teas magazine april 2013 (english)

www.teas.eu April 2013

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN ALL SECTORS HIGHLIGHTED IN PARIS

04 / 2013www.teas.eu

Also in this issue: Novruz celebrated by over 500 in KensingtonEU–Azerbaijan visa facilitation talks continueSpace of Mugham festival amazes in BakuTurkey scraps proposed flights to YerevanA Lieutenant and two soldiers killed on Nagorno-Karabakh ‘contact line’

April 2013 www.teas.eu

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The European Azerbaijan Society (TEAS) is a pan-European organisation dedicated to promoting Azerbaijani culture, business and public affairs to international audiences. TEAS is also actively involved in helping create a sense of community amongst expatriate Azerbaijanis.

TEAS was launched in November 2008, having initially been established as the London Azerbaijan Society four years earlier. The organisation now has offices in the UK, Belgium, France and Germany, together with a representative office in Azerbaijan.

TEAS has three main façets to its operations:

• Culture – TEAS raises awareness of Azerbaijan’s rich and vibrant culture to a worldwide audience by organising cultural events and operating as a networking centre. • Business – TEAS supports its membership of European and Azerbaijani businesses. It provides a platform for organisations to establish links and strengthen their existing business relationships via a programme of networking opportunities across the region. • Public Affairs – TEAS works to increase awareness about Azerbaijan amongst key opinion formers, key decision-makers and other political, academic and civil society stakeholders.

TEAS is focused on achieving the following:

• The establishment of strong links between key Azerbaijani and European stakeholders, thereby helping Azerbaijan to integrate fully into the European family of nations.• Strengthening ties between Azerbaijan and key economic, political and social structures across Europe.• The promotion of Azerbaijan as a modern, secular, Western-facing country with tremendous economic opportunities and a strong cultural heritage.• Creating a community spirit amongst expatriate Azerbaijanis in Europe.• Increasing awareness of the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and the plight of the 875,000 refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

TEAS is always bringing the latest news, views and interviews on all aspects of Azerbaijan, and is launching a biweekly free e-newsletter. To find out more, please sign up at www.teas.eu.Newsletter

Welcome to The European Azerbaijan Society

Outreach and EngagementThe TEAS Facebook page is your chance to learn about the latest TEAS news, events, campaigns and other items of interest to the Azerbaijani community. Please ‘like’ the page at http://bit.ly/TEASFB

MembershipTEAS offers a range of corporate and individual membership packages, providing such benefits as advertising, networking, travel discounts and assistance with visas. To find out more, e-mail: [email protected]

Forthcoming Azerbaijani eventFor full details of all TEAS events, go to www.teas.eu/upcoming-events

30 AprilFilm screening: Xoca (Khoja)The Soho Hotel, 4 Richmond Mews, London, W1D 3DH18.30 (reception); 20.00 (screening). Free admission.

TEAS and the ANS Group have organised a free screening of the new Azerbaijani film Xoca (Khoja), which concentrates on a love story that culminates on the date of the Khojaly Massacre in 1992. The screening of this powerful film will be preceded by wine, soft drinks and canapés. Following the film, director Vahid Mustafayev will participate in a question-and-answer session. Please RSVP to [email protected] by 26 April to confirm your attendance.


03

Ancient festival of Novruz celebrated by over 500 in KensingtonOn 18 March, more than 500 Azerbaijanis, friends of Azerbaijan, diplomats and representatives of London’s diplomatic community celebrated the ancient festival of Novruz at Kensington Town Hall, London. The celebration was organised by The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the UK, TEAS, the Dirchelish (Revival) Youth Social and Psychological Rehabilitation Centre (Baku) and Azerbaijan House Culture and Friendship Centre.

The main part of the evening comprised a reception for an exhibition of over 100 artworks painted by the young artists in the Dirchelish (Revival) Youth Social and Psychological Rehabilitation Centre, depicting representations of Azerbaijani legends and of their homeland.

Initially, Sabina Rakcheyeva, Cultural Advisor, TEAS, welcomed the guests. Then H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, wished all those in attendance a happy Novruz and explained the significance of the celebration within Azerbaijani culture.

Following this, Councillor Lady Borwick, Deputy Mayor of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, expressed her delight at being involved in the 2013 Novruz celebrations. The speeches concluded with comments from Islam Bakhshaliyev, Director, Dirchelish Youth Social and Psychological Rehabilitation Centre, who thanked the organisers for the event, and drew parallels between ‘together we are stronger’ – the motto of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea – and that of his organisation. He then presented Ambassador Gurbanov and Sabina Rakcheyeva with certificates from Dirchelish.

This was followed by some traditional dances, performed by the young students from the Caspian Khazri School. Music plays a prominent role in all Azerbaijani celebrations,

and Babek Tebrizi performed some folk songs for the audience, accompanying himself on the saz (traditional lute). Farhad Nishat, the London-based tenor, followed this with a series of operatic arias, the purity of his voice delighting all those in attendance. The evening culminated with dancing to a varied mix of music, both contemporary and traditional. A range of Azerbaijani food was served to all guests.

Although the origins of Novruz remain shrouded in mystery, predating the advent of Christianity and Islam in Azerbaijan, the festival is generally recognised as celebrating the New Year and the time of rebirth at the start of spring. In Azerbaijan, this festival for all the family is celebrated with a five-day Public Holiday, and symbolic acts include tree-planting, egg-painting, and the making of such pastries as pakhlava. Samani (wheat grass) normally forms the centrepiece of the festive table.

Shah Deniz Consortium to make final route decisionThe BP-led Shah Deniz Consortium has begun its final evaluation of the two pipeline proposals competing to export gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe. The Consortium will decide between the OMV-led Nabucco West link and the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), developed by Statoil, EON Ruhrgas and EGL, by the end of June, according to the BP office in Baku, as reported by Bloomberg. The statement went on to reveal that the transportation proposals would become legally binding by end of April. These submissions will include the requisite information about the technical, regulatory, and financial aspects of the two projects.

The Shah Deniz Consortium, which also includes Statoil, Total and the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR), expect to receive binding bids from potential gas customers in Europe during April. In January, Al Cook, Vice-President for Shah Deniz, BP said that the $25bn (£16.2bn) development of Shah Deniz II will

start production in 2018–19, with the first gas being exported to Turkey’s border with the European Union through the planned Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP). According to Cook, the Shah Deniz deposit, estimated to contain 1.2tn m3 of gas, will deliver 10bn m3

(bcm) of gas to Europe per annum.

UK Ambassador leaves his postOn 18 March, H.E. Peter Bateman, outgoing UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan, met Azerbaijani President Aliyev, following the completion of his diplomatic term. He was appointed to the position in January 2011, and took up the role in October that year.

Ambassador Bateman emphasised that he had spent an important part of his life in Azerbaijan, and pledged to do his utmost to expand Azerbaijani–UK bilateral relations in the future. Azerbaijani President Aliyev praised the diplomat’s work in Azerbaijan, saying his tenure had achieved progress in the development of bilateral relations across many different sectors. The diplomat also stressed the necessity for further strengthening of these ties to promote regional security and co-operation. The selection process for the next Ambassador is currently underway.

Politics and News

The joyous dancing of young Diana Gurbetova from the Caspian Khazri School embodied the spirit of Novruz

UK parliamentary delegation visits Azerbaijani Unions’ headMembers of the UK–Azerbaijani Inter-

Parliamentary Working Group have visited

the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation

(ATUC) in Baku to meet Sattar Mehbaliyev

MP, Chairman, ATUC. Jointly organised by

the Azerbaijani Embassy to the UK and TEAS,

the purpose of the meeting was to discuss

the further development of political and

economic relations, together with increasing

awareness of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

During the meeting, Mehbaliyev outlined

the history of the trade union movement

in Azerbaijan and its ongoing activities.

NEWS IN BRIEF

The event was enjoyed by all generations The artwork by young Azerbaijani artists captured the essence of the country’s culture


Azerbaijan’s past, present and future highlighted at City UniversityThe Azerbaijan Society of City University organised an event entitled Azerbaijan’s Past, Present and Future, attended by around 70 guests, around half of whom were non-Azerbaijani. Following tea and pakhlavas, Ayseba Umutlu, President, Azerbaijan Society of City University, began by stressing the importance of the country in an international context. Following this, H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK, outlined the history of the country, particularly concentrating on the progressive achievements of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (ADR) and the success of the country since regaining its independence in 1991. He went on to explain the basis of the country’s economic development, including the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan (BTC) oil pipeline

and the Baku–Tbilisi–Erzurum (BTE) gas pipeline. Ambassador Gurbanov went on to explain the position of the country in the international community, including its membership of the OSCE, the European Union’s Eastern Partnership and its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

Emil Agazade, Head of Media, TEAS, spoke on the strategic importance of the country, relations with neighbouring nations, and the development of the oil sector. He went on to express his confidence concerning the further development of the country. Finally, Mark Elliott, author of Azerbaijan: With Excursions to Georgia and other travel books, gave a presentation based on his experiences in Azerbaijan since his first visit in 1994, illustrated with photographs taken in many of the regions. Akshin Shahbazzade, a member of the Azerbaijan Society of City University gave the final presentation on the economic development of the nation. The event ended with a lively question-and-answer session.

Youth Forum held in the Eternal CityA total of 550 students from 45 countries attended the Azerbaijani International Youth Forum, called Azerbaijan 2020 – Youth Vision in Rome, organised by the Azerbaijani Students and Alumni International Forum (ASAIF), together with the Embassy of Azerbaijan to Italy. Previously held in London, Paris and Dubai, the event was the largest to take

place, to date. Azad Rahimov, Azerbaijani Minister of Youth and Sports, initially contrasted the Italian economic crisis with energy-rich Azerbaijan, which continues to achieve strong economic growth. Rahimov said: “Many young Azerbaijanis begin their careers at the age of 24–25 years, with others beginning after secondary school at the age of 17 years. There are 51 universities altogether in Azerbaijan.”

Ramin Hakimov, Chair, ASAIF, commented: “ASAIF is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) and currently has around 13,000 members. Its purpose is to maintain the welfare of Azerbaijani students. The purpose of the forum is to share information and experiences from abroad, and to open debate regarding current issues in Azerbaijan for students who are living overseas; to effectively promote Azerbaijan by uniting youths studying or educated abroad; support information exchange and online promotion; facilitate dialogue between youths and official state representatives; and to develop the recently-launched Italy–Azerbaijan Association.”

During the opening, speeches were also delivered by Elnur Aslanov, Head, Political Analysis and Information Support for the Azerbaijani Presidential Administration; Gulu Novruzov, Azerbaijani Deputy Education Minister; Vagif Sadigov. Azerbaijani Ambassador to Italy; Paola Casagrande, Head, Azerbaijan-Italy Association; and Manuela Traldi, Head of the Azerbaijani–Italian Trade Institute.

04 Politics and News

On 5 March, TEAS Belgium organised a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in the European Parliament in Brussels, in co-operation with Hans Van Baalen MEP (Alliance of Liberals and Democrats for Europe (ALDE) group, the Netherlands). The attendees included several MEPs, together with Farah Gozalova, Deputy Head of the Azerbaijani Embassy to the European Union (EU), and Luc Devigné, an expert from the Directorate-General for Trade of the European Commission.

The purpose of the meeting was to exchange actual information and to deepen insights into one of the most challenging actual policy areas. All the participants had an open and fruitful discussion on the current and future state of EU–Azerbaijani trade relations.

Roman Huna, Head, TEAS Brussels said: “As one of the most important trading blocs in the world, the EU has many interests in developing trade with Azerbaijan. By organising this event, TEAS aims to contribute towards the increased development of mutual

commercial co-operation. It is important to periodically inform MEPs about various developments in Azerbaijani society, and the ‘Friends of Azerbaijan’ Group in the European Parliament is the most effective platform for disseminating this information.”

Hans Van Baalen, MEP expanded: “The EU actively supports closer trade and economic integration with the EU through the European Neighbourhood Policy, which provides the framework by which Azerbaijan and the EU may work together for mutual benefit. This is particularly important in the case of Azerbaijan, which is the most important economy in the South Caucasus.” Farah Gozalova continued:

“The EU has become Azerbaijan’s main trade partner, with more then a 46 per cent share in its overall external trade over the past few years. There is great potential for further expansion of this relationship. In any case, Azerbaijan will continue to be a reliable trade EU partner.”

Luc Devigne concluded: “Trade and investment are, in my opinion, a catalyst for increased future EU–Azerbaijani co-operation. It is important that the EU continues its efforts to assist Azerbaijan in securing membership of the World Trade Organisation. Azerbaijan ranks amongst the most interesting trade partners for the EU, as there are still considerable opportunities for the further development of this trading relationship, to the benefit of both parties.”

Email: [email protected]

The panel comprised (from left) Ambassador Gurbanov; Ayseba Umutlu, President, Azerbaijan Society of City University; Emil Agazade, Head of Media, TEAS; and Mark Elliott, Travel Journalist

The increasing importance of EU–Azerbaijani relations was highlighted in the European Parliament

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS


Azerbaijani jazz documentary premiéred in BerlinOn 23 March, the premiére of the documentary Sari Gelin – Fair-haired Bride: Jazz and Mugham in Azerbaijan, directed by Klaus Bernhard, was held at the Astor Film Lounge in Berlin in an event organised by the German–Azerbaijan Forum, E-ON, SOCAR and the Azerbaijani Embassy to Germany. This focused on jazz-mugham, which has evolved in Azerbaijan since the 1960s, where this fusion was spearheaded by the pianist Vagif Mustafazadeh.

The new documentary was produced by Das Apartment television, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Salname studio in Azerbaijan. The screening was attended by several leading members of the Azerbaijani diaspora in Germany, including H.E. Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Germany, Naiba Shrinova, Parviz Yazdani, Reyhan Gasimova, Samira Patzer-Ismailova, Chair, European Congress Azerbaijan, and members of the Co-ordination Centre for Azerbaijanis living in Germany (KAD). Prior to the screening, a mugham trio, led by Shirzad Fataliyev (balaban) performed several pieces of folk music, including Sari Gelin, and director Klaus Bernhard explained that no films about mugham had previously been made for western audiences.

The film ably demonstrated that mugham is one essential root of Azerbaijani culture. It stated that the town of Shusha in the Armenian-occupied region of Nagorno-Karabakh was renowned as the birthplace of many leading mugham musicians and composers. The film went on to contextualise Baku as the jazz centre of the former Soviet Union since the 1930s, although the genre was suppressed in Soviet times. However, during the thaw after Stalin’s death, jazz became acknowledged as representing freedom from cultural oppression.

During the film, numerous leading musicians from the worlds of mugham and jazz-mugham were interviewed, including an archive clip of

Vagif Mustafazadeh, who died in 1979, and contemporary interviews with mugham singer Alim Qasimov; jazz-mugham singer Sevda Alekperzadeh; jazz pianist Salman Gambarov; H.E. Herbert Quelle, German Ambassador to Azerbaijan and saxophonist Rain Sultanov. Sevda Alekperzadeh commented: “Mugham is an important element of every Azerbaijani”, whereas Salman Gambarov remarked: “Mugham is not only important in musical terms, as poetry is also an essential element of the music.” Rain Sultanov commented: “Azerbaijanis are extremely musically talented, and now play in orchestras and ensembles across the world. However, they still operate under the influence of mugham.” It is anticipated that the film will be screened on German arts television.

Azerbaijan Through the Lens heads to Berlin

Following its successful run in Paris, when it attracted around 800 viewers over a ten-day period, the TEAS photography exhibition Azerbaijan Through the Lens continued its European tour in Berlin. This opened on 4 April, when more than 200 diplomats, celebrities and members of Berlin society packed Epicentro Art, located in the vibrant Berlin-Mitte district of the city. This edition of the exhibition showcased 55 photographs of contemporary Azerbaijani people, culture, landscapes and architecture. Attendees included H.E. Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Germany and Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS.

In his introduction, Shahin Namati-Nasab, Director, TEAS Germany, said: “The Azerbaijan Through the Lens exhibition has

been organised to show the different facets of the nation, particularly focusing on its nature, art and history. I hope the photographs will be of interest to all of you, and that you will decide to find out more about the country, or even travel there.”

Marc Fiedler, Gallery Owner, Epicentro Art, commented: “This remarkable exhibition is being held in the new Epicentro Art premises, located in Berlin-Mitte. This is the centre of the Berlin art scene, and is where art happens in the city. I am delighted that my gallery was chosen to play host to these wonderful images.” A selection of images from the exhibition can be seen at www.teas.eu/azerbaijan-through-the-lens. As it continues to tour the cities that are home to TEAS offices, the exhibition will open in the European Parliament, Brussels, on 24 June. Following this, it will travel to Prague and Bratislava.

Pepinova’s glass paintings on display London-based Azerbaijani artist Ulvi Pepinova was born in Baku, being educated in Moscow and Turkey. She is a mixed media artist, specialising in the use of silica paints applied to glass to create amazing effects. Her work was initially exhibited in London in 2008, and she has subsequently participated in art exhibitions in Moscow and London. In June last year, two of Ulvi’s paintings were selected by the Central House of Artists in Moscow, Russia’s largest contemporary art gallery, for an exhibition entitled Vertices – In the Hands of the Sky. Ulvi is particularly inspired by natural minerals and images of the Earth taken from space.

Ulvi’s latest exhibition is for one night only – 23 May – and is entitled Glass Buta and Spacious Dreams. This focuses on her representations of the Buta, a decorative symbol used in Azerbaijani and other cultures. This free event will take place at The Blanchard Room, The Hollywood Arms, 45 Hollywood Road, Chelsea, London SW10 9HX from 19.00hrs. To attend, please RSVP by 20 May to [email protected].

05Culture

The screening was preceded by a mugham trio, led by Shirzad Fataliyev (balaban)

The opening of the Berlin exhibition attracted more than 200 attendees


Celebrating mugham in Azerbaijan by Neil WatsonThe third biennial International Mugham Festival took place in Azerbaijan from 9–19 March, entitled Space of Mugham. In addition to being held in several auspicious venues around Baku, concerts also took place across Azerbaijan, in venues in Gabala, Lankaran and the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, amongst others. A scientific symposium was held under the auspices of the event, as was a mugham contest for both vocal and instrumental categories. Avid concertgoers had plenty of opportunities to experience concert halls old and new, ranging from the renovated Lutheran Church of the Saviour (now the Chamber and Organ Music Hall), built in 1899, to the tar-shaped International Mugham Centre, opened in 2009.

Although the emphasis firmly remained on Azerbaijani mugham, it was evident that the festival is gradually transforming its focus towards makam – the classical music that is heard in various forms throughout the Turkic and Middle-Eastern worlds and in certain parts of the Indian Subcontinent. During my three days at the festival, I attended heats of the mugham contest, featuring instrumentalists and singers from India, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. I saw concerts at the International Mugham Centre that featured artistes from Egypt, India, Kuwait and Turkey. The festival also played host to a lecture/concert by Jeffrey Werbock, President, Mugham Society of America, who spoke about the music that has enveloped his life for over 40 years and performed on tar, kamancha and oud.

I was constantly struck by the genuine enthusiasm of the Azerbaijani people for this ancient music. Entrance to the heats of the mugham contest was free, and there were children and teenagers in the audience throughout, who were respectful to both the music and performers. During the concerts at the International Mugham Centre, the audience was prone to applauding instrumental or vocal solo passages, or clapping rhythmically as the music increased in speed and intensity. Each concert whipped the audience into a frenzy, and standing ovations were commonplace.

I was most fortunate to arrive on the evening of 15 March, as the following day featured a concert by the Paris-based Aicha Redouane (vocal) and Harib Yammine (vocals and daf), alongside three other members of their Al-Advar Group, including Salah el-Din Sayed Refead Muhamed on ganun (a stringed instrument, akin to a zither). Following an a cappella call to Allah, Aicha performed the setting of a poem from a 14th Century Sufi poet, which began with an amazingly elaborate introduction on the ganun and gave the singer opportunity to demonstrate her remarkable breath control on the sustained notes. She commented: “Mugham is like a tree, with deeply spiritual roots and branches across a wide swathe of nations. It is deeply expressive music, and is the melody of love, with a capital ‘L’. Arabic Sufi poetry preaches universal respect for people across the world, and life in every form.” This was followed by the impassioned performance of another setting of a Sufi poem.

There was a capacity audience for the second half of the concert, which featured a performance by Alim Qasimov, Azerbaijan’s most internationally-renowned mugham singer, performing alongside Ferghana, his daughter and Zaki Valiyev (tar), Rauf Islamov (kamancha), Rafael Asgarov (balaban) and Javidan Nabiyev (nagara drum). They performed just one piece – the mugham Bayati Shiraz – a setting of one of the gazals by poet Muhammed Fuzuli. Resplendent in silk shirts covered in buta symbols, both Alim and Ferghana performed in a declamatory manner. The singers demonstrated remarkable breath control with astonishing vibratos, and their duet passages took the performance to a particularly high level of intensity. The evening saw a performance of ethno-jazz by Azerbaijani pianist Afgan Rasul and his Trio at the Baku Jazz Centre, celebrating the 73rd anniversary of the birth of Vagif Mustafazadeh, who pioneered jazz-mugham.

The concert on 17 March featured three ensembles, beginning with the soaring vocals of Indian raga singer Meeta Pandit alongside Gyan Singh (tabla), Murad Ali (sarangi), Dharam Nath Misra (harmonium), and Abha Pandit (tanpura). Performing just one work – Raag Kafi – Meeta began with some modal singing, and a highlight was the call-and-response passages between the tabla and singer. This increased in speed and generated considerable excitement.

This was followed by an unexpected addition to the programme – an ensemble from Kuwait, comprising 14 male singers, who were magnificent in black robes and flowing white keffiye headdresses. They began their performance with a devotional song, where they all played small drums, clapped complex 12-beat rhythms, and banged the floor. Later songs saw two members of the ensemble dancing and jumping, with the entire ensemble using earthenware pots and a bass drum to percussive effect.

The last performance of the evening was of the Shushtar Mugham, a setting of gazals by Muhammed Fuzuli and Mirza Alakbar Sabir. This featured two singers – Nuriyya Huseynova and Ravana Arabova, accompanied by a mugham sextet. The audience were astounded by the tremulous voice of Ravana, and the call-and-response passages between the tar and kamancha, which gradually increased in tempo. Throughout the two singers appeared to be goading each other into greater, and more daring, displays of virtuosity. Valeh also demonstrated an amazing, extremely percussive, technique on the tar.

The final evening began with a performance of Bozlak and Semah by the Anadolu Voices Ensemble (Turkey), which clearly demonstrated the similarities between Azerbaijani mugham and Turkish makam. The main singer was Ismail Altunsaray, accompanying himself on the saz, who performed solo for the first piece, gradually increasing speed on his instrument, until he finally raised his vibrato-laden voice to great effect. The other pieces featured Misirli Ahmet (darbuka – goblet drum), Jafer Nazlibash (kamancha) and Murat Berber (ney flute).

The second half focused on the Azerbaijani vocalists Nazaket Teymurova and Vafa Vazirova, accompanied by twelve-piece mugham ensemble, performing the Humayun mugham, which was a setting of gazals by Khurshidbanu Natavan and Aliagha Vahid. This began with some dark and mysterious sounds, the singers’ voices then being raised in unison, that of Nazaket being full of sorrow and drama. Later, Shirzad Fataliyev, on balaban performed some phrases, which were re-echoed by Nazaket, as was the case when Aliagha Sadiyev on tar gradually increased the tempo. The high point of the piece came when the two singers dueted, enabling listeners to attain a virtually trance-like state.

Although I only attended three days of the International Mugham Festival, I was delighted by the quality and variety of the performances that I saw, and look forward to attending the next edition in two years’ time.

For more information, go to www.mugham.az

06 Culture – ‘Space of Mugham’ Festival

Alim Qasimov’s performance was extraordinarily intense and compelling

Niriyya Huseynova (left) and Ravana Arabova gave an outstanding display of mugham vocal virtuosity


Mozaik Printing and Design ranks amongst the leading providers of printing products in Baku, offering a one-stop shop for a range of services, from design through to delivery. Its broad portfolio of services and products includes offset digital printing, wide format reprographics and graphic design. Mozaik focuses on understanding what clients require, going on to generate solutions that fit their needs. The company ensures outstanding customer service and on-time delivery.

Mozaik regards its customers as business partners, and strives to work closely with them to provide the superior quality products needed to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. Its dedication to quality and constant interaction with customers has succeeded in transforming Mozaik into the most convenient, cost-effective print provider to the Azerbaijani business community.

The mission of Mozaik is to use state-of-the-art technology to provide a superior service, becoming recognised as a market leader in providing top-quality printing and graphic design for the Azerbaijani business community.Mozaik’s personnel understand that its customers expect their requirements to be

met, whether working locally in Baku or from abroad. Its staff can work in Azerbaijani, English, Russian, and Turkish, providing a high level of customer service, including rapid quotation generation, together with design and management expertise.

TEAS spoke to Bill Wardwell, General Manager, Mozaik Printing and Design, to find out more:

What is your company’s specialisation?Mozaik specialises in high-quality printing, featuring a fast job turnaround and excellent customer service.

What are the special strengths of Mozaik Printing?Its strengths include outstanding customer service, on-time delivery and superior quality.

What are your wider regional objectives?Mozaik is focused on results that meet customer expectations, regardless of the company’s origin. Its customers can expect the same quality and service they get back home when they work with Mozaik here in Baku.

Why Azerbaijan?Azerbaijan has experienced continuous growth in its non-oil sector and is focused on attracting investment from foreign companies. This is the market in which Mozaik excels, as it understands their expectations.

What was the impetus behind your establishment in Azerbaijan?Mozaik was formed to bring top-quality customer service to the Azerbaijani print market. It provides quotations to its customers within hours of the initial commission, and understands that its customers need high-quality printed products without delays. What is the skills base amongst the Azerbaijanis?The local labour market offers a combination of both skilled labour and an experienced manual labour workforce.

07Corporate Profile – Mozaik/Caspian Oil and Gas ShowCORPORATE PROFILE: MOZAIK PRINTING AND DESIGN

Mozaik Printing and Design, 92 Samed Vurgun Street,Baku AZ1022, Azerbaijan

Tel: +994 0125965401Website: www.mozaikprinting.com

CASPIAN OIL AND GAS CELEBRATES ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY

In 2013, the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference, organised by the ITE Group and Iteca Caspian, will be celebrating its 20th anniversary. The largest energy event in the Caspian Region, it will be held from 4–7 June at the Baku Expo Centre.

During the past two decades, this event has become acknowledged as the primary specialised exhibition of its kind in Azerbaijan and as a key industry forum. The event brings together professionals and leaders in the sector from around the world to present the latest technologies for extracting and processing oil and gas, transportation and logistics, and the provision of services.

The importance of the event is underlined by the annual participation in its opening ceremony by Azerbaijani President Aliyev. Since its

launch, the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference has been supported by the Azerbaijani Ministry of Industry and Energy and the State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR).

Altogether, 40 per cent of the exhibition space at the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference has been assigned by such leading organisations as SOCAR, BP, OMV, Total, Statoil, Petkim, TPAO, and RWE. National representations from Germany, China and Russia are regular participants.

The General Sponsor for the Caspian Oil and Gas Exhibition and Conference is SOCAR, the Gold Sponsor is BP Azerbaijan, and other sponsors include Azfen-Tekfen, Azeri MI Drilling Fluids, Bos Shelf, the Caspian Drilling Company, Caspian Marine Services, Cross Caspian Oil and Gas Logistics, Global Energy Azerbaijan, McDermott Caspian Contractors, Inc., and Nobel Oil.

The regular Caspian Oil and Gas Conference will take place on 5–6 June at the Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel. Presentations from key oil and gas players will examine international co-operation regarding increases in extraction efficiencies; supply diversification; the latest innovations for the construction of offshore platforms, drilling

rigs and offshore pipelines; and new projects for the extraction and transportation of oil and gas in the Caspian region. Over 500 delegates are expected to attend the conference.

The General Sponsor of the conference is SOCAR, the Gold Sponsor is BP Azerbaijan, and other sponsors include Caspian Geophysical JV, Conoco Phillips, Cross Caspian Oil and Gas Logistics, Wartsila, Statoil, Nexans and Nobel Oil.

In addition, a series of special events to mark the event’s 20th anniversary have been planned by the organisers.

The conference is an essential event for those in the hydrocarbon industry

To find out more, contact Svetlana Hajiyeva

Tel: +994 12 404 10 08e-mail: [email protected]

websites: www.caspianoilgas.azwww.oilgasconference.az


Paris Business Forum Report08

Paris Business Forum showcases investment opportunitiesThe multiple opportunities presented by Azerbaijan, both in the hydrocarbon and non-oil sectors, have been highlighted in the TEAS Business Forum 2013 at the Hôtel de l’Industrie – Siège de la Société d’Encouragement pour l’Industrie Nationale in the sixth arrondissement of Paris.

Following on from two earlier successful events in London in 2011 and 2012, this forum on 14 March was the first in the French capital to focus on expanding Azerbaijani-French business ties. Over 170 delegates from government, business, civil society and media took part in the event, together with an impressive roster of speakers from both countries.

The event began with a comment from Jean Perrin, President, France–Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce and First Ambassador of France to Azerbaijan (1992–96). He commented: “Those who visit Baku today may struggle to imagine the material challenges of earlier years. There are beautiful highways amidst a booming capital that is illuminated at night, where security is maintained at all times. This forum will help Azerbaijan build a future that is based on a vision of progress, which will serve to generate wealth through collaborations with foreign entrepreneurs. It will also interest Azerbaijani industrialists, farmers and others who are interested in the success and sustainability of their actions.”

H.E. Elchin Amirbayov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to France, explained:

“We hope this event will strengthen the relationship between Azerbaijan and private companies in France. It will send a firm message to both current and prospective economic partners. After the UK, France is the second largest foreign direct investment partner of Azerbaijan. The country has the largest GDP in the Caucasus and greatly values its partnership with France. Some major French companies are now present in Azerbaijan, including TOTAL and GDF Suez in the energy sector; Veolia, regarding environmental solutions; and Bouygues and Vinci in infrastructure.”

H.E. Pascal Meunier, French Ambassador to Azerbaijan, said: “Azerbaijan is aiming to further develop its autonomy in a difficult geopolitical environment. Azerbaijani businesses are dynamic, and present many opportunities. Azerbaijan has just launched Azerspace-1, its first telecommunications satellite, in conjunction with Arianespace, a French company. The country is just investing $1bn (£649.1m) in providing broadband for all citizens, and is emphasising the importance of information and communications technologies (ICT) to diversify the economy. In 2015, it will host the first European Olympics, necessitating the construction of stadiums and the related infrastructure.”

Lionel Zetter, Director, TEAS, commented: “Azerbaijan’s importance on the international stage has developed during the past decade. It has oil and gas reserves, but also presents opportunities in the ICT, food processing and tourism sectors, amongst others.”

Nathalie Goulet, Senator and Vice-President of the France–Caucasus Friendship Group in the French Senate said: “I have been visiting Azerbaijan for 15 years. Azerbaijan is definitely a

partner of Europe, and the country has been rapidly developing, regardless of the ongoing Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions for the past two decades. Azerbaijan is also one country where multiculturalism actually works. It presents real opportunities for French companies, both in and outside the hydrocarbon sector.”

Welcoming investmentThe first session focused on the institutional and legal framework for investment, and was chaired by Daniel Patat, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of France, South Caucasus and Turkmenistan, French Embassy, Baku. Natig Madatov, Executive Director, Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) explained: “Azerbaijan accounts for 80 per cent of the South Caucasus GDP, and the non-oil sector is becoming increasingly important, accounting for 60 per cent of the economy. The country currently occupies 46th place amongst the world economies, and first position out of all CIS countries. Azerbaijan constantly aims to simplify its business registration procedures and is cultivating a liberal investment climate. In Azerbaijan, agriculture, food processing, ICT, hydroelectric power, tourism, the chemical industry and waste management are just some of the sectors that receptive to inward investment via AZPROMO.”

Ilham Aliyev, Deputy Executive Director, Azerbaijan Investment Company (AIC) said: “The AIC was established to promote non-oil sector development, and supports overseas investment and the application of international expertise. We are always looking to support companies that can offer competitive products, operating systems that are commensurate with international reporting standards. The AIC has a pool of international investment worth over $1bn, and all investors are provided with exit strategy guidance. The AIC could be your next potential partner.”

Paul-Henri Forestier, Director: Caucasus, Moldova, Belarus, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) commented: “We are partners in the non-oil sector – which grew by 10 per cent in 2013 – and are currently involved with 130 projects across Azerbaijan. Overseas investment from France and other countries is essential, and will further develop, as the Azerbaijani economy becomes more open. One of our main current projects is construction of the Holcim cement and clinker facility in Baku.”

James Hogan, Partner, Salans, FMC and SNR Denton and Vice-President, France–Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce, said: “Since independence, Azerbaijan has adopted a legal framework for foreign investment, and introduced a civil code in

Natig Madatov, Executive Director, Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) with Vanessa Raine, Business Co-ordinator, TEAS


Paris Business Forum Report 09

2000. It is possible to use arbitration, and Azerbaijan is a signatory to the New York and Washington conventions on arbitration. Azerbaijani businesses are interested in the transfer of technology and skills. The country has also adopted laws on Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and simplified special tax regimes to promote investment.”

Professor Jacques Attali, Founder and First President, EBRD (1991–93); Founding President, PlaNet Finance; and Special Advisor to the French President, went on to speak about the importance of project finance. He commented: “Microfinance is very important to kickstart the non-oil sector. Azerbaijan has become wealthy due to oil, but it is essential for Azerbaijan’s economy to become post-energy-centric. Azerbaijan must seek to create a balanced economy. I support Turkish ascendance to the EU, and this will bring Azerbaijan – its sister nation – closer to Europe. French companies can particularly help Azerbaijani businesses in relation to civil engineering. Azerbaijan needs to demonstrate that it is an easy place to do business, and it is vital for French businesses to become active in the country.”

Energy security for EuropeNaturally, Azerbaijan’s developing importance as a hydrocarbon-producing nation and transit country for resources from Central Asia were covered. The country will play an intrinsic role in the proposed Southern Corridor of pipelines, which will ensure energy security for Europe in the foreseeable future. Ladislas Poniatowski, Senator and Co-Chair, Senate Energy Task Force, said: “France has exhausted its own resources, and must obtain supplies from diverse sources to avoid dependence on a single provider. Currently, TOTAL and GDF Suez are active in Azerbaijan, and France can also undertake the shipping of Azerbaijani energy resources. Also, France must cast a new frontier and attract Azerbaijani investment, as is the case in Switzerland.”

This elicited a response from Ilham Nasirov, Deputy Head of Investment Department, State Oil Company of the Azerbaijani Republic (SOCAR) who commented that Azerbaijan would certainly be interested in

developing a heightened level of French–Azerbaijani collaboration. He went on to explain the extent of GDF Suez and TOTAL’s involvement in the efficient exploitation of the Caspian Sea, including the Shah Deniz Stage II development.

Kevin Boyle, Technical Adviser, TOTAL, stated: “TOTAL first entered Azerbaijan in 1999, when it obtained an equity share in the Baku–Tbilisi–Ceyhan pipeline, which now delivers more than a million barrels of oil each day to the port of Ceyhan. We also have a 10 per cent stake in the Shah Deniz gas project. When it comes on-stream in 2018, Shah Deniz II will have an annual output of 16bcm3

(bcm), in addition to the 8bcm from Stage I. TOTAL has a 40 per cent in the Absheron field development, which contains an estimated 350bcm of gas.” Catherine Mantel, Russia/CIS Project Director, GDF Suez, said: “We have a 20 per cent stake in the Absheron development. Azerbaijan is important for Europe, which needs to diversify its gas supply.”

Jacques Attali outlined his vision for economic diversification in Azerbaijan and the potential role of French businesses in this transition. He commented: “We need to show French companies that Azerbaijan is the place to do business, including such sectors as banking and civil engineering.” This was reiterated by André Reichardt, Senator, BAS-Rhin; First Vice-President, Alsace Regional Council and President, Alsace International Economic Development Agency, who drew attention to opportunities in the agricultural sector.

ICT on the ascendanceIn February 2013, Azerbaijan launched Azerspace–1, its first communications satellite, initiating the country’s space programme. Rashad Nabiyev, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Azercosmos, remarked: “ICT is set to play an integral role in the diversification of the Azerbaijani economy, and 2013 has been designated as the Year of ICT. Revenues from the sector grew by 25 per cent during 2012. The country is currently initiating the provision of e-government services. Last year, investment in the ICT

sector amounted to $414m (£268.7m), and it is expected that there will be a two-fold increase in foreign domestic investment (FDI) in the sector every three years.

“Following the launch of Azerspace-1, it is expected that a further observation satellite will be sent into orbit in 2015, with Azerspace–2 lifting off in 2016. The country is now developing its space infrastructure, and promoting an innovation-based economy. To date, the main connection with French companies is that the launch took place in collaboration with French company Arianespace from its launchpad in French Guiana.”

Jacques Breton, Vice-President, Sales and Customers, Arianespace, commented: “Communications are important across all aspects of the economy. We collaborated with our colleagues at Azercosmos, the Azerbaijani space agency, and I am pleased to say the French facilities for the launch of satellites rank amongst the best in the world.”

Agribusiness and water supplyRashad Majidov, Director, International Co-operation Department, Azerbaijani Ministry of Agriculture, went to outline the essential nature of his sector: “In total, 38 per cent of Azerbaijanis are employed in the agricultural industry. Products include fruits, vegetables, potatoes and berries. Virtually every aspect of agricultural production is now in private hands, and its prominence will increase in the diversified economy. New propagation methods are being introduced, and the amount of cereals and legumes that are now harvested has increased two-fold. There are some tax exceptions in the sector, particularly with regard to the purchase of farming and production equipment from western countries.”

Kocherli Hasanov, Deputy Chairman of Operations, Azersu, went on to outline the opportunities presented by the water and sanitation sector. He said: “Renovation work on the Baku water supply network is about to happen. Pipes are currently being replaced in many regions of Azerbaijan, and Azersu is

Kamala Muradova, Director – Baku Office, CIFAL, chaired the infrastructure session

(from left) Ladislas Poniatowski, Senator, and Co-Chair, Senate Energy Task Force; Kevin Boyle, Technical Adviser, TOTAL; and Catherine Mantel, Russia/CIS Project Director, GDF Suez discussed the increasing importance of Azerbaijani energy supplies to Europe


currently working on projects in Sumgait and other cities, and assessing the quality of the water supply in Baku. It is envisaged that the entire network will be replaced by 2035.”

Haji Huseynov, Infrastructure Specialist, ECSSD, World Bank, revealed: “We are undertaking a programme to improve the quality of water in 12 regions, covering some 300,000 people. This will provide piped sanitation services, and the facilities in Siyazan, Shabran, Agsu and Ismayilli will be commissioned at the end of 2013.”

Philippe Deparday, Deputy Director for Europe, International Division, Sade, continued: “Since 2010, Sade has been involved in the installation of water rehabilitation and sanitation services in Siyezen and Shabran. It is using the latest directional drilling techniques to install 400km of pipes, together with constructing four pumping stations and seven reservoirs.” Dianne D’Arras, Senior Executive, Vice-President Water: Water Western Europe and Member of the Board of Directors of the International Water Association (IWA), SUEZ Environnment, said: “Azerbaijan was very much in need of a water management policy. Much of the Azerbaijani rural population does not have access to clean water on a daily basis. Partnerships with foreign companies must be forged so water that meets international standards is piped to every home.”

Infrastructure development in the focusRenovation, expansion and development of transport infrastructure represent another huge undertaking in this booming country, where considerable efforts have already been made in recent years to improve and develop the road and railway network. This was highlighted by Kamala Muradova, Director – Baku Office, CIFAL, who chaired the session. She said: “Infrastructure is of paramount importance to contemporary Azerbaijan, as it continues to develop into a modern, westward-facing nation. It is vital that local and overseas companies collaborate towards achieving this objective. One example is AKKORD, which is an Azerbaijani company that is now operating on an international level and collaborating with French companies.”

Alain Balan, President, French Tunnelling and Underground Space Association (AFTES), commented: “Azerbaijan occupies an important geostrategic position. Current large infrastructure projects include the development of the Baku Metro system, which is involving the participation of 10–12 French companies. The Baku Metro development involves an AKKORD–Bouygues Joint Venture. French construction companies have a great deal of knowledge to transfer, particularly in relation to the construction of high-rise buildings, tunnels and multi-storey car parks.” This was re-echoed by Hadji Huseynov, Infrastructure Specialist, ECSSD, World Bank, who spoke of the development of the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway, which will run for 348km and is scheduled for completion by 2017.

Samir Gasimov, Director, Legal and International Relations Department and Member of the Management Board, AKKORD, explained: “AKKORD is the largest construction company in Azerbaijan, although it was only established in 2005. It started operations in Afghanistan in 2011,

and currently has operations in Georgia, Germany, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Ukraine and Turkey. AKKORD is also an important producer of building materials, including precast concrete, sand, gravel and bricks. In Baku, the company operates a unique plant for the production of marble and granite.

“The Gazakh Cement Plant is currently under construction, and this will have an annual capacity of 1m tonnes by mid-2013, increasing to 3m tonnes following the installation of the second line. The development of the Baku Metro system is an AKKORD–Bouygues Joint Venture. Work has just been completed on the 28 May Station, and two major sections of the Metro system are nearing completion. It is planned that 50 stations will be opened by 2015.” Hosni Bouzid, Regional Director, Vinci CGP, continued by outlining some of the specialities of his company, focusing on some landmark projects, such as the TGV rail link from Tours to Bordeaux and the company’s expertise regarding the design and construction of motorways and rail

infrastructure, in addition to multi-storey car parks, airports and stadiums. He expressed a desire for Vinci’s engineering expertise to be exported to Azerbaijan.

Jean-Denys Arnal, Executive Director, Bouygues Travaux Publics, commented: “To date, we have participated in the construction of over 20km of tunnels for the Baku Metro system. To operate successfully in the country, we needed a really good local partner, and found this in AKKORD, with whom we share a vision. French engineers are now gradually being replaced with local staff.”

André Ohnheiser, Senior Executive Vice-President, South Europe and the Mediterranean, SYSTRA, continued: “SYSTRA is one of the predominant French engineering companies, and its core ethos is that it transforms ideas into concrete projects. It has been active in Azerbaijan for five years, and has been installing new lines on the Baku Metro system. SYSTRA has also been involved in railway projects in Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan, and hopes to assist Azerbaijan in developing a rail system that will accommodate trains travelling up to 200km/hr.”

The afternoon was dedicated to B2B sessions, when over 20 companies had the opportunity to discuss areas of common interest and co-operation, many of which will be followed up in Baku. The Azerbaijani companies involved in these sessions were AZPROMO, AIC, World Bank, AKKORD and SOCAR, with the French contingent comprising Credit Agricole, Daher Group, Total, Air Liquide and Alstom.

10 Paris Business Forum Report

Sponsors: Sade, Vinci Grands Projets, AFB Bank, AKKORD, Systra and

Astrium.Media Partners: BiP, Business News Europe, Le moniteur du commerce

international, Open Central Asia magazine, La revue du trombinoscope

and Templeton Thorp.

Kocherli Hasanov, Deputy Chairman of Operations, Azersu, led the session on the water and sanitation sector

To view presentations and photos from the TEAS Business Forum 2013, go towww.teas.eu/teas-business-forum-

paris-2013

Professor Jacques Attali, Founding President, PlatNet Finance, spoke on the importance of microfinance for the non-oil sector

The afternoon of B2B sessions stimulated a great deal of interest


An Azerbaijani Madman in LondonMatthew Gould, director of the inaugural UK production of My Favourite Madman by Professor Elchin Efandiyev has focused on new writing and musical theatre for several years. He has directed plays on the London Fringe at a range of venues, including the King’s Head and Old Red Lion theatres. In the Midlands, he has directed plays at various theatres and festivals, winning the People’s Choice Award at the Preston Fringe Festival with the new play Baby Jesus Freak by Ian Winterton. Most recently, he directed and choreographed the first major revival of the musical The Mystery of Edwin Drood at the Arts Theatre, London, based on the unfinished Charles Dickens novel. He directed a new opera, entitled The Miller’s Wife, by Mike Christie at the end of 2012, and has recently focused on a revival of The Secret Garden. Prior to the run in April at the Tristan Bates Theatre, Covent Garden, London, TEAS caught up with Matthew in London to find out what drew him to My Favourite Madman:

What initially interested you about directing the inaugural UK production of My Favourite Madman? When Sanan Aliyev, Director, Azerbaijan Intercultural Society (AZICS), asked me to read the play in order to establish my interest in directing it for ALOFF Theatre, my attention was aroused by its country of origin. I had limited knowledge of Azerbaijan and its cultural and political history, and undertook a considerable amount of internet research, during which I realised that Azerbaijan only regained its independence 21 years ago. I was immediately drawn to the very diverse, crazy world of the characters enveloping My Favourite Madman.

How would you describe Professor Elchin Efandiyev’s approach to theatre? My knowledge of Professor Elchin was slight, but I soon discovered the extent of his pedigree as a playwright and learned more about his literary ancestors. His first play was published at the age of 16 years, and he has been translated into many different languages. He is evidently able to tap into political and cultural sensibilities in an informed manner.

Where does his work sit amongst other twentieth century absurdist playwrights, such as Ionesco, Beckett and Genet?Elchin comes to the ‘absurdist’ scene some years after Ionesco, Beckett and Genet. He is a philology graduate, and his selected subject focused on the study of language from written historical sources, using literary texts and written records to establish their authenticity and original form. I can only assume that through a process of wanting to learn and create works that challenge and push the boundaries of the political and social spectrum, Professor Elchin will have been influenced by the bold examples of writing that preceded him.

Who are the subversive satirical barbs in the play aimed at? The play’s humour and absurd situations are a gently stinging critique of the history and rhetoric of Soviet domination

and the ultimate loosening of its grip, which enabled former Soviet Republics to express themselves for the first time in living memory.

To what extent did the Soviet experience impact his work? The new Supreme Soviet of Azerbaijan SSR was ratified in 1936, shortly before the birth of Professor Elchin. In 1990, the first Azerbaijani elections since 1918 were held, which soon led to the restoration of independence. I can only assume that being under Soviet rule for such large part of his life had an irrefutable impact upon his writing and creativity. I hope to discover more about this when I meet the man himself.

Do the references to Azerbaijan and the Soviet world present any challenges for you, as a director, and for the audience?I cannot imagine any insurmountable challenges with the play. The UK has such a wonderful, diverse acceptance of many different cultures that the play will only be greeted with enthusiasm and a healthy dose of curiosity.

Were any edits made to reduce possibly unfamiliar references?At the moment, my aim is to present the play as it has been given to me. It will be my job, with the actors, to understand and clarify any social or political idiosyncrasies that may arise.

One of the features of Professor Elchin’s plays is his quickfire dialogue. Did this present any problems for the performers?The quickfire pace of the script is vital to create the tension and humour that is in the play. Its pace and quirky situations are not dissimilar to the British farce.

What can London audiences expect when they see the production?I hope that they see a funny, astute production from a writer and country that are unfamiliar to them, yet presents them with the knowledge that the recipe of the human experience is the same across the world, with just a few differences to add a little seasoning for flavour.

11Personalities – Matthew GouldMatthew Gould directed the first UK production of My Favourite Madman

The British cast elicit the humour from Professor Elchin’s script

The cast begin to familiarise themselves with the play


12 Personalities – Focus on Khojaly 613

Simon Fraser: conflict settlement depends on mutual willWhilst commenting on the proposed reopening of Khojaly Airport during a briefing at the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy, Simon Fraser, Deputy UK Foreign Minister, commented that Nagorno-Karabakh conflict settlement remains dependant on the will of both parties. He said that the international community should support efforts in this direction. Fraser revealed that he had also discussed the issue in Yerevan, stating: “In this situation, one must refrain from actions with unpredictable consequences.”

Turkey scraps proposed Yerevan flightsAs reported by Reuters, Turkey has cancelled its inaugural flights to Armenia, days before the first plane was due to take off, according to officials. The move comes in the wake of fierce opposition from Azerbaijan. The twice-weekly flights between Turkey’s eastern city of Van and the Armenian capital Yerevan were due to begin on 3 April, encouraged by US attempts to reinvigorate rapprochement. However, with just over a week until the first flight, and tickets already on sale, the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority ordered the immediate suspension of the flights.

Officials at the Turkish Transport Ministry confirmed the indefinite stoppage of the flights, but declined to justify the development. Private Turkish carrier BoraJet, which was to provide the 45-minute flights, also refused to comment. Narekavank Tours, a Yerevan-based travel agency that has spent the last three years organising the flights with a Turkish travel agency in Van, said the reason was purely political.

Azerbaijan had voiced fierce opposition to the flights, and last week Ali Hasanov, Azerbaijani Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Azerbaijani State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), said these amounted to support for “the occupant country” and would serve to protract the ongoing occupation. Hasanov commented to Reuters: “When such moves are done by countries that share the same strategic

interests with Azerbaijan, we double our fervour. It’s not just our attitude, but an attitude of the entire Turkic society.”

OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs cross the ‘contact line’The OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs – Igor Popov (Russian Federation), Jacques Fauré (France) and Ian Kelly (USA), together with Ambassador Andrzej Kasprzyk, Personal Representative of the OSCE Chairperson-in-Office – travelled to Armenia and Azerbaijan from 18–22 March and 1–6 April in an attempt to assist the sides in finding a peaceful solution to the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. On 9 April, the Co-Chairs briefed members of the OSCE Minsk Group in Vienna. In Yerevan, the Co-Chairs met Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan and Edward Nalbandian on 21 March. On 2 April in Baku, they exchanged dialogue with President Ilham Aliyev and Elmar Mammadyarov, Azerbaijani Foreign Minister. During two separate trips to Nagorno-Karabakh on 19–20 March and 4–5 April, they met the authorities of the unrecognised republic. The Co-Chairs were briefed on the current situation on either side of the ‘contact line’, which they crossed in two locations on 4–5 April via demined zones. They discussed recent incidents, and learned more about civilian life along the ‘contact line’ with representatives of the local administrations. The Co-Chairs noted the relative calm that prevailed during the Novruz and Easter period, and expressed their hope that this would continue. They also discussed the issue of the proposed civilian flights from Khojaly Airport.

Ambassador Meunier discredits illegal ‘friendship’ groupDuring a press conference, H.E. Pascal Meunier, French Ambassador to Azerbaijan, reiterated that France recognises the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan and does not acknowledge the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh. The comments came in the wake of a statement in the Armenian media

concerning the establishment of a ‘Circle of Friendship’ between members of the French National Assembly, Senate and municipalities with the unrecognised republic. The members are Roland Blum, Deputy Mayor of Marseille; Jacques Remiller, Mayor of Vienne; the MPs Valérie Boyer, René Rouquet, Guy Teissier and François Rochebloine; Senators Sophie Zhuassen, Philippe Marini, and Bernard Fournier, together with former MPs Georges Colombier and Richard Malia.

Ambassador Meunier said: “This is not an official friendship group, but a personal initiative by several MPs. Although I am familiar with those who proposed the formation of the ‘Circle of Friendship’, and respect them, this does not mean they represent the official position of France. Such a supposition is totally incorrect.” Ambassador Meunier went on to remind journalists that a France–Azerbaijan Friendship Group is already in existence and has organised many activities. France remains an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, which has been tasked to establish a peaceful solution to the ongoing Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Simon Fraser, Deputy UK Foreign Minister, condemned moves to reopen Khojaly Airport

Nagorno-Karabakh12

Azerbaijani officer killedOn 8 April, according to the Azerbaijani Defence

Ministry, Armenian forces killed Azerbaijani

Lieutenant Shahriyar Bahramgulu Mammadov,

aged 25 years. The shooting occurred near

the ‘contact line’ in the Kengerli village of the

Aghdam region at 20.00hrs, local time.

Two Azerbaijani soldiers shot deadThe Azerbaijani Defence Ministry has revealed

that Armenian forces killed Mekhman Sadygov

on 26 March on the ‘contact line’. The Ministry

declined to provide further details of the

circumstances surrounding his death, which

follows claims that an unnamed soldier was

killed in similar circumstances on 10 March.

Army major wounded on ‘contact line’Azerbaijani Army Major Jeyhun Askerov

sustained a head injury due to sniper fire on

the ‘contact line’ in the Gadabay region on 26

March, according to Teymur Abdullayev, Deputy

Spokesman, Azerbaijani Defence Ministry.

Earlier the same day, Colonel Eldar Sabiroglu,

Azerbaijani Defense Ministry Spokesman,

explained that Azerbaijani forces had

suppressed attacks by Armenian forces on

25–26 March.

Armenian Foreign Minister Nalbandian to resignIt has been revealed that Edward Nalbandian,

Armenian Foreign Minister, is to resign from his

position, continuing his career as Armenian

Ambassador to France, according to Novosti

Armenia in the Avangarde newspaper. His role will

be taken up by Vigen Sargsyan, Head, Armenian

Presidential Administration, aged 37 years.

NEWS IN BRIEF


Khojaly film to be screened in Soho

Following its successful premiére to members of the London-based Azerbaijani diaspora in February at BAFTA, the powerful new Azerbaijani feature film Xoca (Khoja) will be screened to an international audience on 30 April. The event will be organised by TEAS and the ANS Group.

Directed by Vahid Mustafayev, the film tells the story of Aliakbar and Gunel, a young couple betrothed for marriage in Baku on 25 February 1992. The Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh is raging, and Aliakbar is an intelligence officer who has been posted to his hometown of Khojaly, Nagorno-Karabakh. As he is about to leave for Baku, it becomes apparent that the Armenians are about to surround Khojaly and he must remain to protect the townspeople.

The screening of this powerful film will be preceded by wine, soft drinks and canapés. Following the film, Vahid Mustafayev will participate in a question-and-answer session.Please RSVP to [email protected] by 26 April to confirm your attendance.

Two Armenian civilians returned homeTwo Armenian civilians – Karyan Durmus and Anahid Hamazasovna – who crossed into Azerbaijani territory, were returned to Armenia on 20 March after four days of captivity. Ilaha Huseynova, Media Contact, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Delegation to Azerbaijan, stated that the Armenian civilians were handed over to Armenian government agencies on the Gazakh-Ijevan Highway, following ICRC mediation.

Firudin Sadigov, Head, Working Group of the Azerbaijani State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages and Missing Persons, stated that the Armenian civilians were handed over near the Bala Jeferli village, and that the transfer was incident-free. He commented: “Azerbaijan has shown an example that captives and hostages can be handed over within a short time period. Azerbaijan has always abided by humanitarian principles.”

US reiterates call for peaceSpeaking during a press briefing in Washington D.C., Patrick Ventrell, Acting Deputy Spokesperson, US Department of State, reiterated that the US remains deeply committed to working with the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict parties to achieve peaceful settlement. He said: “We are an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair – we remain deeply committed to working with the sides to achieve peaceful conflict settlement.” The comments were made when Ventrell was quizzed over discussions in Turkey regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between John Kerry, Secretary-of-State, and Ahmet Davutoglu, Turkish Foreign Minister. He continued: “The US calls upon all parties to refrain from the use or threat of use of force.” When asked about the possible rapprochement in Turkish–Armenian relations, Ventrell replied that the US consistently raises this issue with its Turkish counterparts.

The year 2013 marks the 20th anniversary of the severing of Turkish–Armenian relations. The border between the countries was closed in solidarity with Azerbaijan over the Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and the seven surrounding regions, together with the ongoing claim that the death of Armenians in Turkey in 1915 constituted ‘genocide’.

New Russian Ambassador to Armenia pledges Nagorno-Karabakh focusSergey Minasyan, an Armenian Political Analyst, has predicted that Ivan Volynkin, the new Russian ambassador to Armenia, will further contribute to the strengthening of Russo-Armenian bilateral relations. Minasyan said: “Former envoy Vyacheslav Kovalenko played an essential role in the signing of the 2010 Armenian–Russo agreement. Furthermore, Kovalenko has been informed in detail regarding the Nagorno-Karabakh issue.” The expert explained that Ambassador Volynkin would focus on Armenian–Russio strategic, political and economic ties, together with settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Sammut requests EU clarity on Nagorno-KarabakhSpeaking during the roundtable entitled Azerbaijan and the EU: The Road Ahead, at the European Policy Centre in Brussels, Dennis Sammut, Director, LINKS, proposed ten action points for the EU to implement regarding Azerbaijan. One of these stated:

“There needs to be more clarity on the part of the European Union (EU) of its policies on Nagorno-Karabakh. Even if the formal policy is to support a peaceful solution, mediated by the OSCE Minsk Group and based on the Madrid Principles, there are nuances within this formula that the EU needs to develop in order that its own values are better reflected.”

Leading Swiss newspaper adopts the Azerbaijani stanceThe influential Die Wochenzeitung newspaper has published an article on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict by journalist André Widmer. The Azerbaijani Embassy in Switzerland explained that the article describes the current situation near the ‘contact line’ in the Alkhanli and Ashaghi Abdurrahmali villages of the Fuzuli region and the Hasangaya village in the Terter region. It goes on to outline the daily living conditions of the villagers, the threats faced by residents due to ceasefire violations, and the complete destruction of infrastructure and the plundering of territories. The article focuses on the occupation of 62 settlements in the Fuzuli region, and mentions nine-year-old Fariz Badalov, who was shot by an Armenian sniper in 2011 whilst playing outside his house.

The Swiss journalist describes the living conditions and suffering of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). The author also highlighted the mediatory role of the OSCE Minsk Group, together with expert views regarding the possibly of the conflict being reignited.

Zannier acknowledges Azerbaijan’s pivotal roleDuring a visit to Baku, Lamberto Zannier, Secretary-General, OSCE, recognised that Azerbaijan is an important regional player and is a very active OSCE participating country. He stated: “The OSCE plays an essential role regarding those issues that are important for Azerbaijan, including the activity of the Minsk Group over the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh. Of course, the activities of the OSCE office in Azerbaijan have been very successful for many years and many good things have been achieved, and we are now in the process of discussing the best way to continue our activity.

“I am here to discuss the way forward, and the dialogue will be about the way we need to escalate towards the next level of our co-operation. Azerbaijan has submitted a proposal, and this will be discussed. It is not a process of inspecting what we are doing. This will be a discussion on what we should do next.”

Personalities – Focus on Khojaly 613 13Nagorno-Karabakh 13

Xoca will be screened to a multicultural London audience


Maxime Gauin – academic support for the Turkish perspectiveHistorian Maxime Gauin (born 1985) from Agen, Aquitaine, France, graduated from Camille-Jullian High School and from the Bordeaux-III University, where he achieved his BA in history. He received his first half of his MA in Contemporary History from the École normale supérieure de Lyon and Lyon-II University, then the second half from the Centre of Social History, Paris-I-Sorbonne University. He is currently a Ph.D candidate at the Middle East Technical University History department. To date, Maxime has published articles in the International Review of Turkish Studies (Utrecht University, the Netherlands), Review of Armenian Studies (AVIM, Ankara), Review of International Law and Politics (USAK); Hürriyet Daily News, Today’s Zaman and Star Açık Görüş. He is currently based in Ankara. TEAS met Maxime when he visited London to speak on Armenian Propaganda Methods since 1972 at a conference at the London School of Economics (LSE) entitled Turkish–Armenian Relations, organised by the Federation of Turkish Associations UK.

What initially stimulated your interest in Armenian–Turkish relations?I first became interested by Turkish history at the age of 13 or 14 years, and it was only a matter of time before I encountered the ‘Armenian Question’. I knew little about Armenian history at the outset, and was careful not to become immersed in propaganda from any side. However, I became intrigued by the first attempt in 2006, during the final days of the Chirac Presidency in France, to criminalise denial that the deaths of Armenians in 1915 constituted ‘genocide’, which was passed by the French National Assembly, but not ratified by the Senate. President Sarkozy then went on to block the bill, although in 2012 he changed his mind, prior to the Presidential Election, in order to attract votes from the approximately 300,000 members of the Armenian diaspora living in France.

During late 2006–early 2007, I read The Armenian Massacres in Ottoman Turkey: A

Disputed Genocide by Günter Lewy, published in 2005, which is a major text of 370 pages that provided a great deal of insight. I also read the short article by Gilles Veinstein who was recently appointed as the Professor of Ottoman History in the College de France entitled Trois questions sur un massacre, published in L’Histoire, April 1995. I then began to understand the gaps between what was said in the media and that which was emanating as the truth from historical research, and subsequently read more publications.

In early 2008, I was studying history, and became aware of the Sirma Oran Affair in Villeurbanne, close to Lyon. Sirma Oran was a candidate for the Green Party in the Municipal Elections in Villeurbanne; between the two ballots, this list was merged with that of the mayor, and Sirma Oran was eventually harassed and pressurised to leave the candidature. I commented on this affair, and my name was revealed on an Armenian internet forum, which attracted some threats, including death, and I had to contact the moderator to file a complaint and suppress these messages.

Two or three days later, a meeting was held in Villeurbanne about the Sirma Oran Affair. Mr Nissanian, Departmental Minister for Lyon, who is part of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) (Dashnakian Party), spoke and compared me to French Vichy Fascists who sent the Jews to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp during the Second World War. Fortunately, the French husband of Sirma Oran attended the conference and recorded the entire debate, which she used that as evidence. I was able to successfully sue him, and he was eventually sentenced in 2010. Mr Nissanian fuelled my desire to propagate the truth, and his insult was completely counterproductive from an Armenian perspective.

When did you first become aware of the impact of Armenian propaganda in France?Probably in 2006, when I was 21 years old, and there were the first attempts to pass the ‘Armenian genocide’ bill. On principle, I felt it was wrong to legislate about history and to eliminate free speech on any level, although I did not know who was right and wrong at the time. I experienced this later in Lyon, during my court case. However, in my view, the impact of Armenian propaganda has actually diminished in France during the past six years or so. One of the main reasons is that Armenian organisations led their activists to aim for goals that were unachievable, especially the ratification of the ‘Armenian genocide’ bill, which is evidently unconstitutional and flouts all philosophical and academic principles.

Many former Armenian activists are feeling demoralised, and disinclined to continue their ‘struggle’. They just want to live, work and have a normal life. There is also the impact of assimilation, as nearly a century has passed since many Armenians came to France

seeking refuge. In addition, many persons of Armenian ancestry have been against terrorists undertaking acts in their name, even if they rarely expressed their opposition publicly.

It is undeniable that the success of Armenian propaganda in France is more closely related to the absence of an attempt by the Turkish people to ensure that a balanced perspective on the events of 1915 is understood, rather than the effectiveness of Armenian force. Turkish groups have consistently failed to understand that we live in the period of lobbying. In 1984, there was a deal between former French President François Mitterand and Adnan Bulak, Turkish Ambassador to France, and the law firm Logide to change the strategy and consider history. Their main lawyer had a Ph.D in history from Oxford University, so he made a case regarding the importance of historical truth.

Another factor was that poor, uneducated workers dominated Turkish immigration into France during the 1970s and 80s. Their socio-economic class was far below that of those that emigrated to Germany and the US. This differed to the UK, where most of the Turks came from Cyprus and spoke English when they arrived. In the US, they were often college and university-educated. In Germany, the ‘guest workers’ were largely qualified, skilled people. In France, the Turkish population was inactive at promoting the country on a political level, although 30–40 years has now passed, and we have a new generation.

The first generation of Franco-Armenians, whose parents emigrated in 1915, is rapidly receding into history, and that immediate connection is consequently decreasing in importance. Furthermore, the assimilation of Franco-Armenians into mainstream French culture is successfully weakening Armenian activism in the country. Even in 1960, Armenian leaders were becoming afraid that assimilation was destroying their sense of identity. In order to unite the Armenian community, they decided to find a common enemy, and thus focused on the Turks. The Armenians are increasingly losing their activists. Very recently, a tribunal in Paris sentenced Laurent Leylekian, former Executive Director, European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy, which is a Dashnak lobby group operating at European Union level. He was forced to pay €7500 (£6393) for defamation against Sirma Oran in an article for

14 Personalities – Maxime Gauin

Driven by a desire to undertake accurate historical research, French academic Maxime Gauin has become a staunch proponent of the Turkish and Azerbaijani perspectives

Former French President Sarkozy greets Armenian President Sargsyan


France–Arménie (Lyon) in January 2010 entitled Martz Attack. In this, he accused Sirma Oran of being part of a “long-term, denialist strategy” of the Turkish state, subverting democratic institutions, and especially the “social and political structures” of the European Union. Furthermore, his lawyer was a former Barrister of Paris, yet he still failed.

In 2008, Blois’ appeal, launched by famous historians against legislating history, has resulted in a more rational view of history. The President and Judge for the Oran vs. Leylekian case in Paris was extremely helpful, and questioned Laurent Leylekian’s statement in a magazine article that: “I will not speak to Turks unless they constitutionally recognise the ‘Armenian genocide’.” He replied: “Mr Leylekian, there are seldom debates between people who actually agree.” This is indicative that, in France, the Turkish population is now morally and ethically allowed to rationally present its case. I felt this was extremely significant, and that the trial was going towards the desired conclusion.

Where and how have you undertaken your research?I have undertaken research in the French Foreign Affairs Ministry Archive in La Courneuve, Paris, and in Nantes. I have also worked in the Military Archive of Vincennes, near Paris. In the US, I have performed additional research in the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. and the National Archives at College Park, Maryland. I am currently here to work in the British Library. My purpose is to research the Armenian question in general to come to an objective perspective.

You have publicly disputed the number of Armenians relocated to Syria in 1914. Why is this?Boghos Nubar, from the Armenian National Delegation in Paris, wrote a letter to the French Foreign Affairs Ministry in December 1918. He claimed that between 600–700,000 Armenians were relocated to Syria, including around 300,000 who ‘disappeared’, which normally means that they died. This does not account for total Armenian losses, as around 150,000 also died due to Russian relocation during 1915–16. This was partially attributable to malnutrition, epidemics, and extreme cold. I found a document in the French archives saying that, according to official Armenian statistics, 50,000 Ottoman Armenians had died, due to epidemics in Armenia in 1918–19. When considering that other Armenian died during various clashes,

the total losses probably amounted to around 600,000–650,000 Ottoman Armenians.

During the First World War, probably 700,000 Armenians left Turkey for Syria and other locations. My original findings are that the disappearance of several Armenian communities is due to the policy of the Armenian and Greek nationalists from 1919–22. Although this was also the time of the Turkish independence struggle, the Turks tried to retain the Christian population, including the Armenians. I found evidence of this in the French archives, and this was confirmed by the US archives. During the retreat from Cilicia (Adana region), in 1921–22, around 60,000 Armenian artisans and traders left the country, despite assurances by the Turks that they would not be victimised, after coercion by Armenian diaspora members. The Greek government also sent ships to enable the Armenians to flee. Eventually, the Greek army and its Armenian volunteers adopted a ‘scorched earth’ policy, destroying everything as they fled western Anatolia during summer 1922, and forced both Greeks and Armenians to leave.

You have challenged the proposed ‘Armenian genocide’ bill in France. How would you describe the events of 1915?There is no single word that can be used to describe these undeniably tragic events. It was an extremely violent period, and there were various causes of death for Armenians, including bandits, Kurdish and Arab tribes, epidemics and disease. However, it was certainly not a ‘genocide’.

Do you think there is any risk that the bill could be resurrected under the government of François Hollande?This is extremely unlikely – the Constitutional Council decision contains clauses related to the freedom of speech that give no possibility of a new bill being tabled. In addition,

Turkey has achieved additional international importance in the context of the Syrian crisis. It would be extremely unwise to unleash a new diplomatic war with Turkey.

You are here to speak on Armenian Propaganda Methods since 1972. Why did you select this as the year of rebirth of Armenian Terrorism?The ARF decided to create a new terrorist branch at the World Congress in Vienna in 1972, and this was recorded in the proceedings. The first terrorist act – the assassination of two Turkish diplomats in California – occurred in January 1973. Thankfully, the terrorist period of the 1970s and 80s is now over. However, we cannot be complacent, as Gaïdz Minassian (Guerre et terrorisme arméniens, Paris, Presses universitaires de France, 2002) reported that, in 1985–86, when Dashnak terrorism was overturned, they joined forces with the PKK (armed wing of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party). Members of the ARF have always supported the PKK verbally.

Do you feel that, with France at an OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chair, there is any hope of a breakthrough in the Nagorno-Karabakh issue?This will be partially determined by the approach of the French government to the issue, but also the Azerbaijani and Turkish strategies. Armenia has to understand that resolving the issue will be beneficial. Considerably more than half of the Armenian population currently lives outside of the country. It does not have diplomatic relations with two of its neighbours – Turkey and Azerbaijan – and this means that its dependence on Russia and Iran is heightened.

How would you describe the current state of Franco-Azerbaijani relations?I believe the development of these bilateral relations under the Hollande government is excellent, unlike the situation under Sarkozy. In addition, Europe is in a time of crisis, with shortage of oil and gas. It is good for France to develop good relations with an economically buoyant supplier and transit country for oil and gas and that has a moderate interpretation of Islam.

15Personalities – Maxime Gauin

Maxime Gauin (far right) spoke on Armenian Propaganda Methods since 1972 at the Turkish–Armenian Relations conference in London, which also featured (from right) Professor Tadeusz Swietochowski, Dr Andrew Mango, and Dr Patrick Walsh

(Photo: Dogan Kemanci)

To contact Maxime Gauin,e-mail: [email protected]

Laurent Leylekian, former Executive Director, European Armenian Federation for Justice and Democracy, was forced to pay €7500 for defamation against Sirma Oran

The administration of current French President Hollande has made it virtually impossible for the ‘Armenian Genocide’ bill to be retabled

teas magazine april 2013 (english)

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