Tm 14 10

Culture | Public Affairs Business | Philanthropy

GROUND BROKEN ON THE SOUTHERN CORRIDOR Also in this issue: Enter the TEAS Photography Contest and see the European Games Azerbaijan Through the Lens travels to the Council of Europe TEAS events organised at all three party conferences Belgium–Azerbaijan Business Forum outlines the opportunities Azerbaijani and Armenian Presidents to meet in Paris www.teas.eu

10 / 2014

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

www.teas.eu 10 / 2014

Printed by www.turquoisemedia.eu

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 Sahil Aliyev, an Azerbaijani expatriate living in South Africa, who won the competition in the September 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 this TEAS Magazine. In the case of a tie, a draw will be made. Previous winners are ineligible to enter, as are TEAS employees and their families. Please send all entries to editor@teas.eu by 17.00hrs (GMT) on 7 November: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

On what date did the groundbreaking for the Southern Energy Corridor take place?

Which Labour MP organised Diversity Nite?

What is the title of the book by Dr Liam Fox that was recently launched in an Azerbaijani translation?

Which Azerbaijani award has been made to Dr Henry Kissinger?

What is the submission date for the TEAS Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus competition?

Which composition by Vagif Mustafazadeh was included in the programme by Sabina Rakcheyeva and the Deco Ensemble at the Liberal Democrat conference?

In which year was the play You’re Always With Me by Ilyas Agandiyev first performed?

Where will the opening concert of the Buta Festival take place?

What is the predicted Azerbaijani GDP growth for 2014, according to the International Monetary Fund?

Which UK university will host a roundtable on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict on 26 November?

Upcoming Events For full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming-events 27 October CATBIG Azerbaijan Briefing (London) British Expertise, 10 Grosvenor Gardens, London, SW1W 0DH 12.00–14.00hrs. Admission Free. RSVP: http://bit.ly/catazer.

Organised by CATBIG and TEAS, this will provide an invaluable insight into the political, economic and commercial opportunities in Azerbaijan, featuring two leading speakers with detailed knowledge of the country. The speakers will be Charles Hendry MP, Prime Ministerial Trade Envoy to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan and H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, recently-appointed Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK. 5 November TEAS Business Forum (London) No.4 Hamilton Place, London, W1J 7BQ 08.30–14.00hrs. Admission Free. RSVP via EventBrite: http://bit.ly/teasbusinessforum2014.

With the subheading of Economic Diversification is the Key, the event is timed to reflect the role of 2014 as the Year of Industry in Azerbaijan. It is designed to act as a platform for developing business networks and to showcase the wealth of business and investment opportunities that exist in Azerbaijan. Topics will include ICT, financial services, energy issues, infrastructure projects and the European Games 2015, and the roster of speakers will include H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK; H.E. Irfan Siddiq OBE, UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan; Lord Risby, ViceChairman, All-Party Parliamentary Group for East Asian Business; and Rufat Mammadov, President, Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO).

10 / 2014

www.teas.eu

Politics and News

03

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

From the TEAS Director

This has been a busy time for TEAS. In the UK, it has been party conference season. As well as hosting a roundtable on energy security for MPs and Prospective Parliamentary Candidates at the Labour Conference, we also sponsored Keith Vaz MP’s famous Diversity Nite, attended by half of the Shadow Cabinet. At the Tories, we sponsored the ConHome reception, which was addressed by Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

Rounding things off, Sabina Rakcheyeva and her Deco Ensemble enthralled LibDem delegates in a musical evening compered by Lord Mike German.

In Brussels, TEAS organised the Business Forum Belgium–Azerbaijan in conjunction with the Wallonia Export–Investment Agency (AWEX), Flanders Investment and Trade (FIT) and Brussels Invest and Export (BIE). This was very well-attended, and will hopefully now become an annual event.

In Strasbourg, I opened the Azerbaijan Through the Lens photographic exhibition in the Hemicycle of the Council of Europe.

Samad Seyidov, Head of the Azerbaijani Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and recently re-elected as PACE Vice-President, also addressed the audience of MPs and staffers from many of the 47 member states.

In Azerbaijan itself, a ceremony commemorated the 20 th anniversary of the Contract of the Century that triggered Azerbaijan’s second oil and gas boom. Baku also hosted the fourth Baku International Humanitarian Forum, attended by representatives from over 60 countries, aimed at intensifying collaboration in the fields of science, education, culture and art.

Meanwhile, on the ‘contact line’, Azerbaijani troops and the armed forces of Armenia – illegally encamped on Azerbaijani territory – continued to exchange mortar and sniper fire. The Presidents of Azerbaijan and Armenia are to imminently meet in Paris in an attempt to take some of the heat out of the exchanges, and to discuss a pathway towards a long-term diplomatic solution.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

www.teas.eu

On this significant occasion, heads of state, government and business representatives gathered to witness the laying of the initial pipe on the Southern Corridor

Groundbreaking on the Southern Corridor A ceremony has taken place in Baku to mark the 20th anniversary of the Contract of the Century – which provided the catalyst for recent Azerbaijani development – combined with the groundbreaking of the Southern Gas Corridor.

Heads of state, government officials and business executives gathered at the Sangachal Terminal on 20 September for the ceremony. The first pipe is emblazoned with the flags of the countries through which the gas corridor will pass, together with the logos of BP and the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR). The officials and representatives also signed the pipe and imprinted their hands in concrete.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev said: “This is a very momentous and historic day in the life of our country today – the foundation of the Southern Gas Corridor is being laid. Let me congratulate you and the people of Azerbaijan on this occasion.

“20 September is a historic date for our country for, 20 years ago, on 20 September 1994, the Contract of the Century was signed. It was a historic event because the young and independent Azerbaijan was not a popular country at the time. Azerbaijan was faced with enormous challenges.

The early years of our independence were extremely difficult. The Armenian occupation, the civil war, the economic and political crises – all of these factors posed huge problems and hampered development of our country.

“The overall economic and political development of our country began precisely with the Contract of the Century.

So our oil strategy has been implemented for 20 years. It has brought huge benefits to our country. Over the years, Azerbaijan has consistently expanded its capabilities.

Since that time, oil pipelines were laid to link the Caspian Sea with the Black and Mediterranean Seas for the first time.

This was followed in 1996 by the signing of the agreement on the Shah Deniz gas field, which is the source of funding for the Southern Gas Corridor today. Shah Deniz is one of the biggest gas fields in the world, with reserves exceeding 1tn m 3 (tcm) of gas.

“The selection of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) as the main export route was an historic event in 2012. Gas sale agreements were signed last year. In other words, all the horizons are open and the road ahead is clear. This project will bring additional dividends for Azerbaijan. The economy will grow even faster – during the past decade, Azerbaijan has been the fastest-growing economy on a global level. Over the past decade, our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has more than tripled. According to the recent estimates of the Davos World Economic Forum, the Azerbaijani economy is ranked 38th in the world for competitiveness. It is a great achievement for us, which shows that our economy is developing in a diversified manner.

“There are no losers in this project. Every party will benefit. Transit countries are also consumers. Consumer countries will achieve diversification of gas supplies.

This project will ensure the energy security of Europe. It is no coincidence that the document signed between the European Commission and Azerbaijan three years ago underlines the fact that Azerbaijan is

10 / 2014

04

Politics and News

playing a very important role in maintaining the energy security of Europe. And from this day on, this role will further increase.

The main source is the Shah Deniz gas field. However, there are even more gas reserves in Azerbaijan. Our proven gas reserves amount to 2.5tcm, whilst estimated reserves are projected at a level of 4–5tcm. Caspian gas is the only new source for Europe.”

In a video address, José Manuel Barroso, President, European Commission, commented: “The Southern Gas Corridor is more than a pipeline. It will be a strategic energy avenue for the 21st century with truly geostrategic significance. Azerbaijan currently makes an important contribution to Europe’s oil imports. We are celebrating the progress made regarding the Southern Gas Corridor.” He added that the Corridor, once completed, would stretch over 2000km along the Caucasus and across Turkey – through Greece and Albania – and across the Adriatic, to connect the Caspian with the heart of the EU.” Lord Livingston, UK Trade Minister, recalled: “John Paul Getty once said that the key to success was to rise early, work late and strike oil. This can also be said of the success of Azerbaijan – a country that,

President Aliyev signs the inaugural pipe before it is laid

through hard work and energy resources, is playing a vital role in the European and world economy. The UK is proud to be partnering in that success.

should not be underestimated. Both during construction and on completion, the Corridor will create immediate benefits for all the countries along its route.”

“The development of the Shah Deniz field and the construction of the Southern Gas Corridor pipeline to Europe is something that we all welcome and fully support.

Its construction will rank amongst the largest and most challenging infrastructure projects in the world. Its importance

Bob Dudley, Chief Executive, BP Group, said: “This is a great day for Azerbaijan and a great day for energy. What has been achieved here since 1994 is extraordinary.

I want to pay tribute to President Aliyev, his government and SOCAR. Together we have shown what partnership can deliver.”

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

e-mail: brussels@teas.eu H.E. Khazar Ibrahim, Ambassador and Head of the Mission of More than 30 new Azerbaijani students and interns living in Brussels the Republic of Azerbaijan to NATO, stated: “Each year 30–35 attended the third annual informal networking cocktail at the students come to NATO from our Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy TEAS Belgium office. The event was organised by TEAS and the (ADA). When they arrive from Azerbaijan, I discover they are openAssociation of Young Azerbaijani Professionals in Europe (AYAPE). minded. You will all have the chance to become Ambassadors one day. You have many more opportunities than my generation, Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, opened the event, saying: “Azerbaijan thanks to such organisations as AYAPE and TEAS.” is great country with a wonderful future, and this will be shaped by the students and interns of today. TEAS is sponsoring the Prince of Wales’ Mosaic charity in the UK, which is seeking to support the Franziska Schwelm, Policy Officer: Youth Participation, European next generation of leaders from the Islamic world, and you are all Youth Forum, said: “The Azerbaijan Youth Council is part of the welcome to apply for these grants.”

European Youth Forum, a Brussels-based NGO. We operate an initiative called the European Youth Capital, where we select a H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the Kingdom of city that actively involves young people in societal and political Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; and Head of the life. In 2016 this will be Ganja – the first time a city in Azerbaijan, Azerbaijani Mission to the EU, acknowledged: “Your generation or outside the EU, has been selected. During my visit to Ganja, will return to Azerbaijan as the managers of tomorrow. I am very I was amazed by the enthusiasm amongst youth to come closer proud that Azerbaijani students are studying in Belgium. It is to the West.” very important that you remain in touch with our Embassy and supportive organisations, such as TEAS. You will return with a global perspective. Azerbaijan currently plays on a regional level, but will soon be more active globally.”

H.E. Arif Mammadov, Ambassador and Head of the Mission of the Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) to the EU commented: “It is a real pleasure to see such intelligent young Azerbaijanis here today. Some of you have been interns in our Mission, and I hope more will spend time with us. I am delighted with this co-operation, as it helps Azerbaijanis understand the work of European institutions. I am proud to be Azerbaijani and to represent the Islamic world here in the EU. There is huge potential for my country, and this will come from the young people here today.”

10 / 2014

Ambassador Isgandarov addresses the attendees

www.teas.eu

Politics and News

05

EU energy security in the spotlight at Labour Conference The role of Azerbaijan in ensuring the future of EU energy security has been highlighted at the annual Labour Party Conference during a breakfast briefing at the Midland Hotel in Manchester for Prospective Parliamentary Candidates (PPCs), organised by TEAS. The two senior politicians present, Tom Greatrex, Shadow Energy Minister, and Graham Stringer, Energy and Climate Change Committee Member, were already wellversed in this vital and complex issue. PPCs are contesting to become MPs at the general election in May 2015, and it is important that they are fully aware of the burgeoning relevance of Azerbaijan to Western Europe.

Representatives from Shell and the GMB Union also attended the briefing. The topics covered included the emotive issues of shale gas fracking, renewable energy, the role of interconnectors, nuclear power and the direction of EU policy.

Jack Pegoraro, UK Public Affairs Manager, TEAS, explained the background to the current pan-European energy crisis: “We need to understand that nearly half of the UK’s electricity is generated from natural gas. UK production is falling rapidly, and has decreased by 30 per cent during the past three years. By 2020, we are going to be importing about 70 per cent of the UK’s needs. Already the National Grid is predicting that there will be blackouts this winter as the UK’s ageing power stations provide insufficient electricity to meet demand, and experience unscheduled shutdowns. The Ukraine situation has

The debate was anchored by Jack Pegoraro, UK Public Affairs Manager, TEAS, seen here flanked by Graham Stringer MP, Member of the Energy and Climate Change Committee and Tom Greatrex MP, Shadow Minister for Energy Security

placed the EU’s energy insecurity in the spotlight. Russia provides about 30 per cent of EU gas, and its policies demonstrate that diversity of supply is essential. Even though no Russian gas actually reaches the UK, any hike in EU gas prices automatically impacts energy prices in the UK.” The meeting came at a pivotal time in the UK–Azerbaijani relationship. In December 2013, former Foreign Secretary William Hague visited the country to witness the signing of a $45bn (£28bn) 2000-mile gas pipeline deal between the Azerbaijani government and the BP-led Shah Deniz Consortium. This will see Azerbaijani Caspian gas from the Shah Deniz II field being piped to an interconnector in Italy, making the proposed Southern Energy Corridor into a reality. This has led former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair to recently agree to become an advisor for the Shah

Deniz Consortium. Development of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) and TransAnatolian Pipeline (TANAP) will cross the territory of seven countries.

Tom Greatrex MP, acknowledged the crisis saying: “Energy security is a very important subject. It is imperative that we have sufficient gas supplies to respond quickly to changes in demand. Unplanned shutdowns of power stations will result in shortages, and careful management of supply has to be undertaken. There must be more focus on the role of interconnectors and how they can maintain supply levels. Any conflict zone has energy implications, and the Ukraine crisis demonstrates this. One of Labour’s proposals is to launch an Energy Security Board to organise an effective government policy with a long-term strategy. Energy security needs to be at the heart of our energy policy in an unpredictable world.”

Over 500 celebrate diversity at the Labour Party Conference On 22 September, more than 500 Labour supporters – including 13 members of the Shadow Cabinet – attended the 17th annual Diversity Nite held alongside the Labour Party Conference in Manchester, sponsored by TEAS. This colourful and energetic event is the brainchild of Keith Vaz MP – the longest-serving Labour MP from an Asian background – and celebrates the multiculturalism of contemporary British society. Mr Vaz is

currently Chairman of the Home Affairs Committee in the UK Parliament and was formerly Minister for Europe under the last Labour Government. Other attendees included Ed Balls, Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer; Yvette Cooper, Shadow Home Secretary; Harriet Harman, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party; Chuka Umunna MP; the Rt Revd Dr David Walker, Bishop of Manchester; and actors Shobna Gulati and Jimmi Harkishin, who play the characters Sunita and Dev from the television soap opera Coronation Street.

H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, commented: “Azerbaijan is known in its region as a land of diversity. It is acknowledged as a country that is tolerant and multiethnic. Tonight’s celebration of diversity is important – in diversity, there is unity.”

Jan Gamachek, Speaker, Czech Parliament, said: “I have just travelled from London from a meeting with the Rt. Hon. John Bercow MP, my counterpart in the UK Parliament. Much of our conversation concerned the diversity between our two Parliaments.

Understanding diversity can unite us and lead to co-operation.”

(from left) Jack Pegoraro, UK Public Affairs Manager, TEAS; Keith Vaz MP and Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, at Diversity Nite

www.teas.eu

Attendees had the chance to experience top-quality Chinese and Indian cuisine and a range of entertainment, including Indian kathak, Turkish Oriental and Chinese Lion dances.

10 / 2014

06

Politics and News

Minister Sajid Javid speaks at joint ConHome/TEAS reception More than 200 delegates at the 2014 Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham attended a drinks reception jointly hosted by Conservative Home (ConHome) and TEAS on 28 September. Held at the Castle Fine Art Gallery in the International Conference Centre (ICC), the event provided a rare opportunity for British connoisseurs to sample Azerbaijani wine and brandy, which is renowned for its quality across many countries in Eastern Europe.

is a friend to the West and one of the future guarantors of energy security for the EU. The UK contributes over half of all Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to Azerbaijan, chiefly through the operations of BP and related companies, and it is my sincere hope that this relationship will develop from strength to strength.”

The Guest of Honour was the Rt. Hon Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, and former Minister for Equalities.

Since his election in 2010, he has received many accolades.

Considered by Jack Straw, former Foreign Secretary, to be one of the best new MPs for over 30 years, the Daily Telegraph included him in its list of the Top 100 Most Influential Figures from the Right.

Many commentators have tipped him as a potential frontrunner for the future leadership of the Conservative Party.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, commented: “It’s great to see so many of you here tonight, drinking wine and brandy from Azerbaijan – a very modern and moderate Muslim state in a troubled region.

TEAS is entirely apolitical and hosts events at all three main party conferences. We have partnered with ConHome for several years, and intend to continue organising receptions of this kind. Azerbaijan

Liam Fox book launched in Baku

TEAS has organised the Baku launch of the Azerbaijani translation of the book Rising Tides: Facing the Challenges of a New Era, by Dr Liam Fox MP, former UK Secretary of State for Defence, and published by the TEAS Press. Tale Heydarov, Chairman, TEAS, commented that Dr Fox had given an interesting perspective on global events, and had suggested some alternative solutions. He recalled that Dr Fox wrote in his introduction to the Azerbaijani edition: “Azerbaijan – both in the past and today – is an example for the world. The book provides deep political analysis, and the results demonstrate a thorough knowledge of the author on the subject.”

Dr Liam Fox meets Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev

(left) The Rt. Hon Sajid Javid MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

Mr Heydarov continued: “The translation of the book into Azerbaijani will contribute towards the further strengthening of relations between Azerbaijan and Europe. The book states that if local and regional challenges are problematic to one or a group of countries, then they are actually a problem throughout the world and for all humanity. The world must come together to develop solutions.”

Dr Liam Fox expressed his appreciation to TEAS for translating and publishing the book. The author explained that the text deals with financial crises, conflicts, and international terrorism.

In relation to the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over NagornoKarabakh, he said: “In my view, the solution to this conflict should be established through diplomatic correspondence and within the framework of international law.”

During his visit to Baku, Dr Fox went on to deliver a speech at Khazar University. He said: “There is a serious conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be resolved. Azerbaijan plays a key role in ensuring energy security and providing a bulwark against Iran’s nuclear problem and issues related to Russia. When Russia creates difficulties over energy supply, for instance, Europe starts thinking about energy diversification and refers to Azerbaijan, or NATO co-operates with Azerbaijan in the Middle East, particularly over Afghanistan and Iraq. Azerbaijan is an important partner for the West.”

Baku to host Euro 2020 Quarterfinals

Azerbaijan is continuing its remarkable development as a host of major international sporting events. With preparations well underway for the first European Games next year and the Formula 1 Baku European Grand Prix in 2016, the country is now set to welcome the best footballers in Europe. Alongside St. Petersburg, Munich and Rome, Baku will stage one of the quarterfinal games, together with three group matches, during the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament. The competition will mark the 60 th anniversary of the European Championships.

Lord Livingston comments on UK–Azerbaijani relations

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has received Lord Livingston, UK Minister for Trade and Investment. During the meeting, the sides acknowledged the high level of Azerbaijani–UK bilateral relations and exchanged views on the prospects for further development of co-operation. Emphasis was placed on the potential for mutual projects in the sectors of information and communications technologies (ICT), agriculture, healthcare, education and infrastructural development.

10 / 2014

www.teas.eu

Politics and News

07

Landmark declaration rounds off Humanitarian Forum

The fourth Baku International Humanitarian Forum has taken place, attended by delegations of scientists and government officials from 60 countries. The speakers included Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev; Helen Clark, Administrator, UN Development Programme (UNDP); Abdulaziz Othman Altwaijri, DirectorGeneral, Islamic Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO); and Enrico Letta, former Italian Prime Minister.

The level of the speakers led Valentina Matviyenko, Chairperson, Federation Council of Russia (Russian Parliamentary upper house) to comment: “It is informally called the ‘Intellectual Davos’. This forum is just as big, significant and important as other economic international events, especially in the current international conditions.”

She noted the forum participants’ unanimous desire to intensify co-operation in the fields of science, education, culture and art and continued: “It must be emphasised that humanism

The Humanitarian Forum was hosted in the Heydar Aliyev Centre and attended by representatives from over 60 nations (Photo: UNDP Azerbaijan)

remains a basic value nowadays. This is a desire to assert human dignity and to fix moral values, both in everyday life and politics.” Participants also visited the regions of Nakhchivan, Lankaran, Guba and Gabala, and the Baku International Centre of Multiculturalism was inaugurated.

The subsequent declaration acknowledged the significance of the event, and its provisions recognised the impact of the UN Millennium Declaration and the agenda for

the post-2015 period, aimed at eliminating inequality in the world regarding regional, economic, social and gender development; the need for sustainability and effective, scientifically-based mobilisation; the requirement for effective responses to the challenges of the 21st century; and the need for humanitarian co-operation between political, cultural and academic elites, international organisations, representatives of civil society and the mass media.

Azerbaijan has an important story to tell the world During a visit to Baku, Sir Peter Luff MP, former UK Minister for Defence Equipment, Support and Technology, acknowledged that Azerbaijan has a very important story to tell the world, particularly in relation to multiculturalism, tolerance and interfaith relations. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that coverage of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains on the news agenda.

Sir Tony Baldry MP commented: “I have been very impressed by

Azerbaijan’s development and what the country has achieved.”

He added that Azerbaijan is clearly a country that is seeking to ensure oil and gas revenues are invested in schools and education for future generations. Sir Tony said: “English has become a language that many people want to learn and many universities in Azerbaijan are teaching in English. We are interested in what else can be done to enhance the relationship between the educational system in Azerbaijan and education in the UK, and how to build and develop these links.”

European Olympic President visits Baku

Patrick Hickey, President, European Olympic Committee (EOC) has visited Baku to view the progress achieved by the Baku 2015 European Games Operations Committee. He also attended a signing ceremony alongside Minister Azad Rahimov, Chief Executive Officer, Baku 2015, when the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR) was announced as an Official Partner of the European Games.

Mr Hickey said: “To see the significant progress made in recent months by the Baku 2015 team was extremely encouraging, and it was a valuable opportunity to receive an extended update on the developed and improved sports programme. I am more than confident that Baku 2015 will fulfil our vision of being an innovative and sustainable first edition of the European Games, which will set the standard for multi-sport events the world over.” The European Olympics will run from 12–28 June 2015, and the website is www.baku2015.com.

Patrick Hickey, President, European Olympic Committee (left) and Simon Clegg, Chief Operating Officer, Baku 2015 European Games Operating Committee (BEGOC)

Ambassador and Trade Envoy outline the opportunities TEAS is collaborating with CATBIG – a business-to-business network for UKbased companies, focusing on the countries of Central Asia and the TransCaucasus – to organise a free briefing on 27 October at 1200hrs. The speakers

www.teas.eu

will be Charles Hendry MP, Prime Ministerial Trade Envoy to Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan and H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, recently-appointed Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK. The meeting will focus on the political,

economic and commercial opportunities in Azerbaijan and will be hosted at British Expertise, 10 Grosvenor Gardens, London, SW1W 0DH. A complimentary buffet lunch will be served. To reserve a place, go to http://bit.ly/catbigaz.

10 / 2014

08

Culture

Nazrin performs in Baku, Brenchley and Hampton Court The young violinist Nazrin Rashidova has given three widely diverse concerts in the space of a few weeks. The first of these took place at the Sevda Ballroom at the Hilton Hotel, Baku at an event to commemorate the 20 th anniversary of the signing of the Contract of the Century.

Performing alongside pianist John Paul Ekins, the repertoire included works by the Azerbaijani composers Gara Garayev, Fikret Amirov and Tofig Guliyev, together with popular pieces by Fritz Kreisler.

Nazrin then collaborated with two other alumni from the Purcell School of Music – Sarah Oliver (cello) and Daniel Grimwood (piano) – for a chamber music concert as part of the Brenchley Summer Proms Festival in All Saints’ Church, Brenchley, Kent. The repertoire included Beethoven’s Sonata No 2 for Cello and Piano in G minor, Adolf von Henselt’s Piano Trio in A minor,

Nazrin Rashidova performs some gems of Azerbaijani classical music during a concert to commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the Contract of the Century

and Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel’s Trio in D Minor. Nazrin and Daniel also performed some works for violin and piano by Moritz Moszkowski, which will soon be recorded.

Finally, Nazrin performed J.S. Bach’s sublime Solo Sonata No.2 in A Minor amidst the medieval splendour of the Chapel Royal

Rain Sultanov, leading Azerbaijani saxophonist, plays a major role in organising the Baku International Jazz Festival

at Hampton Court Palace to an audience of music-lovers and visitors to one of the UK’s most famous Royal Palaces. To find out more on Nazrin’s forthcoming concert and recording schedule, go to www.nazrin. co.uk, and the second movement of the work by Fanny Mendelssohn-Hensel may be seen at http://bit.ly/fannymendelssohn.

International jazz musicians flock to Baku The Baku International Jazz Festival will be held from 19–30 October, sponsored by the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism. This year, the lineup comprises a formidable roster of internationallyacclaimed musicians, including the trumpet-led Terence Blanchard Quintet, fusion pioneer guitarist and double-bassist Stanley Clarke, the Israeli Anat Cohen Quartet, pianist and composer Michel Camilo from the Dominican Republic, Trilok Gurtu from India, and bossa nova specialist Bebel Gilberto from Brazil. Azerbaijani musicians will include pianists Salman Gambarov and Elchin Shirinov, tenor saxophonist Rain Sultanov and the Rast Jazz Group, which will celebrate its twentieth anniversary. The festival venues will be the Heydar Aliyev Palace, International Mugham Centre, Jazz Centre, Baku State Song Theatre and Baku State Philharmonic Hall.

TEAS jazz reception attracts an appreciative LibDem audience On 5 October, the spirited music of Azerbaijani violinist Sabina Rakcheyeva and the multinational Deco Ensemble entranced around 200 extremely attentive members of the party faithful attending this year’s Liberal Democrat conference at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Glasgow. Sabina was the first Azerbaijani graduate from the Juilliard School in New York and is the Arts and Culture Advisor to TEAS. The talented musicians performed a vibrant mix of tangos and Azerbaijani compositions.

Lord German, UK Chair of the AngloAzerbaijani Society and a staunch music aficionado, compered the evening. He said: “I am so grateful for the opportunity to have this music featured at the Liberal Democrat conference. We are thankful to TEAS for sponsoring this event. Tonight’s concert is a labour of love for me – this is fabulous music performed by excellent musicians. When listening to Azerbaijani jazz, it is possible to hear all the Western

10 / 2014

influences mugham.”

combined

with

Azerbaijani

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, recalled: “Azerbaijan was the first Muslim country to have opera, a university, and gave votes to women before the US and the UK. It was very progressive before being forcefully annexed by the Soviet Union in 1920.

Mugham is the main form of traditional music in Azerbaijan, which features a high degree of improvisation, and has some similarities to jazz. Tonight’s concert is an excellent way of encapsulating the culture of the country.”

The evening focused on the romantic and rhythmic music of the Argentine bandoneon player and composer Astor Piazzolla (1921–92). After studying in Paris, he developed a genre known as nuevo tango, which combined the tango music of his homeland with elements of jazz and classical music. The programme

incorporated some of his most famous works, such as Oblivion, Escualo (Shark), and the rhythmic Libertango. It also included one of his earliest works, Triunfal, which was written after studying composition in Paris with Nadia Boulanger and paved the way for his future success.

The programme featured a plaintive violin-led arrangement of March, by Vagif Mustafazadeh, who played a major role in developing jazz-mugham in Soviet-period Azerbaijan in the 1960s. An evocative arrangement by guitarist Rob Luft of the melancholic Azerbaijani folksong Sari Gelin (Blonde Bride) was also performed to wide acclaim.

The Deco Ensemble comprises Bartosz Glowacki (accordion), Rob Luft (guitar), Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin), Ricardo Gosalbo (piano), and Elena Marigomez (double bass). For more information and tour dates, visit www.decoensemble.com.

www.teas.eu

Culture

09

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, opens the exhibition at the Council of Europe Hemicycle in Strasbourg

Stunning images bring Azerbaijan closer to the Council of Europe To mark the inaugural Azerbaijani Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the soul of Azerbaijan was brought to the heart of Europe on 30 September when members of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) from 47 countries, Council of Europe staff, Ambassadors and diplomats based in Strasbourg attended the opening of the Azerbaijan Through the Lens exhibition.

Organised by TEAS Belgium, this took place in front of the Council of Europe Hemicycle. The exhibition was timed to coincide with the PACE Session, thereby attracting maximum exposure for Azerbaijan – a vibrant member of the European family of nations.

The exhibition showcased 100 photographs of contemporary Azerbaijani people, culture, landscapes and architecture.

Previously presented in London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels, Istanbul and Bratislava, these images were selected from submissions by photographers based in Azerbaijan and across the world.

Samad Seyidov, Head of the Azerbaijani Delegation to PACE and recently re-elected as PACE Vice-President, said: “This is a vision of Azerbaijan taken by those who have visited the country to see and understand it. On behalf of the Azerbaijani delegation, I would like to express my gratitude to TEAS, as it has done an excellent job in bringing these images to the Council of Europe. We need this type of exhibition today, as serves to promote understanding. The photos in this exhibition show the real Azerbaijan and its values. As this has been organised during

the Azerbaijani Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers, the exhibition makes a great contribution towards demonstrating our common values.

“If those in the Council of Europe do not understand the culture and are without an accurate vision of the country, it is impossible to implement these values. I think this exhibition will bring both Azerbaijan and the Council of Europe closer together.”

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS responded: “It is our pleasure to bring the culture of Azerbaijan to the countries of Europe. We think this exhibition encapsulates the beauty of Azerbaijan and the friendliness of its people. It is a fantastic country on the fringes of Europe, but it looks to Europe for guidance and support.

“The photographs were selected from 750 submissions received for a TEAS-run competition. The judges were renowned royal photographer Henry Dallal and Caroline Metcalfe, Photographic Director, Condé Naste Traveller. The first prize went to Asim Talib for his photograph of Old Men. This is a poignant monochrome picture, taken 29 years ago, showing elders in Kelbajar, which is now one of the seven regions surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh that has remained under illegal Armenian military occupation for over 20 years. It is very fitting that this photograph is displayed here.

One day, we hope that the photographer and all of us will be able to return to that region, and that the internally displaced persons (IDPs) will be able to return to their lands.” To see a selection of the photos, please visit www.teas.eu/azerbaijan-through-the-lens.

C’est magnifique – Azerbaijani Village in the heart of Paris An Azerbaijani Village has been hosted for 10 days at the Place Saint-Sulpice in Paris, organised by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, with the participation of Mehriban Aliyeva, Azerbaijani First Lady.

The village comprised various exhibitions focusing on Azerbaijani history, culture and tourism, and Azerbaijani music and dance was performed throughout its duration. Jean-Pierre Lecoq, Mayor, Sixth arrondissement of Paris, acknowledged the role of the village in capturing the spirit of Azerbaijan and its rich culture. He recalled that numerous events had been organised by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation in recent years.

Mrs Aliyeva underlined that Azerbaijan places great emphasis on bilateral relations with France. She said that connections have been created between NGOs and in the business sector, including transportation, the space industry and viticulture. Azerbaijan is currently the biggest trade partner of France in the South Caucasus, and currently over 50 French companies are active in the country.

Jean-François Mancel, President, Azerbaijan–France Friendship

www.teas.eu

Group, French National Assembly, underlined that such events enhance the cultivation of relations between the two nations. He touched upon the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over NagornoKarabakh, explaining that the Azerbaijani leadership was making every effort to peacefully resolve the dispute.

All participants viewed the various pavilions in the Azerbaijani Village and the exhibition Cultural Values of Azerbaijan – Pearls of the Caucasus. Preparations for the inaugural European Games in Baku were showcased in the tourism exhibition Travel to Azerbaijan. The France Through the Eyes of Azerbaijani Artists exhibition, comprising 50 paintings, was also on display, as was an exhibition focusing on the poet Nizami Ganjavi. The event also provided the chance to sample the best in Azerbaijani cuisine.

Performances during the fair included those by the jazz pianist Isfar Sarabski, the Azerbaijani State Dance Ensemble, Natig Rhythm Group, Azerbaijani State Folk Ensemble of National Instruments and the Azerbaijani State Ensemble of Ancient Musical Instruments.

10 / 2014

10

Culture

You’re Always With Me performed at the Lost Theatre In celebration of the centenary of the birth of the acclaimed Azerbaijani playwright and author Ilyas Afandiyev, his 1963 play You’re Always With Me has received its inaugural European production at the Lost Theatre in London in a new translation

by Sanan Aliyev. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism sponsored the two-week run of this ALOFF Theatre production, for which the director was Filiz Ozcan.

The play had an intriguing and controversial premise, focusing on the relationship between a lonely widower factory owner, named Hesenzadeh (Doug Devaney) and Nargile (Stephanie Harte), a teenage girl that has effectively been thrown out of her home by her stepfather. In addition to being a poignant and affecting drama,

A close, inter-generational friendship is forged between Nargile (Stephanie Harte) and Hesenzadeh (Doug Devaney)

the play was a thinly-veiled critique of the Soviet regime, with the overbearing stepfather representing the Soviet Union and its lack of respect for the individual, Nazaket (mother of Nargile) as Azerbaijan, which has been bullied into submission, and Nargile as a dissident who is trying to develop a relationship with Hasanzadeh, who represents the western world.

The performances were convincing and

the minimalist set helped the audience empathise with the story on a human level, regardless of their knowledge of Azerbaijan. Reviewer Terry Eastham commented: “Ultimately the success of this show comes down to the writing and performing, neither of which could be faulted. Forget everything you think you know about Soviet-era writers, go see the real thing and be as amazed as I was.” To find out more, go to www.alofftheatre.org.

TEAS photography competition – more time to win TEAS – in collaboration with Baku 2015 – has extended the deadline to enter the Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus competition for amateur and professional photographers. The competition focuses on the meaning of the inaugural European Games, to be hosted in Baku from 12–28 June 2015. Prizes include trips to Baku, Berlin, Brussels, Istanbul, London or Paris, iPads and tickets to the Games themselves. The judges are the world-renowned photographers Ed Kashi, Philipp Rathmer and Agdes Baghirzade. The revised deadline is 24 November – to find out more details, and for Terms and Conditions, go to www.teas.eu/azerbaijan-sport-in-focus.

Buta Festival brings Azerbaijani music to the Albert Hall The prestigious Royal Albert Hall in London will welcome an impressive array of performers from Azerbaijan for a Gala Concert to launch a five-month celebration of Azerbaijani arts and culture. The opening night on 4 November will include mugham performed by brothers Arslan and Nurlan Novrasli, contemporary jazz from Isfar Sarabski, Winner of the Montreux Solo Jazz Piano Prize in 2009, and an emotional setting of the Ave Maria by Farhad

Badalbeyli, blending Latin and Azerbaijani texts. Performers will include popular soprano Joan Rodgers CBE; tenor Jeffrey Lloyd-Roberts; virtuoso violinist Shlomo Mintz; and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. Azerbaijani pianist Murad Huseynov and Turkish soprano Burçin Savigne will also perform. TEAS’ friends are eligible for a 25 per cent discount on all tickets. Cite offer code 17915 when booking at bit.ly/rahbuta.

Gyunel SS15 collection launches in London Mother and daughter modelling dynasty Yasmin and Amber Le Bon have taken to the catwalk to showcase the new SS15 collection by Baku-born, London-based designer Gyunel Rustamova as part of London Fashion Week. The collection was showcased at the prestigious Bloomsbury Ballroom, and the clothes worn by the roster of models aimed to convey an itinerant and independent woman.

Yasmin Le Bon leads the catwalk at the launch of the SS15 collection (Photo: Becky Maynes)

10 / 2014

The collection told the story of a nomadic traveller traversing the desert, with shirt dresses, relaxed blouses and flowing maxidresses being emblazoned with scorpions, a symbol inspired by the Zodiac sign of Gyunel. The hairstyle of the models

was braided to represent a scorpion.

Gowns in midnight blue, maroon and beige were juxtaposed with sculpted separates, whilst layers of crochet and leather gave the collection a tough aesthetic. Leather trousers and soft leather jackets in titian orange and brittle green were given an artistic edge, whilst the models were adorned with chunky gold and silver jewellery.

Gyunel commented: “I like to think of the Gyunel woman as a nomadic traveller with a strong, adventurous attitude. I was inspired by the idea of journeys through places steeped in culture and the creatures that inhabit them.” To see the full collection, go to: www.gyunel.com.

www.teas.eu

Business News

11

Focusing on the many varied aspects of the non-oil sector, the forum attracted around 200 delegates

Azerbaijan’s business opportunities highlighted in the heart of Europe The first Business Forum Brussels– Azerbaijan took place at the offices of the Wallonia Export–Investment Agency (AWEX) in Brussels on 25 September.

Organised by TEAS Belgium, this event focused on the non-oil sector. This reflected the official designation of 2014 as the Year of Industry in Azerbaijan, as the country strives to develop its export markets, diversify the economy, and accede to the World Trade Organisation.

In addition to AWEX, the partners were Flanders Investment and Trade (FIT) and Brussels Invest and Export (BIE).

The event, attended by around 200 delegates, was organised to inform representatives of Belgian companies of the opportunities Azerbaijan has to offer in the construction, agricultural and environmental sectors. Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS explained: “Azerbaijan is a thriving country, in terms of its economy, engagement with the west and stability.

All visitors will be aware that it is a very relaxed and free place to do business. It is one of the most western countries in the EU Eastern Partnership. Azerbaijan is a great place to visit, to live and do business in.”

Johan Van Dessel, Director-General, Bilateral and Economic Affairs: External Trade and Development Co-operation, Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, commented: “Bilateral relations between Belgium and Azerbaijan are good, but there is always room for improvement. Belgium – an EU member – is pleased to work with Azerbaijan within the framework of the EU Eastern Partnership. It recognises that there is sustainable political stability on all levels of society, and this is key to a longterm relationship. Azerbaijan currently holds the Presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.

They will be succeeded by Belgium in

www.teas.eu

November, and we very much look forward to continuing the valued work of the Azerbaijani Presidency.”

H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Belgium and Head of the Azerbaijani mission to the EU, acknowledged: “I have just returned from Baku, where I participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Southern Corridor, which will bring Azerbaijani Caspian gas to Europe by 2019. This is a huge $45bn (£28bn) project, and Azerbaijan decided to face towards Europe. Shareholders now include the Belgian company Fluxys.

We need the technologies and scientific approaches from the West to develop our country. That is why hundreds of students are sent overseas each year on Presidential scholarships – they will be the new generation of managers. Welcome to Azerbaijan – you are very welcome to participate in the future of my country.”

Rovshan Najaf, Executive Director, Azerbaijan Investment Company (AIC) said: “Azerbaijan has been one of the fastest growing economies in the world over the past few years, and is the largest economy of the South Caucasus. The non-oil sector has been the catalyst for economic growth over the past five years, and we have a clear strategy to develop this sector.

“We want Azerbaijan to be transformed into a knowledge-based economy. There is a very liberal investment climate and we have signed 46 bilateral investment treaties and 45 double taxation treaties, and 65 per cent of foreign investment is in the non-oil sector. I hope the next business forum in Brussels will feature joint ventures between the AIC and Belgian companies.”

Azerbaijan

has

nine

climatic

zones,

and produces a great range of fruit and vegetables. These are currently exported to such neighbouring countries as Turkey, Russia and Georgia. Rashad Majidov, Director, International Co-operation Department, Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture, commented: “Agriculture employs 40 per cent of the working population, and is the second greatest export after hydrocarbons. It is the driver of the non-oil sector, but only accounts for 5.1 per cent of GDP. It is almost entirely in private hands. We have achieved an annual level of 5 per cent growth over the past decade. The government is giving tax exemptions to encourage agricultural production and investment in new crop types, fertiliser and equipment. There are great opportunities to apply Belgian expertise to production.”

Ogtay Mammadov, Head of Public Relations Department, Absheron Lakes Rehabilitation Programme, Tamiz Shahar Company explained: “We are spending over half a billion Euros on remediating nine lakes, which have been contaminated by decades of uncontrolled Soviet-era oil extraction. We are hoping one lake will be remediated as a resort in readiness for the European Olympics in 2015. There are great opportunities for Belgian companies to be involved in restoring these lakes.”

Leon Cook, Marketing and Communications Director, TEAS, summed up: “Azerbaijan is a country that is open for business. Fitch and Standard and Poor’s rate Azerbaijan as a Tier 2 country – the economy is very strong and moving in the right direction. It takes two days to establish a company in Azerbaijan – which is an excellent statistic.

High-level delegations need to go to the Azerbaijani regions and do business there. Azerbaijan looks towards and seeks engagement with Belgium and across the EU.”

10 / 2014

12

Business News

Ecclestone unveils layout for Baku European Grand Prix Bernie Ecclestone, Head, Forumula 1 and Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sport, have unveiled the layout of the exciting new Hermann Tilke-designed Baku European Grand Prix street circuit during a special press event in Baku. Mr Ecclestone commented: “Azerbaijan is the latest addition to the Formula 1 calendar, and I am pleased to see they have designed an innovative new street circuit that will definitely help create a world-class event when we race there in 2016.” Mr Rahimov explained: “We have been working very closely with Hermann Tilke and his team on the circuit layout since early 2013. Our brief to Tilke Engineering was simple – create a circuit that is unique, one that will help the Grand Prix in Baku quickly establish itself amongst the most exciting, thrilling venues on the Formula 1 calendar, and design a track that fans and teams alike are excited about. Most importantly, we wanted a circuit that would showcase the best of Baku, our capital city, and I am delighted that this will achieve its objective.

“We have been able to incorporate some unique features that will provide the teams and fans with fascinating racing. For example, there will be an extremely narrow uphill section at the wall of the Old City that will reward pinpoint accuracy and courage, and we have an acceleration section of almost 2.2km along Baku Bulvar which will see the cars running flat out at top speeds – something

(from left) Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sport; Bernie Ecclestone, Head, Formula 1; Anar Alakbarov, President of Azerbaijan Automobile Federation; and Hermann Tilke, Chief Executive, Tilke Engineering

that will create an incredible spectacle for the race fans on track and viewers at home.” There are eight right-hand and 12 left-hand turns on the track, which circles the historical centre of Baku.

BakuTel celebrates 20 years of innovation

The twentieth BakuTel Exhibition of Telecommunications and Information Technologies will run from 2–5 December at the Baku Expo Exhibition and Convention Centre. For 20 years, it has gathered the leading players in the Azerbaijani telecommunications market together on one platform, being the main opportunity to demonstrate IT products and services.

This has facilitated the development of many new contacts. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Communications and High Technologies has played a special role in the development and establishment of the event, for which the organisers are Iteca

Caspian LLC and their partners ITE Group plc from the UK.

GDP 2014 growth – 4.5

Fluxys ups its TAP stake and Enagás becomes a

per cent

new partner

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that Azerbaijani Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will grow by 4.5 per cent in 2014 and 4.3 per cent in 2015. Inflation will amount to 2.8 and 3 per cent, respectively.

The forecasts were published in the World Economic Outlook report published on the IMF website on 8 October. Visit http://bit.ly/ imfazerbaijan to view all the Azerbaijani data.

Belgian Fluxys and Spanish Enagás have acquired the stakes of Total (10 per cent) and E.ON (9 per cent) in the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP). The move will see Fluxys increase its stake from 16 to 19 per cent, whilst Enagás becomes a new partner in TAP, with a 16 per cent stake. Under the new arrangement, the new TAP shareholding will comprise BP (20 per cent), SOCAR (20 per cent), Statoil (20 per cent), Fluxys (19 per cent), Enagás (16 per cent) and Axpo (5 per cent). Running for approximately 870km, the pipeline will connect with the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) near the TurkishGreek border at Kipoi, traversing Greece and Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Southern Italy.

10 / 2014

More than 100 companies have already confirmed their attendance this year. These include leading ICT companies and mobile network operators, telecommunications operators, internet providers, systems integrators and distributors, and several countries will organise national stands.

The exhibition will continue the tradition of giving young specialists the opportunity to speak about their innovations, programmes and services. Much attention at this exhibition will be paid to supporting

startup companies, with special stands at the exhibition being made available so they can showcase their developments.

BakuTel 2014 will also comprise an interesting business programme, including a conference, seminars, roundtables, business and internet forums and many other events. There will also be the opportunity to experience a gaming zone, featuring the latest gaming technologies.

A programme of additional events will also be organised to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the exhibition. To find out more, visit www.bakutel.az.

www.teas.eu

Business News

13

Baku and London praise co-operation Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, have met a British delegation headed by Lord Risby, Prime Ministerial Trade Envoy. They subsequently met Ogtay Asadov, Speaker, Azerbaijani Parliament, and Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, to discuss bilateral issues, regional and global matters. The sides stressed the importance of regional projects initiated by and involving Azerbaijan, particularly citing the significance of the recent Southern Gas Corridor groundbreaking ceremony.

Lord Risby went on to speak at a forum on Azerbaijani–UK co-operation to commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the Contract of the Century. He said: “Relations between Azerbaijan and the UK are at a high level, will continue in the future.” He recognised that Baku is playing an increasingly important role in the European family of nations, and that it would host the Baku 2015 European Olympics Games and Baku European Grand Prix in 2016. Lord Risby acknowledged: “Azerbaijan is an active partner in ensuring EU energy security and has received a

The UK delegation, headed by Lord Risby, meets Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK

great deal of economic investment. London and Baku have changed a great deal over the past two decades, and Azerbaijani businesspeople invest in London, as do British businesspeople in Baku.”

Rafiga Huseynzade, Vice-President: Ecology, State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR) stressed the importance of the forum in terms of deepening Azerbaijani–UK relations, particularly regarding co-operation in the energy field. Speaking about the 20-year history of the SOCAR–BP relationship, she

emphasised the importance of the jointlycreated oil and gas export pipeline system, highlighting that Azerbaijan exports oil and oil products to more than 30 countries and plays an important role in supplying natural gas to Georgia and Turkey. She commented that the Southern Gas Corridor would play an integral role in ensuring European energy security. Forum attendees also heard speeches from Ambassador Taghizadeh; Mukhtar Babayev, Azerbaijani MP and Huseyn Mammadov, Vice-President for Communications, External Affairs and Security, BP Azerbaijan, amongst others.

Fitch rates outlook as ‘stable’ and makes recommendations The Fitch international ratings agency has affirmed the Azerbaijani long-term foreign and local currency issuer default ratings (IDR) at ‘BBB–’ with a stable outlook. The issue ratings on senior unsecured foreign and local currency bonds have also been affirmed at ‘BBB–’, as has the country ceiling. The short-term foreign currency IDR is ‘F3’. Fitch said that the Azerbaijani sovereign balance sheet ranks amongst the strongest of any rated sovereign and underpins the rating.

The assets of the State Oil Fund of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOFAZ) reached $37.6bn (£23.4bn) during the first half of 2014. With the addition of $15bn (£9.3bn) in foreign exchange reserves from the Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA), the sovereign gross external assets equate to 69 per cent of GDP.

Fitch also anticipates a further modest growth in sovereign assets as the current account registers diminishing surpluses during 2014–16. This should provide a buffer against oil price or production shocks and support the peg of the AZN against the US$ at AZN0.78 (£0.62). Fitch said: “SOFAZ transferred AZN4.9bn (£3.9bn) to the state budget in the first half of 2014, or 52 per cent of total revenue. The longterm aim is to reduce budget dependence on the SOFAZ transfer, and thus oil prices.

The success of this strategy will crucially depend on the ability to develop a strong, sustainable non-oil economy.”

The agency predicts that non-oil sector growth will be the driver of economic activity, with the growth in hydrocarbons output stagnating, as existing oilfields age

and large ongoing gas projects undergo construction. In the medium-term, the government will pursue the dual aims of developing large gas reserves whilst continuing to diversify the economy.

Fitch recommended implementation of the following policies to positively impact the Azerbaijani rating: • steps to correct the gradual deterioration of the Azerbaijani budgetary position since 2010, thereby increasing Fitch’s confidence in the longer-term sustainability of the Azerbaijani sovereign balance sheet strength • a credible strategy for sustainable economic diversification, supported by reforms to improve governance and transparency.

New airport to be constructed Contactless smartphone payments from 2015 Jahangir Gojayev, Head of the International Relations and Information Department of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, has revealed that a new airport is to be constructed in the Alat settlement to increase the efficiency of passenger and cargo transportation. There are currently six international airports in Azerbaijan – Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku and in Nakhchivan, Ganja, Lankaran, Zagatala and Gabala.

www.teas.eu

Andrey Scherbina, Innovations Manager for CIS and South-Eastern Europe, Visa International, has revealed that payment systems using near field communications (NFC) will be launched in Azerbaijan during 2015. He said: “NFC is the second evolutionary stage of Visa payWave contactless technology. It was rather

premature to launch this until cards and outlets accept contactless payments. This year, we have focused on sales of the Visa payWave product, providing the infrastructure for acceptance of such contactless cards in Azerbaijan, and have granted permission for several companies to issue these cards.”

10 / 2014

14

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Armenia – obstructive to PACE

Samad Seyidov, Head of the Azerbaijani Delegation to PACE and PACE Vice-President

The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) in Strasbourg has organised a special debate highlighting the reluctance of the Armenian delegation to co-operate with Samad Seyidov, Head of the Azerbaijani Delegation to PACE and PACE Vice-President and designated rapporteur on Nagorno-Karabakh and the other occupied territories. Mr Seyidov was appointed by the PACE Committee on Political Affairs and Democracy.

During the meeting, many PACE members acknowledged that the Armenian delegation had flouted the rules of the Council of Europe. Mr Seyidov revealed that PACE would elaborate on this issue during the January session. He said: “PACE has issued a strict warning against the Armenian delegation, which attempted provocation against Azerbaijan during the PACE autumn session.”

According to Mr Seyidov, the Armenian delegation began to disrupt the meeting following his appointment and the announcement of the PACE report entitled Increase of tension in Nagorno-Karabakh and the other occupied territories of Azerbaijan. He explained: “They tried to stop the issue from being included in the agenda.

Firstly, they began to talk endlessly, failing to follow the programme.

The chairman of the meeting verbally reprimanded them, but that this was ignored. Following this, the meeting management turned off their microphones and the simultaneous translation of their speeches was stopped. The Armenian delegation then stood up, and began to protest. Following this, the decision was made to exclude the Armenian delegation from the meeting and to discuss the agenda without their participation.”

Mr Seyidov explained that a warning was subsequently issued against the Armenian delegation and that “it was noted that if the Armenian delegation repeated such behaviour, sanctions against them could be considered.”

Hasan Hasanov buried in Baku The body of 36-year-old Hasan Hasanov, killed by Armenian forces in the occupied region of Kalbajar on 11 July, was finally laid to rest in Baku on 2 October, according to the Azerbaijani State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Persons. The repatriation was organised by the State Commission and Azerbaijani Defence Ministry under the mediation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

Despite numerous calls by Azerbaijan for negotiation regarding the exchange of the body and the release of the hostages Shahbaz Guliyev (aged 46) and Dilgam Asgarov (aged 54) – taken captive the same day – the Armenian side has remained uncooperative. All had entered the occupied territories to visit the graves of their relatives. In several recent cases, Azerbaijan has subsequently arranged the transference of Armenian citizens, who illegally crossed the ‘contact line’ between Azerbaijan and the occupied territories, to Armenia or a third country.

Birmingham University to host Nagorno-Karabakh roundtable A landmark conference entitled The Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: The Uses and Misuses of History will take place in Room 121, Muirhead Tower, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT on 26 November from 16.00–18.00hrs. The debate is organised by the University of Birmingham Research Group on the Caucasus, in collaboration with the Centre for Russian, European and Eurasian Studies (CREES) and the Department of Political Science and International Studies (POLSIS) at the College of Social Sciences at the University of Birmingham.

The roster of speakers will comprise Ambassador Jacques Fauré, former French Co-Chair, OSCE Minsk Group; Laurence Broers, Research Associate, Centre of Contemporary Central Asia and the Caucasus, School of African and Oriental Studies (SOAS), London; Joanne Laycock, Senior Lecturer in History, Sheffield Hallam University; and Kamala Imranli-Lowe, Research Fellow, CREES/POLSIS, University of Birmingham. Admission is free, but please register with Dr Galina Yemelianova on g.yemelianova@ bham.ac.uk.

German journalist calls for sanctions on Armenia Speaking in Baku, Richard Kiessler, renowned German editor and journalist and Chairman of the German–Azerbaijani Forum has called for Armenia to come under pressure from sanctions for illegally occupying Azerbaijani lands. He reiterated that the ArmenianAzerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh should not be regarded as ‘frozen’, as servicemen continue to be killed.

Mr Kiessler commented: “I think the international community must do more to address this very dangerous conflict. It is necessary to make new efforts to resolve the issue.” He said that the OSCE Minsk Group must intensify efforts towards achieving settlement of the long-lasting conflict, and that Germany should play a greater role in assisting Azerbaijan in its objectives.

French magazine publishes Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict article An extensive article on the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh has been published in the bi-monthly French magazine Diplomatie, written by the Centre for Analysis and Forecasting of International Risk, an Azerbaijani NGO. The journal has a circulation of 20,000 copies and is distributed in over 40 countries.

The article provides detailed information on the estimated 875,000 refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who are the ongoing victims of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-

10 / 2014

Karabakh. It explains that four UN Security Council resolutions, passed against the Armenian invasion, remain unimplemented, as do resolutions from the UN, OSCE, Council of Europe and other international organisations. The article includes photographs of the Khojaly Massacre, and uses maps to illustrate which areas remain under occupation. It also provides information about the new settlements across Azerbaijan that have been completed and are under construction by the Azerbaijani State Committee on Refugees and IDPs.

www.teas.eu

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict Sargsyan and Aliyev to meet in Paris

15

French President François Hollande, seen during his recent visit to Baku, will broker the meeting in Paris between the Azerbaijani and Armenian Presidents

The Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, tasked with establishing a negotiated resolution to the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – Ambassador Igor Popov, Russian Federation; James Warlick, USA; and Pierre Andrieu France – met Edward Nalbandian, Armenian Foreign Minister and Elmar Mammadyarov, his Azerbaijani counterpart, at the UN General Assembly. The CoChairs were joined by Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office.

During this joint meeting, the Co-Chairs and Foreign Ministers discussed preparations for the forthcoming summit in Paris on 27 October between Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, brokered by French President François Hollande. The Co-Chairs expressed their hope that the Presidents would hold productive discussions regarding the establishment of a lasting settlement. Ambassador Andrieu briefed the participants on issues that could be included on the summit agenda, and the Co-

Chairs stated that they would visit the occupied territories from 14–18 October.

Three Azerbaijani servicemen

UK MP named as rapporteur on the

killed on the ‘contact line’

occupied territories

Armenian snipers have claimed the lives of three young servicemen. The first of these, 19-year old Keramet Shabiyev, was shot at 14.30hrs on 23 September. The second was killed six days later and was named as 23-year-old Lieutenant Bakhishli Abulfaz. Most recently, 24-year-old Tural Akhmed lost his life in a shootout with Armenian forces on 9 October.

Robert Walter, UK MP and previously Head of the UK Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) has been appointed to prepare a report on the situation in NagornoKarabakh and the other occupied territories, which have remained under Armenian occupation for over two decades.

The Co-Chairs also met Didier Burkhalter, OSCE Chairperson-inOffice, to discuss the latest developments in the peace process. He was provided with a transcription of the Presidents’ recent meetings in Sochi, Russia and Newport, Wales, and information on the preparations for the Paris summit.

NATO supports OSCE Minsk Group format William Lahue, Liaison Officer to the Caucasus, NATO, has stressed his support for the OSCE Minsk Group format and peaceful settlement of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. He said: “The OSCE Minsk Group is the sole format and the only existing proposal aimed at settlement of the conflict. So, NATO looks toward the OSCE Minsk Group to continue its work.”

Cekuta to play integral role in future peace Speaking during a hearing in the US Senate, Robert Cekuta, US Ambassadorial Candidate for Azerbaijan, commented: “The US and Azerbaijan stand only to gain from a stable, democratic, peaceful and prosperous Azerbaijan that is strategically linked to the US, our European friends and allies.” His previous position as Economic Minister

Counsellor in Germany included counterterrorism and efforts to combat international criminal activities.

He noted: “In the 22 years since the US and Azerbaijan established diplomatic relations, we have worked with Azerbaijan on three equally important areas – security, energy,

and democracy – all of which are necessary for the its complete integration into the Euro-Atlantic community. We recognise that Azerbaijan lives in a very difficult neighbourhood and must maintain its security and stability, which the US strongly supports. Azerbaijan is a pivotal player in the region’s future peace and stability.”

NATO Wales Summit declaration aimed at resolving conflict James Warlick, US Co-Chair, OSCE Minsk Group, has revealed that that the NATO Wales Summit declaration adopted on 5 September refers to the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act as the guiding principles for resolution of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. He said: “These principles include the non-use of force and territorial integrity, together with the rights for the selfdetermination of peoples. We would like to stress that the OSCE Minsk Group is the format of negotiations recognised by the conflicting sides and the international community. We believe that all sides will constructively collaborate with us to achieve a lasting settlement.”

Council of Europe discusses the Sarsang Reservoir The Council of Europe Social Affairs Committee has discussed a draft information memorandum by Milica Markovic, an MEP from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Rapporteur for a motion recognising the role of the Armenian occupying forces in deliberately depriving the Azerbaijani regions near the ‘contact line’ of water.

This was tabled by Elkhan Suleymanov, member of Azerbaijani Delegation to PACE,

www.teas.eu

and led to protestations from the Armenian delegation, demanding that the report should be expanded to deal with water issues across Europe.

The memorandum relates to the policy of the Armenian forces over the Sarsang Reservoir in the Tartar region, located on Azerbaijani territory, which remains under occupation. Azerbaijan claims

that the Sarsang Reservoir has not been maintained for over 20 years, placing the lives of around 40,000 Azerbaijani citizens living nearby at risk. The water supply and hydroelectric capacity of the reservoir has also been illegally appropriated by Armenia.

The report on the Sarsang Reservoir, to be prepared by PACE, will be the first issued by the organisation to deal with occupied strategic facilities.

10 / 2014

10 / 2014

www.teas.eu