caspian well commissioned SOCAR has commissioned a new well in the Shallow Water part of the Guneshli field. Known as the Guneshli-13 platform, it will produce an estimated 85 tonnes of oil per day. The Guneshli field has played an important role in the Azerbaijani oil and gas industry over a long period.

The Shallow Water part has been independently developed by SOCAR, and the Deep Water section of the Azeri–

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Chirag–Guneshli (ACG) bloc has been exploited in collaboration with foreign partners.

SOCAR is in the process of drilling 20 new wells and repairing existing wells as part of its plan to increase oil and gas production in this section of the field. In 2013, SOCAR produced over 8.3m tonnes of oil from Azerbaijani onshore and offshore fields.

The Deep Water Guneshli Platform (Photo: J.Fitzpatrick)

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