10 October 2016

10 / 2016 www.teas.eu

POPE FRANCIS IN BAKU – PRAISES TOLERANCE AND CALLS FOR KARABAKH PEACE

10 / 2016www.teas.eu

Also in this issue: EU–Azerbaijani dialogue resumesAzerbaijani population to reach 12m by 2050New name, new office: TEAS Benelux opens its doorsFive Roads Back Home coming to LondonEndless Corridor screened on Al Jazeera

Culture | Public Affairs | Business

Enter the TEAS competition and win £100 of Amazon vouchers


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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 opinion- formers, 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.

Welcome to the TEAS Magazine

FacebookThe 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 SponsorshipTEAS 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: [email protected].

Firstly, our congratulations go to Pamela Mounter, winner of the competition in the September 2016 edition. 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 [email protected] by 17.00hrs (GMT) on 7 November:

1. On what date did Pope Francis make his historic visit to Baku?2. How many Paralympic Games medals did the Azerbaijani team achieve?3. Who is the President of the World Jewish Congress?4. In which French city did a performance of Khojaly 613 close the Les 2 Mondes Festival?5. What is the title of the new album by violinist Nazrin Rashidova?6. In which London gallery will the Five Roads Back Home exhibition be hosted?7. In which prestigious college does renowned printmaker Edward Twohig hold the position of Director of Art?8. On which international television channel has the documentary Endless Corridor been screened?9. At which food trade fair has Gilan recently exhibited?10. Which Russian airline is about to launch flights from Rostov-on-Don to Baku?

Win £100 of Amazon vouchers!

18 November: Elchin Shirinov Trio (part of the London Jazz Festival)Pizza Express Jazz Club, 10 Dean Street, London, W1D 3RW. 20.30hrs. Call +44 (0)20 74394962 to book tickets.

TEAS is pleased to support this performance by the outstanding Azerbaijani pianist Elchin Shirinov. Seamlessly blending pianistic pyrotechnics and mugham into an intoxicating aural ethnojazz experience, these gigs come on the tail of successful performances in Reims, the Festival Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris and the Spice of Life and Vortex Jazz Clubs in London. The other trio members are Andrea Di Biase (bass) and Dave Hamblett (drums).

24 November: Private View: Five Roads Back Home exhibition (London)Old Truman Brewery, 91 Brick Lane, London, E1 6QL. 18.30hrs. RSVP via EventBrite at http://bit.ly/frbhlondonPublic opening hours: 25–29 November; 10.00–17.00hrs

In July 2012, photographer Philipp Rathmer visited four camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Azerbaijan, who are the ongoing victims of the Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions. He met the people and heard their stories. Solely using his camera and a black background, he captured the scenes he saw and tells the story of these people’s fate. This private view will be held in the presence of the photographer.

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


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From the TEAS Director

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

Politics and News

Speaking in Baku, Sajjad Karim, a British Member of the European Parliament (MEP), commented: “There is substantial potential to deepen and strengthen the bilateral relationship. It is essential that the EU–Azerbaijani relationship, which has many aspects, is structured to deliver constructive progress for the people of the EU and Azerbaijan on an equal basis.” The statement was made as he led a delegation of the EU–Azerbaijani Parliamentary Co-operation Committee during its 13th visit to Baku and exchanged dialogue with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev; Shahin Mustafeyev, Azerbaijani Economy Minister; Mahmud Mammad-Guliyev, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister; and Ogtay Asadov, Speaker, Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament), amongst others. Speaking during a press conference, Mr Karim explained that the EU is seeking to further enhance relations with Azerbaijan. He commented: “There was a certain period when our dialogue with Azerbaijan was not at the desirable level. However, we hope there is now sufficient justification

and dialogue to strengthen EU–Azerbaijani relations. It is evident that Azerbaijan wants to be close to the people of Europe, and we will do our utmost to ensure this is achieved.”

Samad Seyidov, Chairman of the International and Interparliamentary Relations Committee, Milli Majlis, stressed the importance of dialogue between the organisation and Azerbaijan. He expanded: “Azerbaijan is ready to continue its relations with the EU and European Parliament, based on mutual respect and understanding. This co-operation should be beneficial for both sides.”

The visit of Pope Francis to Azerbaijan was a momentous event in the history of the country. His Holiness was met with large and enthusiastic crowds wherever he went, and his comments about Azerbaijani tolerance and inclusiveness were widely welcomed. In his remarks, the Pontiff expressed his solidarity with the Azerbaijani internally displaced persons (IDPs) that are the ongoing victims of the conflict with Armenia, saying: “Mindful also of this country, I wish to express my heartfelt closeness to those who have had to leave their land.”

After a slightly frosty period, following some unhelpful remarks in the European Parliament, normal dialogue between Azerbaijan and the EU has been resumed. Meanwhile, TEAS unveiled its new Benelux offices in the heart of the diplomatic quarter of Brussels.

Coming in the wake of their success in the Rio2016 Olympics, Azerbaijan managed a record haul of 11 medals at the Paralympics. On the cultural front, TEAS Press has announced a positive outcome from the year of collaboration with the English Language Teaching (ELT) division of Oxford University Press. In addition, the moving Khojaly 613 piece by French composer Pierre Thilloy has been played to an appreciative audience in Mulhouse, France.

As part of its drive to diversify the economy and promote tourism, Azerbaijan has been actively seeking to increase aviation links. Austrian Airlines has resumed its direct flights to Baku, whilst Pobeda has started budget flights from Rostov-on-Don to the same destination.

The continuing economic crisis in Armenia caused by the illegal military occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions has resulted in a further population fall as young Armenians emigrate to Russia, Europe and the US. Meanwhile, official estimates indicate that the Azerbaijani population is set to rise to 12 million by 2050.

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS

Samad Seyidov, Chairman of the International and Interparliamentary Relations Committee, Milli Majlis and Sajjad Karim MEP pledged to resume and expand EU–Azerbaijani collaboration

Pope Francis urges international assistance in achieving Karabakh peace and recognises Azerbaijani religious toleranceDuring his visit to Baku on 2 October, Pope Francis called for a “stable peace”. The Pontiff met in private with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev on the last leg of a Caucasus tour that also took him to Georgia. He reiterated the calls for peace he made three months ago in Yerevan regarding the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

He said: “There is no alternative to patiently and assiduously searching for shared solutions by means of committed and sustained negotiations”, and called for “a new phase aimed at achieving stable peace in the region.” The Pontiff commented: “In order to effectively oppose these dangerous deviations, we need to promote a culture of peace, which is fostered by an untiring willingness for dialogue.”

The Pontiff also recognised the plight of the just under one million Azerbaijani internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees who are the ongoing victims of the conflict, saying: “Mindful also of this country, I wish to express my heartfelt closeness to those who have had to leave their land, and to the many people who suffer the effects of bloody conflicts. I hope that the international community may be able to offer its unfailing

and indispensable help.

“I am confident that, with the help of God, and the goodwill of those involved, the Caucasus will be a place where, through dialogue and negotiation, disputes and differences will be resolved and overcome.”

He also recalled the visit of Pope John Paul II in 2002, who described Azerbaijan as: “a gateway between East and West”, stating that the country should also become “a gateway open to peace, and an example to which we can look to solve old and new conflicts.”

Pope Francis went on to recognise the inherently multi-confessional tolerance of Azerbaijan, commenting: “I am moreover particularly pleased with the cordial relations enjoyed by the Catholic, Muslim, Orthodox and Jewish communities. These good relations assume great significance for peaceful coexistence and for peace in the world, and they demonstrate that, amongst the followers of different religious confessions, it is possible to achieve cordial relations, respect and co-operation for the good of all. This is not a monoethnic country with a single religion. You speak here in English, Russian, and Azerbaijani.”

Azerbaijan resumes dialogue with the EU


The official closing ceremony for the 42nd Chess Olympiad has been held at the National Gymnastics Arena in Baku. According to the press service of the Olympiad, the ceremony was attended by Yagub Eyyubov, First Deputy Prime Minister of Azerbaijan and Chairman of the Baku Chess Olympiad Organising Committee; Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sport; Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, President, World Chess Federation (FIDE); Elman Rustamov, President, Azerbaijani Chess Federation; and other representatives of the organisation, world chess grand masters, and government officials.

The 42nd Chess Olympiad started in Baku on 2 September and brought together 181 teams in the open section and 142 teams in the women’s section, representing 175 countries. Azerbaijan was represented in the Olympiad by three men’s and three women’s teams.

The 11-round tournament was won by

Team USA with 20 points, with Ukraine finishing second with the same number of points and Russia achieving third position with 17 points. The Azerbaijani men’s first team finished in 12th place with 15 points. The second team scored 14 points to finish 26th, and the third team finished 49th with 13 points.

China won the women’s section with 20 points. Poland finished second with 17 points, and Ukraine was third. The Azerbaijani first team scored 16 points to finish eighth, the second team finished 30th and the third team in 32nd place.

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, FIDE President, commented: “The organisers of the Baku Chess Olympiad have set a very high standard in their organisation of a high-profile chess tournament. Today we are closing this remarkable event, but are convinced that thousands of boys and girls will now come to chess clubs to discover the secrets of the most intelligent game on the

planet. We will also have the opportunity to return to this hospitable land to witness new battles in other tournaments.”

04 Politics and News

42nd Chess Olympiad closing ceremony held in Baku

Azerbaijani population to reach 12m in 2050Population forecasts and demographic projections have been discussed during a meeting at the Azerbaijani Ministry of Labour and Social Protection for the Population. This was attended by representatives of the relevant state bodies, including the Centre for Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SAM), the Azerbaijani Ombudsman’s Office, the UN Population Fund, the Azerbaijani National Academy of Sciences (ANAS) and international experts.

Salim Muslumov, Azerbaijani Minister of Labour and Social Protection for the Population, commented that the Azerbaijani population had increased by 18 per cent since 2003 to reach

9,755,500 as of 1 July. He predicted: “Our forecasts indicate that this figure will reach 12m by 2050.” Making reference to the improved healthcare in the country, he noted that 5.7 of each 1000 people die in Azerbaijan per annum, whereas this was 6 in 2003.

During the 2003–16 period, the working population rose by 29 per cent from 4,923,000 people to reach 6,335,900 people. He commented that: “The number of able-bodied persons increased by 30 per cent, and the economically active population by 12 per cent.” The minister said that the balance of migration changed to positive in 2008, with 1,100 people immigrating to Azerbaijan in 2015.

Universities to be transferred to GabalaIt has been revealed that numerous leading educational institutions are to be relocated to Gabala in the north of the country, and that construction is already underway. The universities that are currently in Central Baku will occupy the new buildings, thereby reducing some of the traffic congestion. The list of universities destined for transference are

the Azerbaijani State Medical University, Pedagogical University, Technical University, University of Architecture and Construction, and Economic University, amongst others.

There is also a plan to move the world-renowned Azerbaijan State Oil Academy, although its new location has not yet

been decided upon. Some universities may be transferred to the suburbs, whilst others will go to Gabala. Meanwhile, the Baku State University will remain in the capital. The project is also aligned with the National Strategy on Educational Development in the Azerbaijani Republic, whereby measures for the creation of student campuses will be implemented.

11-medal haul from the ParalympicsThe 15th Rio2016 Paralympic Games was brought to a close at the Maracana Stadium on 18 September. The medal tally was topped by China, with a total of 239 medals, of which 107 were gold. This was followed by the UK and Ukraine, with 64 and 41 medals, respectively.

Represented by 24 athletes in six sports, including judo, athletics, powerlifting, swimming, shooting and archery, Azerbaijani paralympians claimed 11 medals at Rio2016, thereby ranking 33rd in

the medal table, with one gold, eight silver and two bronze. Two Azerbaijani athletes broke records – namely Irada Aliyeva in the javelin with a throw of 42.58m and Elena Ciobanu in the women’s 100 metres (11.71 seconds).

Azerbaijan’s only gold medal was secured by judoka Ramil Gasimov in the men’s –73kg finals, achieving victory over Ukrainian Dmitro Solovey. Female athlete Irada Aliyeva and male swimmer Dmitry Salei achieved the final pair of silver

medals on the last day of the Games. Dmitry took the medal in the 50m freestyle event, reaching the finish in second position (24.29 seconds), having achieved silver in the 100m breaststroke earlier the same day.

Silver medals were also taken by swimmer Raman Salei, athlete Elena Chebanu (two silvers), and athlete Kamil Aliyev. Bronze medals were achieved by judoka Rovshan Safarov (–81kg) and athlete Elena Chebanu (200 metres).

Part of the imaginative opening ceremony for the 42nd Chess Olympiad


05Politics and News

The collaboration between TEAS Press and Oxford University Press (OUP), the largest university publisher, as its exclusive distributor of English Language Teaching (ELT) materials in Azerbaijan, is yielding positive results. Simon Mavin, International Sales and Development Director at OUP, commented: “After more than a year of working together, I believe OUP and TEAS are making a big impact on the learning of English in Azerbaijan, as teachers and students alike are benefiting from access to world-class materials.”

He continued: “We really appreciate TEAS sharing our commitment towards giving customers the solutions that best fit their educational needs, and look forward to achieving more successes together in the future.”

Mr Mavin announced the collaboration alongside Tale Heydarov, Chairman, TEAS, in May 2015. Subsequently, all OUP ELT resources and international programmes have become available in Azerbaijan. At one Oxford Teachers’ Academy workshop alone, 30 teachers from 15 different schools developed their teaching skills over a three-day course. Vafa Maharramova, an OUP Education Consultant in Azerbaijan, stated: “Our teachers are now not only using hard copies, but also online resources, iTools, flashcards and other vital teaching materials.”

More seminars are planned, aiming at all levels, from primary school teachers to university professors. Nigar Nasrullayeva, Education Officer, British Council, noted that this was the first

time that English teachers from general schools in Azerbaijan had gained access to the teaching resources within the English Centres Project run by the British Council. She said: “The books not only help them with language teaching, but also with lesson planning, assessment, classroom management and other important issues that will play an integral role in changing the approach and increasing the quality of teaching in Azerbaijan.”

Mr Heydarov acknowledged the pivotal role of the relationship, saying: “Education – particularly in the teaching of English language – is playing an essential role in developing countries. At TEAS, we aim to provide the necessary tools to facilitate English learning, helping students fulfil their personal aspirations and effectively positioning Azerbaijan in the global economy.”

TEAS Press ELT makes an impact due to OUP partnership

Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS, spoke of the importance of the TEAS Press–OUP ELT collaboration during the launch in May 2015

Azerbaijani tolerance acknowledged by Jewish leaders and OIC Secretary-GeneralAzerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation led by Ronald Lauder, President, World Jewish Congress (WJC), comprising Robert Singer, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice-President, WJC; God Nisanov, Vice-President, WJC; Julius Meinl, President, Eurasian Jewish Congress; Yuri Kanner, President, Russian Jewish Congress; German Zakharyaev, Vice-President, Russian Jewish Congress; Maram Stern, Deputy CEO for Diplomacy at WJC; and Herbert Winter, President, Swiss Federation of Jewish Communities.

President Aliyev outlined the value of the visit by the WJC delegation to Azerbaijan, and explained that it created an excellent opportunity for guests to familiarise themselves with the country. He emphasised that there had been historical relations between representatives of different nations and religions in the country over many years, and particularly with members of the Jewish religion. He explained that Azerbaijanis and Jews had enjoyed friendly relations throughout the years, adding that they had always played an active role in Azerbaijani public life and been permitted to live in peace and tranquility.

President Ilham Aliyev acknowledged the fact that representatives from different nations and religions lived in an atmosphere of peace and friendship in Azerbaijan, as a manifestation of state policy. He commented that this stance reflected the designation of 2016 as the Year of Multiculturalism in Azerbaijan. He noted the necessity of applying Azerbaijani accomplishments in this sphere to other places around the world.

Mr Lauder thanked President Ilham Aliyev for supporting the ongoing excellent relations between the Azerbaijani and Jewish peoples, creating excellent conditions for Jews to live, prosper and practice their faith and thereby representing a model for

other countries. He also commented that Baku had surpassed his expectations in terms of its beauty, and congratulated President Aliyev on the economic success of the country, despite the global financial and economic crisis.

Mr Winter praised the “great” attention paid to the Jewish community in Azerbaijan, particularly at a time when Jewish communities were oppressed around the world.

Iyad bin Amin Madani, Secretary-General, Organisation of Islamic Co-operation (OIC), expressed similar sentiments to Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, during a working visit to Azerbaijan. He congratulated the state and people of Azerbaijan on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, and reiterated his appreciation of the active role of Azerbaijan as an OIC Member State. Describing Azerbaijan as a country where multicultural traditions and religious values are preserved, Mr Madani expressed his confidence that co-operation with Azerbaijan would continue at the highest level.

Mr Mammadyarov replied, saying that Azerbaijan attaches great importance to relations with the OIC, emphasising that it forms the ideal basis for the further development of bilateral and multilateral co-operation with its member states. Making reference to the current status of negotiations regarding the ongoing Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, Mr Mammadyarov expressed his gratitude to the OIC and its member states for unequivocally supporting the Azerbaijani position on the conflict. Praising the establishment of the Contact Group, under the auspices of the OIC, he expressed confidence that the activities of the Group would contribute towards conflict resolution. He went on to stress his satisfaction with the planned first meeting of the Contact Group, to be held during the forthcoming session of the UN General Assembly.


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TEAS has opened a new office in the middle of the diplomatic quarter of Brussels, the hub of the European Union (EU). The relocation reflects the fact that the TEAS Brussels office has been redesignated as TEAS Benelux.

The opening was attended by a plethora of diplomats and friends of Azerbaijan, including H.E. Khazar Ibrahim, Azerbaijani Ambassador to NATO; Dirk Achten, President, Belgian Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs; Jo Indekeu, Director, Oriental and South-East Europe and Central Asia Department, Belgian Federal Public Service of Foreign Affairs for External Commerce and Development Co-operation; and Marc Mullie, Deputy Director, Office of the Belgian Vice-Prime Minister and Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

Didier Reynders, Belgian Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs commented: “Azerbaijan and Belgium have been enjoying excellent relations for some years, and this has been enhanced by the presence of TEAS, which continues to organise events at various European institutions in Brussels. I am attending this event just two hours before Elmar Mammadyarov, my Azerbaijani counterpart, lands in Brussels. The role of TEAS in bringing Azerbaijan closer to Belgium and the rest of Europe cannot be underestimated. Belgium and Azerbaijan enjoy excellent relations.

“Mutual trade missions and my own visit last year have resulted in greater foreign investment and knowledge exchange. It is excellent to see so many Belgian businesses active in Baku, but there is much scope to increase this level of bilateral investment. Belgian designers and businesses have contributed to the spectacular development of Baku. In particular, Fluxys is playing a major role in construction of the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), the final stage of the Southern Energy Corridor that will bring Azerbaijani Caspian Shah Deniz gas to an Italian interconnector.

“By being based in Brussels, TEAS makes the Azerbaijani voice heard in European circles, and is successful in doing so. EU–Azerbaijani relations have developed strongly, and Association and Co-operation Agreements have been signed. A new Framework Agreement has now been ratified, covering a number of topics. I have met Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Elmar Mammadaryov, my Azerbaijani counterpart, and some of the internally displaced persons (IDPs), who are the ongoing victims of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. The office is based in Boulevard Bischoffsheim, named after a banker, philanthropist and entrepreneur from the early years of Belgian independence. We hope his enthusiasm, knowledge and sense of duty will be a guiding light for TEAS in fostering relations between Azerbaijan, Belgium and Europe.”

Marc Verwilghen, Director, TEAS Benelux and former Belgian Economy Minister, amongst other positions, commented: “Why is Brussels and the Benelux countries so important for TEAS? There are myriad reasons – Brussels is the capital of Europe and the EU institutions; Brussels is the headquarters of NATO; Brussels has more Ambassadors per square metre than anywhere in the world; Benelux was the precursor of the EU and Benelux is the representation of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg – three nations with a powerful economic standing; and Benelux is the test laboratory of the EU.

“Azerbaijan is geopolitically a pivotal country, as it lies in a crucial geographical location at the intersection of multiple crossroads between Europe and Asia and Russia and the Middle East.

The key strategic value of the country is twofold, as Azerbaijan occupies an unparalleled location between Russia, Turkey and the rejuvenated Iran – these three powers are playing and will play an increasing role in determining the future trajectory of international politics and economics. Furthermore, Azerbaijan is the hub of the burgeoning 7200km North–South Transport corridor connecting Europe to Central Asia and of the $45bn Southern Energy Corridor, currently under construction. This will provide diversity of energy supplies from 2020.

“Azerbaijan is secular, tolerant, multicultural and multifaith. Representatives of the World Jewish Congress have just visited the country, as has Pope Francis, who recognised its tolerant stance. It is a model in its region, bulwark against extremism and example for the world.”

Sabina Rakcheyeva, violinist and the first Azerbaijani graduate from the Juilliard School in New York and Cultural Advisor, TEAS, then cleverly combined plaintive Azerbaijani folkloric melodies with the main theme from J.S. Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. This constituted an musical analogy for the way in which TEAS and Azerbaijan bridges the real and imagined gaps between east and west, and Europe and Asia.

H.E. Fuad Isgandarov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU, commented: “Benelux countries are the cornerstone of the EU, and that is why it is important for TEAS Benelux to exist. After 100 years of wars, the formation of Benelux managed to create something completely peaceful, and we need this peace in the Southern Caucasus, not just in Azerbaijan, but in Georgia, too. TEAS is working very transparently in providing information and creating an impression of my country at a European level. Azerbaijan is a defender against terrorism, extremism, organised crime and upholder of many EU values. Azerbaijan will work with its Belgian, Dutch and Luxembourgish friends, and others from across the EU. We are stronger if we are all together.”

Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS, concluded: “TEAS has come a very long way. We aim to promote our culture and history and enhance EU–Azerbaijani relations. I reiterate that Azerbaijan shares the same values and vision as the EU and we can overcome the challenges we face today. My pledge is that TEAS will continue to make its contribution.”

Politics and News

Marc Verwilghen, Director, TEAS Benelux and former Belgian Economy Minister, outlined the reasons behind the redesignation of the TEAS office in Brussels

New name, new office: TEAS Benelux in the diplomatic heart of Brussels


Culture

On 17 September, a new orchestral arrangement of the emotionally-charged tone poem Khojaly 613 – originally written by French composer Pierre Thilloy as a commission by TEAS on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Khojaly Massacre – received a rapt and reverential response from the audience attending the concluding concert of the Les 2 Mondes Festival at the Théâtre de la Sinne in Mulhouse, located in the Alsace region of France. The work, featuring the Mulhouse Symphony Orchestra, was an aural evocation 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. The orchestra performed under the baton of Azerbaijani conductor Fuad Ibrahimov, who was making his French debut. The Festival was jointly organised by the XANADU Association, the Nizami Ganjavi Department at the University of Upper Alsace, the Azerbaijani Embassy to France, the office of the Mulhouse Mayor and other local institutions.

Having previously been performed in versions for smaller ensembles, the new arrangement features additional percussion and brass, starkly emphasising the terror inflicted by the Armenian armed forces on the Azerbaijani civilians. Pierre Thilloy commented: “Khojaly 613 has now been performed around the world for nearly five years. This new arrangement is actually closer to the original concept for the piece I had in mind, as my ultimate aim was to have it played by a large orchestra.”

The work featured the solo violin of Sabina Rakcheyeva, whose impassioned performance inhabited the piece, performing in unison with French clarinettist Alain Toiron, whose interpretation grasped the tragic nature of the work.

In the programme notes, philosopher Laurent Galley wrote: “It is an evocation on the theme of a massacre, committed on Azerbaijani soil in February 1992 to the indifference of the world. This music has been accorded the privilege of their song; to know their language, it must remain silent. The music whispers, murmurs and drums

in the silence; it is a tragedy amongst us, somewhere, and as it is ‘somewhere’, it is very close to us…

“This work, which bears the name of the village and the number of victims, is only one memorial amongst many. No-one holds a monument accountable. It is a testament itself. It is not for anyone other than the people to commemorate, judge, learn to live with each other and be reconciled.

“Music modestly serves to convey the memory of their existence through the air. This is the same for Pierre Thilloy, who views it as a tragic event, and accords it the greatest respect. This work is not content to exhaust, affect and be complaisant. It features stormy percussion, the sound of marching, and fearful echoes that come increasingly closer and evoke imminent combat as the preamble to a drama. The music recalls and suggests the inevitable, like a storm over a long period… but there is always the sweetness of the air, celestial stillness and irrepressible lyricism, with oriental accents, reinforced in the first version of the work by the use of such folk instruments as the balaban.”

Eliza Pieter, Director, TEAS Strasbourg, commented: “After hearing the piece for nearly five years in various permutations of instrumentalists, including symphony orchestra and chamber ensemble, I am still deeply touched by the work. The version heard in Mulhouse tonight surpassed all my expectations. It was interesting to

notice that the French audience present, the majority of whom had not previously heard of the Khojaly Massacre, were equally mesmerised by the piece.”

Also on the programme for the concluding concert were the elegiac Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber, which features a gradual emotional crescendo, and has been featured in numerous films, most notably Oliver Stone’s seminal antiwar film Platoon; Mozart’s joyous Clarinet Concerto; Darius Milhaud’s surreal score to the ballet-pantomime Le Boeuf sur le toit, originally written to accompany a silent Charlie Chaplin film and replete with Brazilian themes; and a very rare performance of the octogenarian Azerbaijani composer Khayyam Mirzazadeh’s Concerto Grosso, written in 2009 for strings and bells.

The Les 2 Mondes festival, spearheaded by Mulhouse resident Pierre Thilloy, is the second such festival to bring together the music of the Silk Road – with Azerbaijan at the epicentre – and the wider world. Lasting four days, the programme included an evocation of the Azerbaijani Book of Dada Gorgud on ancient instruments; the Les Étoiles de Bakou (Stars of Baku) Azerbaijani dance troupe; ethnojazz from the pianist and composer Etibar Asadli; dance by Aygerim Yersainova and Mukaddas Mijit; and the multinational Samarkand String Quartet, in combination with the Kazakh kobyz – the ancestor of all string instruments – and digital group KORDS.

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(from left) Khojaly 613 composer Pierre Thilloy, violinist Sabina Rakcheyeva and French clarinettist Alain Toiron relax after a successful and moving performance

Emotional Khojaly 613 tone poem received in rapt silence

Gambarov headlines in Germany and the NetherlandsJazz pianist and composer Salman Gambarov will participate in a series of Stars from all Eastern Countries concerts across Dutch and German cities. This will see him perform his own improvisations on compositions by leading composers, alongside his own

works. Furthermore, he will share a stage with French jazz avant-garde tuba player Michel Godard.

His composition, entitled Variations for Fortepiano, received first prize in the All-Union Composers’ Contest

in Moscow in 1987. Since then, Salman has focused on ethnojazz, including writing the accompaniment to the late silent film Latif (1930), which told the story of a young boy who has to flee his village for the city at the time of the Stalinist terror. He also recorded an album

in London entitled East or West? and formed the Bakustic Jazz group, which has now performed across the world. Go to http://bit.ly/gambarovmonk to hear him playing Thelonious Monk’s Straight, No Chaser at the Nargis Jazz Club in Istanbul.


Azerbaijani violinist Nazrin Rashidova has been a mainstay of the British classical music scene for several years. Initially a child prodigy, in 2008 she founded FeMusa, the first British all-female chamber orchestra in 60 years. She formerly studied, and now teaches, at the Royal Academy of Music, has appeared on international television and radio, and has performed in Azerbaijan, the US, Japan, Europe and the Middle-East. To date, she has recorded two albums for Naxos and a privately-released recording of works by Azerbaijani composer Tofig Guliyev.

She has now teamed up with Bulgarian guitarist Stanislav Hvartchilkov for a new album entitled Carnival on First Hand Records. This comprises a selection of famous classical works, newly arranged and transcribed by the artistes for the violin and guitar, including a suite of themes from Bizet’s Carmen; Bach’s Ich ruf’ zu dir and Herr Jesu Christ from Das Orgelbuchlein; a fresh set of variations

on the popular Neapolitan theme Carnival of Venice and Elgar’s Salut d’amour. To see and hear Nazrin and Stanislav performing the Carmen suite, go to http://bit.ly/nazrincarmen, and visit http://bit.ly/nazrinstrad for an interview on the album from The Strad magazine. Carnival is now available for digital download from Amazon at http://bit.ly/carnivalamazon and at http://bit.ly/carnivalitunes from iTunes, and visit www.nazrin.co.uk/cds.html for information on all Nazrin’s albums.

Nazrin is also giving a series of concerts, beginning on 11 November at St Mary’s Parish Church in Old Amersham, where she will perform Mozart’s Violin Concerto No.5 with the Amersham Festival Orchestra under the baton of Ian Ledingham; followed a few days later on 20 November by a very special lunchtime concert amidst the auspicious surroundings of the glorious 460-year-old Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace, accompanied by organist

Rufus Frowde. Nazrin will continue her year on 24 November when she headlines the Wimbledon International Music Festival with a concert at the late-Victorian Trinity United Reform Church of challenging works by Bela Bartok and Sergei Prokofiev. Go to www.nazrin.co.uk/concerts for full details.

08 Culture

Joyous new album from Nazrin Rashidova

The inspired new album from Nazrin Rashidova and Stanislav Hvartchilkov

Comfortably Numb – the brainchild of the YARAT Contemporary Art Space – is a group show by Novruz Mammadov, Nadir Eminov and Elvin Nabizade, three young sculptors whose styles, themes and ‘vision of culture’ are widely dissimilar. This has been hosted in the Artim Project Space, which is aimed at providing a forum for young artists.

In the trilogy entitled Fantasies of Perverted Consciousness, made from stainless steel, Mr Mammadov analyses sexual disorders, including three types of perversion, whereas within his installation named Wound, hewn from Aghlay stone, Mr Eminov expresses his circumspect attitude towards the reconstruction and beautification strategy in Baku.

Finally, Black Saz is a project by Mr Nabizade, comprising deformed wooden sazs, an integral instrument used in the Art of the Azerbaijani Ashiq, which now forms part of the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. His installation stresses the necessity of paying more attention to the saz, which remains a cornerstone of ancient Azerbaijani culture.

Comfortably Numb at YARAT

The US artist Ingrid Goldbloom Bloch, based in Needham, Massachusetts, has been creating art from waste for many years (see www.igbstudio.com). To date, she has made a bikini from aluminium drinks cans, a teapot from steel nuts, and mens’ ties from old business cards. Her unique work, which comprises “upcycled, recycled, and reclaimed” materials, as stated on her website, have been exhibited in the UK and overseas.

In March, a representative of Baku-based Tamiz Shahar JSC, a waste management company, invited her to participate in its international From Waste to Art exhibition. The mission of the company is to promote sustainable waste management systems and public awareness concerning improper waste disposal and the associated environmental issues.

Ingrid was in Azerbaijan from 22 September–5 October, during which she created her art offsite. In the evenings, her

hosts introduced her to Azerbaijani culture alongside 24 other artists from Russia, Portugal, Belarus, Georgia, Latvia and Iran. When questioned by the Needham Times in advance of her trip, she commented: “I will be creating a piece called Current that highlights the plastic pollution problem in our world’s oceans. As Baku is on the Caspian Sea, I thought it would be fitting. It is a large panel combining mathematical modelling of ocean dynamics, eyeglass lenses and acupuncture needle guides. The lenses will act as ‘windows’ on the problem of plastic pollution.

“I am bringing the lenses and acupuncture needle guides with me, and all other materials and supplies will be waiting for me when I arrive. The acupuncture needle guides were donated by another Needham resident, Karla Barbiera, licenced clinical acupuncturist, who has an office in downtown Needham. It is funny to think her office waste will be on display halfway around the world!”

US artist Bloch’s waste in artistic form to come to Baku

Part of the Black Saz installation by Elvin Nabizade, comprising deformed wooden sazs

A teapot made from nuts – just one of Ingrid Goldbloom Bloch’s amazing creations from waste materials


09Culture

After touring the world for the past three years, the outstanding exhibition Five Roads Back Home – showcasing the work of renowned German photographer Philipp Rathmer – is set to come to London for the first time. Featuring a cross-section of some of the estimated one million Azerbaijani internally displaced persons (IDPs) who are the ongoing victims of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, these stark, impressive and emotionally-charged images focus on their faces, set against a black background.

At the opening of the exhibition in the Belgian Senate last year, Philipp Rathmer explained: “In July 2012, I spent one week visiting IDPs and refugees in the Azerbaijani towns of Takhtakorpu and Guzanli, near the ‘contact line’ between Azerbaijan and the Armenian-occupied territories, and Darnagul and Gizigum, located north of Baku. Throughout, I aimed to represent the suffering of these people by focusing on their faces in extreme close-up. Each subject was shot in exactly the same way, against a black background, lit in indirect sunlight, emphasis being placed on capturing the faces, suffering and stories of the people. You can see the problems in their eyes and wrinkles.

“The focus was on the human situation – I noted each subject’s name, age, occupation, name of the camp in which they lived and the town from which they had been displaced. They also spoke of their experiences, some very candidly, some with reticence. These photos show one side of the conflict – the side that had to flee and give up their homes. They therefore represent all those who are displaced in the world’s many wars. One aspiration was common to all – they wanted to take one of the five roads leading

back to the occupied regions – one of the Five Roads Back Home.”

The exhibition will take place at the iconic mid-Victorian Old Truman Brewery, which has been a leading art space in Brick Lane, London, for over two decades. The private view – in the presence of the photographer – will take place on 24 November at 18.30hrs. Please visit http://bit.ly/frbhlondon to register. The exhibition will continue from 25–29 November from 10.00–17.00hrs.

Five Roads Back Home travels to London

According to popular Russian hotel search service RoomGuru.ru, combined with online magazine Forbes.ru, Baku is the top resort city to visit during the post-summer ‘velvet’ season, earning its place of honour due to its beaches, unique beauty and mixture of cultures.

According to the service, visitors usually spend only about $800 (£655) for an unforgettable week in sunny Baku, including airfare and a week in a budget hotel or a resort. In Azerbaijan, sunny weather persists until the end of

September, and it is possible to enjoy swimming and suntanning in the warm Caspian Sea. Writing on the site, Rashid Al-Noori, Chairman, Representative Office of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism to the Gulf Co-operation Countries (GCC) comments: “Baku has been able to preserve the heritage of antiquity, whilst still giving the impression of being a modern metropolis. Amongst the historical monuments are Icheri Sheher (Baku Old City); the Shirvanshahs’ Palace, ancient pearl of Azerbaijani architecture; and the approximately 10,000-year-old petroglyphs

at Gobustan. The main attraction of modern Baku is such steel futuristic skyscrapers as the Flame Towers, which are visible from any point of the city.”

He continues: “I’ve been to Azerbaijan so many times, and in September the weather varies, depending on the region being visited. In this month, the weather in Azerbaijan is just perfect, enabling visitors to fully savour their holidays – the sun is guaranteed, rainfall is scarce and the humidity is bearable. It is still therefore the ideal month to go to Azerbaijan.”

Baku heads Forbes’ Top 10 holiday destinations in ‘velvet’ season

German photographer Philipp Rathmer presents his stark portraits of Azerbaijani IDPs alongside Marc Verwilghen, Director, TEAS Benelux, at the opening of the exhibition in the Belgian Senate

Eight leading French authors have contributed to a new book of creative writing entitled Nouvelles nouvelles d’Azerbaïdjan (New novellas about Azerbaijan), edited by Michka Assayas and published in Paris by Éditions Intervalles at the initiative of the France–Azerbaijan Friendship Group in the French Senate, with the support of the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the French Embassy in Baku, Unibank, Total, the Baku International Multiculturalism Centre and the University Foundation Centre. The stories are set in Baku, Sumgayit, Gabala and Sheki.

The synopsis on the Éditions Intervalles states: “In 2015, a dozen French authors decided to leave, discover the unknown and report the news. A secular state with a Muslim tradition, like Turkey, Azerbaijan is simultaneously occidental and at the avant-garde of multiculturalism. Baku – the capital – is a medieval mystery, with labyrinthine streets, simultaneously encircled by ramparts and by a forest of futuristic towers.

“Overall, Azerbaijan remains today as a country without a face. It is often overlooked that it was the first democratic and secular country in the Turkic–Muslim world, which offered the voting franchise to women a quarter of a century before this was the case in France, and where the oil pioneers were Russian, Swedish, German, Polish and French. It is either unknown or little-known that the palaces in Baku were inspired by the splendours of Venice, Paris and Monte-Carlo.

“These novellas are the fruit of travellers with a new way of looking – they are French writers at the beginning of the 21st century, rooted in scepticism regarding collective destiny, becoming disorientated in the face of unilateral patriotism for this fragile young nation. The book provides a sincere and singular portrait of a territory full of unsurpassed richness. The resultant works are unexpected, new and explosive, and a completely new adventure for the reader.” Go to http://bit.ly/nouvellesazerbaidjan to order a copy.

French authors wax lyrical on Azerbaijan


Edward Twohig is a renowned printmaker, art collector and Director of Art at Wellington College, one of the most esteemed public schools in the UK. In 2016, he was elected as a member of The Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers in London and currently sits on their Council at the Bankside Gallery as a trustee. Following his first visit to Azerbaijan, he was inspired to record his impressions in a number of artworks, and several of his Baku-inspired compositions are now in the collection of the Azerbaijani Embassy in the UK. Eames Fine Art represents Edward, and his works can also be purchased from the Bankside Gallery in London and the Q Gallery in Baku.

Neil Watson caught up with Edward to discuss Azerbaijani culture, architecture and his latest collection of etchings, known as the Icheri Sheher Suite, inspired by his visit to Baku earlier this year.

What led you to visit Baku for the first time?The buzzy exhibition opening in London of Fly to Baku: Contemporary Art from Azerbaijan, organised at the Philips de Pury Gallery by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, was enormous fun. Not long afterwards, I did just that!

Furthermore, the lure of visiting a true

friend; the Caspian Sea; reacquainting myself with the unique Azerbaijani cuisine; and viewing the prehistoric rock drawings at Gobustan compelled me to visit Azerbaijan again this year. I first travelled to the country in October 2012, when I had the privilege of seeing Iraqi–British architect Zaha Hadid’s masterpiece, the Heydar Aliyev Centre, together with the under-construction Flame Towers, designed by Barry Hughes; and experienced the Public Art Festival. Obviously, I was aware that Baku’s visible transformation into a vibrant 21st century city was well underway. I have subsequently returned three times, each time with drawing materials, sketchbook in hand and etching plates at the ready, and now eagerly await my next visit this autumn. Baku’s energetic exuberance is palpable.

Now, upon hearing the words Icheri Sheher in relation to an inner-city fortress in the historic core of Baku, I tingle in my spine. An invisible thread immediately brings me back to a citadel that resonates and infuses me with a carousel of images that comprise a high-density maze of narrow alleys, ancient buildings, domed cupolas, characterful minarets and cobbled streets. Arabic, Central Asian, Iranian and Jewish influences, together with Russian and European traits and characteristics, have resulted in a cross-cultural pollination, all

of which combine to make physical Baku what it is – a sort of ‘back to the future’. All is aesthetic, down to the tea stands and carpets, which are rich and playfully decorative, with a quiet dignity. I am responsive to this, and identify keenly with this place. I have travelled to every European country, but part of my heart firmly remains in the heart of Baku!

As an artist, focusing on printmaking, what particularly inspired you about Baku?Light, line, rhythm and shapes run riot in Icheri Sheher, where both traditional and contemporary life and architecture go hand-in-hand. The vibe is real and

Icheri Sheher – etched in our consciousness

10 Personalities – Edward Twohig

Edward Twohig seen against the backdrop of Icheri Sheher – Baku Old City – the source of his inspiration


pulsating, whether the time is dawn, early morning, noon, afternoon or evening. The weather and its distinctive buildings, even when windy, are exhilarating. My aim is to capture and yarat (create) all this in my Icheri Sheher Suite of 50 etchings.

Have you visited or made etchings of any other regions of the country?Yes, I have visited Gobustan many times, and have come to love the petroglyphs and mud volcanoes, together with the omnipresent sense of presence, peace and space. I made a pilgrimage to the Khan’s Palace in Sheki in autumn 2014 and will return in October 2016. Words are insufficient to do justice to its magical eternal spring and summer-like interior! Alongside the Palazzo Ducale in Urbino, and Ca’ d’Oro in Venice, I am of the view that the Khan’s Palace in Sheki has one of the finest artistic exteriors and interiors in the world.

Nazim Hikmet, the Turkish poet, playwright and author, once said: “If there were no other ancient structure in Azerbaijan, it would be sufficient to show the world nothing else other than the Khan’s Palace in Sheki.” It is worth visiting Sheki for the halva alone! Furthermore, I have also visited the Gakh, Qabala and Ismailli regions; have drunk tea and tasted kutabs with close Bakuvian friends sitting by the sea in Sumgayit; and have been all round Baku. I have drawn, painted and photographed each location.

Where have you exhibited in Azerbaijan? How was your work received?Currently, 20 of my etchings, inspired by the Gobustan petroglyphs, can be found in the Qiz Qalasi Gallery or Q Gallery, in the shadow of the iconic Maiden Tower in Central Baku. This vital and influential gallery exclusively showcases works by the finest artists working in Azerbaijan. I was proud to share a browser in this gallery exhibition space with works by

the Bakuvian artist Alakbar Rezaguliyev (1903–74). A recent email correspondence with this gallery captured an important symbiotic relationship, reading: “Happy to hear great news from you, Edward. After you left, I displayed your work to several customers, all of whom were delighted. Hope to meet you soon, and don’t forget you have supporters in Baku.”

Several of my Baku and Gobustan-inspired etchings now form part of the collection at the Azerbaijani Embassy in London.

Most of your work is figurative. Do you ever produce abstract works? Do you ever use colour washes and other effects?All my Gobustan etchings are figurative, but the majority of my oeuvre is a visible, emotional response to a place with which I have a relationship. Following the return from my second visit, I created a series of coloured monoprints, inspired by my return trip from Sheki. This particularly focused on the landscapes surrounding the Gochay and Kura rivers. These are semi-abstract in character and mood, as I wanted to recreate the mystery of the astoundingly beautiful Azerbaijani countryside. I also employ mixed media, using water-soluble pens and wax-resist with watercolours. I sometimes create in colour over etchings.

Whilst showing these works at the Q Gallery in Icheri Sheher, I was handed a beautiful volume containing photographs of Huseyn Alirza oglu Aliyev’s paintings whose techniques and spirit are in parallel with my own thinking, reminding me that artists are never alone!

Following my visit last April, I embarked on an ambitious series of 50 etchings, depicting the distinctive character and majesty of Icheri Sheher, which I aimed to bring back with me after returning to Baku.

These works were realised during a period of six months – and this is how my Icheri Sheher Suite of etchings was christened! This project absorbs and delights me. Close friends, who are also my sharpest critics, have remarked that these compositions rank amongst my very finest work, and upon showing this series to the gallery directors of Eames Fine Art in London this summer, both said: “We especially love your new work. The air, light, and your love of the place shine through. We want to go to Baku!”

The contemporary art movement is particularly strong in Azerbaijan. What are your thoughts about Azerbaijani artists?As previously mentioned, I attended the London opening of Fly to Baku – Contemporary Art from Azerbaijan in 2012, and found myself faced with a wealth of ideas, questioning and unusual techniques from 21 Azerbaijani artists of different generations. This exhibition – where delicious Azerbaijani food and sweets were served in abundance – was a milestone in showing the UK and UK-based international art cognoscenti that Azerbaijani artists express fearless emotion through the visual, and this certainly struck a chord with me. My views were confirmed following a visit to the Baku Museum of Modern Art.

My thoughts were overwhelmed with emotion after having viewed the work of Azerbaijani artists. I am attuned to creating compositions based on experience, creating an ongoing dialogue between the lyrical line, colour and emotion in between, in conjunction with a great heart, such as in the work of Eliyar Alimirzoyev. If I can make the analogy with Azerbaijani national sweets, I think the paintings and drawings of People’s Artist Tahir Salahov (1928–) and Mikayil Abdullayev (1921–2008) can be compared to a tray of rich and tasty Guba

11Personalities – Edward Twohig


pakhlava! I have been swapping my own compositions for works by the aforementioned Alakbar Rezaguliyev, a compelling 20th century Baku-inspired artist whose linoprints can be compared to Shekerbura! My favourite ‘Old Master’ or, more correctly, ‘Old Mistress’ is Bakuvian artist Maral Rehmanzade (1916–2008), whose work can be compared to biting into a full Shor Gogal! Maral’s vivid and varied paintings, drawings and prints, fortified by her knowledge, love, sensibility and precision, are never far from my mind.

Amongst contemporary Azerbaijani artists, I love the lines and rhythms in the sculptures of Kamran Asadov and Rovshan Hajizade, and have enjoyed the company, conversations and visits to the studio homes of Ali Shamsi and Anar Yolchiyev. The latter, a powerful painter of Biblically-inspired stories in a realistic, universal setting, wrote to me recently saying: “Edward! Your work is amazing!! I recognise all the places, and your lines exactly catch my feelings about Isheri Sheher – you are excellent at showing stone and its geometrical weight. At the same time, I can feel wind in the trees, and the eternal wind of Baku – great! I have shown your works to my artist friends (with whom I will be sure to introduce to you) and they have the same feelings…”

Azerbaijani music also inspires me, and I enjoy the sound of the Azerbaijani national instruments of mugham – the tar, kamancha and daf. I also listened to recordings of the pianists Shahin Novrasli and Renara Akhoundova, alongside classical symphonic works by Fikret Amirov, whilst executing my Icheri Sheher Suite of etchings and printing this series in my studio. This music speaks of love, heat, memory, passion, tenderness, hope, texture and colour – just like the artists of Azerbaijan.

How did you become interested specifically in printmaking?I have been attracted to the beauty of line and its compelling power since my boyhood. This is why I was drawn to the characteristics of linear etching and drypoint whilst studying at Art College, and I have not looked back! After making and seeing rich raised lines on paper, printed from an incised line or mark along with the velvety ‘burr ’ – the delight is better than tasting chocolate! I was the first student from an Irish Art College to be awarded a British Council Scholarship for postgraduate studies in printmaking at the Chelsea College of Art in London, and since then I have been a committed printmaker for over a quarter of a century. The alchemy in creating an etching is indeed wonderful, as is the ‘moment of truth’, after the plate on which one has

drawn is printed and an impression is transferred to paper – this delight or excitement has not diminished with time.

Was Albrecht Dürer your primary influence?This great German Renaissance beacon was a master of line and positive space. I am privileged to possess an impression of his St Eustace, and see it each day. Dürer is an important influence, but I would say the original etchings of Rembrandt, Samuel Palmer, Seymour Haden and, in the twentieth century, Frank Short, rank amongst my primary older influences. I possess many etchings by each, and all have been long-term friends! Amongst contemporary printmakers, Lars Nyberg, Sophie Layton, Jason Hicklin and Blaze Cyan are profound influences, and I am blessed to call each a friend.

Do you primarily work from photographs?Photographs are helpful up to a point, but drawing and opening one’s heart whilst observing is much, much, much more essential.

What is the process you adopt when making etchings?To quote from Vincent Eames, Director, Eames Fine Art, in London: “Edward’s art is the embodiment of Ruskin’s maxim: ‘You will never love art well, till you love what she mirrors better.’ For Edward, location is obviously of paramount importance – he focuses on Berkshire, Sussex, Ireland, Paris, Italy and Azerbaijan. From there, a whole series of rapid drawings, photographs and etchings, taken direct from motifs, comprise a reservoir of images in an increasingly in-depth emotional relationship, so as to become completely in tune with a place, and often in complete immersion.

“The distilled essence of a place is Edward’s objective, in search of mood, space and line. Time is spent in this journey and, over time, a series of work results. This is enhanced by Edward’s impeccable technique, fluent mastery of line and, whilst acknowledging tradition, his own unique contribution towards extending the printmaking tradition.”

If you have not been already, I would recommend every reader to book a flight to see with his/her own eyes the delights of Baku, particularly Icheri Sheher and the Azerbaijani countryside.

Examples of the Icheri Sheher and Gobustan-inspired etchings can be seen at Q Gallery in Baku and at Eames Fine Art in

London. To see works by Edward Twohig on the Eames Fine Art page, go to http://bit.ly/eamestwohig.

12 Personalities – Edward Twohig


The award-winning independent documentary Endless Corridor (Aleksandras Brokas; US/Lithuania, 2014) was shown on Al Jazeera television on 10 September. The screening was organised by TEAS, under the auspices of the Justice for Khojaly campaign initiated by Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President, Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Endless Corridor has already been shown widely on the international festival circuit. It charts the journey of two journalists, Lithuanian Richard Lapaitis and Russian Victoria Ivleva, on their return to Azerbaijan 20 years after covering the horrific Khojaly Massacre during the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. The film is narrated by Oscar-winning British actor Jeremy Irons, and has garnered a plethora of awards, to date, including two at the Tenerife International Film Festival, two more at the US-based Accolade Global Film Competition, and another at the Milano International Filmmakers’ Festival. Go to www.endlesscorridor.com to find out more about the film.

15Business News

Endless Corridor screened on Al Jazeera

13Personalities – Javid Shahmaliyev 13Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict

Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, has informed Lamberto Zannier, OSCE Secretary-General, that military exercises organised by the Armenian occupying forces in the Azerbaijani region of Nagorno-Karabakh constitute a provocation of the most heinous form. A statement by the Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry read: “During the meeting, Elmar Mammadyarov said that, within the spirit of negotiations in Vienna and St. Petersburg,

the Azerbaijani side is ready for substantive negotiations that would be aimed at changing the status quo [in the region].

“The Azerbaijani Foreign Minister also commented that military exercises by the Armenian side in the occupied Agdam region in Nagorno-Karabakh are a serious provocation, designed to violate the negotiation process.”

Armenian military exercises in Nagorno-Karabakh – a provocation

The three OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs of Russia, the US and France have expressed their readiness to host talks at the highest level, aimed at resolving the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. During a meeting of representatives from the three Co-Chair countries, they issued a statement reading: “Our governments are prepared to host another meeting of the Presidents or Foreign Ministers at the appropriate time.”

The meeting came in the wake of dialogue between the three Co-Chair country representatives – Igor Popov (Russia); James Warlick (US); and Pierre Andrieu (France), alongside Andrzej

Kasprzyk, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairman-in-Office – with Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, and Edward Nalbandian, his Armenian counterpart – on the sidelines of the 71st session of the UN General Assembly.

The statement continued: “During the meetings, we paid special attention to the implementation of decisions taken at the recent summits in Vienna and St. Petersburg, held in May and June, respectively. In particular, we discussed further steps that could create an atmosphere that would foster substantial negotiations, leading to a possible settlement.”

OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair countries offer to host peace talks

Federica Mogherini, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, reiterated that the EU remains supportive of Azerbaijani territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence, during her meeting with Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister, during the 71st session of the UN General Assembly. Mogherini pointed out that the EU is interested in the peaceful settlement of the Armenian–Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

Mr Mammadyarov went on to brief Mrs Mogherini about the current situation regarding resolution of the conflict. He noted that the continuing Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territories and the

destructive and provocative policy pursued by this country has had a severe impact on the restoration of peace and stability in the region, and commented that Azerbaijan supports substantive negotiations.

During the meeting, the parties also discussed the current status of EU–Azerbaijani relations, and expressed interest in their further development. Mrs Mogherini commented that: “The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia remains in the forefront of the EU priorities.” She also referred to the recent visit to Baku by the EU–Azerbaijan Parliamentary Co-operation Committee, which provides the ideal basis for the two parties to expand their relationship.

Mogherini: EU supports Azerbaijani territorial integrity

The Final Document of the 17th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), held on the Island of Margarita, Venezuela, has been adopted. The Document states: “The Heads of State or Government expressed their regret that, despite the UN Security Council resolutions 822, 853, 874 and 884, the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan remains unresolved and continues to endanger

international and regional peace and security. They reaffirmed the importance of the non-use of force principle, enshrined in the UN Charter, and encouraged the parties to continue to seek a negotiated settlement of the conflict within the territorial integrity, sovereignty and internationally-recognised borders of the Republic of Azerbaijan.” The NAM also welcomed the Azerbaijani offer to host the 18th NAM Summit in 2019.

NAM Summit supportive of Azerbaijani stance

The award-winning Jeremy Irons-narrated landmark documentary Endless Corridor has now been beamed across the world on Al Jazeera


Featuring more than 850 exhibitors from around the world, the Speciality and Fine Food Fair at the 120-year-old Olympia exhibition centre in London is one of the premier high-end culinary fairs of its type, showcasing all the latest product developments. For the first time, Gilan Holding was represented with a booth at the 2016 event, and Neil Watson spoke to Yusif Axundov, Chief, Export Department, Gilan Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) Division to find out more.

Is this the first time you have exhibited at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair?This is our first experience of the show. Even though this is just the first day, the show has been very active. I have already spoken to many people, including a wide range of distributors and private-label buyers, from around the world.

What is the objective of exhibiting at the show?Our purpose is to secure distribution and sales for our products in UK and overseas markets. We have been speaking to several distributors, and I believe our products will be available in UK shops during the next few months. We are particularly focusing on pomegranate juice, other fruit drinks, and preserves.

All our products are EU-compliant, and are already available in Poland, France, Austria, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Norway and Sweden. We anticipate that we will soon start exporting more product lines to a greater range of countries. Ideally, we would like to export under our own trademarks, but we are willing to repackage, supply to private-label manufacturers, or do whatever is necessary to bring our products to market.

Which major hurdles must be overcome regarding distribution of Azerbaijani produce?There are not any real challenges, but we just need to overcome some issues that are the same across the world. These primarily relate to certification – for example, you need to obtain a BRC certificate before you can distribute to the UK market.

What other product lines are being prepared for distribution in the west?Our No.1 product remains pomegranate juice, but we also make other juices, compotes and fruit preserves, which are very much appreciated by visitors. We feel we have a niche market for these products. Although we manufacture dairy items as well, these are currently only exported to neighbouring countries, as is our smoked fish, fish preserves and canned fish. We also produce pickles, some of which are based on indigenous fruits that are unique to Azerbaijan, for example Cornel, which many people have heard about, yet never tried. Fruit jams, drinks and pickles are based around this. Another fruit is Feijoa, which is made into drinks in Azerbaijan, and is very common there. This has attracted a great deal of attention from visitors to the show.

Are these products marketed on a health footing?Pomegranate ranks as the No.1 antioxidant in the world. It is a superfruit, and Azerbaijan is very strong in pomegranate growing, where it is the national fruit. These attributes can be used for commercialisation in the UK and can certainly help to boost our sales. Also, pomegranate juice from other manufacturers is already sold in the UK, so consumers are used to the product, although our competitors’ juice is more diluted and sweetened.

We are amongst the few manufacturers to produce compotes containing entire fruits. Also, all the pomegranates – and many other fruits – used in our drinks are from our own orchards. We have achieved organic certification, which ensures the traceability of our products throughout the production, packaging and transportation process. All of our factories are ISO9001:

2008 and ISO 22000: 2005 certified, and we have achieved both Kosher and Halal certification.

Are your products being pitched at high-end consumers?Our analysis has already identified our competitors, and we are perfectly affordable in comparison. When it comes to quality, pure-pressed organic juices, we are in a league of our own. Not many competitors are so liberal and, amongst them, we are the most affordable. Unlike them, we own the land and have our own orchards. Many levels of the supply chain are perfectly integrated, and we can thus make the juice more affordable.

Why are you focusing on the juices, pickles and preserves?We are initially focusing on products with a long shelf-life that can be supplied in numerous permutations. We are prepared to package in whatever format the supermarket, distributor or private-label manufacturer prefers. All our labels in the current packaging have been designed as being suitable for their end-market. We are very flexible, and will do all that is required to meet the demands of the market. Such flexibility, a ‘can-do’ attitude and top-quality products are absolutely essential in today’s marketplace.

Go to www.gilanfood.az for more information on the Gilan FMCG Product Range.

Yusif Axundov outlines the antioxidant properties of pomegranates to international attendees at the Speciality and Fine Food Fair

14 Personalities – Yusif Axundov

Gilan: Quality is second nature

The healthy, natural, compotes, fruit drinks and preserves can be supplied in any quantity or packaging configuration, or under private label

Vanessa Raine, Director: New Business, UEI, invites attendees to savour the taste of authentic Azerbaijani pomegranate juice


15Business News

Bakutel 2016, the 22nd Azerbaijan International Exhibition and Conference on Telecommunications and Information Technologies, will take place from 29 November–2 December. This plays an essential role in bringing together leading players from the communications market. As the main regional arena for presenting IT products and services, Bakutel has acquired acknowledged status as the main business platform where contacts are made and new businesses are created. Over the years, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Communications and High Technologies has demonstrated invaluable support for Bakutel and played a

key role in establishing and developing the exhibition, alongside international industry institutions such as the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). It has also received accreditation from UFI – the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry – and the event organisers are Iteca Caspian and Caspian Event Organisers.

Around 200 companies from Azerbaijan, Germany, Israel, Russia, Turkey, USA and other countries have already confirmed they will be exhibiting at Bakutel 2016, of which 40 per cent are repeat exhibitors. These

include leading ICT companies, mobile operators, communications operators, internet providers, systems integrators, and distributors of well-known brands. The exhibition also features national stands from a number of countries, and the registration sponsor is Azerfon.

There will be special presentations on a range of subjects, including Audio Libraries for Visually-impaired Children and on the Digitalisation of Museums, and numerous conferences and forums will be held on the sidelines of the event. Go to www.bakutel.az for more information.

The innovative ASAN Imza Azerbaijani mobile ID and signature technology has been highlighted at Smart Security Week 2016 in Marseille, France, one of the most prestigious events dedicated to the topics of E- and M-ID, contactless services, smart infrastructure solutions and cybersecurity, attended by over 400 international delegates.

Jana Krimpe, Founder of the Azerbaijani company B.EST Solutions, spoke on the topic of M-ID – your mobile passport in the new generation of government at the World E-ID and Cybersecurity conference. Her speech was positioned under the plenary session entitled Worldwide Deployments and Endusers, where the technology was analysed alongside that of Japan, Canada and France.

Mrs Krimpe explained that the technological foundation of ASAN Imza was PKI infrastructure, which ranks amongst the most advanced architecture for the deployment of M-ID technology. The participants were also presented with a brief survey of e-government strategies and systems in Azerbaijan, focusing on the one-stop-shop ASAN Service concept, comprising a

network of ASAN Service Centres located across Azerbaijan.

The key importance of the ASAN Imza M-ID service in the transitional process from electronic to mobile government was noted. The audience valued highly such advantages of ASAN Imza in facilitating ease of implementation for e-service providers, accessibility for users, and ensuring the highest level of transaction security in the e-environment.

During her speech, Mrs Krimpe spoke about the innovative services available utilising ASAN Imza, including such Azerbaijani public institutions as the Azerbaijani State Customs Committee, Azerbaijani Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population, and e-Government and ASAN payment portals, including its use by the Azerbaijani Taxation Ministry Call Centre that enables taxpayers to declare their taxes remotely without using a PC or internet. ASAN Imza attracted special interest from representatives of the World Bank, with which a partnership is planned regarding global presentation of the best practice and experience of Azerbaijan, related to M-ID technology.

Bakutel on the horizon

ASAN Imza headlines at French Smart Security Week

AZCAN Defence Solutions, an Azerbaijani–Canadian joint venture producing armoured vehicles for private, commercial and military purposes, launched a new line of armoured vehicles at the annual ADEX Defence Exhibition, including personnel carriers and pickup trucks, specifically

designed for construction in Azerbaijan for indigenous and international use. The design incorporates features that will protect both operators and passengers, satisfying the international criteria in terms of assembly, armour and electronic componentry.

AZCAN armoured vehicles incorporate the latest tactical equipment, including large spectrum chemical protection, integrated remote weapon control systems, advanced drone and fire detection devices, and remote explosives signal jamming. Visit www.azcan.com for more details.

Azerbaijani–Canadian joint venture launches armoured vehicles range

Russian budget airline Pobeda (an Aeroflot subsidiary) has revealed that it will fly from Rostov-on-Don to Baku four times a week from 30 October. Until the end of the winter schedule, at

least 30 percent of tickets will be offered at the lowest tariff of RUB999 (£12.20), including all taxes and fees, according to the Pobeda press service. Pobeda operates Boeing 737–800 aircraft.

Budget airline Pobeda to fly to Baku four times a week

Sebastian Kurz, Austrian Foreign Minister, has revealed that Austrian Airlines intends to resume flights to Baku after a hiatus of a year, during a meeting with Elmar Mammadyarov, his Azerbaijani counterpart, on the sidelines of the 71st session of the

UN General Assembly in New York. Mr Kurz noted that Azerbaijan had developed a favourable business atmosphere, and that Austrian companies are now interested in increasing their level of investments in the country.

Austrian Airlines resumes flights to Azerbaijan

Dentons Baku office – a TEAS member company – has issued a client alert at http://bit.ly/dentonsprocurement in the wake of a new decree specifying the new regulations for public procurement from the State Budget.

The main objective of the new measures is to reduce the use of imported goods by state organisations until 1 January 2018.

Exceptions include imported goods (works

and services) using funds borrowed from foreign lenders and guaranteed by the State, foreign grants, procurement for the defence and national security purposes, and the procurement of drugs and medical supplies.

Dentons alert on Public Procurement

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10 October 2016

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