Traces of Azerbaijan in Odessa – AZERTAC’s special reportage
Odessa, July 2, AZERTAC
Despite the ongoing war, a number of significant projects aimed at promoting Azerbaijani culture and history are being actively implemented across various Ukrainian cities. One such city is Odessa, often referred to as the pearl of Ukraine - a beloved tourist destination on the Black Sea coast. Azerbaijanis living in Odessa, along with diaspora activists, are playing a vital role in advancing these initiatives.
“Azerbaijan” Park set to become a new landmark in Odessa
Preliminary approval has been secured for the establishment of an “Azerbaijan” Park in Odessa. Jalil Astanov, Acting Chairman of the “Birlik” (Unity) Organization, told AZERTAC that Odessa’s Mayor, Gennady Trukhanov, has granted permission for the park’s creation.
“This park will serve as a wonderful recreational hub for Odessans and visitors alike. The Azerbaijani diaspora has fully undertaken the financing of the park’s development,” Astanov said.
Currently, heavy machinery is operating on-site, and initial cleanup work is underway. Spanning over three hectares, the park will feature an Azerbaijan-themed museum, a children’s playground, a dedicated sports zone, a photo zone called “Azerbaijan,” as well as various leisure and entertainment areas.
Odessa residents have warmly welcomed the initiative. Mikhail Zveryakov, Professor at Odessa National Economic University, told AZERTAC: “The Azerbaijani diaspora’s efforts to establish a park in Odessa are truly commendable. This is a significant contribution to our city. The park will present Azerbaijan’s history, achievements, national heroes, and the longstanding ties between Ukraine and Azerbaijan. I am confident it will become a jewel of our city. Azerbaijan has consistently proven to be a reliable friend to Ukraine, particularly through strong economic cooperation and successful projects that continue to this day.”
Yevgeny Doyja, a local accountant, also praised the idea, stating: “The “Azerbaijan” Park will symbolize the friendship between our countries. It will not only be a recreational space but will also become a new tourist attraction in Odessa, much like our ‘Greek’ and ‘Istanbul’ parks. I hope it will host cultural events, exhibitions, and Azerbaijani festivals. We are grateful to the Azerbaijani diaspora for contributing to the beautification of our city and fostering closer ties between our peoples.”
Construction of a major mosque in Odessa
Another large-scale project aimed at promoting Azerbaijan’s heritage and supporting religious life is the construction of one of Ukraine’s largest mosques in Odessa, just a few kilometers from the city center. The project, initiated by Shamil Guliyev, a board member of the “Birlik” Organization, is nearing completion.
The mosque will feature separate prayer halls for men and women, a guesthouse for visiting religious figures and their families, a ceremonial hall, and other facilities. The total area of the mosque complex is 2,758 square meters, with the mosque itself covering 878 square meters and the guesthouse occupying 196 square meters.
Ayaz Aliyev, another board member of the “Birlik” Organization, told AZERTAC: “More than 30,000 Azerbaijanis live in the Odessa region. Despite the ongoing war, our community remains active in Odessa and the surrounding areas. Alongside the construction of the “Azerbaijan” Park, where Azerbaijani history, culture, and cuisine will be showcased, one of our largest projects is the construction of this mosque, which will serve all Muslims in Odessa.”
Ganja is 1,410 kilometers from Odessa
Another symbol of Azerbaijan’s presence in Odessa is located in the city center, in front of Odessa City Hall. With the support of Azerbaijan’s Embassy in Ukraine, a distance marker to the city of Ganja has been installed among the signposts indicating the distance to various international cities. The marker, recently approved, shows that Ganja is 1,410 kilometers from Odessa, helping locals and visitors alike become aware of the proximity between the two historic cities.
It is noteworthy that Ganja and Odessa are sister cities. A “Protocol of Intent” formalizing this partnership was signed on December 17, 2019, during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s official visit to Azerbaijan.
Emil Huseynli
Special correspondent
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