The State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan continues to successfully implement the Summer Camps of Diaspora Youth project — a unique initiative of international significance that has established a new model of cooperation in the history of the global diaspora. The opening ceremony of the 7th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, co-organized by the Committee and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, was held this year in Zangilan, a charming area of East Zangezur.

The ceremony began with a rendition of the national anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan, 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.

Short films highlighting the restoration and reconstruction work underway in the Zangilan district, as well as the history of the Summer Camps of Diaspora Youth—a unique initiative in the history of the global diaspora—were received with great interest.

“The Summer Camps of Diaspora Youth are among the most unique and prestigious projects in the history of the global diaspora. The diaspora policy implemented under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev ensures the continuity of this important initiative, and your presence in Karabakh today is a significant achievement. Our main goal from now on is to strengthen the unity of the global Azerbaijani community, and you should be among the most active members of this unity,” said Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, during his speech.

Vahid Hajiyev, Special Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Gubadli, Jabrayil, and Zangilan districts of the East Zangazur Economic Region; Masim Mammadov, Special Representative of the President in the Lachin district; Elvin Aslanov, representative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Musa Gasimli, Deputy Speaker of the Milli Majlis; Farid Jafarov, Deputy Minister of Culture; and Shahin Bayramov, Rector of Karabakh University, spoke about the contributions of this innovative project involving diaspora youth to strengthening the unity of Azerbaijani communities abroad and rejuvenating the diaspora. They also highlighted the significance of holding the camp for several consecutive years in the territories liberated from occupation.

The event continued with a cultural program.

It should be noted that 123 diaspora youth and young representatives of nations friendly toward Azerbaijan from 64 countries are participating in the 7th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, held in Eastern Zangazur under the motto “Reviving Cities” within the framework of the “Year of Urban Development and Architecture”.

The Summer Camps of Diaspora Youth regarded as one of the most innovative projects in the history of the global diaspora movement and a unique initiative, have been held since 2018. To date, the camps have taken place in the cities of Sheki, Shamakhi, Shusha, Nakhchivan, Lachin, and Khankendi. Overall, the project has brought together more than 700 diaspora youth and representatives of nations friendly toward Azerbaijan from 84 countries. The initiative strengthens the ties of young Azerbaijanis living abroad with their historical homeland, fosters their interest in national identity and spiritual values, encourages joint initiatives, and promotes the establishment of long-term cooperation platforms.