As part of the 1st Forum of Azerbaijani Cultural Ambassadors held in Antalya, Türkiye, the panel discussions on various topics were held.

The panel, moderated by Nigar Akhundova, a Presidential scholar of the Republic of Azerbaijan and PhD in Art Studies, was dedicated to the topic “Promoting Azerbaijan internationally: the contribution of the diaspora to cultural diplomacy.” The panel featured speeches by Elshad Aliyev, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, Firangiz Alizadeh, People’s Artist and Chairperson of the Composers Union of Azerbaijan, Jahangir Novruzov, People’s Artist and Chairman of the Forum’s Organizing Committee, Khadija Zeynalova (Germany), composer and PhD in Art Studies, Gulnara Safarova (Japan), pianist and PhD in Pedagogical Sciences, conductor and pianist Abuzar Manafzade (Austria), and pianist Ayan Mammadli (Austria). Discussions focused on the role of the Azerbaijani diaspora in shaping the Azerbaijan’s international image and promoting national culture around the world. It was noted that in recent years, Azerbaijanis have successfully promoted Azerbaijan’s rich cultural heritage and values by organizing national and cultural events, exhibitions, concerts, and educational projects in various countries. The speakers emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy as a tool of soft power and highlighted the importance of further strengthening the activities of diaspora organizations in this area.

At the panel session on “Bringing international experience in the field of culture to Azerbaijan: opportunities for cooperation and prospects”, new approaches aimed at expanding activities, as well as learning, and applying best practices were discussed. The panel was moderated by Nargiz Aliyarova, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan and president of the National Music Global Culture Society. Farid Jafarov, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Minister of Culture, Rashad Azizov, Director General of the Cinema Agency, Jamila Orujova, founder of the “Ophrys Art Gallery”, Toghrul Ganiyev, Director of the State Conservatory of Mersin University and Professor, delivered their speeches. It was noted that strengthening intercultural dialogue in the context of globalization and adapting international experience to the local environment are among the priority directions of Azerbaijan’s cultural policy. The panel also discussed issues such as implementing joint projects, involving young cultural professionals in international exchange programs, and enhancing cultural diplomacy.

Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, Adil Karimli , Minister of Culture delivered speeches, and answered questions at the panel session on “Promoting Azerbaijan internationally: the contribution of the diaspora to cultural diplomacy.”

Committee Chairman Fuad Muradov spoke about the diaspora’s contributions to cultural diplomacy and future plans. He emphasized that the promotion of Azerbaijani culture abroad should be conducted through precise and well-planned PR mechanisms, taking into account the specific characteristics of each country.