Tm 15 01

Culture | Public Affairs Business | Philanthropy

AZERBAIJAN WELCOMES 2015 – A YEAR OF OPPORTUNITY Also in this issue: Paris massacre condemned by Official Baku Outcry over illegal ‘trial’ of Azerbaijani hostages in the occupied territories BBC and FCO recognise the human cost of Armenian occupation Vagif Mustafazadeh and Niyazi’s musical legacies remembered in London Amina Figarova and Aziza Mustafazadeh – leading ladies of Azerbaijani jazz 01 / 2015

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

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Welcome to the TEAS Magazine The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) is a UK-registered pan-European foundation 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 Murad Muradov who won the competition in the December 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 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 2 February.

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Who is the President of Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL)?

Which are the member countries of the Eurasian Economic Union?

Who is the Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports?

Which country is the favourite to host the European Games 2019?

Which Russian saxophonist performed at the Remembering Vagif concert?

Where does Amina Figarova now live?

What is the title of the first film to be produced by Buta Films?

When was Niyazi born?

Who is the new Managing Director for the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP)?

When did John Patterson OBE move to Baku?

Murad Muradov: Winner

Upcoming Events For full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming events 19 February Justice for Khojaly Commemoration Concert (Brussels) Palais des Beaux-Arts de Bruxelles, 23 rue Ravenstein, 1000 Brussels. 18.30hrs. Admission free. RSVP via EventBrite at http://bit.ly/khojalybruxelles A concert to commemorate the victims of the Khojaly Massacre – the worst single atrocity of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – which claimed the lives of 613 civilians in 1992. Musicians will include Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin), Annelise Clément (clarinet) and the Magma String Quartet.

23 February Justice for Khojaly Commemoration Concert (Paris) Théâtre Adyar, 4 square Rapp, 75007, Paris. 20.30hrs. Admission free. RSVP: paris@teas.eu Musicians will include Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin) and Nazrin Rashidova, who will lead her FeMusa Esemble.

24 February Justice for Khojaly Commemoration Concert (London) St John’s, Smith Square, London, SW1P 3HA. 18.30hrs. Admission free. RSVP via EventBrite at http://bit.ly/khojalylondon2015 Musicians will include Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin) and Nazrin Rashidova, who will lead her FeMusa Esemble.

27 February Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus (London) gallery@oxo, Oxo Tower Wharf, Bargehouse Street, London, SE1 9PH. 19.00hrs. Admission free: RSVP: culture@teas.eu This opening will showcase 65 stunning images submitted by photographers from across the globe for the TEAS Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus competition, in recognition of Azerbaijan’s hosting of the forthcoming inaugural European Games.

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Politics and News

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Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

From the TEAS Director

The shocking terrorist attacks in France drew condemnation from around the world, and resulted in messages of support from many world leaders – including Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. These tragic incidents highlighted the dangers posed by ‘home grown’ terrorists, and also the vital importance of secular Muslim democracies, such as Azerbaijan.

Tensions on the ‘contact line’ between Azerbaijan and the Armenian-occupied territories remain high, with daily casualties on both sides. Meanwhile, the international campaign to secure the release of Dilham Asgarov and Shahbaz Guliyev gathers pace. These middle-aged civilians were captured in the occupied Azerbaijani territory of Kalbajar, to which they returned in July to tend the graves of their relatives.

Sentenced to life and 22 years respectively by an illegal kangaroo court, their fate has attracted international interest.

Meanwhile, the Azerbaijani Education Ministry is continuing its enlightened policy of sending the brightest Azerbaijani students abroad for their education, chiefly to the US and UK. This year, nearly 600 students will receive overseas education and, to date, more 3000 have benefited from this programme.

February each year sees commemorations of the Khojaly Massacre of 613 civilians, the worst single atrocity of the conflict, which took place on 26 February 1992. This year, there will be Europe-wide activities organised by the Justice for Khojaly campaign to ensure that commemorations are held in more European capitals than ever before.

Finally, in the year when Baku hosts the first ever European Games under the auspices of the International Olympic Committee, active consideration is being given to bidding for the 2024 Olympics.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev chaired the meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers analysing socioeconomic developments in 2014 and specifying the objectives for 2015

President Aliyev sums up 2014 – a successful year

In his message commemorating World Azerbaijanis’ Solidarity Day and the New Year, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev commented: “2014 was a successful year for our country. We successfully completed all the tasks facing the country, facilitated the dynamic development of our nation, and further strengthened our international position.

Azerbaijan is recognised internationally as a reliable partner, and our influence and opportunities are expanding.”

He continued: “As you know, in 2012–13, Azerbaijan was represented in the world’s most influential organisation – the UN Security Council. We won this right with the support of 155 countries. This year, Azerbaijan chaired the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, making a valuable contribution to the development of democracy and protection of human rights in Europe.”

Baku condemns terrorist attack in Paris

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has offered his condolences to French President François Hollande over the terrorist attack on the office of the satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo in Paris that claimed the lives of 12 employees and injured many others. In his letter, he stated: “We are deeply shocked by the news of the death and wounding of people as a result of a ruthless terrorist act in Paris.” President Aliyev commented that Azerbaijan is extremely angered by this horrific event, and strongly supports the struggle against all forms of terrorism.

He continued: “On my own behalf, and on behalf of the people of Azerbaijan, I express my deepest condolences to you, the families and loved ones of those who died and all the people of France, and wish those wounded a speedy recovery.”

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Service, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, said: “Azerbaijan staunchly supports the efforts of the international community in the fight against terrorism, and is making contributions to this struggle. We also reiterate that no act of terrorism can be justified.”

In a statement, TEAS – which has an office in Paris – said: “TEAS condemns this horrific terrorist attack that nothing can justify. Constantly facing the threat of terrorism on its territory, Azerbaijan has been engaged for several years in the international fight against terrorism and actively co-operates with the relevant international organisations. This secular Muslim country has supported anti-terrorist operations in Afghanistan, becoming a key actor in facilitating the transportation of non-lethal supplies to NATO troops.”

Centre for stem cell research to open in Azerbaijan

Ahliman Amiraslanov MP, Rector, Azerbaijan Medical University, has spoken of the need to establish an Azerbaijani Centre for Stem Cell Research. The comments were made at the first Congress of Azerbaijani Scientists, where he explained that the subject now ranks high on the international agenda.

Mr Amiraslanov commented: “We now have the specialists, trained overseas, and the opportunity to create a Centre for Stem Cell Research. Azerbaijan is late in establishing a centre of this kind. However, I note that one of the stem cell centres in Turkey is headed by an Azerbaijani professor.”

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

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Politics and News

AZAL welcomes first Dreamliner Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) expanded its long-haul fleet with the delivery of its first ever Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on 23 December. It is the first former Soviet state to operate the Dreamliner. AZAL said that the model of aircraft would play an integral role in its long-haul expansion plans.

Jahangir Askerov, President, AZAL, commented: “We are delighted to receive this revolutionary aeroplane, which will help AZAL increase its competitiveness on both a regional and international level.

The aeroplane, with its unique onboard features, will provide an unrivalled passenger experience with an unmatched level of comfort.”

The Boeing 787 Dreamliner will provide a new level of comfort for AZAL long-haul customers

The AZAL long-haul fleet currently comprises Boeing 767 and Airbus A340 aircraft, so the arrival of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner marks a major development.

The aircraft will come fitted with LED cabin lighting, larger windows and outsize The Baku Olympic Stadium under construction

Paving the way to host the 2024 Olympics Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports, has commented on a possible Baku bid to host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, stating: “The decision about Baku’s bid to host the 2024 Olympics can be taken only by the Head of State. Now I cannot speak about it. However, I can say that the struggle to host the 2024 Olympics will be fierce. If it was previously said that we did not have the experience to host complex events, this argument will be invalid after the European Games. These Games will involve twice as many athletes as those who participated in the Sochi Olympics, and the necessary infrastructure will be in place. Our chance of hosting the Summer Olympics will be increased.”

Nearly 600 students set to study abroad The Azerbaijani Education Ministry is finalising a new State Programme for the Education of Azerbaijani Youth Abroad during 2015–20. According to the Ministry, 572 students are receiving overseas education during the 2014–15 academic year. The Ministry statement continued: “Among these, 309 students are reading for their Master’s degrees, and 44 for their Ph.D degrees. In total, 154 students studied basic

medicine and for Bachelor’s degrees. For the first time, nine students studying overseas are specialising in agriculture and 14 on education organisation and management.”

According to the Ministry, more than 3000 people have received education in overseas universities within the framework of the State Programme for the Education of Azerbaijani Youth Abroad during 2015–20.

overhead storage bins. It uses 20 per cent less fuel and makes less noise than other similar-sized aircraft. AZAL currently flies to over 20 global destinations, including New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt and Beijing.

Population explosion continues According to the Azerbaijani State Statistics Committee, the population of the country reached 9,574,300 on 1 November 2014, with a population density of 111 people per km 2. The ratio is 1000 men to 1011 women, and official figures suggest that 53.2 per cent of the population is urban. Altogether, 142,600 Azerbaijani children were born during 11 months of the last year, of which 53.6 per cent were male.

Silk Way orders three more B747–8 freighters

Silk Way Airlines has placed a firm order with Boeing for three more B747–8(F) aircraft, according to Azernews. The agreement will see the aircraft delivered over the course of this year and next. The freighters will be placed with subsidiary Silk Way West Airlines, where they will join two other aircraft of the same type, in addition to three B747–400(F) and two B767–300(F) aircraft.

Armenia joins Russian-led Eurasian Economic Union

According to the St. Petersburg Times, Armenia joined the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) during a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow on 23 December, uniting with Russia, Kazakhstan and Belarus in a Russian-led project meant to counterbalance the European Union. As part of a deal signed in October, Armenia will have limited representation in the organisation until the end of 2015, with Armenian members sharing one vote in the EEU governing body, named the Eurasian Economic Commission, as reported by TASS. The Armenian entry into the EEU means it will

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gradually transfer to a unified tariff system with the other EEU members, with 2022 set as the deadline for full transition.

The country will have to negotiate with the World Trade Organisation, of which it is a member, on its changing obligations, in light of its new membership with the EEU. The Armenian government had been set to finalise its Association Agreement with the EU until, following talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan abruptly switched to the Russianled Customs Union in 2013, a precursor to the

EEU. Alexander Knobel, Trade Economist, told The St. Petersburg Times that Armenia turned away from European integration after Russia offered it the budget price of $170–180 (£112.2–118.8) per 1000m 3 on the natural gas imports upon which it relies for survival.

Armenia has also cultivated a close political and economic relationship with Russia, as it has no diplomatic relations with neighbouring Turkey and Azerbaijan, due to its continued occupation of the Azerbaijani territories of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions.

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ASAN achievements acknowledged by President Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has spoken of the successes of the ASAN xidmet ‘one-stop shop’ e-governmentbased public services provision service (see TEAS Magazine, July 2014, p.7), founded in 2013, which is aimed at enhancing efficiency and eliminating corruption. He said: “A serious fight is being waged against corruption and bribery, and a special role is being played by the ASAN xidmet service. We have already created seven centres, and 3.5m applications have been made through these centres.

“ASAN xidmet is prominent in the public services sector and in the fight against corruption and bribery. If we consider that this service was established only two years ago, it is clear how much progress we have achieved.

The determined fight against corruption and bribery will continue in the future. Penalties, administrative sanctions and systemic measures will be applied.”

The latest high-tech branch of ASAN xidmet, opened on 15 December in Sabirabad

Legacy of Heydar Aliyev remembered in London The life and achievements of former President Heydar Aliyev were commemorated during a moving ceremony at the Azerbaijani Embassy in the UK on 10 December. Speaking against a backdrop of archive footage, H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, said: “Today we recall one of the saddest days of modern Azerbaijani history – in two days, it will be 11 years since the date that Heydar Aliyev died – the founder of modern Azerbaijan. On 12 December 2003, I was the First Secretary in the

H.E. Tahir Taghizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, solemnly lays a wreath at the bust of former President Heydar Aliyev

Azerbaijani Embassy in Washington D.C. Ambassador Hafiz Pashayev, the longserving first Azerbaijani Ambassador to the US, called me to his office and informed me of the passing of the President. A storm of phone calls followed in minutes – and continued for hours – this demonstrated the importance accorded to the achievements of President Aliyev, his political leadership and statesmanship.

“In the history of every nation, there is always one personality whose contributions are essential to the development of the country and its very existence. The UK has benefited from several such persons during its history. In Azerbaijan, that person was Heydar Aliyev. If we consider the construction and consolidation of the country, we can see that a nation that was in ruins after the collapse of the Soviet Union is now prospering. When the Contract of the Century was signed, the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR) had challenges paying for its share and had to borrow from partner companies. It now has assets of around $40bn (£26.4bn), and this is being reinvested through the State Oil Fund of Azerbaijan (SOFAZ).

“Thousands of students are now sent to study abroad across the world, and particularly in the UK. Azerbaijan is currently the most secure, stable and most successful country in the South Caucasus, and accounts for 70 per cent of regional GDP. This is the legacy of Heydar Aliyev.

In Azerbaijan, after the Soviet collapse, we had a society that was ripe for change, and we had the personality of Heydar Aliyev, who took us through this tumultuous period to the safer waters of modern development.”

Professor Dr Nabil Ayad, Director, The Academy of Diplomacy and International Governance, said: “The memory of our late President is still alive with us. This includes the construction, development and progress of our country, and the society that he left behind, which is a multifaith, multiethnic society. The forthcoming European Games will be an excellent exercise in image projection and nation branding. Heydar Aliyev left a great country called Azerbaijan. He left behind an amazing achievement, but we are still awaiting justice over the Khojaly Massacre – where 613 civilians were massacred in cold blood by Armenian forces.”

Netherlands bids to host European Games 2019 It is thought that the Netherlands will bid to host the second European Games in 2019, following the inaugural edition in Baku from 12–28 June. The host city for the second games will be announced at the European Olympic Committee (EOC) Extraordinary General Assembly in May 2015, and the other contenders are the UK, Poland, Russia, Belarus and Turkey. A bid by the joint cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam is considered to be the strongest. It is also thought that Amsterdam will bid for the Summer Olympics 2028 to celebrate the centenary of its hosting of the Olympics in 1928.

Andre Bolhuis, Head, Dutch National Olympic Committee, commented on the Baku 2015 European Games, saying: “As a

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member of the Co-ordination Commission for the European Games, I’m closely monitoring the preparations for the Games, which will open in fewer than 200 days. The Games will be impressive and inspiring. The Baku European Games Operation Committee (BEGOC) is doing its best, venues are being completed according to schedule, agreements with national broadcasters are underway, and official sponsors have already joined us.”

In Baku, more than 6000 athletes are expected to represent their nations during 17 days of competition. There will be a total of 20 sports at Baku 2015, comprising 16 Olympic sports and three nonOlympic sports. To find out more, go to www.baku2015.com.

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Personalities – Aziza Mustafazadeh

Aziza Mustafazadeh’s style cleverly combines mugham, jazz and classical music to hypnotic effect

Remembering Vagif – a conversation with Aziza Mustafazadeh Rarely heard in the West, Vagif Mustafazadeh is acknowledged as one of the world’s great jazz pianists and composers. The memorial concert Remembering Vagif, which formed part of the Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts, celebrated his life and work on the 35th anniversary of his untimely death.

Spanning a five-month period, the 2014– 15 Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts is showcasing every element of Azerbaijani culture, ranging from the ancient skills of Azerbaijani carpetmaking to the creativity of the country’s contemporary photographers, the unmistakable sounds of its jazz musicians, and the excitement of live performances through the medium of modern immersive theatre.

In addition to the exciting musical schedule, the festival also incorporates cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions at the Saatchi Gallery and Louise Blouin Foundation, and artists from the Yarat Contemporary Art Space will display their work in public locations across London.

For more information, go to www.butafestival.com.

Aziza Mustafazadeh – resident in Mainz, Germany for many years – is an internationally acclaimed Azerbaijani jazz pianist, singer and composer. She is the daughter of Vagif Mustafazadeh, who is widely acknowledged as the predominant developer of jazz-mugham in the 1960s and 70s. This innovatively

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synthesised the modes of mugham, the national music of Azerbaijan, with jazz harmonies and musical intervals. Despite the fact that these musical forms differ considerably, they both feature a high level of improvisation.

Official attitudes towards jazz music varied a great deal during the Soviet period.

Although it could be regarded as originating amongst the oppressed black population in the US, the music had undeniably American origins and was often viewed with suspicion by the authorities. Jazz records were banned during the Stalin and Khrushchev periods, but attitudes thawed in the 1960s under Soviet President Leonid Brezhnev, who was a jazz fan himself.

Aziza demonstrated great musical interest and ability at a very early age, initially being entranced by mugham modes, and then studying classical piano. Her talent for improvisation was soon recognised, and she performed with her father from the age of three years. Following her thirdplace success in the Thelonious Monk Competition in Washington D.C. at the age of 18 in 1988, she moved to Mainz in 1991 with Eliza, her mother. Aziza has since developed her own style, taking influences from her father and classical music. She also developed a wordless singing style that owes much to that of the khanende (mugham singer). Aziza released her eponymously titled first album for Sony Jazz in 1991, and has since issued nine internationally-acclaimed albums.

Aziza came to London for the first time in nearly five years to perform during a

tribute at the Central Hall Westminster to her father on 16 December, which marked the anniversary of his passing. TEAS caught up with her, following rehearsals, to find out more: Please could you tell me something about the music that will be performed tomorrow night?

The programme will mostly comprise compositions by Vagif Mustafazadeh, my father, with just a few of my own compositions. The other group on the bill – comprising musicians from Georgia and Russia – will include saxophonist Igor Butman and bassist Tamaz Kurashvili, who played in Vagif’s trio.

Which of your own compositions will you perform?

There are two works that combine the trio with the orchestra. The first of these is my own Frescoes of Gobustan, inspired by the petroglyphs in Gobustan National Park. The concluding work will be Vagif Mustafazadeh’s Concerto in Jazz Style for Piano and String Orchestra. In recent years, I have performed alongside numerous orchestras, which has been a most enjoyable and fulfilling experience. I will also perform my own Dance of Fire and Naje Sevim, where I sing.

What would you describe as the legacy of Vagif Mustafazadeh, both for Azerbaijan and the wider musical world?

His legacy is unique – Vagif is widely acknowledged as the founder of Azerbaijani jazz-mugham. Bebop pioneer trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie had a great opinion of my father – he described him as a genius

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Personalities – Aziza Mustafazadeh

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and musician of the future, who was born before his time. This was true, because often the work of my father was not fully understood. In some western countries he was known amongst musicians and the jazz cognoscenti. However, in the Soviet Union, the situation wasn’t so pleasant.

Vagif was under great strain and he had two heart attacks – the second of which was the last.

my father, she transferred to jazz and performed original Azerbaijani songs in the jazz-mugham style. These were beautiful but, after my father died, she never wanted to sing again. This was very sad, but I can understand her reasons. It hurt too much, and she just lost her desire to perform. She used to explain that as Vagif had passed away, she couldn’t allow herself to perform anymore.

alive, and tomorrow will be very hard for me. My father was a sunny, sunny, person.

He was a lovely father, a family man and as pure as a child. When we lost him, I was just nine years old. I remember that he had a very big heart, and if someone had nothing, he would give what he had.

He was very generous with musicians and as a person. It was not easy to have his wonderful personality during Soviet times.

Did Vagif perform across the Soviet Union?

Vagif played in Moscow, and was beloved by musicians from across the former Soviet republics, where he performed with Eliza, my mother, a jazz singer from Georgia. She was classically-trained, but after meeting

What are your memories of Vagif as a man and a father?

Tomorrow, it will be 35 years since he passed away, but I am not sure if the pain is diminishing. It is said that people become more sensitive as they get older.

All my memories of Vagif are very much

Do you feel his work has gained greater appreciation since his passing?

During his lifetime, real fans of music appreciated his work. However, since he passed away, his work has become better-known and his recordings have been widely distributed. Nowadays, even non-musicians recognise his music, and any time his music is played on the radio, people notice his style, as he had a special touch.

Vagif had an amazing technique, literally touching the piano in an unusual way, and developed his own harmonic progressions.

These were very unusual, partially deriving from mugham, but also forming part of his own musical language. This was unlike that of anyone else – it was unique, and that’s why he was immediately recognised.

Do you feel your piano style is similar to that of your father?

Sometimes we play in a similar style – my mother even says this – but on other occasions we are quite different. However, at other times I feel as if Vagif is inside me and is playing whilst I am playing. On other occasions, I sense he is playing around me, and I feel as if his spirit is with me. Both my mother and father were musicians, so it was predestined that I followed in their footsteps.

In which direction is your music developing?

I never specifically plan the direction of my work. I just let my creativity develop – so at the moment I am performing with the orchestra.

What are your thoughts about tomorrow’s concert?

I last played here in 2010, and it is special to perform in tribute to my father in London.

I first came here some considerable time ago, and was most impressed by this city.

Tomorrow will be very special and pleasant – yet undeniably tinged with sadness.

For more information, go to www.azizamustafazadeh.de Aziza Mustafazdeh plays and sings her own Naje Sevim at the concert tribute to Vagif, her father (Photos: Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts)

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Personalities – Amina Figarova

Amina Figarova – sounds of surprise

Amina Figarova derives much of her energy and inspiration from Azerbaijan, but her style remains unique

Baku-born Amina Figarova is one of Azerbaijan’s greatest musical exports.

Classically-trained, she initially studied to be a pianist at the Baku Academy of Music. Intending to study film score composition, she then moved to the Netherlands, swiftly changing her focus towards jazz performance at the Rotterdam Conservatory before studying at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. She then moved to Rotterdam for the next 20 years, where she developed her distinctive performance style, recorded 11 albums and married flautist Bart Platteau. Amina and Bart have been based in New York for four years.

In 2012, she was signed to the German In + Out label, where she recorded the CD entitled Twelve, which achieved great critical acclaim.

Amina came to London to perform at the legendary 606 Club in Chelsea alongside her sextet, and TEAS caught up with her there to find out the latest developments: Can I firstly ask what brings you to

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London at this time and whether this is the first time you’ve appeared at London Jazz Festival?

No – this is not the first time – I previously played at the London Jazz Festival with a concert at Ronnie Scott’s Club in 2012, and here at the 606 Club last year, when I collaborated with saxophonist Gilad Atzmon. However, the visit to the UK also forms part of my European tour, which has taken in dates in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

I also gave a rare concert in Baku to commemorate the bicentenary of the birth of Adolphe Sax, the Belgian-born inventor of the saxophone and other instruments.

This was my briefest ever trip to Baku – lasting just one day. It has been quite an exhausting tour, but the audience reaction has been excellent. In Europe, I have been touring with my regular sextet of Europeanbased musicians.

We last spoke two years ago. Which projects have you been working on since that time?

In fact, I have not recorded any new music since the sessions for my album Twelve in November 2012. However, I have still written and performed a great deal of new music during my extensive touring schedule across the US and Europe. I have also given numerous masterclasses and worked with big bands.

Are you planning to release a CD of your latest music?

Yes – I am. But the titles are proving problematic, as the music is very complicated. You will hear some of the new music this evening in both the first and second set. Some pieces are tentatively named after months at present, but it is hard to distil the emotions, thoughts and philosophy that inspired a piece into one simple word or phrase. In fact, I need to decide the titles so the album can be recorded and released.

Do you see the direction of your work going towards larger configurations or big bands?

No – I have just been undertaking some

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Personalities – Amina Figarova

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listeners regard you as jazz musician or specifically an Azerbaijani jazz musician?

I believe my work should be appreciated on solely musical terms. It’s perfectly acceptable for listeners to enjoy folk music, and the blend of jazz and mugham may appeal to some musicians and listeners – however, it is not my style. Of course, I get the energy and inspiration from Azerbaijan, as I grew up there, and this is reflected in my music.

Mugham is by no means the only music in Azerbaijan, and it would be very restrictive to characterise the music as one style.

Music is very important to me, reflects the past and present, and the music of my country is definitely in my work. However, I never really listened to mugham during my childhood. Instead, I grew up listening to Latin music. I was also surrounded by classical music. Mugham should not be the sole definition of an Azerbaijani musician – it is very narrow-minded to do so. I know that some consider it is necessary for an Azerbaijani musician to perform mugham, but this is not right in my view. Musicians have a wide palette of opportunity, and music is international language.

Amina Figarova at home in New York

arrangements for big bands so they can be performed in American universities.

I would like to record with big bands or larger configurations, but it is a logistical challenge to do. For now, I am recording with the sextet, and I believe we are doing very well. It is sufficiently challenging to keep a sextet together on the road, and very expensive to travel, but we are managing it.

charts. It was received very well, and we will perform some music from this tonight. It is often a challenge to launch an album that almost entirely comprises new compositions – many musicians include at least a few standards. I am most fortunate that four of my previous albums have ranked highly in the jazz charts. It proves that the audience really enjoys the music of which I feel most proud.

Four years ago, you moved to New York. With which musicians have you collaborated since that time?

I have collaborated with many different musicians, and my band personnel has changed many times. Tonight, I am performing with my European band, with musicians from Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands. I have worked with numerous instrumentalists in New York, and it has been very inspiring. Recently, I have been participating in the New Jazz Standards initiative of Jazz at Lincoln Centre, which supports composers and the performance of new works. My work entitled September Suite is dedicated to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

There are many collaborations taking place and it is all very interesting and inspiring. New York actually provides a lot of inspiration.

Most recently, you have received the Rising Star: Composer Award from BillBoard magazine in the US. Was this specifically for your work on Twelve?

I don’t believe this is the case – I just think that critics choose whatever they have enjoyed during the previous year. I suspect that the award also related to my entire body of work, to date.

When we last met, your album entitled Twelve had just been released. What critical reception did this receive?

Twelve attracted many amazing reviews, and was ranked high in four or five jazz

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Do you believe the move to New York has further contributed to the development of your compositional style?

When I compose, I reflect my daily life. The energy of New York is quite extraordinary, and there is no way that an artist can remain unaffected. All the music reflects this, but the impact on my compositions is not necessarily my own decision. However, it did result in the compositions for Twelve having a very different style to the previous album.

Unlike many Azerbaijani jazz musicians, your music is without any influences from mugham. Was this a conscious choice, and do you believe that

In what direction is your career now developing?

I feel that I am on a new wave, as I am collaborating with various New York-based musicians and becoming part of the musical fraternity in the city. I am actually looking forward to recording my new album, and you will hear several compositions from that this evening. I believe I am entering a new chapter in my musical life.

The Amina Figarova Sextet performing in Canada

Amina Figarova will share a stage with fellow pianist Isfar Sarabski at Ronnie Scott’s world-famous jazz club in London on 9 February, forming part of the Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts. To book tickets, go to http://bit.ly/aminaisfar.

For more information on Amina Figarova, to view her touring schedule and order her CDs, go to www.aminafigarova.com.

TEAS would like to thank the 606 Club for hosting this interview. For the concert diary, go to www.606club.co.uk.

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10

Culture

35th anniversary of Vagif Mustafazadeh’s passing commemorated A prestigious concert was held in Central Hall Westminster on 16 December to commemorate the 35 th anniversary, to the day, of the passing of jazz-mugham pioneer Vagif Mustafazadeh (1940– 79). Nasib Piriyev, Director, Buta Arts Centre, recalled: “Vagif was a man who united different cultures and traditions, and built bridges between the past and present. Vagif’s music was informed by the traditions of the past, but he was not limited by those traditions. He explored the best of what had come before, using his own rigorous classical piano training as a basis, and developed a sound that remains strikingly fresh today.

The concert began with a poignant set by Vagif’s daughter, pianist Aziza Musfazadeh (see pp.6–7), performing with the other members of her trio – Ralf Cetto (bass) and Simon Zimbardo (drums) – that included his compositions Aziza, Native Landscape and Prélude. Aziza also played two of her own best-known pieces, namely Dance of Fire and Naje Sevim, where she provided her own mugham-inspired wordless vocalese accompaniment. The first half concluded with her evocative symphonic work Frescoes of Gobustan, where the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, under the baton of Timothy Redmond, accompanied the piano.

“Trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie described Vagif as a ‘great genius, who was born before his time. This is music from another planet – the music of the future.’

Vagif’s work became known outside of the Soviet Union, although he could not travel beyond its borders. He was the only Soviet musician, in absentia, to win the Concours Internationale du Jazz Prize in Monaco.

However, he faced official suspicion in the Soviet Union, as jazz was not acceptable to the authorities. His recordings have only recently become widely distributed, both at home and internationally. Vagif had great talent and courage.”

The second half began with a solo meditation on the late musician’s life and legacy by Russian tenor saxophonist Igor Butman, who performed with Vagif in the 1970s, with his own composition entitled Nostalgia. This was followed by Fantasy, which featured tar player Arslan Novrasli, who executed an exciting series of call-andresponse motifs with Mr Butman. A trio of Georgian musicians, led by Zura Ramishvili (piano) then took the stage to perform several famous pieces by Vagif, including Waiting for Aziza, March and Riga in June, some of which featured vocalese by the remarkable Nino Katamadze.

Leading Russian tenor saxophonist Igor Butman performed his own solo piece Nostalgia in memory of his friend Vagif Mustafazadeh

The concert ended with Vagif’s own Concert for Piano and Orchestra, played

by Aziza Mustafazadeh with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, which fully demonstrated his innovative synthesis of the classical, jazz and mugham genres. The concert concluded on an emotional note, with some archive monochrome footage of Vagif in his prime, his pianistic dexterity and innovation amazing a Soviet audience.

Cream of Azerbaijani jazz talent

Zulfugarova brings tranquility to Parisian

to headline Ronnie Scott’s

commuters

Two of the greatest Azerbaijani jazz pianists are scheduled to come to Ronnie Scott’s legendary jazz club in Soho on 9 February as part of the Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts.

Isfar Sarabski, winner of the Montreux Solo Jazz Piano Prize in 2009, is well-known to friends of TEAS for his concerts in Paris and Berlin, whereas Amina Figarova (see pp.8–9) has developed her career in Europe and is now based in New York, having recorded 12 critically-acclaimed albums. To book tickets, go to http://bit.ly/aminaisfar.

The talented Paris-based pianist Saida Zulfugarova has given a landmark concert for time-pressed commuters at the Gare St-Lazare – one of the busiest railway stations in the French capital – as part of series of concerts in the Scènes Ouvertes series. During the concert she performed Beethoven’s No.17 Tempest Sonata; Chopin’s Ballade No.1; Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 and – representing the music of her homeland – Gara Garayev’s Préludes. A short film of the performance may be viewed at http://bit.ly/saidalazare.

Buta Films Delicatessen showcases The Last One The first film to be produced by Buta Films has been premiered at the Curzon Mayfair cinema in the most exclusive area of London. Entitled Sonuncu (The Last One), directed and scripted by Sergey Pikalov, this quirky film – set in the near future – has an episodic structure. Set in a remote area of Azerbaijan, it tells the story of the last survivor of the Great Patriotic War (Idris Rustamov), whose strongest relationship is with his ancient refrigerator.

Shortlisted for the Cannes Short Film Palm d’Or, the film was screened amongst other shortlisted films from around the world on one night, and then alongside the premiere of The First 100 Days, a documentary about the first Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts in 2009–10. To see the trailer for Sonuncu go to bit.ly/sonuncu.

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Saida is now preparing for a concert at the Czech Cultural Centre in Paris, where she will collaborate with Martial Boudrant (violin) and Pierre Avedikian (cello) for an all-Czech programme comprising Smetana’s Trio for Piano and Dvorak’s Dumky Trio. The concert will take place on 22 January at 8pm and tickets may be booked at http://bit.ly/saidaczech.

Saida entertained the crowds in the busy station (Photo: www.philipka.com)

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Culture

11

The art of Niyazi brought to London As part of the Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts, the Barbican Centre in London has played host to a concert dedicated to the memory of composer and conductor Niyazi (1912–84). Son of the illustrious composer Zulfugar Hajibeyov, he was the nephew of Uzeyir Hajibeyli, who is generally recognised as the father of Azerbaijani classical music.

Nasib Piriyev, Director, Buta Arts Centre, commented: “Niyazi was one of our most famous Azerbaijani composers and conductors. At the tender age of 26 years, Niyazi was catapulted to stardom. On the eve of a performance of Uzeyir Hajibeyli’s Arshin mal alan (The Cloth Peddler) in Moscow, Niyazi stepped up to conduct when the composer was too ill to take the baton. He gave a performance that thrilled audiences, and went on to give stirring performances that resulted in a reputation that endured for many decades and was heard on many of the world’s stages, including Covent Garden in London, just 50 years ago. Tonight, we will hear two works by Uzeyir Hajibeyli in arrangements

by Niyazi. His arrangement of the overture to Hajibyeli’s opera Koroglu is almost an unofficial national anthem for Azerbaijan.

“Niyazi was a figure that helped bridge the gap between East and West. He was an important element in the cultural fusion that is so vital to the creative life of the country

(from left) Violinist Nazrin Rashidova, soprano Seljan Nasibli and conductor Yalchin Adigezalov salute the genius that was Niyazi

today, whether promoting the work of his compatriots on the concert stages of the Soviet Union or as a composer, combining mugham with the European classical idiom.

He carefully adapted the sounds and forms of mugham to the structures of the West, introducing the song of Azerbaijan to a wider audience. Tonight’s programme reflects many aspects of Niyazi’s music, ranging from his own compositions to those pieces from his homeland that he championed. All of tonight’s musicians are following in his footsteps by promoting our native music on the international stage.”

Following this, the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra took the stage under the baton of Yalchin Adigezalov. The concert began with two of Niyazi’s arrangements of works by Uzeyir Hajibeyli, namely the famous and stirring arrangement of the

Koroglu Overture followed by Gulchohra’s Aria from Hajibeyli’s Arshin mal alan, as sung by Azerbaijani soprano Seljan Nasibli, who recently graduated from the Royal College of Music in London.

Ms Nasibli then performed Niyazi’s own passionate ‘Arzu’ Romance. Niyazi’s arrangement of Mugham Sayagi by Asaf Zeynalli provided the opportunity for UK-resident Azerbaijani violinist Nazrin Rashidova to demonstrate her remarkable ability, and this was followed by his famous symphonic arrangement of Rast Mugham, which incorporated a section on tar, performed by virtuoso Arslan Novrasli. The concert ended with Niyazi’s lyrical Waltz and his ecstatic version of the traditional dance Qaytagi, which attracted rapturous applause. The full programme for the Buta Festival may be viewed at www. butafestival.com.

Ali and Nino filming to begin in February Spanish actress Maria Valverde has been signed to star in the coveted role of Nino in the Hollywood adaptation of epic love story Ali and Nino, written in 1937 by the mysterious Kurban Said. She most recently starred in Exodus: Gods and Kings, directed by Ridley Scott. She will join the previously announced Adam Bakri, who has been cast as Ali. The film will be directed by Asif Kapadia, who is probably best-known for the documentary Senna, the biopic of legendary Formula One driver Ayrton Senna. He commented: “Maria is a brilliant actress and her interpretation of Nino’s character is moving, emotional and honest – it’s very clear that she will be the beating heart of our movie.”

Set in Baku at the turn of the 20th century, Ali is a Muslim and Nino is a Christian

Georgian girl with sophisticated European ways. The couple find their lives interrupted when World War I breaks out and Baku oil becomes of great importance for the Russian Empire. As the war continues, and control of the Caucasus changes hands, Ali and Nino find themselves embroiled in the Azerbaijani fight for independence. Oscar-winning screenwriter Christopher Hampton adapted the book for the screen. The producer is Kris Thykier, and Leyla Aliyeva is Executive Producer.

Principal photography will commence in Azerbaijan and Turkey in February, and the production team includes Carlos Conti as Production Designer, who previously worked on The Motorcycle Diaries, Gökhan Tiryaki, Director of Photography (Once Upon

Maria Valverde in the Biblical epic Exodus: Gods and Kings

A Time In Anatolia) and Michele Clapton as Costume Designer (Game Of Thrones).

Azerbaijani artist’s painting sold in Sotheby’s Azerbaijani artist Togrul Narimanbayov’s Böyük qoç (Big Ram, 1982) has been sold at Sotheby’s auction house in London for £68,500.

Born in Baku in 1930, Mr Narimanbayov began his creative journey in the 1950s and died in Paris in 2013. He described his style as a combination of abstract and figurative art, and considered a return to the origins of national culture necessary for art, and for painting, in particular.

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12

Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

BBC News recognises the human impact of occupation BBC World News has shown a new film focusing on the Armenian–Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the ongoing humanitarian crisis arising from the occupation (see http://bit.ly/ bbckarabakh). Presented and narrated

by BBC journalist Rayhan Demytrie, the footage features an Azerbaijani family, living near the ‘contact line’. The head of the family explains: “We can’t live on the second floor, it is too dangerous. Our entire family is cramped into one room downstairs. Residents complain of the bullets hitting their homes.”

Ms Demytrie says: “Armenia and Azerbaijan fought a war over Nagorno-Karabakh in the 1990s. Altogether, 30,000 people were killed, Azerbaijan lost the territory and seven adjacent regions, and hundreds of thousands of people were displaced. Since the ceasefire agreement in 1994, there hasn’t been much progress in resolving this conflict. In the outside world, it is often referred to as a ‘frozen conflict’, but for the thousands of people who live close to the ‘contact line’, it never froze, and coming under fire is a daily reality.”

She explains the upsurge in violence in 2014, making reference to the shooting

Schoolchildren learn the names of the Armenian-occupied territories – seized long before their birth

down of an Armenian helicopter in November.

Hikmet Hajiyev, Acting Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Affairs Ministry, recalled: “Attack helicopters belonging to the Armenian air force conducted assault flights, and attacked the defence positions of the Azerbaijan armed forces, and obviously an incident happened. The major intention of the Armenian side, by undertaking provocative

activities and provocative actions, is to damage and hurt the negotiation process.”

The film also shows how the youngest schoolchildren can recite the names of the Armenian-occupied territories.

In conclusion Ms Demytrie states: “Azerbaijan believes that, through war or peace, their land will be returned, even if it takes another generation to achieve it.”

Official Baku condemns illegal show trial of Azerbaijani hostages

Speaking to journalists, Hikmet Hajiyev, Acting Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Affairs Ministry, has condemned the illegal, so-called ‘trial’ organised by the unrecognised ‘authorities’ in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan. The statement came as a reaction to the Armenian media reports issued on 29 December after two months of deliberation.

against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and also ignores the obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”

Dilham Asgarov (aged 54 years) and Shahbaz Guliyev (aged 46 years) were taken hostage on 12 July by Armenian armed forces when they were visiting the graves of their parents in Kalbajar, which remains under Armenian occupation. Their friend Hasan Hasanov, aged 38 years, was killed and his body was eventually returned to his family following the intervention of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) after nearly three months of negotiations.

He continued: “The international institutions and community must put pressure on Armenia to immediately release Mr Askerov and Mr Guliyev. It also must deliver a report on the fate of more than 4000 missing Azerbaijanis.” Mr Hajiyev called on the international community to pay attention to the protection of the rights of the estimated 875,000 Azerbaijani refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), who are the ongoing victims of the Armenian– Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. He reiterated that Azerbaijan would continue to collaborate with the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and international organisations to release the two men.

Mr Hajiyev said: “Armenia is responsible for taking civilians hostage, using torture against them, and organising a show ‘trial’ for them. This is a stark violation of the European Convention on Human Rights, International Humanitarian Law, the UN Convention

Following the show ‘trial’, Mr Asgarov was sentenced to life imprisonment and Mr Guliyev was imprisoned for 22 years, effectively condemning him to spend the remainder of his life behind bars.

Germany reiterates support for Azerbaijani territorial integrity

Germany has reconfirmed its view that Nagorno-Karabakh remains irrefutably Azerbaijani territory under international law. The statement came in a report from the German Federal Government Foreign Office regarding the recent meeting between the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs with Stephan Steinlein, State Secretary, Foreign Office, German Federal Ministry, on 12 December.

It stated: “Against the backdrop of the increasing risk of tension, the meeting between the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and German Federal Ministry State Secretary focused on methods of achieving

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political settlement of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, which has been continuing for over 20 years.”

The sides discussed methods of increasing trust between the conflicting sides, and the necessity for active participation of the European Union in the conflict settlement process. The report states: “Since 1992, the OSCE Minsk Group has been leading the negotiations for political settlement of the conflict over NagornoKarabakh – the territory of Azerbaijan under international law – which remains occupied by Armenia.”

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Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

13

IDP crisis acknowledged in new FCO report – but figures questioned In an unprecedented move, a new report from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) – entitled Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the South Caucasus – the numbers game acknowledged: “Azerbaijan is host to one of the largest populations of displaced persons in the world in per capita terms.” The report analyses the seismic population shifts that have taken place in Azerbaijan and Georgia since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, and their economic impact. It also speaks of the “enormous suffering and hardship” of those affected.

Recognising that those in Azerbaijan are the ongoing victims of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, it concludes by stating: “The right of refugees and IDPs to return to their homes is central to Baku’s vision for restoring their territorial integrity – and in principle, this is supported by the international community as a necessary element of any long-term settlement.”

The FCO report goes on to state that the Azerbaijani official figure of “around a million IDPs and refugees” is slightly above that of the UN High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR). However, the report seems to cast doubt upon the basis for this, stating that: “the one million figure encompasses the estimated 250,000 ethnic Azerbaijani ‘refugees’ who fled Armenia in the early 1990s. This latter community, however, has never been formally registered by the UNHCR as refugees, as the vast majority of these people, it can be assumed, have by now either left Azerbaijan altogether, or been granted Azerbaijani citizenship.”

The Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has objected to

Accommodation for IDPs and refugees in Ganja opened in November 2014 – the humanitarian crisis has placed an enormous financial burden on the Azerbaijani economy

the title of this report, saying that the presentation of the situation of refugees in the South Caucasus with an ironical reference to a ‘numbers game’ is not at all a suitable approach. Armenian aggression resulted in the ethnic cleansing of Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs. The subject is Azerbaijan’s living for over 20 years with the humanitarian tragedy inflicted on one million people, one of the biggest human catastrophes since World War II. An MFA spokesman said there is no basis to doubt the demand by these people to return to their native land – a right supported by international law and humanitarian law. It is of crucial importance that such reports should be worded with accurate terminology, as Azerbaijani society is highly sensitive to these kinds of report.

Whatever their current situation, the fact is that these 250,000 Azerbaijanis are refugees and their plight should not be glibly dismissed in this way.

Conflict fuelled by the Armenian diaspora A new FCO report has recognised the part played by the Armenian diaspora in fuelling the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. In addition to the impact on Azerbaijani IDPs and refugees, this has also bankrupted the Armenian economy, as borders with two neighbours – Azerbaijan and Turkey – have remained shut since 1993, increasing Armenia’s reliance on Russia. It has consequently not benefited from any of the current or future energy pipelines carrying Azerbaijani oil and gas to Europe. Instead, the country joined the Kremlin-led Eurasian Economic Union (see p.4) on 1 January, despite the fact that international sanctions on Russia are, in turn, having a detrimental causal effect on the Armenian economy.

Armenia has the smallest economy and smallest population in the South Caucasus. According to the FCO report, it is estimated that the Armenian population only amounts to 2.9m persons and has shrunk by almost one million since 1992. Of those who have left, 70 per cent have begun new lives in Russia.

However, it is estimated that a staggering 8–10m Armenians live outside the country. Of these, the largest diaspora community is in Russia, amounting to 2.3m persons; the US, where the figure is 1.5m; and France, with 400,000. There are also sizeable populations in Lebanon, Ukraine, Argentina, Poland, Turkey, Iran and Canada.

The report stresses that diaspora Armenians are continuing to shore up the ailing Armenian economy. Since 1991, the country has received several billion dollars’ worth of financial support from US-based diaspora Armenians. Another example quoted is that of Armenians working in Russia, who are calculated to have accounted for 15 per cent of the Armenian official GDP in 2008, although it is possible the figure may be twice as high today.

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The Armenian diaspora has also made sizeable contributions towards the Armenian economy, health and education, including subsidising those regions of Azerbaijan that remain under illegal Armenian occupation. These areas have received high levels of support, both in terms of funding and technical assistance.

In many countries, the Armenian diaspora represents sizeable numbers of votes, and it has been successful in persuading many foreign governments to part with funds. It is estimated that the US has provided Armenia with $2bn (£1.3bn) of aid since 1992, making it one of the largest per capita recipients of US aid in the world. Much of this is due to the successful lobbying work of numerous high-profile diaspora groups in the US, many of which are staunchly nationalistic and therefore often at odds with the regime in Armenia.

Such tensions led to the downfall of Levon Ter-Petrosyan, the first President of independent Armenia, who had been prepared to make compromises with Azerbaijan. He also dared to criticise the unrealistic diaspora view of Armenian policy priorities. During his time in Opposition, he has further criticised the diaspora for not speaking out against Armenian democratic deficiencies.

Current President Serzh Sargsyan – a former military commander with roots in Nagorno-Karabakh – has attracted less criticism, but his attempt in 2009 to ‘normalise’ relations with Turkey was opposed by numerous nationalist groups.

This FCO report describes, in great detail, the enormous impact the influence of the Armenian diaspora has on the whole region.

It is steadily bankrupting this small nation, ensuring that it remains totally dependent on Russia, and vetoing any moves towards a peaceful diplomatic solution, based on international law.

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14

Business News

TAP appoints new Managing Director Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) AG has appointed Ian Bradshaw as its new Managing Director, starting on 1 February 2015. The company is headquartered in Baar, Switzerland.

Mr Bradshaw has 34 years of technical and commercial experience in the global oil and gas industry, in both project and corporate roles. He was previously employed by the BG Group, where he had worked in various senior executive positions since 2005. His most recent position was Senior VicePresident for Capital Projects, overseeing the delivery of the global project portfolio.

Prior to this, he was Senior Vice-President for BG Group in Australia.

His predecessor, Kjetil Tungland, will return to Norway after having headed the joint venture project for nearly five years and completed his Statoil secondment with TAP. He had joined TAP in April 2010, and successfully took the project to selection in June 2013.

Andy Lane, Chairman, TAP Board of Directors, said “I am delighted that we have hired Ian to lead the TAP project into its next important phase, as we prepare for pipeline construction beginning in 2016.

Ian has a wealth of oil and gas project

Ian Bradshaw is heading up the TAP project as it enters the construction phase

experience that will be a great asset in taking the project forward to completion.

“I would also like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the entire TAP board, to express our great thanks to Kjetil, for his determination, dedication and, above all, his strong and committed leadership to drive TAP towards extraordinary success.

This resulted in the selection of TAP in June 2013 as the preferred European export pipeline to transport Shah Deniz II gas to Europe.”

TAP will transport natural gas from the giant Shah Deniz II field in Azerbaijan

to Europe. The approximately 870kmlong pipeline will connect with the TransAnatolian Pipeline (TANAP) near the Turkish-Greek border at Kipoi, thereafter traversing Greece and Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Southern Italy.

TAP will facilitate gas supply to several South Eastern European countries, including Bulgaria, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia.

With first gas sales to Georgia and Turkey expected in late 2018, initial deliveries to Europe are expected to follow approximately a year later.

John Patterson receives OBE in New Year’s Honours John Patterson, Chairman, British Business Group (BBG), and Regional Manager, i2Offshore, has received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year’s Honours List. The citation reads ‘For services to British commercial interests in Azerbaijan’. Resident in Baku since 1998, John has chaired the BBG since 2009, having sat on the Committee as Events Secretary since 2000. The purpose of the BBG is to facilitate networking by new and

existing businesspeople, give and receive advice, and raise the profile of members’ companies.

Founded by John, i2Offshore is an international financial advisory company, focusing on the expatriate community. It also advises potential foreign investors on suitable projects in Azerbaijan. The BBG website is www.bbgaz.co.uk and the i2Offshore website is www.i2offshore.net.

John Patterson OBE is a stalwart of the British expatriate community in Azerbaijan

Pasha Bank acquires 80 per cent stake in Turkish bank The Turkish Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA) has granted permission to Pasha Bank, a leading Azerbaijani private investment and corporate financial institution, to acquire a controlling stake in TAIB Bank from Aksoy Holding of Turkey.

A statement from Pasha Bank read: “Pasha Bank and Aksoy Holding have enjoyed a strong working relationship over several years, making Aksoy Holding the perfect partner for Pasha Bank’s entry into the Turkish market.” Both Pasha Bank and Aksoy Holding saw a unique opportunity

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to leverage their trusted partnership and to apply the competence and capital that they share. By establishing a presence in Turkey, Pasha Bank will seek to capitalise on the increased trade and investment flows between Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, thereby serving their clients’ current and future banking needs.

for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking investment opportunities in Azerbaijan, Georgia, and other countries in the region. There are also plenty of opportunities for Azerbaijani investments into Turkish SMEs, and we hope that Pasha Bank’s presence in Turkey will aid the flow of investments and trade in the region.”

Farid Akhundov, Chief Executive, Pasha Bank, said: “We are excited to enter into this partnership agreement with Aksoy Holding, and look forward to working closely with Turkish corporates. We believe the Turkish market holds great potential, particularly

Batu Aksoy, CEO and Vice-Chairman, Aksoy Holding, said: “We are confident that this partnership will yield a very successful niche banking platform that will help businesses to grow, both in Turkey and the wider region.”

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Business News

15

TANAP Awards Construction Contracts The SOCAR-led consortium undertaking construction of the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) to deliver gas from the Shah Deniz II development in Azerbaijan to Turkey and Europe has selected three contractors to construct the approximately 1800km pipeline. According to the consortium, Fernas Insaat, the Sicim–Yuksel–Akkord Consortium and Tekfen Holding will build the pipeline, which will run from the Georgian–Turkish border and run westward to the Turkish town of Eskishehir. The three companies were selected following a tender process, and construction contracts were signed on 23 December in Ankara.

Fernas Insaat has secured Lot 1, comprising a 375km stretch of the TANAP pipeline from Ardahan–Posof–Türkgözü to Erzurum.

The Sicim–Yuksel–Akkord Consortium is responsible for a 450km length. According to Tekfen Holding, its construction unit Tekfen Insaat secured a $565m (£372.9m) deal to build a 509km section, which will be completed in three years.

The contracts for the remainder of the onshore section of TANAP spanning from Eskishehir to the Turkish–Greek border are yet to be awarded. The tender for the 18km offshore section of TANAP will be announced during the first quarter of next year, with a planning contract award being made during the third quarter of 2015. In early October, seven companies were awarded pipe supply contracts.

Turkish companies will provide 80 per cent of the steel pipes, with 30 per cent being supplied by the Borusan Mannesman–Noksel– Erciyas Consortium, 25 per cent by Ümran and Emek, and 25 cent

by Tosçelik Profil. The remaining 20 per cent will be provided by Chinese Baosteel Europe, based in Germany.

Three Turkish contractors have won the tender to construct the TANAP project

According to Rovnag Abdullayev, President, SOCAR, the TANAP ground-breaking ceremony will take place next spring, for a pipeline initially supplying 16bn 3 (bcm) a year. Of this, around 6bcm will be delivered to Turkey, with the remainder going to Europe. Gas from Shah Deniz II will reach Turkey in late 2018, and reach Italy through the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) in early 2020.

BP–SOCAR Absheron Peninsula exploration agreement BP and the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR) have signed an agreement to explore hydrocarbons resources in the shallow water area around the Absheron Peninsula in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. The move is part of the plan by the Azerbaijani government to ensure that all of Azerbaijan’s offshore areas are fully explored.

The production-sharing agreement (PSA) was signed by Rovnag Abdullayev, President, SOCAR, and Gordon Birrell, Regional President: Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey, BP. The PSA contract area stretches along the margins of the Caspian basin to the south of the Absheron Peninsula, and involves the exploration of prospective resources in depths of up to 40m, with potential reservoir depths of 3–5km.

Azerbaijani banking sector capitalisation exceeds AZN4bn Capitalisation of the Azerbaijani banking sector rose by 21.5 per cent year-on-year by November 2014, reaching AZN4.03bn (£3.4bn) by 1 December, according to a report from the CBA that covered the first 11 months of 2014.

The report said there were 42 banks with capital exceeding AZN10m (£8.4m) in the reporting period, with an additional bank having been

added during the year. The specific weight of this category of banks amongst the total capital of all Azerbaijani banks stood at 99.8 per cent during the reporting period. In late 2014, the CBA stipulated that the minimum total capital should amount to AZN50m (£42.1m) in late 2014. Azerbaijan currently has 44 banks, of which 42 are commercial and two are state-run. There are also 22 banks with foreign capital, and two local branches of foreign banks.

Turkish Ziraat receives bank license in Azerbaijan The Turkish state-run Ziraat Bank, the second largest in the country, has received a banking license to operate in the Azerbaijani market, following the passing of Central Bank of Azerbaijan (CBA) legislation aimed at restructuring the banking sector. The banking sector in Azerbaijan experienced high growth rates in 2013, according to the Azerbaijan Partnership Programme Snapshot released by the World Bank in October 2014, which states that the return on

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assets (ROA) reached 1.5 per cent.

However, according to the report, the Azerbaijani financial penetration indicator ranks amongst the lowest in Europe and Central Asia and this provided an opportunity for Ziraat Bank.

This Turkish bank employs more than 24,000 people in 1700 branches. It has opened offices in Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kazakhstan, Russia,

the UK, the US, Georgia, Bulgaria and Greece, amongst others. On 15 October, Ziraat Bank received permission from the Turkish banking regulator to establish a bank based on Islamic financial principles.

The CBA reforms recently introduced a new legal and regulatory framework for consumer protection and financial literacy, in addition to risk-based supervision, according to the World Bank report.

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01 / 2015

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