BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 26. Young leaders from Azerbaijan, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan gathered in Lachin on August 26 for a panel discussion titled "Youth Wave in Cultural and Creative Industries," spotlighting the role of youth in shaping the region’s cultural and creative future, TurkicWorld reports.
Farrukh Jumayev, head of the International Relations Department at Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture, emphasized that President Ilham Aliyev has laid the groundwork for the comprehensive development of youth across the country.
"Azerbaijan contributes to cultural cooperation among CIS countries through various initiatives. This year’s gathering of creative youth from CIS nations during Lachin City Day, the so-called ‘Cultural Capital of the CIS’, demonstrates this commitment. Projects like these strengthen intercultural dialogue and foster new creative initiatives," he said.
Speakers, including Rafael Hajibayli, chairman of the National Council of Youth Organizations of Azerbaijan, and Ordukhan Gahramanzade from the Azerbaijan Youth Foundation, highlighted ongoing youth policy programs and efforts to support creative industries nationwide.
The event featured an interactive discussion, with participants from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan sharing insights on local projects that nurture creativity and cultural engagement.
The panel coincides with Lachin City Day celebrations, where a concert along the Hakari River will showcase prominent Azerbaijani artists and ensembles, further cementing the city’s growing reputation as a hub for cultural exchange and youth-driven innovation.
