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Culture | Public Affairs Business | Philanthropy

(Photo: Andrew Wiard)

MORE THAN 2700 ACROSS EUROPE HEAR CALLS OF JUSTICE FOR KHOJALY Also in this issue: Aleksandras Brokas brings the truth of Khojaly to the silver screen TEAS Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus exhibition launched in London Isfar Sarabski’s ingenuity enthrals jazz fans at Ronnie Scott’s Belgian and Azerbaijani Ministers attend landmark TEAS event in Brussels BP acquires 12 per cent TANAP stake prior to groundbreaking 03 / 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 travel writer Mark Elliott, who won the competition in the February 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 6 April.

1.

How many people are estimated to have seen the Khojaly events across Europe, organised by TEAS under the auspices of the Justice for Khojaly campaign?

2. Who directed the film Endless Corridor?

3. Can you name one of the Paris-based Azerbaijani pianists who performed at the Khojaly Commemoration in Strasbourg?

4. Who is the Flemish Minister of Culture?

5. What is the name of the blood donation campaign that was supported by the Khojaly event in Vilnius?

6. Who is the regular drummer in the Isfar Sarabski Trio?

7. At which festival in Cannes did Isfar Sarabski perform last year?

8. Who won the TEAS Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus competition?

9. What stake does Fluxys hold in the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline?

10. Who is the Azerbaijani Energy Minister?

Upcoming Events For full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming events 13–29 March Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus (Nice) Musée National du Sport, Stade Allianz-Riviera, Boulevard des Jardiniers, 06203 Nice Opening hours: Tuesday–Sunday 11.00–17.00hrs. Admission Free.

TEAS and the National Museum of Sport in Nice are organising the exhibition Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus in recognition of Azerbaijan’s hosting of the forthcoming inaugural European Games in June 2015. The exhibition showcases 65 out of 300 photographs from over 50 photographers in 10 countries submitted for a TEAS competition of the same name.

23 March–7 April Azerbaijan Through the Lens (Prague) Galerie Villa Pellé, Pelléova 10, 160 00, Prague 6 Opening hours: Monday–Friday 13.00–18.00hrs Saturday–Sunday 11.00–1800hrs. Admission Free.

Following the successful Azerbaijan Through the Lens exhibitions in London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels, Istanbul and Bratislava, featuring photographs from TEAS’ photography competition, a Czech audience will now have chance to admire these striking images.

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Justice for Khojaly across Europe

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2700 remember Khojaly victims across Europe

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

From the TEAS Director

February is a month forever tinged with sadness for all Azerbaijanis, as it is when commemorations for the Khojaly Massacre, which occurred on 26 February 1992, take place.

Violinist Nazrin Rashidova led the FeMusa Orchestra – seen here in London – through a contemplative selection of works

This year, TEAS organised a wide series of events in 12 cities across Europe, as can be seen from the opening article in this issue of the TEAS Magazine. These were organised in conjunction with the international Justice for Khojaly campaign, which was established by Leyla Aliyeva in order to ensure that the deaths of 613 men, women and children are never forgotten.

As well as a series of concerts, this year saw the launch of a TEAS book on the atrocities entitled Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock. A dramatic new film documentary entitled Endless Corridor was also previewed in several cities.

This was produced by independent Lithuanian director Aleksandras Brokas (see pp.12–13), and traces the journey of Lithuanian journalist Richard Lapaitis, who had witnessed the aftermath of the massacre and returns to trace some of the survivors. The narration is by the acclaimed British actor Jeremy Irons.

A photographic competition launched by TEAS last year to celebrate the uplifting and unifying power of sport was unveiled in the photographic exhibition Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus, inaugurated at the OXO Gallery in London. This exhibition will tour Europe and help to focus attention on the first European Games, which are to be held in Baku from 12–28 June.

As we go to press, a major international conference entitled Azerbaijan–Belgium: Co-operation in Energy and Beyond is concluding at the Château of Val-Duchesse in Brussels. Attended by 120 diplomats, politicians (including ministers), journalists and businesspeople, this highlighted Azerbaijan’s pivotal role in the Southern Gas Corridor, which will bring Azerbaijani Caspian Gas to Central Europe, ensuring the future of pan-European energy security.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS 03 / 2015

Acclaimed tar player Arslan Novrasli brought the spirit of Azerbaijani mugham to the concerts in Paris and London in two moving works

The Khojaly Massacre on 26 February 1992 remains the worst single atrocity of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – claiming the lives of 613 civilians in 1992. The toll of those killed

by Armenian and Soviet forces included 106 women, 63 children and 70 elderly people, and the perpetrators remain unpunished.

In February, TEAS organised 15 events across Europe to raise awareness of the Khojaly Massacre under the auspices of the Justice for Khojaly campaign founded

by Mrs Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President, Heydar Aliyev Foundation, in 2008. This saw events in cities where TEAS has offices – London, Paris, Brussels, Berlin, Ankara and Istanbul – together with others where TEAS does not currently have representations – Bern, Rome, Vilnius, Dublin, Luxembourg and Strasbourg. It is estimated that 2700 people attended these Khojaly commemorations altogether.

All events were dedicated to the estimated 875,000 Azerbaijani internally displaced

London

A series of three Khojaly events in London began on 19 February, with a screening of the new independent documentary Endless Corridor, focusing on the Khojaly Massacre, at the prestigious May Fair Hotel in the heart of the British capital.

Speaking before the audience of over 200 politicians, VIPs, press representatives, members of the London public and

persons (IDPs) and refugees who are the victims of the ongoing conflict, and also to Dilham Asgarov and Shahbaz Guliyev. These two Azerbaijani civilians were taken hostage by the occupying forces in July 2014 when they crossed the ‘contact line’ to tend the graves of their relatives. In December, a so-called ‘court’ unlawfully sentenced the men to 22 years and life, respectively. This move constitutes a complete contradiction of the equitable trial process, which is enshrined in Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights. Victoria Nuland, Assistant US Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, also requested that these men should be immediately freed. Federica Mogherini, Vice-President, European Commission and High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has condemned this as an unlawful act, given they are civilians.

The events were as follows:

Azerbaijani diaspora representatives, Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, explained: “History is always open to debate and interpretation, but the events that occurred in Khojaly in 1992 did so in living memory.

In Ankara, I had the privilege of meeting one of the survivors of that night, Valeh Huseynov, who is featured in this film.

His wife was shot, and he was viciously tortured.” www.teas.eu

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Justice for Khojaly across Europe

Aleksandras Brokas, the renowned Lithuanian cinematographer, editor, and director and producer of Endless Corridor introduced his film, saying: “Tonight’s film took five years to make. This film is entitled Endless Corridor, and it was named when we started our journey going back 20 years.

Our purpose was to tell a story in order that it will never be repeated. However, five years on, we see new wars and people are being killed again. We hope that this film will result in the avoidance of fresh conflicts and show politicians that they must make the correct decisions.”

H.E. Tahir Tagizadeh, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, reflected: “Over 600 worlds were taken on that night, and honouring the victims’ memory brings back those worlds. It tells the story through very personal stories – such as the story of Valeh and the lady whose daughter was born against the backdrop of the conflict, and I thank the director for his work. Over the years, I have been frequently asked why the Khojaly Massacre remains an important topic in Azerbaijan, and whether Azerbaijan seeks retribution. We are not seeking revenge – we want to administer justice, and that is the only guarantor against repetition of such events. Justice for Khojaly is an excellent campaign, and helps to create a collective memory, without which a national mentality is impossible.

This film is excellent, because it explains why the Khojaly Massacre took place, and gives some possible explanations. In my view, that is a step forward. I thank the entire crew of the film for their work, and for helping revive those 613 worlds.”

Following this, two commemorative events took place on 24 February in the shadow of the Houses of Parliament. The first of these – an art installation – was organised at the parade ground of the renowned Chelsea College of Arts. The emphasis of the installation was to demonstrate the tragedy of each victim. It comprised 613 red T-shirts, each emblazoned with the name, date of birth and the same date of death – 26 February 1992. These were positioned on fences to form a maze, emphasising the tragic journey of death taken by the inhabitants of Khojaly on that fateful night. Smaller T-shirts represented the child victims, some of whom were just six months old, and more than 60 shirts were emblazoned with the slogan ‘unknown

victim’ – representing bodies that were mutilated beyond recognition.

Christopher Pincher MP, Chair, Azerbaijan All-Party Parliamentary Group, commented: “We are here to reflect on the 613 people who brutally lost their lives at the hands of the invading Armenian forces. The dead included women, children and elderly people. The T-shirts in this maze represent their lost lives. I hope we will all remember and reflect on what happened to them, and seek justice for the dead through the withdrawal of Armenian forces from Nagorno-Karabakh, and for a proper, sustainable and peaceful solution to be found to the conflict.”

He then released red balloons with a list of all the victims’ names into the London sky.

The guests and general public then toured the installation, where they were stunned into silence by the number of victims from that fateful night.

This was followed in the evening by a moving classical concert amidst the remarkable surroundings of the 18th century St John’s, Smith Square. Over 250 diplomats, business leaders, music journalists and members of the Azerbaijani diaspora and general public attended the concert.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, commented: “Music has a unique ability to move our emotions – it can make us remember and, on occasions, can help us forget. These concerts are bittersweet – sweet because the music is beautiful and haunting – and bitter, because we are here to remember 613 men, women and children who sadly died 23 years ago.”

Prior to the performance, each audience member held aloft one of the red T-shirts used a few hours earlier for the art installation. By doing so, they demonstrated their solidarity and identification with all those who lost their lives in the massacre.

The evening featured three outstanding Azerbaijani musicians – Arslan Novrasli, player of the tar, an Azerbaijani national instrument, developed in NagornoKarabakh; Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin); and Nazrin Rashidova (violin), who led her all-female FeMusa Orchestra.

In addition to the new work by French composer Pierre Thilloy entitled Lamento

Christopher Pincher MP, Chair, Azerbaijan All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) released a list of all 613 victims into the London sky

– In memoriam, performed by Sabina and Nazrin and incorporating a plaintive note on the violin, emulating the mugham singer, the programme comprised a mixture of Azerbaijani and European music. The selection was drawn from some of the most renowned Azerbaijani composers, including Gara Garayev’s Funeral Ode and two works featuring the evocative tar of Arslan Novrasli – Vasif Adigezalov’s Carnation and Azer Rzayev’s Meditation. These were performed alongside uplifting and reflective works by Antonio Vivaldi, Paul Lewis, Karl Jenkins and Gabriel Fauré.

The London Live television channel reported on both the art installation and Khojaly Commemoration Concert, and the half-hour programme was screened to an audience of 8.6m viewers at peak time across the capital during the following weekend.

Speaking from St. John’s, Smith Square, London Live presenter Claudia-Liza Armah said: “Tonight is all about commemorating the 23rd anniversary of the 613 people who died in the Azerbaijani town of Khojaly.” An hour-long version will be broadcast later in 2015.

Violinist Nazrin Rashidova concluded: “Music is the highest form of art, generating a great emotional response from audiences, and can transport them to a different world.

This is particularly the case with evocative Azerbaijani classical works that are rarely performed in the UK.”

Paris The Khojaly Commemoration Concert in Paris, comprising the same programme as the London concert, took place on 23 February amidst the stunning surroundings of the historic Théâtre Adyar. Dignitaries present included Mrs Nigar Huseynova, First Secretary, Azerbaijani Embassy to 03 / 2015

France and Pierre Thilloy, whose work Lamento – In Memoriam was premiered that evening, having been written in memory of the victims.

In June 1944, towards the end of World War II, the occupying Nazi forces

destroyed the French town of Oradoursur-Glane and 642 innocent townspeople were brutally executed. The devastated town has been left in its current state for over 70 years so the world does not forget the brutal impact of war on ordinary lives. Making a direct parallel with Khojaly www.teas.eu

Justice for Khojaly across Europe

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– whose death toll was similar – Philippe Lacroix, Mayor of Oradour and Benoit Sadry, Secretary, National Association for the Families of Martyrs, also attended the concert as a mark of solidarity. The ongoing volatility of the conflict was emphasised by vandalism of the walls and pavements around the theatre by an isolated group of Armenian extremists who daubed insulting comments concerning Azerbaijan.

Marie-Laetitia Gourdin, Director, TEAS France, explained: “Usually, when Azerbaijan is discussed in France, this focuses on its geographic situation and history. Often there is a lack of information, and that which is available is biased and misleading. The organisation of a concert of this kind is most appropriate, as it pays homage to the cultural legacy of the Azerbaijani occupied regions. The town of Shusha, for example, was the birthplace of many great Azerbaijani musicians, including Uzeyir Hajibeyli, father of Azerbaijani classical music.

“We are here to commemorate the memory of the civilian victims from a conflict that began with the fall of the Soviet Union and continues to impact the citizens of both Azerbaijan and Armenia. You are all here to discuss the solution and to consider justice and forgiveness. Such a move would create the ideal conditions for the prosperous development of both countries and enable the populations of both nations to live together harmoniously.”

Tar player Arslan Novrasli joined the members of the FeMusa Orchestra for a heartfelt performance of Azer Rzayev’s Meditation in Paris

The following day, Endless Corridor was screened at the Cultural Centre of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Paris, near the Eiffel Tower. The evening was jointly organised by the Azerbaijani Embassy to France, TEAS and the Association of Friends of Azerbaijan (AAA) and attended by around 80 diplomats, VIPs, and representatives from the arts and media.

In his opening speech, H.E. Elchin Amirbayov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to France provided detailed information about the consequences of the continuing Armenian aggression against Azerbaijan.

He went on to describe the Khojaly Massacre as indicative of the criminal policy of ethnic cleansing committed in Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding districts, which remain under Armenian occupation. Furthermore, he emphasised the crucial importance of spreading the truth throughout the world

about this most terrible episode of the tragic conflict. He expressed the hope that France would soon join other countries that have recognised the Khojaly Massacre as a war crime, and his wish that the perpetrators should be brought to justice.

Jean-François Mancel, MP, Member of the France–Azerbaijan Friendship Group at the French National Assembly, and Chairman, AAA, acknowledged: “Today, the screening of this documentary will help you to learn about the Khojaly Massacre through the narratives of the witnesses and their personal stories. It explains how and why this tragic event took place. The AAA knows how to bring together knowledge and cultures, but also how to share the grief, pain and suffering of the Azerbaijani people. That’s why the AAA is sharing the sadness caused by the infamous massacre in Khojaly.”

Luxembourg

Endless Corridor was screened at the Hotel Le Royal on 16 February, and the evening also focused on the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock. Speaking before the audience of 80 business people, students and press representatives, including Dr Marc Hübsch, President, Luxembourg–Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce and Eva Rodick, General Secretary, Karabagh Cultural Association, Azerbaijan–Luxembourg, the evening began with comments from H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the EU. He said: “Tonight’s film, Endless Corridor, is the best I have seen for explaining the Khojaly Massacre and outlining why we commemorate this day.

“At the end of February, Azerbaijanis across the world commemorate what happened on that fateful night in Khojaly.

Azerbaijan is coming to Europe as a success, but its recent history needs to be understood to stop history repeating. We paid a very high price for our freedom, and the Khojaly Massacre was part of that. Azerbaijan is one of the few countries in its neighbourhood to be truly free.

“I am a veteran of war. On 26 February 1992 I was in charge of escorting foreign journalists to see the aftermath of the Khojaly Massacre. I saw the murdered children and the other victims. I

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Speaking in Luxembourg, H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU vividly recalled his own experiences of the aftermath of the Khojaly Massacre

also saw the reaction of foreign journalists to this, and I knew that this message should be sent to new generations, not solely in Azerbaijan, but across the world. After Khojaly, there were many massacres across Europe – Azerbaijan wants to share its tragedy so such tragedies can be avoided in the future. Azerbaijan is a small, tolerant, stable and independent country, and that is the best tribute to the victims of the Khojaly Massacre.”

Ian Peart, Project Co-ordinator, TEAS Baku, stated: “I am one of the editors of the book, Khojaly Witness of a War Crime – Armenia in the Dock. I had been living in Azerbaijan for ten years when I was approached to collect first-hand testimonies from the people who were affected by and survived the Khojaly Massacre. After meeting the people who were directly impacted,

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Justice for Khojaly across Europe

your understanding goes to a different level. The publication contains first-hand accounts, and not just statistics – these people are living with what happened 23 years ago. This is the first independent publication about the Khojaly Massacre to

be published in the West in English.

“At the time, many foreign journalists had problems persuading their editors to publish what happened – the book contains first-hand media reports, published both in

the West and in Russia, and those from international human rights organisations.

Azerbaijan is currently being urged to compromise by international organisations, but when you have lost your wife, husband or home, that is impossible.”

Dublin

On 16 February, Endless Corridor was screened at The Light House Cinema – one of the most respected art cinemas in the Irish capital. The evening also saw the Irish launch of Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock.

Speaking before the audience of over 80 politicians, councillors, VIPs and representatives from the arts and media spheres, including Professor Farrel Corcoran, Dublin City University and Former Chair of Irish State Broadcaster RTÉ; Ellen Gunning, Presenter, Mediascope; and representatives of the Turkish, Argentine and Dutch Embassies to Ireland, Leon Cook, Communications and Marketing Director, TEAS, introduced the film. He said: “This is not a ‘frozen’ conflict, as it is often erroneously dubbed. Across the ‘contact line’ between Azerbaijan and the occupied territories, there is shooting on a daily basis, and the past year saw 72 deaths, the worst record since the ceasefire in 1994.”

Veteran Irish Senator Terry Leyden (Fianna Fáil) said: “I want to commend Aleksandras Brokas, the Lithuanian producer and director, and Gerald Rafshoon, the American co-producer, for undertaking the project and bringing the film to the big screen.

This was five years in the making and involved film professionals from 15 countries in order to provide an independent point-of-view on the situation in the region.

“Tonight’s documentary is about real events; real lives; real conflicts; and a real tragedy. As a national politician who is, and has been for many years, actively engaged in dialogue at international level – be that in Brussels, Strasbourg or elsewhere

Veteran Irish Senator Terry Leyden discusses the realities of the Khojaly Massacre with Leon Cook, Communications and Marketing Director, TEAS

across Europe and beyond – I have come to learn a great deal about Azerbaijan, its people, its issues, and chief amongst all of this, the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.”

Leon Cook spoke of the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock. He explained: “It is 23 years since the worst massacre of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over NagornoKarabakh. The perpetrators still dispute responsibility for what happened in and around Khojaly during that night.”

Strasbourg

A moving classical concert took place amidst the stunning surroundings of the Église Saint-Roch in Strasbourg on 18 February. More than 150 guests, including diplomats and representatives from international institutions, the private sector, civil society and media, attended the event.

H.E. Emin Eyyubov, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Council of Europe said: “The Khojaly Massacre, committed by Armenia in 1992, was a crime against all Azerbaijanis. This was a cruel mass slaughter, and took the lives of innocent, defenceless, civilians.”

Saida Zulfugarova performed a contemplative mix of Azerbaijani and European chamber music

Marie-Laetitia Gourdin, Head, TEAS France, explained: “It is appropriate that tonight’s commemoration takes the form

Renara Akhoundova’s spiritual music reflected the sombre thoughts and emotions of the audience

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of a classical concert, as a tribute to Azerbaijan’s intangible cultural heritage, as Khojaly is located in the Armenian-occupied Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, which is a cultural hub and synonymous with the development of the country’s music. The town of Shusha was known as the Conservatoire of the Caucasus. It was the birthplace for many of Azerbaijan’s leading musicians, singers and composers, including Sadigjan, who developed the Azerbaijani tar; many of the finest mugham singers; and the legendary opera singer Bul-Bul, who trained at La Scala, Milan.”

Reflecting the ambiance of the Salle Mozart, constructed during the Age of the Enlightenment in the 18th century, the concert

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Justice for Khojaly across Europe programme blended Azerbaijani and European classical and modern pieces, performed by two talented and internationally renowned Azerbaijani pianists who are long-term Paris residents – Renara Akhoundova and Saida Zulfugarova.

Renara focused on her own compositions, many of which take their point of departure from Azerbaijani folksong and mugham

Brussels

Over 400 diplomats, Ambassadors, European, Belgian and foreign representatives and other participants attended an outstanding concert on 19 February in the heart of Europe – Brussels.

This unique event was organised by TEAS Brussels, and Marc Verwilghen, Director, TEAS Brussels, said: “I am very proud to welcome all participants to the longestablished and renowned arts centre of Bozar in Brussels, in the heart of the EU. Across Europe, TEAS highlights the plight of the Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs. These people – with no voice – are unable to return to their homes and lands because of the illegal occupation of the Azerbaijani territory of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding regions by Armenian armed forces. Despite four UN Security Council Resolutions and 21 years of OSCE Minsk Group negotiations, there is still no progress.”

In his speech, Sven Gatz, Flemish Minister of Culture underlined: “On nights like these,

and are imbued with a spiritual dimension. One piece was entirely improvised, creatively channelling the thoughts and emotions of the audience as they reflected on the Khojaly Massacre. Saida Zulfugarova then joined Sarah Nemtanu (violin) and Alexander Somov (cello) to perform two classics from the Azerbaijani repertoire by Gara Garayev and her relative Ogtay Zulfugarov, in addition to works by Antonín Dvorák and Franz Schubert.

I would like to learn more about Azerbaijani culture and hear about the dramatic events of Khojaly. I remain confident that TEAS, which is organising this event, is open to constructive co-operation within countries.

The Justice for Khojaly commemoration concert at Bozar helps us to remember the terrible events in Khojaly in NagornoKarabakh.”

H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU, recalled: “The Khojaly Massacre was a terrible atrocity that occurred in February 1992. The same happened later in the Balkans and in Srebrenica.

Azerbaijan is a unique, modern, secular, and developed country. Despite the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan has managed to retain its stability, to develop, and become an important regional leader.

Unfortunately, nearly 20 per cent of our territory remains occupied by Armenian armed forces, and numerous violations

Azerbaijani violinist Sabina Rakcheyeva joined the Magma String Quartet and clarinettist Annelise Clément for Pierre Thilloy’s tone poem Khojaly 613, which starkly recalled that fateful night

Berlin

On 24 February, Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder of TEAS, introduced a screening of Endless Corridor at the Potsdamer Platz CinemaxX Berlin.

Karin Strenz, MP and Chair of the Germany–South Caucasus Parliamentary Friendship Group, spoke to an audience of around 350 politicians, businessmen, VIPs and media representatives. In her

Bern

Endless Corridor was shown at the Bellevue Palace Hotel in the Swiss capital of Bern on 20 February. The evening also saw the Swiss launch of the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock and a presentation of the book The Forgotten Conflict by Swiss journalist André Widmer.

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speech, she highlighted the importance of German–Azerbaijani relations.

Ian Peart, Project Co-ordinator, TEAS Baku and Co-editor of Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock, said: “This is the first independent publication to be published in English in the West about the Khojaly Massacre.

120 politicians, VIPs and press representatives, H.E. Akram Zeynalli, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Switzerland, opened the event explaining: “There are tragic pages in the history of almost all nations around the world, and Azerbaijan is no exception. This appalling crime happened quite recently, but has not been paid the attention it deserves by

Sven Gatz, Flemish Minister of Culture, acknowledged the importance of the commemoration

and actions are undertaken against our country on a regular basis. Even in this extremely difficult context, we believe in a peaceful resolution of this conflict, and hope that the European and international community will help resolve this. Tonight, we remember Nagorno-Karabakh, which remains in the hearts and minds of the Azerbaijani people, and particularly recall the souls of those who died in Khojaly.”

The programme of the concert also included the Belgian premiere of the Khojaly 613 tone poem by French composer Pierre Thilloy, dedicated to the massacre victims. The musicians Sabina Rakcheyeva (violin), Annelise Clément (clarinet) and the Magma String Quartet performed during this exceptional and emotionally-charged evening.

Unique in its presentation of irrefutable facts, the book includes interviews with witnesses of the events in Khojaly, materials published in the international press, the views of foreign researchers, reports from international organisations, and rare pictures taken by international photographers.”

the international community. The Justice for Khojaly campaign was launched in May 2008, and the atrocity has now been recognised by the parliaments of Colombia, the Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Honduras, Peru, Panama, Pakistan, Mexico, Jordan, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sudan, together with 15 US states.

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“Today’s campaign seeks to bring truth to the Swiss audience. We believe that the Swiss parliament, which always champions humanitarian values, will support our voice and join their colleagues in the aforementioned countries in a just assessment of the Khojaly Massacre.”

Ian Peart, Project Co-ordinator, TEAS Baku introduced the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock. He also explained the significance of the documentary Endless Corridor, commenting: “The stories are of ordinary

people whose lives were devastated by the Armenian invasion of their land. The international community always speaks of compromise. After all that the Azerbaijani people have given up and lost, what further compromise can we possibly expect of them? They have the right to go home.”

Swiss journalist André Widmer, when speaking about his book The Forgotten Conflict, recounted the devastation he had seen on the ‘contact line’ between Azerbaijan and the occupied territories.

Rome

Endless Corridor was screened amongst the 19th century splendour of the Grand Hotel Plaza in Rome on 23 February. Initially, H.E. Vaqif Sadikov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy, recalled his own vivid experiences of Khojaly. He had taken a party of international observers to the airport shortly before it was overrun by the Armenian armed forces and commented: “This commemoration falls near the anniversary of the Khojaly Massacre, a date that is very important for all Azerbaijanis. For the first time, the Italian public will be able to watch a documentary that shows the reality of what happened in our country 23 years ago. However, the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh does not belong to the past, but to present-day Azerbaijan. For over 20 years, Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding districts of Azerbaijan have remained under Armenian military occupation, equating to around 20 per cent of Azerbaijani territory.”

“Endless Corridor is a documentary, and the people you will see are real – they experienced first-hand the traumatic events which took place on that terrible evening in February 1992. Everyone who appears – Azerbaijani victims, Armenian perpetrators, Russian and European witnesses – tells their own story, unscripted. Only the narration by the acclaimed British actor Jeremy Irons is scripted.

“I attended a showing last week in London, and was fortunate enough to hear film director Aleksandras Brokas speak of making Endless Corridor. It took more than five years to finish, and involved technicians from 15 countries. But it was a labour of love for both Aleksandras and Richard Lapaitis, whose journey to rediscover the survivors of Khojaly is chronicled in this film.”

H.E. Vaqif Sadikov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy, explained the significance of screening Endless Corridor in Rome

Then Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, commented: “History is always open to debate and interpretation, and few countries have more history than Italy. However, I reiterate that the events that occurred in Khojaly in 1992 did so within living memory, and there is little doubt about what happened that terrible night.

Vilnius

On 24 February, representatives from the worlds of business, politics and showbusiness and members of non-governmental organisations gathered in Vilnius City Hall. During the commemoration, members of the Azerbaijani community in Lithuania – including H.E. Hasan Mammadzada, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Lithuania – donated blood, thereby contributing towards the saving of lives. Ambassador Mammadzada commented: “We are glad that representatives from various

Istanbul

On 23 February, Endless Corridor was screened in the heart of Istanbul’s Zorlu Center. The evening also saw a presentation of the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock. Speaking before an audience of over 200 politicians, VIPs and press representatives, Rena Rzaeva, Istanbul Representative, TEAS, explained: “We all know that, without respect for international borders, there can be no peace and, without this peace, there is no real justice. What happened in 1992 in Khojaly occurred before the world, in front of our very eyes, and the pain of this tragedy still continues to this day.

“Let us remember the year 1992 on a cold night in February, when 63 innocent

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He also recalled the admission by the Armenians he had interviewed of their deliberate and complete destruction of the Azerbaijani city of Aghdam. The fact that they strictly prohibited him from filming there was, in his eyes, a further admission of their guilt. He said: “In this time of ongoing conflict, we should not forget about Nagorno-Karabakh and its victims.

It is important to bring the perpetrators sooner or later to justice. In my lifetime, I would like to see Azerbaijani refugees and IDPs being able to return to their rightful homes.”

sectors and Lithuanian celebrities have decided to support the event Blood for Life.”

Prior to the screening of the documentary Endless Corridor, Juras Pozela, Lithuanian MP, and Mindaugas Urbonavicius, co-director of this independent documentary, outlined the realities of the Khojaly Massacre. Aleksandras Brokas, co-director of the film, was also in attendance.

children out of 613 lives were destroyed in the most agonising and horrific way.

The book we are proud to present sheds light on the realities of that catastrophic night in the town of Khojaly via firsthand testimonies. I hope that, with this valuable text and important film documentary, we are a few steps closer to achieving peace and justice for Khojaly.”

Hasan Zeynalov, Azerbaijani ConsulateGeneral to Turkey, continued: “We are here to commemorate one of the worst tragedies and crimes of the 20th century against mankind – the 23rd anniversary of the Khojaly Massacre. Armenian armed forces, together with the officers of the 366th regiment of the Soviet army, entered

the ancient Azerbaijani town of Khojaly whilst its residents were sleeping. The town was suddenly destroyed, together with 613 lives, including children and the elderly. Approximately 2000 people were taken hostage, and their fate remains unknown. Unfortunately, due to doublestandards, the world has still not fully acknowledged the Khojaly tragedy.”

Ian Peart, Project Co-ordinator, TEAS Baku and Co-editor of the book Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock, stated: “I had lived in Azerbaijan for 10 years when I was asked to interview survivors from Khojaly. When I had the privilege of speaking to these brave people, my understanding went to a completely different level. In particular, for

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Justice for Khojaly across Europe

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this Turkish edition, we are grateful to Mrs Leyla Aliyeva, founder of the Justice for Khojaly campaign. I hope you will read her foreword in this book and the heartrending recollections of the survivors and the objective accounts of the international observers. Finally, ask yourself what you can do to help these people get justice.”

Valeh Huseynov, a brave survivor of the Khojaly Massacre who was taken hostage by Armenian forces and lost his beloved wife, shared his horrific story of pain with the Istanbul audience. His testimony was included in the Endless Corridor film documentary. He said: “That night in Khojaly, under the Armenian bombardment of our town, we knew we had to escape, despite the constant attack

Showings of Endless Corridor across Istanbul were supported by a widespread advertising campaign

from all sides. Young children were not spared, women were beaten, and even the elderly suffered at the hands of the Armenians. I lost my wife right before my eyes, and could not save her. We were all helpless. I was tortured by the Armenians,

who knew that I was a guitarist, yet they broke my fingers and tore out my nails so that I could never play again.” The documentary was also screened across multiple cinemas in Istanbul, promoted by an extensive public marketing campaign.

Ankara

Endless Corridor was screened at the CerModern Museum of Modern Art in Ankara, Turkey on 17 February. The evening also saw the launch of the Turkish edition of the landmark publication Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock, the foreword for which was written

by Mrs Leyla Aliyeva.

Speaking before the audience of 100 politicians, Ambassadors, Members of the Turkish Parliament, VIPs and press representatives, Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, introduced the film. Sinan Ogan, Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Turkish Parliament and MP for the Igdir constituency, took the floor and encouraged Turks and the Turkish authorities to work towards ensuring that there is greater awareness of the Khojaly tragedy across Turkey. He commented that such books as Khojaly Witness of a War Crime: Armenia in the Dock should be widely distributed to universities, schools and libraries in Turkey. He said: “This massacre was not just directed towards Azerbaijanis – it was aimed at all the Turkic peoples.”

H.E. Faig Bagirov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Turkey, said: “The injustice of what happened in Khojaly cannot be left unrecognised. Justice has to be sought and implemented.”

Thoughts on Khojaly

Despite happening a mere 23 years ago, the Khojaly Massacre remains overlooked by the vast majority of the world’s media.

These commemorations touched the hearts of an estimated 2700 people, many of

In Ankara, Valeh Huseynov, a Khojaly survivor, vividly relived his excruciating memories

which are decision-makers and decisionformers in their respective countries. TEAS was pleased to contribute to the Justice for Khojaly campaign which does much to raise awareness of the massacre and gain

the support of the international community to increase pressure on Armenia so it returns Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding districts. Without that, the sacrifices of Khojaly were in vain.

Go to web.justiceforkhojaly.org for more information on the Justice for Khojaly campaign.

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Personalities – Isfar Sarabski

Isfar Sarabski – live from Ronnie Scott’s

Isfar Sarabski (piano), Makir Novikov (bass) and Alexander Mashin (drums) amazed a capacity audience at Ronnie Scott’s celebrated jazz club (Photo: Carl Hyde)

Despite still being only 25 years old, Isfar Sarabski is currently one of the most respected Azerbaijani jazz pianists. He first shot to prominence at the tender age of 19 years when he won the Solo Jazz Piano competition at the Montreux International Jazz Festival. Classically-trained at Baku Music Academy, Isfar is renowned for his eclectic style, combining classical, funk and post-bop influences to intoxicating effect. Having initially performed extensively at Baku Jazz Centre and at the Baku

International Jazz Festival, he has now played across Europe, headlining at festivals in Switzerland, Norway, France, Russia, and Georgia.

You are appearing this evening at Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club.

Which music will we will hear this evening?

Much of tonight’s programme will comprise my own compositions, many of which have been programmed for inclusion in my forthcoming debut commercial album, which is being produced in collaboration with TEAS. Tonight’s programme – in the classic trio format – will also include several jazz standards. Very often, I only decide the repertoire just before the concert.

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.

Tonight’s concert also features a set by pianist Amina Figarova and her septet. How would you describe the differences and similarities between your styles?

To me, Amina Figarova is a great personality, both as my compatriot and as a musician. In 2002, she brought her band to participate in the first Baku International Jazz Festival. She also gave a masterclass, in which I participated. Amina gave me much valuable advice, and this inspired me to continue my musical career. We are now sharing the same bill, which is a great responsibility and joy for me.

I frequently listen to the music of Amina, although I would not say there are many similarities between our styles. Her concepts are very interesting, and there are even some Azerbaijani folk elements, but she has a strong American-influenced jazz style. I always listen closely to the music of Amina Figarova.

How has you career developed since we last spoke in 2012?

Much has changed since that time, including my attitudes and relationship with music. I am delighted that my musical career has developed. I have modified my attitude towards musical exercises and have now adopted a totally different approach to music. I wouldn’t call it more mature – however, when you’re still a child, you tend to avoid difficult music – and I have now decided to embrace difficulty to reach a higher degree of mastery and to confront the musical challenges.

I often perform with Makir Novikov (bass) and Alexander Mashin (drums), who are on the album. However, it has been my dream for many years to perform with some of the musicians on the album,

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Isfar came to London to perform at Ronnie Scott’s legendary jazz club in Soho, where he shared the bill with the New Yorkbased Azerbaijani jazz pianist Amina Figarova. The concert was organised as part of the Buta Festival of Azerbaijani Arts.

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. including drummer Mark Guiliana and bassist Alan Hampton. It is really amazing to play with such musicians. I also gave several concerts with the famous drummer Terri Lyne Carrington, who I met at the UNESCO International Jazz Day – organised by Herbie Hancock – and played with tenor saxophonist Igor Butman. I have performed several times in the US, and often was invited primarily to play one of my own compositions – the funky G-Man. You also recorded an album that was issued by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. How was this critically received?

This was more of a demo album and was recorded with Alexander and Makir for distribution at the MIDEM Festival in Cannes – it was not commercially issued. The TEAS-produced album will be the first to be commercially released.

Which other projects are you working on at the present time?

I am greatly interested in electronic music, which is not really jazz, and have been focusing on videomapping. I was recently commissioned to undertake a videomapping project for the History of Azerbaijan sequence of a film that was premiered by projecting on the exterior of the Heydar Aliyev Centre. This covered Azerbaijan from ancient times to the present day. I undertook a similar videomapping project to accompany documentary photos

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Personalities – Isfar Sarabski

by Sitara Ibrahimova, and my music combined improvised and composed pieces. I am using a range of systems, including music software and synthesisers. However, in the future, I would like this music to be performed by real instruments.

You have also composed for some of the Azerbaijani national instruments. Is this a new direction for your work?

I have recently incorporated a tar in one of my compositions, and I may continue working with the national instruments in the future.

However, I want such compositions to sound as professional as possible, and for the instruments to be treated with respect. I will not only write for Azerbaijani national instruments – I aim to combine the traditional instruments from many countries. I like

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such instruments because they generate a special atmosphere and embody a great deal of heritage.

Your variations on Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Ballet rank amongst the most popular pieces in your current repertoire.

Will you compose any further pieces based on classical themes?

This may well happen, but I need to formulate such ideas in my brain. It’s important that any resultant piece sounds interesting and is worthwhile.

For more information and to hear examples of Isfar’s music, go to www.isfarsarabski.com.

Culture Sporting achievement in focus at London’s OXO Gallery Azerbaijan’s forthcoming hosting of the inaugural European Games has been placed firmly in the spotlight at the opening of a new exhibition in London’s prestigious OXO Gallery on the South Bank of the Thames. Opened on 27 February, the Azerbaijan – Sport in Focus exhibition showcases 65 out of 300 photographs from over 50 photographers in 10 countries submitted for a competition of the same name. The exhibition and competition were organised

by TEAS with the support of the Baku 2015 European Games Organising Committee (BEGOC).

During the opening, attended by over 100 politicians, diplomats, photographers, and sports aficionados, Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, commented: “The European Games will be an historic event for Azerbaijan, as it will be the first opportunity for this young and dynamic country to organise an international sports competition on this level. TEAS is proud that its exhibition Azerbaijan Sport In Focus has received the official support of Baku 2015, the organisers of the European Games. This exhibition showcases the universality and values of sport as Baku prepares to host the Games.”

To be hosted from 12–28 June, the European Games will feature 20 sports – 16 of which are Olympic disciplines. Of these, 12 sports will offer qualification opportunities for the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. It is thought that more than 6000 athletes from over 50 countries will be hosted in Baku.

photographic genre to the other jury members, and maybe saw the images from a different point-of-view, and this led many creative discussions.”

Agdes Baghirzade commented: “I knew it would be difficult to remain objective when shortlisting images and selecting the winners. These images reflect the first European Games, and my country is doing its best to ensure these Games are perfectly organised. Despite being a very experienced photographer, Dilavar had not previously participated in a photographic competition, and I am delighted that he won.”

The second prizewinner was French photographer and videographer Paul Robion for his outstanding photograph Ipanema – Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), an evocative, sepia-toned virtual silhouette that encapsulates the enormous popularity of football in Brazil. It also connects the European Games with the Rio 2016 Olympics.

The third prize was given to Azerbaijani street photographer Rufat Abas for his photo Final Instructions, which captures a tense moment at the start of a motor race. Rufat’s first book Life in Black and White was published in 2012, and a year later his exhibition Street, Life, Emotion opened in Baku. The first Formula 1 race in Baku will be held in 2016. The exhibition moved to the French National Museum of Sports in Nice on 12 March, before touring Europe.

First prize was awarded to the experienced Azerbaijani sports photographer Dilavar Najafov for his iconic image Towards Glory, capturing the supreme athleticism of a rhythmic gymnast’s routine. Dilavar has toured the world in order to capture the zenith of sporting achievement with his lens, and has spent nearly two decades working as a staff photographer for the Azerbaijani Ministry of Youth and Sport.

The submissions were judged by a panel of three internationallyacclaimed photographers – Ed Kashi, Co-founder of the VII Photo Agency and winner of the 2011 World Press Photo competition; Philipp Rathmer, who is best-known for his celebrity and fashion portraits; and Azerbaijani photographer Agdes Baghirzade, who specialises in capturing the faces and nature of her homeland.

Philipp Rathmer explained the rationale behind the selection of winners and runners-up, saying: “It was difficult to sit on the jury – there were many discussions between the three jurors, due to the high quality of the entries. I feel the selected images are very beautiful and of excellent quality. I am from a different

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Competition judges Agdes Baghirzade and Philipp Rathmer discussed the entries in an emphatic manner

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Personalities – Aleksandras Brokas

Aleksandras Brokas – bringing the truth of Khojaly to the big screen

Aleksandras Brokas is a renowned Lithuanian cinematographer, editor, director and producer. He initially worked for Finnish television, but became fascinated with the story of Azerbaijan, seeing the parallels with the post-Soviet experience in his own country. This led him to explore the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, including the Khojaly Massacre, which claimed the lives of 613 civilians in 1992. The resultant documentary film, entitled Endless Corridor, has just been screened across Europe, and negotiations are currently underway with international television channels to ensure that it is shown across the world. TEAS caught up with Aleksandras when he visited London to introduce his film before a packed cinema at the May Fair Hotel:

How did you originally hear about Lithuanian journalist Richard Lapaitis and his quest to find out the truth behind the Khojaly Massacre?

Actually the whole story was derived from tiny fragments, and when we started production of the film, I tried to uncover every aspect of this topic. It was very important to find a Lithuanian peg for the topic. The background of the story was the fall of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s, because Lithuania experienced the same situation as Azerbaijan, having organised uprisings against Soviet oppression. There were further parallels following the Soviet collapse, as three of Lithuania’s neighbours are Russia, Poland and Belarus. Soon after independence, our new leaders were telling the population not to trust anyone, or believe foreign powers, as this could be provocation that could bring about an end to the country’s newly-won independence.

The tragedy of Azerbaijan – the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – is similar to that of our nation. We researched the contemporary media reports, and discovered that one Lithuanian journalist at the time had been filing stories about Nagorno-Karabakh – and he was named Richard Lapaitis. I read a couple of stories that were clearly written from the conflict zone.

I then tried to contact him so he could tell his story and, when we met, he explained that he was a travel writer. Cycling through many states that were still under Soviet domination, he initially visited Yerevan, in the aftermath of the 1988 earthquake. During his time in the mountains, he heard a story that he was at risk from some Azerbaijanis. He stopped his trip, even though originally he planned to cycle through all Soviet countries. He told his story and started telling me what he saw, how he went to Azerbaijan, what he tried to do, and the atrocities that he witnessed.

Did he intend to write about his experiences?

Yes – he wrote extensively, and told the story of the conflict from all sides. When a country is in conflict, there are always two perspectives and I wanted to find internationally recognised journalists who were not directly involved in the conflict. That’s how we found Victoria Ivleva, a Russian journalist who came with the Armenians. When she started telling her story about the aftermath of the Khojaly Massacre, she said that she found a little baby who was only couple of days old that she reunited with Mehriban, her mother. When we started combining pieces of that puzzle, the story came out. All the people were connected – they are all victims and observers of the situation.

It was really interesting, because we looked at the Khojaly Massacre from different veiwpoints using various human stories.

Richard found Valeh Huseynov, who he met in the hospital and they were reunited after 20 years. He was a musician – I thought it was important to find ordinary people. Politics can just mix everything up – if you want to learn the real story, you have to go

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Aleksandras Brokas outlined the motivation behind the making of Endless Corridor prior to the London screening at the May Fair Hotel

to the normal people, and that’s how we found those great stories.

We then found an Azerbaijani journalist named Shahin Haciyev, who claimed to know Victoria Ivleva, who had shot many famous photographs of the conflict. He introduced her, and we started looking for Mehriban. We were successful and found this woman and her daughter after 20 years – although sadly she was traumatised, unable to speak, and died two weeks after shooting began. We shot the film at exactly the right time – many of the people featured in the film have now died. Richard was an excellent connection and we trusted him from the outset.

Endless Corridor took five years to make. What challenges did it present?

Altogether 15 countries were involved in production of this film, including Azerbaijan, Armenia, Lithuania, Finland, Estonia, Russia, the UK, the US, Switzerland, Italy, Germany and France.

The project involved so many countries for various reasons – for example, France became part of the project when we had trouble at Yerevan airport, and Finland became another part when we needed to film after the Yerevan earthquake.

The inclusion of Georgiy Vanan, an activist from Armenia, added new breath to the story. He told us very important facts from Armenian history, and bookended the film with his testimony.

The editing took one year – there were 150 hours of interviews and 150 hours of archive material to select from.

One of the most notable aspects is that the documentary contains interviews with Armenian military commanders. How did you find them, and why were they willing to participate in the film?

It was our job to find them, and the big international team was able to track them down. Filming them was a challenge – two teams were deported from Armenia, but the third was able to stay.

The situation became even worse when the Armenian authorities became aware of my name and realised the type of film we were shooting. I have still not been able to visit Armenia myself.

These military commanders have been telling these stories for the past 20 years and they have been included in countless Armenian documentaries, where their actions have been praised.

Soon after Endless Corridor was completed, a documentary was released in Armenia on the Khojaly Massacre. These same

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Personalities – Aleksandras Brokas commanders gave the same testimony, but in a different context, where they were eulogised for their leadership qualities.

There is a no attempt to judge anyone in Endless Corridor. We are just giving them the opportunity to talk and to recall what happened. I am unaware if the Armenian commanders have actually seen our film.

We persuaded the Armenian crew to make that part of the film under the guise that it was a travelogue.

How does Endless Corridor differ to other documentaries on the Khojaly Massacre?

Actually, I haven’t seen any other films about the Khojaly Massacre – but I can certainly tell you that this was the first film where every side was represented.

The film contains interviews with Russian, Azerbaijani and Lithuanian journalists, Armenian activists and survivors of the massacre. Everyone is trying to explain their position – it was important to find new stories and new angles. We interviewed people who had never previously told their stories.

By speaking to these people and uncovering their stories, you can understand that the tragedy is not just for the Azerbaijani nation – it is a tragedy for the entire world.

We started shooting the film some years ago, but the situation for these people has not changed. Even though the Khojaly massacre is over 20 years ago, its impact is fresh in the minds of these people. It will take five generations to expunge this tragedy from the public consciousness.

We cannot change the past – but we can foresee and change the future.

In a moving vignette, Russian journalist Victoria Ivleva was reunited with the child she rescued in the aftermath of the massacre

It is important for people to realise that they do not want their children, relatives and families to undergo such carnage. It is necessary for the international perspective on such events as the Khojaly Massacre to change. The purpose of Endless Corridor is to help create a peaceful Caucasus.

How is Endless Corridor being distributed, and has it been entered for competition?

We are just starting the distribution phase. Our initial idea was to enter Endless Corridor for film competitions

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and festivals, and we are still going to do so. In June 2014, it was presented at the British Academy for Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) in London, and we are now working to develop television distribution.

We have a contract with CNN and are collaborating with other channels. I am hoping that this story will be widely shown across the world.

How did you gain the trust of ordinary people so you could record their experiences?

It was very difficult to shoot interviews in the regions of Azerbaijan. The village residents had never previously seen a camera, and it took hours to get their trust and to record their testimonies. They were initially suspicious about how their interviews would be used, and regarded their stories as being family secrets – particularly the women.

For example, it took a full week to prepare for the meeting between Victoria Ivleva and Mehriban. We knew all the angles from which it would be shot, because the meeting would only happen once and had to be shot in the most effective way.

You were initially a cinematographer.

Where did you study?

My first experience was in Finland, working for the main channel on Finnish television. I love the Scandinavian pointof-view, and deliberately used lenses from old Soviet Zenith cameras. The opening scene, when Richard was passing by train through the tunnel, was shot with such a lens. The train itself dated from the Soviet period, and it really looked as if we were exploring his memories and recreating the atmosphere of the 1990s.

This was actually my first film as a director, and it changed my life, as I participated in every single step. Then Gerald Rafshoon came in as Executive Producer, and he produced the English version of the film.

He brought in leading British actor Jeremy Irons to deliver the voiceover for the English version, and made the film have international appeal. The film features five languages, but he ensured that all dialogue was translated into naturalistic English and that the voiceovers were recorded in the best studio with the most experienced English actors. This elevated the film to a new level. It is always useful to have input from someone who wasn’t involved in the production process.

Jeremy Irons was not initially aware of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, or the Khojaly Massacre, but he read around the subject and made many changes to the text to

In Endless Corridor, Khojaly survivor Valeh Huseynov recalled the shooting of his wife and his own torture whilst in Armenian captivity

ensure that uninitiated audiences would understand the situation. He recorded his voiceover in 2013, and achieved an Oscar nomination the same year.

How long did you stay in Azerbaijan, and what were your impressions of the country?

Altogether, I was there for around two years, although I was not consistently living in the country. The filming took place over a three-year period in many locations. I grew to like Azerbaijan – I discovered that people in the Caucasus really are very hospitable, helpful and love sharing their traditions and cuisine. Many aspects of the Azerbaijani personality are sadly missing in the western world.

I discovered that there are wonderful cross-generational relationships within all families. In the West, we have lost this sense of respect between family members. The role of the mother inside the family is very important, and I dream of making a film about Azerbaijani women.

There are many facets of Azerbaijan waiting to be investigated and filmed. I gave some little masterclasses in Baku and this enabled local film-makers to discover themselves. Azerbaijan has a unique, interesting and deep culture.

It is a very educated country, and I was surprised to discover that so many people have studied in good European universities and speak fluent English and Russian. They also know how to preserve their traditions. I found that Azerbaijan has very specific culture, and we undertook a cultural project in the country featuring very interesting and talented artists, musicians, and dancers.

How was Endless Corridor received in Azerbaijan?

The film tells of the pain of the Azerbaijani nation, and I have learned that Azerbaijani people always support each other. Three years ago, a rough cut was screened on the 20 th anniversary of the massacre, and received an excellent response. I could see the tears in the viewers’ eyes.

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Business News

Azerbaijani and Belgian energy specialists discuss future dynamic collaboration The current and future role of Azerbaijan as an energy supplier and transit country was highlighted at the landmark Azerbaijan– Belgium: Co-operation in Energy and Beyond international conference – jointly organised by leading Belgian energy infrastructure specialist Fluxys and TEAS Brussels on 10 March.

The event was appropriately hosted at the 18th century Château of Val-Duchesse, which hosted the conferences that led to the creation of the European Economic Community (forerunner of the European Union) in 1957. More than 120 specially invited diplomats, ministers, Belgian politicians and businesspeople attended the conference.

In December 2013 the $45bn final investment decision (FID) on the Southern Energy Corridor was signed between the BP-led Shah Deniz Consortium and the Azerbaijani government, which will see Azerbaijani Caspian gas brought from the Shah Deniz 2 field to Europe, delivering energy to Turkey, Greece, Italy and Bulgaria. Groundbreaking took place at the Sagachal Terminal in September 2014, and it is expected that the first gas will arrive in Turkey in 2020. The gas will pass through the South Caucasus Pipeline expansion (SCPX), the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) and the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP).

in the lead up to the EU Eastern Partnership Summit in Riga, we will assess how we can increase our collective co-operation with Azerbaijan.”

Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijani Minister of Energy, recalled: “Such successful EU–Azerbaijani energy projects as the Baku–Tbilisi– Ceyhan (BTC) oil and Baku–Tbilisi– Erzurum (BTE) gas pipelines have already demonstrated the role of Azerbaijan in ensuring energy security. The joint EU–Azerbaijani declaration on the Southern Gas Corridor was signed in Baku in 2011, recognising Azerbaijan as a substantial contributor to and enabler of the Corridor, with a significant role in providing a new source of gas to Europe.

Marc Verwilghen, Director, Brussels Office, TEAS, and former Belgian Energy Minister, introduced the event, saying: “The creation of a pipeline system carrying Azerbaijani hydrocarbon resources to Europe, via Turkey, began a decade ago, breaking the Russian monopoly over the exporting of Caspian energy resources and providing Europe with an important source of diversification.

“It was timely to organise this event to remind Europe that the Southern Gas Corridor should be steered at the highest political level in Europe and Belgium, in addition to Azerbaijan. The importance of this strategy cannot be underestimated.”

Didier Reynders, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, continued: “I hope this conference will provide new opportunities to increase the level of our vital trade and investment. Two Belgian delegations are to visit Baku in April – one is trade focused, and I will lead the other as Chair of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. Bilateral relations between Belgium and Azerbaijan are in excellent shape – numerous Belgian companies are currently active in Azerbaijan, including those in the construction, healthcare and solar energy sectors.

“Belgium’s premier gas infrastructure specialist Fluxys – coorganiser of today’s event – recently increased its stake in TAP from 16 to 19 per cent. This massive project will bring Azerbaijani gas to European markets, and change the energy landscape across the continent. Fluxys is collaborating very closely with the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR). Fluxys is now offering its gas transit services to its Greek counterpart, DESFA, so its role in this essential project will further increase.

There are opportunities for Belgian companies in the areas of energy, energy storage, energy efficiency, renewable energy and water distribution. Belgium can also supply such services as dredging, in which it is a world specialist. In 2013 Belgian– Azerbaijani bilateral trade amounted to €51.7m (£37m), compared to €33.7m (£24m) in 2009.

“Azerbaijan held the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe before the current Belgian presidency.

I will visit Baku as Chairman of the Committee of Ministers, and

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Marc Verwilghen, Director, Brussels Office, TEAS, and former Belgian Energy Minister, chaired the opening session, flanked by Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijani Minister of Energy (left) and Didier Reynders, Belgian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs (Photos: Airdrone WebTV)

“This led to the signing of the agreements concerning TAP and TANAP, and the first meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku took place earlier this year. The EU, many financial institutions and all partners have reconfirmed their commitment to the Southern Gas Corridor. The project requires the drilling of 26 subsea wells, construction of a new refinery in Sangachal and development of the SPCX to increase its capacity.

Around 25 per cent of the Southern Corridor is completed and first gas will come to Europe by 2020.”

Stephen Gallogly, Head: Europe, Middle East and Africa Division, International Energy Agency, commented: “The distance between Brussels and Baku is over 3500km, but in energy terms this is insignificant. Azerbaijani hydrocarbon developments will impact European energy security, including that of Belgium. It is now the turn of natural gas to add another success to Azerbaijan’s energy development. The Southern Gas Corridor will help diversify sources of energy for Europe. Azerbaijan’s contribution to the Southern Gas Corridor is essential.

“By 2020, coal-fired power stations will be decommissioned across Europe, as will most nuclear power stations. There will be a greater requirement for gas imports, and the Southern Gas Corridor is designed to potentially carry gas from Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, Central Asia, Iraq and Iran, amongst other countries.

“However, the first gas will be Azerbaijani, and the groundbreaking project for the TANAP project will take place in Kars, Turkey, next week, attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.”

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Business News Walter Peeraer, CEO, Fluxys, outlined: “Fluxys builds and operates the infrastructure carrying energy from the producer to the user-market, and has been at the crossroads of international gas flows in Belgium for decades. Azerbaijani gas will be the new complementary source for Europe. I appreciate the current and future potential of Azerbaijan in ensuring the energy security of Europe. Our partnership in TAP is for the long-term, and as a transmission operator we are sharing our expertise and bringing value to the project.”

Murad Heydarov, Advisor to the President, SOCAR, concluded: “The Southern Gas Corridor brings together many stakeholders and players. The meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory

Panel indicates this level of co-operation, and its objective is to reduce excessive bureaucracy and provide a real framework for practical implementation. There were direct references to Azerbaijan in the Final Framework Paper of the EU Energy Union, published two weeks ago. The EU new framework document indicates Azerbaijan as a strategic partner. The Southern Gas Corridor is a practical response to existing challenges regarding EU energy security.”

The event ended with a lively question-and-answer and networking opportunity, accompanied by the duo of leading Azerbaijani violinist Sabina Rakcheyeva and pianist Ricardo Gosalbo.

Caspian Oil and Gas on the horizon Over 250 companies are expected to participate in the 22 nd Caspian Oil and Gas International Exhibition and Conference, to be held from 2–5 June 2015 at Baku Expo Centre. As an internationallyrecognised platform and major event in the oil and gas calendar, the exhibition and conference attracts senior-level directors to discuss key projects in the Caspian region and to outline their role in ensuring the future of pan-European energy security.

The Azerbaijani Energy Ministry and SOCAR support the conference and exhibition, and the organisers are ITE Group and its partner Iteca Caspian.

Confirmed sponsors include AZFEN J.V.,

Azeri M-I Drilling, Baker Hughes, Bos Shelf MMC, Caspian Drilling Company, Caspian Geophysical, Caspian Marine Services, Caspian Pipe Coatings, Chelpipe, Cross Caspian, Global Energy, Inpex, the Turkish Petroleum Corporation (TPAO), Tekfen Construction, Total and Schlumberger.

The exhibition the Nobels and Baku Oil, comprising paintings by Irina Eldarova, will be hosted alongside the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference, commissioned by the National Art Museum of Azerbaijan and Iteca Caspian. This will commemorate the 135th anniversary of the establishment of the Branobel Oil Company in Azerbaijan. The names of

BP acquires 12 per cent stake in TANAP On 13 March, BP signed an agreement to acquire a 12 per cent stake in the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) project, thereby reducing the SOCAR stake from 70 to 58 per cent. The agreement was signed in Ankara between Taner Yildiz, Turkish Energy Minister; Rovnag Abdullayev, President, SOCAR; Mehmet Konuk, Deputy General Manager, Turkish Petroleum Pipeline Corporation (BOTAS); Saltuk Duzyol, General Manager, TANAP; and Gordon Birrell, General Manager, BP Azerbaijan.

TANAP forms a major element of the Southern Energy Corridor, carrying Azerbaijani Caspian gas to Europe through Turkey.

Mr Yildiz said: “TANAP has faced many political and economic

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Alfred, Robert and Ludvig Nobel are now well-known throughout the world. Most people associate these names primarily with the Nobel Prize, but the majority of the Nobel legacy comprises capital from Branobel, which existed from 1876–1920.

Currently, 7–12 per cent of the Nobel Foundation funds derive from oil production in Baku and the Absheron Peninsular. The innovative Nobel Brothers also made a significant contribution towards mechanised oil exploitation, and launched the first oil tanker, railway tanker truck and laid the first oil pipeline, amongst other innovations. For full details of the conference and exhibition, go to www.caspianoilgas.az.

obstacles throughout its development, however Turkey will always fully support the project.” He went on to explain that the downturn in oil prices would not affect completion, and expressed his country’s full confidence in all partners, including BOTAS, which holds 30 per cent.

Gordon Birrell predicted that Turkey would become a major energy hub over the next five to ten years, and commented that becoming a TANAP partner was an important step for BP and would ensure Turkish energy security. The official groundbreaking of the 1800 km long pipeline is scheduled for 17 March in Kars.

Caspian Corridor Conference hosted at EBRD The third Caspian Corridor Conference, hosted at the European Bank of Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) in the City of London on 12 March, discussed the Southern Energy Corridor and other regional issues. The main focus of the event was to highlight the current and future role of Caspian resources in strengthening energy security in Europe. The meeting was organised by TheCityUK, International Bank of Azerbaijan, Britain–Azerbaijan Business Council and Asia House.

Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijani Energy Minister, commented: “There is clear political will on the side of the countries involved in the project for it to succeed. The Southern Energy Corridor is a global, possibly unique, project in terms of its scope, financing and complexity – and in terms of a lot of construction being not only upstream, but also midstream. The project will not only bring

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a new source of energy to Europe, but also introduce cuttingedge technologies to the Caspian.”

Riccardo Puliti, Managing Director, Energy and Natural Resources, EBRD, gave one of the keynote speeches saying: “The Southern Energy Corridor is very important, because it provides greater energy security for the consuming countries in the EU and Western Balkans by diversifying sources and supply routes. There are great opportunities for Turkey and other transit countries. It is also very important, of course, for energy-producing countries, such as Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.” Other subjects discussed at the conference included trade, regional development and financing, the need to boost innovation and the necessity for reform in the financial rule of law.

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