Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences

The opening ceremony of the inter-institutional mini-football tournament of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), dedicated to the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty,” the 5th anniversary of the Victory in the Patriotic War, and the 80th anniversary of ANAS, took place at the Academy.

The tournament, organized by the Free Trade Union of ANAS, gathered distinguished guests, including Academician Isa Habibbayli, President of ANAS; Gazanfar Abdullayev, Deputy Chairman of the Azerbaijan Trade Unions Confederation and Chairman of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Council of Trade Unions; members of the ANAS Presidium; Huseyn Afandiyev, First Deputy Head of the Yasamal District Executive Authority; Bakhtiyar Nabiyev, Chairman of the Yasamal District Branch of the New Azerbaijan Party (YAP); Ilham Safarov, Head of the Yasamal District Sector of the Baku City Department of Youth and Sports; as well as heads of ANAS scientific institutions and organizations, representatives of the Council of Young Scientists and Specialists, trade union leaders, and family members of martyrs.

The event began with the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Opening the ceremony, Academician Isa Habibbayli, President of ANAS, emphasized the historical and moral significance of the full restoration of Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and the further strengthening of state independence and sovereignty. He noted that today the people of Azerbaijan are true masters of their destiny — as a result of national unity, the strength of the army, and the resolute leadership of the state, the occupied lands have been liberated and justice has been restored.

He noted that due to the visionary and principled policy of President Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan has become a key guarantor of peace, stability, and cooperation in the region. The consistent reforms carried out under the leadership of the Head of State, along with the country’s growing international reputation, have made Azerbaijan an active participant in major global processes, a reliable partner, and one of the leading initiator states in the world.

Academician Isa Habibbayli stated that organizing such events at a time when Azerbaijan’s full sovereignty has been restored helps foster national spirit among the younger generation and strengthens the unity of science and sport. He underlined that President Ilham Aliyev’s constant attention and care toward ANAS clearly demonstrate the high value attached to the development of science in the country. The academician added that the Presidential Decree on celebrating the 80th anniversary of ANAS once again reaffirms the strategic importance of science and education. He emphasized that Azerbaijani scholars are determined to justify this high confidence through continuous progress in science and education and by nurturing the younger generation in the spirit of national and moral values.

The ANAS President also highlighted that this football tournament unites scientists and specialists in both scientific and sporting spirit, wishing success and fair play to all participating teams.

During the ceremony, Huseyn Afandiyev, First Deputy Head of the Yasamal District Executive Authority; Bakhtiyar Nabiyev, Chairman of the Yasamal District Branch of YAP; Baghi Huseynzade, father of martyr Hamidagha Huseynzade; Senan Hasanov, Chairman of the Free Trade Union of ANAS; and Ilham Safarov, Head of the Yasamal District Sector of the Baku City Department of Youth and Sports, delivered speeches. They expressed pride in being partners in such an event, noting that the simultaneous celebration of the “Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty,” the Victory in the Patriotic War, and the 80th anniversary of ANAS carries deep symbolic meaning. The tournament was described as a reflection of the unity between scientific and sporting values.

Speakers expressed deep respect for the cherished memory of the martyrs, stressing that their heroism stands as an eternal example for every Azerbaijani. It was also noted that the participation of athletes among the heroes of the Patriotic War symbolizes the unity of both physical and moral strength.

Wishing success to all participants, the speakers expressed gratitude to the ANAS leadership and organizers for creating excellent conditions for the tournament. Later, information was provided about the tournament’s schedule, and sports uniforms were presented to the team captains.

At the end, participants took a commemorative photo, and the tournament officially kicked off. The symbolic opening kick was made by Academician Isa Habibbayli.

Translation: Gulhane Aghayeva, Department of Public Relations, Press and Information Office of the Presidium of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences

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