Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences

On February 27, a ceremonial opening of the international scientific conference titled “The Founders and Lessons of the First Turkological Congress: History and Modernity” was held in the Grand Assembly Hall of the Presidium Building of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences. Professors Osman Fikri Sertkaya and Ayşe Gül Sertkaya of Istanbul University in Türkiye, who attended the conference, shared their impressions with us.

Emphasizing that they have visited Baku many times, Ayşe Gül Sertkaya noted that on each visit they witness the capital becoming even more beautiful. She said the city’s appearance has changed completely thanks to newly constructed buildings and extensive restoration work, adding that Baku has turned into a fully Western-style city.

The scholar also mentioned that they have visited the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences on several occasions, speaking about their acquaintance with many researchers and the existence of joint cooperation ties.

Professor Osman Fikri Sertkaya recalled his first visit to Baku 38 years ago, in 1988, when he came as the head of the Turkish delegation. He spoke about the “Book of Dede Korkut” Colloquium that was organized in the capital of Azerbaijan at that time:

“I have taken part in numerous scientific meetings in Baku and across Azerbaijan. This year marks the 38th anniversary of my first visit to Baku. Back in 1987, while holding discussions with many well-known scholars in Moscow, I was asked where the ‘Book of Dede Korkut’ Colloquium should be held. I replied that they should think of no place other than Baku. The heart of the Turkic world is Baku.

Later, we gathered again in Baku for the 1300th anniversary of the epic, and we had the honor of listening to Heydar Aliyev there. I should note that Heydar Aliyev was an excellent speaker. We made many friends here, and many of them are no longer with us today. We remember their dear memories with respect and gratitude. In 1988, we also had the honor of meeting Bakhtiyar Vahabzadeh. We have many memories. The last Azerbaijani friend I lost was academician Tofiq Hajiyev.

Now we are once again in Baku and remembering all our friends. I wish our Azerbaijani brothers a healthy and happy life. May everything be as your heart desires.”

Translation by Gulhane Aghayeva, Department of Public Relations, Press, and Information, Presidium of ANAS.

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