Baku, October 26, AZERTAC

Abbas Abbasov, Executive Director of the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), met with a delegation of public and political activists who arrived in Azerbaijan from Kanaky (New Caledonia) and Maʻohi Nui (French Polynesia, or Tahiti).
The delegation visited Azerbaijan to support the Kanaky and Maʻohi Nui teams competing in the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival, being held in Baku from October 22 to 30, and to encourage the young players representing their peoples on the international stage.
The meeting focused on the Kanaky and Maʻohi Nui peoples’ struggles for independence, the preservation of their national identities and cultural heritage, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation.
The guests praised the Baku Initiative Group’s efforts to raise international awareness of these struggles, keep decolonization on the global agenda, and strengthen ties between independence movements in different territories. They expressed their gratitude to Azerbaijan for its support and for providing opportunities to raise these issues on international platforms.
Abbas Abbasov wished the young footballers from both teams success, emphasizing that sport strengthens friendship and solidarity among peoples while promoting their national identities and cultural heritage. He noted that the Baku Initiative Group would continue to support international efforts to defend the fundamental rights of peoples affected by colonialism, including the right to self-determination.
On October 25, supporters held events in Baku outside the Athletes’ Village and at the Hovsan Olympic Sports Complex to cheer on the young players. Fans also showcased their cultures and traditions through national songs and dances.