By the decree of President Ilham Aliyev dated January 7, 2026, Akif Alaferdov, Chairman of the “Kyrgyzstan-Azerbaijan” Friendship and Cooperation Society, Honored Doctor of the Kyrgyz Republic, and Candidate of Medical Sciences, was awarded the “Taraggi” medal for his contributions to strengthening friendship between peoples and developing the Azerbaijani diaspora.

Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, met with Akif Alaferdov, a prominent diaspora representative who received the high award.

The meeting held a broad exchange of views on developing the Azerbaijani diaspora, expanding the activities of our compatriots abroad, as well as further strengthening Azerbaijan–Kyrgyzstan friendly relations.

It was noted that the activities of our compatriots residing abroad are always at the center of attention of the Azerbaijani state, and that the work carried out on the initiatives of the diaspora representatives in various countries, their efforts to preserve their national interests and to strengthen Azerbaijan’s international image, are highly appreciated.

Akif Alaferdov described the award as a high recognition of his long-term and effective public service. He expressed deep gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev for attention and care shown to our compatriots. He highlighted that he would continue his work with greater determination to further strengthen the Azerbaijani diaspora, reinforce national solidarity, and enhance the country’s international standing.

The “Taraggi” medal, awarded by the head of state for his services in strengthening friendship between peoples and developing the Azerbaijani diaspora, was presented to Akif Alaferdov.

Maksat Mamytkanov, the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan, stated that Azerbaijanis living in the brotherly country have successfully integrated into society and make essential contributions to its development.

It should be noted that Akif Alaferdov has also been awarded Kyrgyzstan’s state decoration, the “Dank” Order, for his services in strengthening friendship between peoples, as well as the medal “For Service in Diaspora Activity” of the Republic of Azerbaijan.