A regular meeting of the co-chairs of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society has been held in London involving Professor Nargiz Pashayeva on behalf of Azerbaijan and Lord German, House of Lords member, on behalf of the UK.

Held at the London Royal Garden hotel, the meeting was also attended by Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK Tahir Taghizade, BP Regional President for Azerbaijan, Turkey and Georgia Gordon Birrell, members of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society’s Executive Committee, UK state and government officials, parliamentarians, and representatives of the Azerbaijani diaspora.

In his opening remarks, Lord German highlighted the activities of the Society. He said the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society will enhance its efforts towards expanding cultural and business ties between the two countries. He also said he was happy to cooperate with Nargiz Pashayeva on this front.

Professor Nargiz Pashayeva paid tribute to the late co-chair of the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society Lord Fraser. She said she believes the efforts of the new co-chair Lord German will help the Society make further success, especially in the fields of charity, culture and education.

Ms. Pashayeva noted that credibility was the major source of pride for the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society.

Describing both Azerbaijan and Britain as “beautiful” countries, Nargiz Pashayeva said: “One of the most important factors that adorn these countries is people. People are guarantors of our future. I am confident that ties between our nations will reach a new stage through our experience."

Nargiz Pashayeva stressed the importance of promoting the Azerbaijani language in the world. She has noted that about 5,000 students from Azerbaijan have received education in the UK over the last twenty years. “It is of great importance for the convergence of civil societies in Azerbaijan and the UK.”

Nargiz Pashayeva said that the greatest achievement of Azerbaijan is the restoration of its independence. Nargiz Pashayeva said: “We are proud that the relations between Azerbaijan and the UK have broadened, and we have such an important organization as the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society”.

Nargiz Pashayeva also presented Lord German with "Mysterious monuments of Azerbaijan" book.

Gordon Birrell highlighted the activities and future plans of BP. He said the company supports development of Azerbaijan in all spheres.

Azerbaijani Ambassador Tahir Taghizade hailed Azerbaijani-UK relations.

The Ambassador lauded the Anglo-Azerbaijani Society`s contribution to the development of cultural ties between the two countries. He said the Embassy will further support the activities of the Society.

The meeting also featured performance by young Azerbaijani violinist Nazrin Rashidova and pianist Murad Adigozalzade.

Orkhan Ismayilov

Special Correspondent