A meeting was held with the Azerbaijani community living in the city of Atlanta and surrounding areas in the U.S. state of Georgia. The meeting was attended by Elshad Aliyev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, and staff members of the Committee.

The meeting began with a rendition of the national anthems of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the United States of America, followed by a moment of respectful remembrance in honour of the heroic sons of Azerbaijan who sacrificed their lives for the territorial integrity of our homeland.

Deputy Chairman Elshad Aliyev spoke about the work being carried out in the field of diaspora building. He stated that the Azerbaijani diaspora play a significant role in protecting national interests in different countries, conveying the truth about Azerbaijan to the international community, as well as promoting our cultural values.

Ehtiram Asgarov, an organizer of the meeting and active member of the Azerbaijani community in Georgia, provided information about a newly established organization currently undergoing the registration process. He emphasized that networking would positively contribute to organizing the community’s activities in a more coordinated and efficient manner, as well as expanding opportunities for joint activities among local Azerbaijanis. He also called on our compatriots to take a more active part in community affairs.

Professor Amina Salamova of Atlanta’s Emory University noted the particular importance of such meetings in bringing community members together, strengthening ties, and fostering mutual cooperation. She also emphasized the importance of holding similar meetings on a regular basis.

Nigar Khasayeva, an active member of the Azerbaijani Youth Union in Georgia, spoke about the diaspora activities of young Azerbaijani students studying in the state and projects implemented together with them. Sharing her impressions of participating in the American-Azerbaijani Youth Forum, Khasayeva stated that the forum plays an important role in establishing connections among Azerbaijani youth living in different states, facilitating the exchange of experience, and creating new opportunities for cooperation.

Parvana Goja, daughter of Azerbaijan’s People’s Poet Fikrat Goja, emphasized the importance of further strengthening the unity of the Azerbaijani community. She particularly underscored the significance of the solidarity demonstrated by the Azerbaijani diaspora during the 44-day Patriotic War, stating that she would continue to support the activities of the community.

During the meeting, video presentations named “History Lesson,” “Unity” and “Karabakh is Azerbaijan!” were screened.

The meeting continued with a Q&A session with participants, during which future areas of activity and opportunities for cooperation were discussed. Views were also exchanged on further strengthening the activities of the Azerbaijani diaspora in the state of Georgia, expanding youth involvement in diaspora work, preserving national and cultural identity, and developing organizational activities.