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Last week review (Sept. 11-15)

Analysis Materials 18 September 2017 17:25 (UTC +04:00)

Sept. 11

ADB mission assesses railway project in Azerbaijan

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) mission has conducted assessment of the work carried out within the Azerbaijan Railway Sector Development Program, ADB’s Baku office told Trend.

The mission was in Azerbaijan Aug. 28-Sept. 8.

“Representatives of the assessment mission held political and technical consultations and discussions with the Azerbaijani government regarding the Azerbaijan Railway Sector Development Program and the International North–South Transport Corridor,” the office said.

ADB plans to allocate $400 million as a loan for the International North–South Transport Corridor, as well as for the development of Azerbaijan’s railway sector. The project’s review is planned for September 22, 2017. Loan approval date hasn’t been set yet.

Funds will be allocated in two tranches - $300 million and $100 million, respectively. Meanwhile, technical assistance will be provided in the amount of $1 million.

The loan will be mainly used as investment in the development of Baku-Yalama railway section (border with Russia) as part of the North-South transport project and as support for expanding the management autonomy of the Azerbaijan Railways CJSC, effective financial restructurization of company’s liabilities, expansion of financial and administrative control, efficiency and accountability of the company, as well as the development of business and corporate restructurization of the railway authority.

The infrastructure reconstruction project as part of the North-South envisages the restoration and rehabilitation of the 441-kilometer Baku-Yalama [dual-track] section, the development of a computerized cargo management system and the provision of consulting services as part of the project.

Azerbaijan Railways CJSC is considered to be the loan executor.

The International North-South Transport Corridor is meant to connect Northern Europe with Southeast Asia. It will serve as a link connecting the railways of Azerbaijan, Iran and Russia. It is planned to transport 5 million tons of cargo per year at the initial stage and over 10 million tons of cargo in the future via the corridor.

ADB was founded in 1966 and has 67 member states. The bank’s headquarters is located in Manila, Philippines. Azerbaijan became an ADB member on Dec.22, 1999. The country accounts for 0.5 percent of the bank’s capital.

S. Korean companies interested in co-op with Azerbaijan in maritime navigation

South Korean companies are interested in cooperation with Azerbaijan in maritime navigation, Kwon Dong-seok, South Korean ambassador’s deputy, told reporters in Baku.

Cooperation in this area will be discussed during the forthcoming visit of a delegation of representatives of 10 major South Korean companies to Baku in September, he added.

Great attention is being paid to this area in Azerbaijan, the country is acquiring ships in large quantities, he noted.

A trade mission of the Embassy of South Korea in Azerbaijan is currently preparing a visit of representatives of Korean companies, specialized in the shipbuilding sector, to Baku, the diplomat noted.

Negotiations will take place within the Azerbaijani-Korean business meeting, to be held Sept. 13 in Baku.

Representatives of such companies as Yelim Paint Spray, Mattron Corporation, Dongsan Valve, Jin Gu Engineering, Kwangwoon, Keonsae High Pressure, Daedong Marine Tech, MSTech and others will arrive in Azerbaijan to participate in the negotiations.

According to the diplomat, Korean companies also show interest in industrial parks.

Today, more than 10 major Korean companies operate in Azerbaijan, the diplomat said.

President Aliyev receives delegation led by secretary of Vietnam Communist Party

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation led by Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC), Politburo member and Head of the CPVCC's Mass Mobilization Commission Truong Thi Mai.

President Ilham Aliyev hailed successful development of relations between the two countries, as well as between the New Azerbaijan Party and Communist Party of Vietnam.

President Ilham Aliyev recalled his state visit to Vietnam that took place a few years ago and his meeting with the Vietnamese graduates of the Azerbaijani universities during the trip. The head of state described the meeting as very frank, saying the Vietnamese graduates were invited to visit Baku, the places where they lived and studied.

President Ilham Aliyev also hailed the importance of the former Vietnamese president`s visit to Azerbaijan. He emphasized the significance of strengthening ties at all other levels.

The head of state underlined the significance of developing economic relations and bilateral cooperation in international organizations, increasing the bilateral trade and cooperation in the field of education, and expanding historical and cultural ties.

President Ilham Aliyev expressed confidence that Truong Thi Mai`s visit to Azerbaijan will contribute to the strengthening of friendly relations between the two countries and peoples.

Truong Thi Mai congratulated the head of state and the people of Azerbaijan on the great strides made over recent years. She noted that the two countries enjoy friendly relations.

Truong Thi Mai emphasized that the foundation of these relations was laid by leader of the people of Vietnam Ho Chi Minh and Azerbaijan's national leader Heydar Aliyev.

Saying this year will mark the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Azerbaijan and Vietnam, Truong Thi Mai thanked the Azerbaijani government for supporting her country in different periods.

She noted that as part of her trip to Azerbaijan she visited the Heydar Aliyev Center.

"We have once again witnessed the role of the national leader in Azerbaijan's reaching this level as an independent state," she added

"Azerbaijan can consider Vietnam as a reliable partner in Southeast Asia," she said.

The sides exchanged views on a number of issues, including prospects for cooperation between the two countries in the fields of investment making, energy, transport, and education.

Azerbaijani First VP Mehriban Aliyeva visits Garanfil nursery-kindergarten

First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva has visited the Garanfil nursery-kindergarten in Nasimi District after a major overhaul supported by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

Head of Baku City Executive Authority Hajibala Abutalibov told Mehriban Aliyeva that the kindergarten has been operating since 1968.

The two-story 225-seat nursery-kindergarten features 12 groups. Each of these groups is provided with the necessary equipment and has three rooms.

The pre-school educational institution features training, sports and music rooms, bedrooms and a canteen.

First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva was informed that a special corner was created here for children to learn road traffic rules.

Mehriban Aliyeva viewed the nursery-kindergarten.

Landscaping was carried out in the area around the nursery-kindergarten.

First VP Mehriban Aliyeva views renovated nursery-kindergarten in Baku

First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva has viewed conditions created at the nursery-kindergarten No. 105 in Bakikhanov, Sabunchu District, Baku, after renovation.

Head of Baku City Executive Authority Hajibala Abutalibov informed First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva of the work done in the nursery-kindergarten.

The building was constructed in 1985. As IDPs settled in some part of the nursery-kindergarten it had only four groups with a total number of 60 children.

Under the “State Program for Socio-Economic Development of Baku and its Suburbs for 2011-2013”, approved by the Azerbaijani president, the IDP families living here were relocated to a new residential area in Mehdiabad settlement and the nursery-kindergarten underwent renovation.

Now, the 230-seat kindergarten features 12 groups.

All the rooms were supplied with the necessary equipment and ventilation system.

Landscaping work was done in the area of the nursery-kindergarten and attractions were installed in its yard.

President Aliyev views overhauled special school in Baku

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has viewed conditions created at the special school No. 268 in Nasimi District after renovation.

Head of Baku City Executive Authority Hajibala Abutalibov informed the head of state about the work done here.

Children in need of special care study at the school No. 268.

The school has been operating since 1927. The reconstruction work was carried out here as part of the implementation of the Plan of Action of the State Program, approved by President Ilham Aliyev in 2014.

The two-story building of the school has 23 classrooms. The school has been supplied with necessary equipment. Nine hundred pupils study in the school.

Azerbaijan’s biggest enterprise for aluminium production to be improved

Azerbaijan’s State Property Issues Committee and the Ministry of Economy prepared proposals for the improvement of Azeraluminium JSC.

This was stated in a report on evaluation of the results of implementing the Strategic Road Map for the development of heavy industry and machinery in Azerbaijan.

The prepared proposals also include the possibility of granting deferral for the company to pay its credit obligations, as well as exemption of alumina and anodal blocks’ import from value-added tax.

“As of today, a draft Action Plan for development of the aluminum industry in Azerbaijan as well as a draft order of the Azerbaijani president on its approval are already ready,” said the report.

At the same time, proposals were prepared to start building the second phase of the project to bring up Det-Al Aluminum Complex’s production capacity to 100,000 tons. Also, there are proposals for rendering government support to the projects for processing of alunite ore, production of anodal blocks in Azerbaijan and others.

Azeraluminium JSC has been operating in Azerbaijan since 1955 and was the first enterprise of the Azerbaijan SSR in the field of nonferrous metallurgy. The total area of the plant is 530.63 hectares.

Currently, the plant is put up for privatization.

Ilham Aliyev views overhauled school in Baku’s Sabayil District

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev viewed conditions created at the secondary school No. 239 in Badamdar, Sabayil District, Baku, after a major overhaul.

Head of Baku City Executive Authority Hajibala Abutalibov informed the head of state of the reconstruction work.

The first block of the school was constructed in 1960, while the second one in 2007.

The school has 53 classrooms, two computer rooms, physics, chemistry, biology laboratories, a gym and a conference hall, a military room and a library. The school also features "Healthy Education" and medical rooms. All the classrooms have necessary equipment and teaching aids. The school has a total enrollment of 1,180 pupils.

Extensive landscaping work was done and green areas were created in the yard of the school.

President Ilham Aliyev viewed the school and wished its staff success.

Sept. 13

President Aliyev receives director of IMF Middle East, Central Asia Department

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation led by Director of the International Monetary Fund's (IMF) Middle East and Central Asia Department Jihad Azour.

Jihad Azour said that as part of the trip the IMF delegation visited Icheri Sheher, adding that the delegation was deeply impressed by the excellent preservation and the beauty of this historical heritage.

President Ilham Aliyev noted that Icharishahar was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, underlining the Azerbaijani government’s particular attention to the protection of this heritage.

Praising the long-term cooperation between Azerbaijan and the IMF, the head of state underlined Azerbaijan’s keenness to continue this cooperation.

President Ilham Aliyev hailed the importance of reforms in the public administration system in Azerbaijan. He also noted the significance of purposeful measures to facilitate and further improve business environment and encourage investment making.

The head of state highlighted modernization of the education system, the work done to increase the educated and skilled staff potential in Azerbaijan, as well as reforms in the country's banking sector.

Describing 2017 as the year of financial stability, President Ilham Aliyev pointed out that efficient measures are being taken to ensure economic growth in 2018.

Jihad Azour noted that the IMF lauds the reforms carried out in Azerbaijan under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev. He emphasized the importance of steps taken by the government towards eliminating the impact of the global economic crisis on Azerbaijan’s economy and stabilizing the macroeconomic situation due to sharp decline in oil prices.

Jihad Azour hailed the importance of the strengthening of the Azerbaijani manat and continuation of the budget consolidation process as well as structural reforms in the country’s economy.

He also noted the importance of diversifying the economy, developing the non-oil sector and preparing Azerbaijan’s economy for the post-oil era.

The sides exchanged views on prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and the IMF.

Foreigners in Baku to be able to use single tourist electronic cards

Foreigners in Baku will be able to use certain services free of charge or on preferential terms by purchasing special single tourist electronic cards, Kenan Guluzade, press secretary of Azerbaijan’s National Bureau for Tourism Promotion, told Trend.

He said that it is planned to prepare two types of the single tourist electonic cards - for 30 days and one year (with possibility for extension).

Foreign citizens will be able to add funds to the card balance, for using them for payment when visiting museums, other cultural sites, as well as when using excursion buses and public transport in Baku, he noted.

The single tourist electronic cards will also offer opportunity to benefit from discounts in some stores, he said, adding that all this is currently at the stage of consideration and the number of services that are more interesting for tourists will be expanded.

He added that the single tourist electronic cards will be available for purchase at travel agencies, a number of points of sale in Baku, as well as online.

Guluzade said the use of these cards will be convenient for tourists, and their use will also bring profit to the national bureau. He went on to add that similar cards are used in many developed countries.

He said that the project on the preparation of the single tourist cards is being discussed with the relevant government and business structures.

“We hope that soon it will be presented to the public,” Guluzade said.

“We will try to make the card’s price affordable for everyone,” he said.

Depositories of Azerbaijan, Belarus aim to establish co-op

Azerbaijan’s National Depository Center said in a message that it plans to establish cooperation with the Republican Central Securities Depository of Belarus.

The cooperation is stipulated by an agreement signed by the parties within the 14th International Conference of the Association of Eurasian Central Securities Depositories in Minsk.

The agreement provides for the establishment of correspondent relations between the two entities, the opening of mutual correspondent accounts, the holding of operations on securities and other transactions.

Azerbaijan’s National Depository Center was established Sept.18, 1997.

ICD to start working on first project within FTZ in Azerbaijan

In the near future, the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector (ICD) and the Baku International Sea Trade Port will sign an agreement to develop feasibility study to create a warehouse complex in the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) in Azerbaijan’s Alat settlement, a source in the country’s financial market told Trend Sept. 13.

Strategic goods, such as grain, soybeans and others, will be stored in the complex, according to the source. “The results of the feasibility study will show whether such a complex is necessary on the territory of the FTZ,” the source said. “The studies can last from one month to six months.”

On December 8, 2016, Baku International Sea Trade Port signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the ICD during the first international investment conference in Baku in order to study the potential opportunities in the port and Alat FTZ and examine the possibility of involving private sector in their implementation.

The ICD is the second international organization attracted for consultations within the project of creating the FTZ.

In September 2016, the Azerbaijani government and Dubai Port World (DP World), one of the world’s major port operators, signed an agreement on provision of consulting services for the creation of the FTZ in Alat settlement.

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree March 17, 2016, on measures to create a free trade zone type special economic area covering the territory of the Baku International Sea Trade Port in the Alat settlement of Baku’s Garadagh district.

Azerbaijan’s leasing companies may get regulator

Azerbaijan’s Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FIMSA) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are developing a new legal framework for regulating the activities of leasing companies, a source in Azerbaijan’s financial market told Trend.

“Earlier, the two bodies met with officials of the country's operating leasing companies. The focus of the discussions was the creation of legislation to regulate the leasing market. In general, leasing companies welcomed this decision because it will contribute to the development of this segment of the financial market,” the source said.

The source noted that leasing companies stand for the appearance of a regulator in their market. At present, the activities of leasing companies are almost not regulated – there are items in some of the laws and regulations of the Civil Code, which are related to their activities.

“Naturally, the absence of specialized legislation seriously hampers the development of the leasing market. Therefore, both the government and market participants are very interested in the development of new laws,” said the source.

The source noted that for this purpose, IFC will provide technical assistance to FIMSA.

“Soon, the two bodies will sign a corresponding agreement. IFC already has experience with Azerbaijan’s leasing companies. Besides, IFC plans to involve international experts in this process.”

Azerbaijan has been cooperating with IFC since 1995.

Sept. 14

First VP Mehriban Aliyeva attends lecture by American businessman Shervin Pishevar at ADA University

American entrepreneur Shervin Pishevar has delivered a lecture titled “Impact of modern technologies on global business environment” at ADA University.

First Vice-President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva and Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva attended the event.

Shervin Pishevar gave recommendations on how to find successful business ideas.

Pishevar also responded to students’ questions.

Azerbaijani president meets Turkish minister of energy, natural resources

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Turkey Berat Albayrak.

President Ilham Aliyev expressed his gratitude for kind words in President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s message of congratulation in connection with today’s ceremony in Baku. The head of state said today’s event strengthened the existing energy cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey, and also extended his congratulations on this occasion.

Berat Albayrak extended Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s greetings to President Ilham Aliyev. He described Azerbaijan-Turkey energy cooperation as a model for the rest of the world. The Turkish minister said this cooperation is enriched with new projects and mutual investment.

The sides noted the importance of joint strategic projects carried out by Azerbaijan and Turkey, and expressed their confidence that friendly and brotherly relations between the two countries will continue to expand.

They stressed the significance of the Amended and Restated Agreement on the Joint Development and Production Sharing for the Azeri and Chirag fields and the Deep Water Portion of the Gunashli field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, saying it will contribute to developing both countries` economies and improving both nations` well-fare.

President Ilham Aliyev thanked for the Turkish president’s greetings, and asked the minister to extend his greetings to Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Ilham Aliyev meets Japan's parliamentary vice-minister for foreign affairs

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has met with Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Manabu Horii.

Vice-Minister Manabu Horii underlined the importance of the signing of a new contract on the development of Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli fields in Baku, and congratulated the Azerbaijani president on this occasion.

He extended his congratulations to President Ilham Aliyev on the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and Japan.

Saying that Azerbaijan, the leading state in the region, has gained good reputation in the world, Manabu Horii underlined Japan's keenness to expand cooperation with Azerbaijan in all areas. He hailed the recent beneficial reciprocal visits between the two countries, saying these visits featured fruitful talks on investment making in a variety of fields. He noted that Japan plans to simplify visa regime with Azerbaijan in order to ensure rapid development of bilateral relations.

President Ilham Aliyev in turn extended his congratulations to the top Japanese official on the occasion of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries, and hailed Japan's high-level representation in the signing ceremony.

The head of state emphasized that Japan has always provided financial support to projects implemented in Azerbaijan, hailing the Japanese government's allocating loans for the creation of modern infrastructure in the country.

Pointing out the successful cooperation between the two countries in the energy sector, President Ilham Aliyev underlined that the Japanese companies have been actively involved in the development of oil and gas fields in Azerbaijan for many years and making significant contributions to the development of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The head of state emphasized the importance of expanding mutual trade relations. Apart from the energy sector, he highlighted the importance of cooperation in industry, in free trade zone, as well as mutual investment in pharmaceutical industry, agriculture, tea growing industry and petrochemistry.

Ilham Aliyev meets co-rapporteurs of PACE Monitoring Committee

Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev has received co-rapporteurs of the PACE Monitoring Committee Cezar Florin Preda and Stefan Schennach.

The PACE Monitoring Committee co-rapporteurs congratulated the head of state on the signing of a new contract on the development of Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli fields, describing it as a historic landmark.

President Ilham Aliyev spoke of the contract, partners, and work done in Azeri, Chirag and Gunashli fields.

During the meeting they discussed the current state and prospects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe.

Ilham Aliyev meets with UK Minister of State

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev met with Minister of State of the United Kingdom Alan Duncan. President Ilham Aliyev thanked for the UK Prime Minister Theresa May's message of congratulation in connection with today's ceremony in Baku.

The head of state hailed Theresa May's kind words about the bilateral relations between the two countries. President Ilham Aliyev described the UK's high-level representation in the ceremony as indicative of great importance that the UK government attaches to the event.

Hailing the signing of the contract as a historical event, the head of state called it a contract of the new century. President Ilham Aliyev praised successful development of Azerbaijan-UK cooperation, saying bilateral relations between the two countries cover many areas, including oil and gas sector.

Alan Duncan in return hailed the political and economic ties between the two countries. He said Azerbaijan and the UK demonstrate that they are reliable partners. Minister of State Alan Duncan underlined favorable opportunities for developing cooperation between the two countries in the non-oil sector too.

The UK Minister of State described the signing of a new agreement on the development of Azeri-Chirag-Gunashli fields as a historical event, saying that the contract will form the basis of bilateral cooperation.

They noted the importance of mutual simplification of visa regime between the two countries.

Sept. 15

Azerbaijan creating Credit Guarantee Fund

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a decree on a number of measures to provide state support to entrepreneurs for expansion of access to financial resources.

The decree provides for the establishment of Credit Guarantee Fund of Azerbaijan OJSC.

Under the decree, the Credit Guarantee Fund will provide a guarantee for entrepreneurs’ manat loans taken out in authorized banks.

In cases and the order determined by the head of state, the Fund will also provide subsidies on a part of the interest rate on loans.

The Credit Guarantee Fund will have a Supervisory Board, consisting of seven people, as well as a Management Board.

The composition of the Supervisory Board will include a member of the Ministry of Finance, a member of the Ministry of Economy, a member of the Central Bank, a member of the Financial Market Supervisory Authority, a member of the State Oil Fund, a member of the National Confederation of Entrepreneurs (Employers') Organisations and a member of the Azerbaijan Banks Association.

President Aliyev receives delegation led by French minister of state

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation led by Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne.

President Ilham Aliyev hailed Azerbaijani-French bilateral relations, saying they cover many areas. He noted the importance of Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne`s visit to Azerbaijan in terms of holding extensive discussions on further development of bilateral relations.

Recalling his official visit to France this year as well as the French presidents’ visits to Azerbaijan, the head of state described the political dialogue between the two countries as quite excellent.

“As for economic cooperation, many French companies have been successfully operating in Azerbaijan for many years, and they are involved in very important projects both as investors and contractors.”

President Ilham Aliyev noted that his repeated meetings with the French businessmen and with their organizations contributed to the expansion of economic cooperation between the two countries.

Hailing significant steps taken in the field of education, the head of state underlined that this started with the opening of a French lyceum in Azerbaijan and that now a French university is operating in the country. “This is the manifestation of excellent relations between Azerbaijan and France.”

President Ilham Aliyev expressed his confidence that France will continue its active work as a mediator in the settlement of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The head of state expressed his hope that Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne's visit to Azerbaijan will create a good opportunity for him to closely familiarize himself with the country.

“I am the first member of the newly formed government appointed by President Emmanuel Macron to visit your country,” Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne said. “This is a great honor for me. I previously served as a senator and in this capacity made particular efforts to encourage investment making and cooperation with different regions of Azerbaijan.”

Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne described the fact that the two countries marked the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties as a landmark event. He said these ties have been excellent over these years, and expressed his confidence that they will continue to grow even further in the next 25 years. He noted that it is important to France that Azerbaijan pursues a very successful and multi-vector policy and pays a particular attention to expanding relations with its neighbors.

“And this reinforces the independence of Azerbaijan, further enhancing its role as a mediator in the region and on the international scene,” said Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne, emphasizing the importance of education in this regard.

The sides discussed the issues relating to the development of cooperation between the two countries in a number of areas, including in energy, transport, subway, space, industry, agriculture, education and culture. They hailed the importance of bilateral relations between regions of the two countries.

The sides also emphasized the significance of cooperation in fighting against international terrorism and extremism and ensuring security, and underlined serious steps taken by Azerbaijan in this area.

Successful cooperation within the European Union was pointed out at the meeting. Praising the fact that work on a strategic partnership document between Azerbaijan and the European Union was underway after President Ilham Aliyev’s successful visit to the EU at the beginning of this year, they expressed their hope that this work will be completed by the end of the year.

They also exchanged views on the current state of the Armenian-Azerbaijani Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and prospects of the negotiations to find a peaceful solution to the dispute.

First VP Mehriban Aliyeva meets French minister of state

First Vice President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva has met with a delegation led by French Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne.

The first vice president said she is pleased to greet the French delegation in Azerbaijan.

Mehriban Aliyeva said this is the first visit by the delegation since the French presidential elections, and wished the delegation success.

“It is very pleasant that your visit coincides with a landmark event for our country and our bilateral relations, as Baku today hosts the opening ceremony of a new building of the French-Azerbaijani University,” she said. “This is a follow up to our cooperation, particularly cooperation in the humanitarian area between our nations in recent years.”

The Azerbaijani first vice president expressed her confidence that the university will give an additional impetus to development of bilateral relations. Mehriban Aliyeva noted that a French lyceum is operating in Baku and the lyceum is today one of the leading educational institutions.

The first vice president described the French-Azerbaijani University’s activity as a crucial step towards the development of relations in the field of education. Mehriban Aliyeva said this will also contribute to deepening of relations between scientists, teachers and students of the two countries.

The first vice president underlined the importance of humanitarian cooperation in strengthening and expanding bilateral ties. Mehriban Aliyeva said that it is humanitarian relations that bring peoples and nations closer to each other. She said Azerbaijan has made great strides in this area in recent years, adding that Azerbaijani realities, culture and history have been promoted in France.

Mehriban Aliyeva said she is hopeful that bilateral cooperation will continue to develop successfully. The first vice president noted that this year marks the 25th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Azerbaijan and France, adding that the two countries have built broad relations in many areas over these years.

“Our relations are based on mutual respect and interest,” said Mehriban Aliyeva.

The first vice president said cooperation between Azerbaijan and France covers different areas, and spoke of relations in the fields of energy, transport, technology and agriculture.

Noting that bilateral relations have greater potential, Mehriban Aliyeva stressed the significance of working on new projects. She thanked for the interest in and attention to Azerbaijan.

Minister of State attached to the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the French Republic Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne said he is aware of Mehriban Aliyeva’s activity and hailed what she has done both in Paris and French regions in order to deepen relations between the two countries.

Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne hailed these activities as crucial for bilateral cooperation.

Envoy talks priority areas of Azerbaijan-Romania cooperation

Considering the strategic nature of relations with Azerbaijan, Romania is interested in expanding cooperation in transportation, agriculture, tourism, information and communication technologies as well as other branches of economy, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Romania Farid Abdinbayov said in an interview with Trend.

“At present, 50 Romanian companies operate in Azerbaijan, while 15 Azerbaijani companies operate in Romania,” the ambassador said. “The Romanian government has always encouraged and supported investments to Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani companies operating in Romania mainly work in energy supply sphere. SOCAR Petroleum SA Romania implements large-scale projects in Romania. This is while Romanian companies are interested in investing in high-tech, transportation, agriculture and light industry in Azerbaijan.”

Development of cooperation between the two countries in spheres of mutual interest will be considered during the fifth meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission for Trade-Economic Relations and Scientific-Technical Cooperation between Azerbaijan and Romania.

The next meeting of the commission will be held soon in Bucharest, and Azerbaijan expects from Romania to announce the concrete time of its holding.

“I would like to note that holding the commission’s meeting will create a more realistic opportunity for a comprehensive review of the current state of bilateral economic relations and identification of new areas of cooperation in promising areas,” Abdinbayov said. “It is also planned to hold a business forum with participation of entrepreneurs from both countries during the meeting. This will help establish real partnership relations between business circles and increase the growth of trade turnover.”

The diplomat named tourism as another important area for bilateral cooperation.

Cooperation in the tourism sector and the prospects for Azerbaijan’s investing in the tourism sector of Romania is one of the issues discussed during the meetings at different levels, according to the envoy.

Rich tourist and recreational resources, culture and history of Azerbaijan were promoted at various exhibitions in Romania and at meetings with Romanian travel companies, and detailed information was also provided in the media, Abdinbayov said.

“As for opening of direct flights between Romania and Azerbaijan, this can be done only in accordance with the economic interests of airlines,” the diplomat noted. “Increase in the flow of tourists between countries is the main factor forming the economic interests. I hope that as a result of the steps taken by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Romania, it will be possible to open a direct flight between Romania and Azerbaijan in the near future.”

Touching upon the trade relations between the two countries, the diplomat noted that the figure amounted to $169.82 million in 2016, which is a 14.25 percent increase as compared to 2015.

Trade turnover between Azerbaijan and Romania in January-August 2017 amounted to $136.82 million, according to the State Customs Committee of Azerbaijan. The trade between the two countries grew 18 percent as compared to the same period last year.

“Although these indicators are generally satisfactory, I believe the two states have great potential for trade,” Ambassador Abdinbayov said.

“Strengthening of cooperation between the two countries in economy is one of the main activities of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Romania,” he noted. “Our main activity in this direction is the promotion of the national brand ‘Made in Azerbaijan’ in Romania and rendering the necessary support to business circles for export of competitive Azerbaijani products to Romania.”

Ilham Aliyev with spouse inaugurate new building of school-lyceum in Baku

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have attended the opening of the newly constructed building of the school-lyceum No 20 named after Arif Huseynzade in Yasamal district, Baku.

Minister of Education Mikayil Jabbarov informed the head of state of the works done here.

School-lyceum No 20 was constructed in 1958. The school underwent a major overhaul under the order of the Azerbaijani President in 2007. On September 15 of the same year President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva viewed renovation works carried out at the school.

Later, it was decided to build a new building, considering the increasing population density in the area.

The head of state cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the school-lyceum.

President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva viewed conditions created at the school. They were informed that a 4,000-seat school-lyceum features state-of-the-art equipment. The school also features preschool preparation classes. The Preschool Education Center, which consists of 8 classrooms, will also operate at the school-lyceum.

There are 145 classrooms and seven laboratories in the school, which has a total enrollment of 3,300 students in Azerbaijani and Russian sections. They are served by 260 teachers.

The Heydar Aliyev Museum at the school-lyceum contains a rich collection, including interesting photos, documents and books reflecting different periods of life and political activity of the national leader.

President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva met with first year students and congratulated them on Knowledge Day.

This year's first lesson at the school-lyceum was held under the motto "Jojug Marjanli - the beginning of a historical return".

President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva posed for photographs together with children. The president then met with the teaching staff.

Parent Jala Seyidli thanked President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva for the attention to the development of education.

Sept. 16

Vice-president of Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva visits State Academy of Fine Arts

Vice-president of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva has viewed the conditions created for students at the State Academy of Fine Arts.

The improvement of the conditions for students with physical disabilities studying in the State Academy of Fine Arts and development of their talents is one of the key priorities of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

An elevator for students with physical disabilities was installed in the academy. Nearly 30 students with physical disabilities study in the State Academy of Fine Arts. About 400 students were admitted to the academy in the new academic year. The academy has an enrollment of 130 foreign students from Turkey, Russia, Pakistan, Macedonia and other countries.

Vice-president of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Leyla Aliyeva wished students of the academy success in the new academic year.

Teachers and students of the academy thanked Leyla Aliyeva for her attention.

Azerbaijan to improve mechanism of business inspection moratorium

Azerbaijan’s Economy Ministry has prepared proposals on improvement of the mechanism for suspension of business activity inspection, Deputy Minister of Economy Sahil Babayev told a press conference in Baku.

“I want to note that the moratorium [on business activity inspection] has had a very positive result, as we were repeatedly told by entrepreneurs. However, we identified a number of negative cases, and decided to improve this mechanism,” he noted.

Babayev said that despite the suspension of business activity inspection, entrepreneurs must maintain the quality of their products and services rendered.

“We must maintain a balance between keeping the quality of manufactured products and supporting entrepreneurship development. New proposals will consider these points,” he added.

The business activity inspections have been suspended in Azerbaijan since November 1, 2015. The moratorium is valid for two years. The moratorium does not apply to the inspections of the Prosecutor General's Office and the inspections related to the state security, healthcare, and protection of the country's economic interests.

Azerbaijan to expand export subsidizing

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy prepared proposals to expand the list of products covered by the export promotion mechanism, said Deputy Economy Minister Sahil Babayev.

He made the remarks at a press conference in Baku.

“Together with the Exporters’ Club [of Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation] and representatives of business associations, we prepared new proposals that have already been submitted to the government,” Babayev said.

The export promotion mechanism has proved very successful and gave a new impetus to the expansion of exports, according to him.

As part of mechanisms of non-oil exports’ promotion, the government returns part of costs to exporters, reimbursing three to six percent of the customs value of goods.

Sept. 17

Ganja Marathon-2017, organized at initiative of Heydar Aliyev Foundation, completes

Ganja Marathon-2017, organized at the initiative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, was held.

Marathon covered a distance of 17 kilometers, starting at the Triumphal arch and finishing in the Park Complex named after Heydar Aliyev.

The objective of Ganja Marathon-2017 was to create a new culture in the sports history of Azerbaijan. Main goals of the event included assistance in the development of sports industry and the encouragement of young people for healthier and more balanced lifestyle.

Individuals and corporate participants did not make any payments, as the necessary funds were met by the Heydar Aliyev Foundation.

The awards ceremony of the Ganja Marathon-2017 took place in two categories. Both male and female participants of the marathon competed for the first three places.

Organizers awarded the following prizes, as well as gifts and medals and certificates in male and female categories.

- 3,000 manats to the winner

- 2,000 manats to the runner-up (second place)

- 1,000 manats to the runner-up (third place)

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