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November 8—We celebrate Victory Day with pride and joy. The fourth anniversary of our great victory over the invading army of Armenia is ending. This victory won in the 44-day Patriotic War, is forever engraved in the modern history of Azerbaijan. It allowed us to return our occupied lands and restore the sovereignty of our country after nearly thirty years.
This is not just a victory in the military sense – it is primarily a historical event marked by the celebration of justice and truth as a result of the titanic efforts of the President of Azerbaijan Mr. Ilham Aliyev on the world’s political platforms. The Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Azerbaijan Armed Forces Muzaffar led the country towards the goal he set for himself with confidence and determination: the return of our historical lands, the return of internally displaced persons to their homes. The foundation of today and our future was laid on the wise leadership of Mr. President, and the courage and professionalism of our Armed Forces. The success of the Azerbaijan Army would be impossible without the hope and confidence of the people, who unanimously support the country’s leadership policy and efforts to restore justice.
Our glorious army is constantly being modernized and improved. Of course, it should be, because the enemy is cunning. We know that revenge plans are being prepared in Armenia. Our victory thwarted the efforts of those who wanted to achieve their infamous political goals by ignoring calls for peace, sowing seeds of hatred and enmity between the two peoples, reigniting the war, and shedding blood again, using the aggressive mood of Armenian separatism and the Armenian society sitting abroad.
The people of Azerbaijan stand firmly in the position of peace and stability. But we will never forget the unfair attitude of the world’s political institutions, which should give a legal assessment to the occupation of Karabakh by the Armed Forces of Armenia and restrain the aggressor; how many lives the war took, caused destruction, pain, and bereavement to our people… May Victory Day always remind us of the sacrifices we made to live free and safe in our native land.
Happy holiday!
Azer Askerov
Judo players celebrate this day, October 28, as the most significant day and holiday. Jigaro Kano, the creator of judo, great master, educator, and scientist, was born in Japan in 1860. As a person who made an incomparable contribution to the world of martial arts, his memory is dear and unforgettable to everyone who puts on judoka and steps on the tatami.
Judo has a history in Azerbaijan, and like the fate of thousands of our compatriots, this sport has an unparalleled role in my life. On this significant day, we remember with respect and honor the persons who have rendered important services in the creation and development of judo in our country. Some have attained the truth and are in our ranks today.
I am fortunate to have learned the secrets of judo from one of those people – an honored physical education and sportsman, knight of the “Glory” and 1st class “For Service to the Fatherland” orders, my dear teacher Tarlan Hasanov. I still meet him every time. He is valuable to me.
Azerbaijani judo pleases us with its remarkable achievements. The names of our four Olympic champions – Nazim Huseynov, Elnur Mammadli, Hidayat Heydarov and Zelim Kotsoyev, as well as our Olympic medalists Rustam Orujov, Elmar Gasimov, Mevlud Miraliyev, our two-time Paralympic champion Ilham Zakiyev, Paralympic champion Ramil Gasimov, and our world and European champions have a special place in our country’s sports history.
Azerbaijan is a world-class sports country that hosts the most prestigious judo competitions. The 2018 world championship was held in Baku, and in 2026, our capital will again host world judokas.
The state cares for the development of judo in our country, the Honorable President, the President of the National Olympic Committee, Mr. Ilham Aliyev, like other sports, constantly supports judo and judo players.
I am proud of the achievements of the “Judo Club 2012” sports club, which I founded as a member of the Azerbaijani judo family. Our club operates sections for all age groups, and necessary conditions have been created for the Azerbaijan Judo Veterans Association members. In our activities, we constantly feel the attention and concern of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation, its management, and the Executive Committee.
There is a lot to write and talk about Azerbaijani judo on this significant day. Maybe not enough to fit in a book… However, this is a holiday greeting and I convey my heart to all judo lovers and say: Happy World Judo Day! I wish everyone a healthy and long life, joy, and victory!
Azer Askerov
September 27 holds a significant place in Azerbaijan’s history. On this day, our country solemnly commemorates the brave sons and daughters who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of our native lands and the restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. This day has become a symbol of the heroism, courage, and unbreakable will of the Azerbaijani people in their fight for justice and the return of territories occupied by Armenian armed forces for more than 30 years.
For decades, the unresolved conflict was tied to the occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding regions. These lands, which are an integral part of Azerbaijan’s historical and cultural heritage, were held under Armenia’s control for more than 30 years, with the silent consent of the international community. During this period, the Azerbaijani people endured numerous tragedies, destruction, and suffering. Thousands were forced to leave their homeland, which had turned into a battlefield.
However, despite these hardships, the Azerbaijani people never lost faith in justice. The years of occupation could not break the spirit of those who were ready to sacrifice their lives to restore the country’s sovereignty.
On September 27, 2020, the Patriotic War began, playing a decisive role in Azerbaijan’s struggle for its territories. Over 44 days, the Azerbaijani armed forces engaged in fierce battles, liberating the occupied lands. In this war, many heroes lost their lives, fulfilling their duty to the homeland with honor and dignity. Each martyr’s name is a story of courage and self-sacrifice, a testament to loyalty to the nation and homeland.
The fourth anniversary of this historic event is marked by the significant steps taken to restore the areas devastated during the years of occupation, thanks to the wise leadership of our country’s president, Ilham Aliyev. Due to the government’s active work, numerous homes and infrastructures in the liberated lands of Karabakh have already been rebuilt and restored. Gradually, the regions that had turned into ruins over the decades are coming back to life. Former displaced persons who were forced to leave their homes can now return to their lands. Families have already been resettled in Shusha, Lachin, Fuzuli, Zangilan, and Khojaly, where life is starting anew.
Karabakh, once destroyed and ravaged, is now being rebuilt, reclaiming its rhythm and former beauty. Soon, the residents of Jabrayil, Kalbajar, and Aghdam will also return to their native places. The restoration of houses, schools, hospitals, and other vital infrastructure continues rapidly, and these areas are preparing to welcome new residents. Karabakh is reviving: streets once ruled by silence are now filled with children’s laughter and the joyful voices of people. The first weddings have taken place in Shusha and Khankendi, and hospitable, joyful Karabakh is once again welcoming its guests. Following a new tradition, all events begin with paying tribute to the memory of the heroes who ensured this return at the cost of their lives.
Martyrs are those who spared no effort for future generations, for peace and prosperity in Azerbaijan. Their courage is a source of strength and inspiration for every citizen of the country. September 27 has become the day when the entire nation bows in respect before those who remained eternally young and gave their all for the freedom and independence of the homeland.
Today, events commemorating the memory of the martyrs are organized throughout the country. Lessons on patriotism are held in schools and universities, where young people learn about the history of Azerbaijan’s struggle for territorial integrity, and prayers are offered in mosques and public squares for the martyrs. It is essential for every Azerbaijani citizen to remember the cost of this victory and to keep the memory of the martyrs alive in their hearts forever.
Their heroism is a symbol of national pride, a testament to how spiritual strength and love for the homeland can overcome any obstacle.
Azer Askerov
At a time when we were experiencing the joy of the historic victory in the cudo competitions of the XXXIII Olympic Bow Games held in Paris, the capital of France, we also received good news from our young cudo players: Tallinn, the capital of Estonia At the European Championships, they took first place according to the results of both the individual races and the mixed command race. Our group team participated in the championship with 16 athletes (9 boys, 7 girls) and won 8 medals in individual races: 4 red, 2 silver and 2 silver. Red medals were brought to our country by Vüsal Qələndərzadə (-73 kq), Süleyman Şükürov (-81 kq), Könül Əliyeva (-48 kq) and Fidan Əlizadə (-57 kq).
In the command race, our troopers reached the final by defeating the Bolgarian, Turkish and Dutch commands, and in this race they succeeded in prevailing over the French command. This is the highest result ever achieved by our young players in the European championships.
Our tricolor flag was raised many times and our chant was voiced.
The success of our young wrestlers, the 2 red and 2 third medals won by the young wrestlers in the world championship in Lima, the capital of Peru, shows that this type of training has developed dynamically in our country, and the Azerbaijani team in the Paris Olympiad It confirms once again that the triumph of the system is not accidental.
The successors of our Olympian champions – Nazimin, Elnurun, Hidayətin and Zelim are growing, and the fame of our national team school has increased rapidly in recent years.
This, of course, shows that the young generation in our country has a high interest in this magnificent form of exercise, and that the Azerbaijan Football Federation approaches its work with proper and fruitful responsibility.
Let us remember what the honorable President İlham Aliyev said when he congratulated our athletes during his meeting with the Azerbaijani athletes and their players who won medals at the Paris Olympics: “… Affairs, training in the Federation “When the love process is established properly and the weather is good, the result is, of course, in the eye.” .
I wholeheartedly congratulate the members of the mass command of Azerbaijan, which consists of young people, and the soldiers, and I am happy for the success of my friend Elkhan Mammadov, the chief soldier. Their success as a training team also enriches our national moral values.
Good luck, dear friends!
Azer Askerov
The farewell ceremony of the Azerbaijani Olympic team that will participate in “Paris-2024” was held. 48 athletes from our country will participate in the upcoming Summer Olympic Games. The honor of carrying the Azerbaijani flag at the opening ceremony held in Paris was entrusted to judoka Gultaj Mammadaliyeva and boxer Mahammad Abdullayev.
The Olympic Games are one of the most significant events in the world of sports. They are held every four years and bring together athletes from all over the world representing their countries in various sports. Games help to strengthen international relations, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between nations, inspiring millions of people to achieve high results and strive for excellence. Games have a special attitude not only by athletes but also by sports fans. The opening and closing ceremonies of the Olympic Games are also an important tradition that showcases the culture of the host country.
The Olympic movement, founded by Pierre de Coubertin at the end of the 19th century, is based on ancient Greek traditions. One of the main traditions is the lighting of the Olympic torch, which is a symbol of peace, unity, and friendship between nations. The Olympic torch is lit in Greece and carried by relay to the venue of the games. During the Olympic Games, a truce was declared between the hostile parties, and those who violated it were punished. Unfortunately, these principles are not always followed now, but at least efforts are made to stop armed conflicts during the Olympic Games. Despite the differences in political views, different geopolitical interests, and mental characteristics, representatives of different regions are united by the love of sports, which improves the world.
Sport is a world of justice, honesty, perseverance, and strength, a world where anyone with a strong spirit has a place. “O sport! You are peace!” – this saying of Baron Pierre de Coubertin became the slogan of peaceful coexistence of all peoples of the world. It should be, but unfortunately, the world has never been ideal.
The Olympic Games are distinguished by their scale and international importance, bringing together athletes from more than 200 countries. I think every athlete dreams of participating in the Olympic Games. The situation led to the fact that I could not participate in the Olympics as an athlete, but I always watched the Olympic sports competitions, of course, first of all, the competitions between judokas with great impatience. For a judoka, any competition is, first of all, an exam, an opportunity to test one’s capabilities, and a holiday, but the attitude to the Olympic Games is especially sensitive, exciting, and joyful.
The real rise period of the Olympic movement in Azerbaijan began after the election of the Honorable President Mr. Ilham Aliyev as the head of the National Olympic Committee (NOC) in 1997.
I would like to proudly remind you of one important fact: after the restoration of state independence, the first Olympic gold medal was brought to Azerbaijan by our famous judoka, my dear friend Nazim Huseynov. In 1992, he won a gold medal at the XXV Summer Olympic Games held in Barcelona (Spain) and wrote his name in golden letters in the history of Azerbaijani sports.
Then there was a period of stagnation in judo that lasted up to 16 years. And only after President Ilham Aliyev became the head of the Azerbaijan NOC, the revival of our judo began.
Another prominent representative of Azerbaijani judo, Elnur Mammadli, became the champion of the Beijing (China) Summer Olympic Games in 2008. Our judokas Mevlud Miraliyev (Beijing 2000), Irina Kindzerskaya (Tokyo 2020), Elmar Gasimov, Rustam Orujov (Rio de Janeiro 2016) who won medals in the following Olympics also made a worthy contribution to the development of judo in our country.
Of course, there are still members of the Azerbaijani judo family among our athletes, who we hope will achieve high achievements in the Paris Olympics. 7 male and 2 female athletes will represent our country in judo competitions. I am especially pleased that among them is the “Judo Club 2012” representative Zelim Kotsoyev.
I believe that each of our athletes will make sacrifices to raise the Azerbaijani flag and sing our national anthem in France, and I pray to God that we will experience that proud moment together!
We expect brilliant Olympic victories, medals, and worthy participation in such a prestigious tournament from representatives of various sports. Good luck!
Azer Askerov
June 26 – Day of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan, we celebrate with pride and gratitude. This special day embodies the realization of our dreams and hopes, our desire for justice and freedom. Today, we pay our respects to the brave and victorious Azerbaijani Army, which has become a symbol of the strength and courage of our people.
For more than 30 years, we dreamed of a powerful army that would liberate our lands from occupation, take revenge for the spilled blood of innocent peaceful residents of Azerbaijan, give us a sense of pride and dignity, and return the original owners to their lands. Finally, this dream of ours came true in 2023 thanks to the sacrifice and bravery of our heroic soldiers.
The political will, determination, and wisdom of the Commander-in-Chief of the Azerbaijan Armed Forces, based on the absolute faith of our people in their leader, unwavering unity around him, and complete trust in the measured decisions and steps taken by him, as well as the dedication and courage of the Azerbaijani military, played an important role in achieving a crushing victory over the invaders.
Today, the Azerbaijani Army is victorious, an army that has restored historical justice. He won the love and respect of his people and proved that it was impossible to break and subjugate Azerbaijan. Our soldiers and officers risk their lives and do everything to prevent the recurrence of the tragedies that befell our compatriots, the multi-ethnic people of Azerbaijan.
We are proud of our army, which has become the guarantor of peace and stability in the region, in addition to protecting our people. We are grateful to our servicemen for their bravery and courage and for being ready to defend the Motherland to the last drop of blood.
On this significant day, we bow before the spirit of our martyrs, and the skill and bravery of our compatriots who died for the freedom and independence of Azerbaijan. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, their heroism will live forever in the hearts of our people!
Happy holiday, dear compatriots! May our army always be strong and invincible, and our people united and indomitable!
The brave army of Azerbaijan is truly loved and respected by the people. Love our Armed Forces!
Best wishes to the victorious Commander-in-Chief of the Azerbaijan Armed Forces, Mr. Ilham Aliyev!
Azer Askerov
Eid al-Adha is one of the most sacred holidays of Islam and one of the most important virtues of Islam. Eid al-Adha is associated with the story of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) who was ready to sacrifice his son as a sign of obedience to God. This holiday symbolizes not only faith and loyalty, but also the Almighty’s mercy, generosity, and care for his servants.
Eid al-Adha has a deep spiritual meaning and includes several main aspects. The story of Hazrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) teaches us to trust the Creator and be ready to fulfill His will. This holiday reminds us of the importance of faith and obedience.
One of the important rites of the Eid al-Adha is giving alms, that is, sacrificing an animal and distributing it. The meat is divided into three parts: one part remains for the family, the second is given to friends and relatives, and the third is distributed to the poor. It symbolizes generosity and caring, as well as the importance of helping those in need.
Eid al-Adha allows for strengthening relationships within the family and society. People gather together to pray, eat together, and support each other, which fosters a sense of community and togetherness. Tables full of traditional food are a symbol of joy and unity. Eid al-Adha contains deep moral principles that are important not only for Muslims but also for all mankind.
Eid al-Adha includes several traditional ceremonies and events. The ceremony begins with morning prayers in mosques, where pious Muslims gather to thank God and ask for his blessings. This ritual symbolizes peace, mercy, love, and respect for each other.
Since Eid al-Adha is a time of good deeds, charity is an important part of the spiritual and moral values of a Muslim. This is not only a religious holiday, but also a time when people think about their spiritual and moral values and strengthen their faith.
Happy holiday, dear brothers and sisters! May God accept your prayers and sacrifices!
With great respect to all of you,
Azer Askerov
The Azerbaijani judo family is again experiencing great joy and pride. We are doubly happy to be the “Judo Club 2012” team! The activity of the club, Zelim gizil gizilimizsoyev, one of our most talented Collective, the head of the United Arab Emirates 0, won a medal in the -1 kg weight category at the world championship held in Abu Dhabi, and in this prestigious competition, he succeeded in creating the Azerbaijan flag and singing our National Anthem.
The First Vice-President of Azerbaijan Mehriban Aliyeva congratulated Zelim on the occasion of this great president. Thank you, dear lady. It is the state care for sports, all kinds of conditions of Mr. President Ilham Aliyev in this field that inspire the leaders of the country to achieve great achievements.
I would like to emphasize that Zelim prepared high perseverance and moral and psychological preparation for the world championship. On the way to the final, he managed to increase the strongest judoka in the world. He fought like a knight and won without being removed from anyone’s name and fame.
Zelim Kotsoyev will go to the Paris-2024 Summer Olympic Games as the leader of the rating table of his weight, and we believe that he will perform successfully at the Olympics.
I also heartily congratulate our dear friend Elkhan Mammadov, who played a special role in its organization, who won the world championship 11 years ago and wrote on the golden page of Azerbaijan’s judo history!
Zelim, we are proud of you, we are waiting for new forces!
Azer Askerov
Hidayat Heydarov, one of the pioneers of modern Azerbaijani judo, won a gold medal at the world championship held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and gave us great joy and pride. The last time this gold was brought to our country 11 years ago by our friend Elkhan Mammadov, who is now a judo veteran…
Today, Hidayat is at the peak of his sports career: he is a four-time European champion, and he is the first in the world ranking in his weight class! First of all, his personal coach, the living legend of Azerbaijani judo Tarlan Hasanov, has an exceptional role in his success. I heartily congratulate my dear teacher on the great victory of his young student.
I know that Mr. Tarlan expects an Olympic championship from Hidayat, and I would very much like his dream to come true.
And I must mention that it is the irreplaceable care and attention of the Honorable President Mr. Ilham Aliyev that inspires Azerbaijani athletes to raise our national flag and sing our Anthem by winning prestigious international competitions. Such attention and care has a strong influence on the establishment of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation at a high level and on the development of this popular sport in our country.
Once again, I congratulate Hidayat Heydarov on becoming the world champion, I wish him new successes and victories! Young friend, we imagine you on the first step of the Olympic podium!
Azer Askerov
The International Mugham Centre has hosted an official award ceremony for winners of the 2nd National Television Festival of Sports Films and Programs, established by the National Olympic Committee (NOC), Azernews reports.
At the event, Vice-President of the National Olympic Committee Chingiz Huseynzade, General Secretary of the National Olympic Committee Azer Aliyev, the chairman of the festival’s jury Zemfira Meftakhetdinova, chairman of the Judo Club 2012 Public Union, President of the Association of Azerbaijan Judo Veterans, the winner of the world and European championships among master judokas Azer Asgarov, member of the Executive Committee of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation, members of the NOC Executive Committee and the jury of the festival, Olympic champions, heads of sports federations and television channels, well-known athletes, and public figures participated in the awarding ceremony.
NOC Vice President Chingiz Huseynzade, who spoke at the ceremony, greeted the guests and stressed the importance of the festival. He pointed out that the National Television Festival of Sports Films and Programs dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the National Olympic Committee was established in 2022 for the first time.
“When we organised the festival for the first time, we did not know whether this festival would continue in the future or not. Today, the numbers were announced. If 40 videos were presented at the first festival, 58 videos were presented at this festival. This means that the festival is alive, and we have gathered for its conclusion. This festival is of great importance for the promotion of sports in Azerbaijan. I have a wish that, after some time, we will bring this festival to an international level. I am sure that we will achieve this. I congratulate the winners of the festival and wish them success in their future activities,” he said.
The winners in various categories of the festival were awarded cash prizes provided by the festival partner – the Azerbaijani Cinematographers’ Union.
The winner of the “Advertising and Promo reels” nomination was the “Shine like a Star” commercial presented by the Azerbaijan Gymnastics Federation.
The Azerbaijan Judo Federation’s (ACF) promotional video “Future of Our Judo” won in the “Future Winners” category.
ACF achieved another success at the festival in the nomination “Gentle Hero” – with the promotional video “White Suits Girls”.
Idman TV’s TV movie “Unknown Man Zuleykha Hajiyeva” took first place in the “For Life – Sports” nomination.
The documentary film “Victory is Just Faith,” screened by the “90plus” media organisation, won the “Strong-willed” nomination by the Jury.
Special awards from the organising committee of the festival were also presented at the ceremony.
The “Kickboxing” documentary (Sports TV) and the “Kids Athletics” promotional video (Azerbaijan Athletics Federation) were distinguished in the “Future winners” category. “12 seconds” (Azerbaijan Shooting Federation) and “March 8 – International Women’s Day” (Azerbaijan Judo Federation) promotional videos were awarded a special award in the category of advertising and promo video. “Znay nashik” television movie (Azerbaijan National Representation of MIR Interstate Television Company) in the strong-willed nomination, Miraga Aliyev’s short film “Golden glove – Agajan Abiyev” in the “For Life – Sports” nomination, “Delicate Mission” television movie (“Idman TV ») won the sympathy of the jury in the “Gentle Hero” nomination.
Special awards of Judo Club 2012 Public Union were also presented at the event.
“Strong-willed” television movie “Fateh” (Idman TV), “Contribution of the Great Leader to Azerbaijani sports” television movie (CBC International), “Gentle Hero” television project “Happy Mornings – Shusha Children’s Youth Sports School” in the nomination “Strong-willed” (Khazar Media Center), “We are strong together” commercial (DMS Azerbaijan LLC) in the “Advertising and promo reel” nomination, “Veteran judoka – Farhad Rajabli” in the “For Life – Sports” nomination, promotional reel (MIR Interstate Television and Radio Company Azerbaijan National Representation) was awarded a special award.
During the event, the participants who were awarded special prizes of the National Olympic Committee were also honored.
Thus, in the “Strong-willed” nomination, “Towards Olympus” – Nikita Simonov’s short film (ARB 24) and the television film “Sports Masters” (Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic of Television and Radio Broadcasting Closed Joint Stock Company), in the “Future Winners” nomination, “Heavy in Lankaran” athletic lessons” promotional video (Azerbaijan Weightlifting Federation), “Rowing from Karabakh to the capital” promotional video (Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation) in the “Advertising and Promo video” nomination (Azerbaijan Canoe and Rowing Federation), “The Way of Perfection” documentary film in the “For Life – Sports” nomination (Azerbaijan Judo Federation ), promotional video “Push – Elnara Abbasova” (Azerbaijan Weightlifting Federation) was awarded a special prize in the “Gentle hero” category.
The awarding ceremony also featured performances by the guests and partners of the festival and a musical program.
Established by the National Olympic Committee (NOC) in 2022, the festival was first held in 2022 to mark the 30th National Olympic Committee.
The festival aims to popularize various sports, promote a healthy lifestyle, attract children, adolescents, and young people to sports, promote the principles of the Olympic movement, create opportunities for cultural education and a full exchange of experiences between creative people, as well as organise film screenings and sports-themed programs, ensuring wide access to local television and film cultural assets of all sectors of society.
The festival partner is the NGO Judo Club 2012. Media partners of the event are Azernews.Az, Trend.Az, Day.Az, Milli.Az, Turkic World, and Idman.Biz, as well as AZTV, AZTV Idman, CBC SPORT, ARB, SPACE, Olympic.az, OlimpiyaDünyası, Sportsman.
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