The successful performance of these howitzers has led Armenia’s Ministry of Defence to consider expanding the procurement.

The two ministers discussed bilateral cooperation within the context of their fraternal, friendly, and allied relations, as well as the current regional situation.

The Baku Declaration on SPECA Forum of Climate Smart Cities was signed following the roundtable.

In his meeting with al-Sabbagh, Pezeshkian underscored the need to enhance cooperation between Tehran and Damascus, particularly in countering regional strategies by Washington and Tel Aviv.

Raimbek Batalov, the chairman of the presidium of the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs, stated that over 36,000 companies with capital participation from CICA member states are currently operating in Kazakhstan.

The project, which addresses Armenia’s environmental crimes and the impact of mine warfare, received financial support from the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations.

Russia is Azerbaijan's third-largest trade partner, following Italy and Türkiye, and accounts for 10.01% of Azerbaijan's total foreign trade turnover during the reporting period.

Previous voting patterns suggest that proposals backed by the main Western countries easily pass. A successful resolution could pave the way for the three European powers to trigger a "snapback mechanism" to restore UN sanctions imposed on Iran before the 2015 nuclear deal.

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Uzbekistan to Belarus Rakhmatulla Nazarov stressed the rapid development of bilateral relations.

The terminal will have a capacity of 230,000 TEU annually and will increase the number of container trains between China and Europe, including transit along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR).

The agreement will enable both companies to assess the technical, economic, and commercial feasibility of implementing TES’s cutting-edge upstream module technology in the region.

“The date for the elections will be determined in the coming days, following the first session of Parliament, in accordance with the established timeline”, MP Mdinarazde stated.

Guterres said he urged G20 leaders to instruct their ministers and negotiators to secure a new ambitious climate finance goal at COP29.

"Within the indicative balance between energy ministries of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation the possibility of import in 2024 is suggested: of 285,000 tons of motor gasoline and 300,000 tons of aviation gasoline."

The pipeline supplies natural gas to more than 500 million people across 27 provincial-level regions and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Tehran's problems have become increasingly acute. The city suffers from severe air pollution during winter months, while experts warn of dangerous ground subsidence due to excessive groundwater extraction. The capital's location far from Iran's southern ports also creates logistical inefficiencies for the country's economy.

Kadyrbayev, who also heads the EIFF business platform, noted that six films this year grossed over one billion tenge (US$2 million), showcasing the industry’s success.

In his interview with Imedi TV, Papuashvili noted the importance of reciprocal actions, saying Georgia “should take steps [towards integration] while [the EU] should take steps towards us”.

"This project serves as a catalyst for the development and integration of new data collection and analysis systems, combining existing automated services of the Ministry of Transport and Communications."

“Finance is not a hand-out. It’s an investment against the devastation that unchecked climate chaos will inflict on us all,” Guterres mentioned.

The parties pointed out the importance of improvement of the mechanism of mutual interbank payments to enhance the trade-economic cooperation between Kazakhstan and Iran.

During the first ten months of 2024, Georgia exported goods worth $1.05 billion to Kyrgyzstan, an 86 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. The largest part — $964 million — is export of cars.

The US has seen its influence stumble in the South Caucasus. This is primarily evident in the case of Georgia and Azerbaijan. It is only Armenia that has enjoyed an expansion of ties with Washington.

The UN Assistant Secretary-General once again congratulated the government of Azerbaijan on the submission of its NAP, stressing the importance of mobilizing financial resources for the successful implementation of climate change adaptation measures.

The parties signed a joint statement, as well as a memorandum of understanding on cooperation on consular issues, an agreement on cooperation on the implementation of joint investment projects, a tripartite framework agreement on projects for compound feed and premixes production in Kazakhstan, a memorandum of understanding on banking, and a memorandum on expanding cooperation between KazMunayGas and the Hungarian MOL Group.

The Russian Navy, while still a significant concern for NATO, shows signs of decline similar to the 1990s. Costly reconstruction projects are facing difficulties, and efforts to revive major warships, such as the nuclear-powered cruiser Admiral Nakhimov, appear to be motivated more by national pride than strategic necessity.

"The Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed body of water on Earth, “is under siege from the triple planetary crisis: the crisis of climate change, the crisis of nature, land and biodiversity loss, and the crisis of pollution and waste.”

The share of manufacturing industry is 47 percent, while the share of the raw materials sector is 45 percent.

Kim Jong Un in recent months has prioritized relations with Moscow as he attempts to break out of international isolation and strengthen his footing, actively supporting Putin’s war on Ukraine while portraying the North as a player in a united front against Washington.

The event was attended by representatives of indigenous peoples and communities, environmental experts, state officials, non-governmental organizations and representatives of international organizations.

The countries signed a Joint Statement to strengthen their strategic partnership and develop joint initiatives.

European natural gas has been unable to escape the rising tension between Russia and Ukraine.

"Partnering with Azerbaijan would be a significant step toward creating sustainable solutions for the country."

"The Chinese Embassy took an active part in social projects in Kyrgyzstan, which also contributed to strengthening good-neighborliness, friendship and cooperation between the peoples of the two countries."

Both sides agreed to hold Joint Working Group meetings on trade and investment, agriculture, and ICT ahead of the JIC session to ensure streamlined decision-making during the high-level meeting.

Azerbaijan skillfully balances between East and West, leveraging its geopolitical position. For Germany, with few alternatives in energy supply, this represents an opportunity to strengthen its standing amidst growing competition for resources.

President Tokayev informed Hungarian businessmen that there is great potential for deepening investment cooperation in priority areas such as energy, production of rare materials, transport and logistics, agriculture, pharmaceutical industry, digitalization and finance.

Peskov commented on Der Spiegel's report about former top Ukrainian military commander Valery Zaluzhny's alleged plot to blow up the gas pipeline.

The Kazakh deputy minister shared plans to facilitate data exchange between the terminal operating systems at the ports of Aktau, Kuryk, and Baku by the end of this year.

Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s commitment to strengthening its economic ties with neighboring countries, viewing this as essential for economic growth and mitigating the impact of international sanctions.

Rovshan Rustamov, Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways, shared insights on Azerbaijan’s role in achieving regional and global climate goals.

The launch event will take place at the TOBB ETU Technology Center, where the quantum computer will be shown.

Following the event, the protocol of the 4th meeting of the Subcommission on Culture of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Russian Federation was signed.

Armenia is currently experiencing significant political turbulence, marked by the resignation of several high-ranking officials.

The ministers discussed further development of economic and trade relations between Azerbaijan and the UAE.

Tokayev noted that after three decades of diplomatic relations, the two countries have established a trustworthy political dialogue, strong economic cooperation, and close cultural and humanitarian ties.

"We do not consider this a nuclear facility. We don’t have any information that would confirm the presence of nuclear material there," Grossi said.

A meeting was held between the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan Ilhom Mahkamov and the Minister of Transport of the Russian Federation Roman Starovoit.

The US and several other Western embassies in Kyiv announced they would remain closed on November 20 due to security concerns.

Davitashvili discussed key railway initiatives that aim to boost railway traffic and the overall effectiveness of the Middle Corridor highlighting the modernisation of the domestic railway system and the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway line.

PM Asadov highlighted that advancing climate action in tourism is a key priority under Azerbaijan's COP29 Presidency.

The Embassy of Kazakhstan in Ukraine has issued a safety advisory for its citizens in the country due to the escalating air raids,

This reshuffle came on the heels of a government meeting where Pashinyan reportedly chastised law enforcement and judicial authorities, citing unresolved issues in the justice system despite years of effort.

The two-day event will feature discussions on development of decent green jobs for all, promotion of circular economy approaches, exchange of experiences in this field, as well as the application of the International Labor Organization Guidelines for a just transition to a green economy in the labor market.

This year, the Tajik government allocated 5 billion somoni (approximately $460 million) for the Rogun project, with 2.8 billion somoni coming from the state budget and 2.2 billion somoni from investment projects.

The confidential reports by the IAEA say Tehran has made preparations to cap the stockpile at around 185 kg (407 lbs). Iran also agreed to consider accepting the appointment of four additional experienced IAEA inspectors after having banned around one third, last year.

The $210 million rehabilitation project is funded by a $110 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and $100 million from the Eurasian Fund for Stabilization and Development (EFSD).

Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transport, highlighted advancements in optimizing urban transport in Azerbaijan. He noted that to improve public transport efficiency in Baku, special lanes have been constructed for passenger buses, bicycles, and scooters.

Kazakhstan stands to benefit not only from transit fees, but could also import some Russia gas for regions in northeastern Kazakhstan that are desperately in need of more energy sources.

During the meeting, Azerbaijan expressed its objection to France's targeting of the Azerbaijani Presidency on the eve of and during the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.

Iran's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday night summoned the British chargé d’affaires to protest the latest UK sanctions on Iran’s shipping and aviation industries over Tehran’s alleged missile transfers to Russia.

The newly Uzbek ambassador, Mr. Usmanov, called the relations fraternal and pledged to further enhance bilateral relations during his tenure. Adding further, he called the exchange of high-level delegations between the two countries as an indication of close ties.

"The problem of drinking water has already been resolved in 65 provinces of Türkiye."

Asian freestyle wrestling champions Daniyar Kaissanov and Sanzhar Doszhanov will compete in Astana.

"Azerbaijan will continue to seek redress for Armenia’s violations of Azerbaijan’s sovereign rights over its energy resources, including Armenia’s unlawful exploitation and impairment of renewable resources in the liberated territories."

In the separatist region of Georgia, which has been under Moscow's control for 15 years, thousands of people protested against the government's agreements with Russian oligarchs. In response, President Aslan Bžanija announced his decision to step back "to preserve stability and constitutional order." While such events are not unprecedented in Sukhumi, the region is expected to remain firmly under Kremlin influence.

Kazakhstan and Serbia plan to launch joint projects in manufacturing, transport and logistics, green energy, and the military-industrial complex.

Central Asia is facing a water crisis as it is hit with the triple whammy of global warming, fast economic growth driving rising demand and burgeoning populations.

The initiative aims to establish an environmental association of non-governmental organizations from the four Caspian nations, focusing on collaborative efforts to address regional environmental challenges.

Bentley Systems’ efforts in Azerbaijan align with the country's focus on modernizing infrastructure while prioritizing sustainability and innovation.

Among the films competing for Best Foreign Language Film, director Kučinčirekov's story explores the traumas associated with the ancient custom of entrusting the upbringing of the first or last child to grandparents. The film offers a poignant comparison between the Kazakhstan of the past and the present, shedding light on cultural shifts over time.

Being ADB’s first climate programmatic intervention in Central Asia, the program is aligned with the updated nationally determined contribution, the Strategic Framework of Transitioning to a Green Economy until 2030, and ADB’s country partnership strategy for Uzbekistan, 2024–2028.

Central Asian countries face pressing questions: is there enough time to implement the necessary reforms, and can they effectively adapt to new realities to avoid a humanitarian and ecological disaster?

The primary and backup data centers, planned for the Absheron and Hajigabul regions, will incorporate advanced technologies to minimize carbon emissions. These facilities will feature energy efficiency, water conservation, waste recycling, and natural cooling systems to preserve ecological balance.

According to the press service of Kazakhstan’s Unified Accumulative Pension Fund (UAPF), the MCGPI assessed systems based on three sub-indices –  adequacy, sustainability, and integrity – which include over 50 indicators.

The government is obliged to resign its powers before the newly elected Parliament, but it can continue working until the formation of the new Parliament in accordance with the President's decision.

A general census will be held across Iraq, including the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), on Nov. 20-21.

EU Foreign Affairs High Representative Josep Borrell announced the planned mission on Monday, following a meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council.

The parties discussed the tasks of further development of bilateral cooperation in the political, trade and economic, cultural, humanitarian and educational spheres.

The two sides comprehensively reviewed the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, including political relations, inter-parliamentary exchanges, economic & trade ties, connectivity, education, information technology, telecommunication, culture and tourism, said a Foreign Office statement.

Tehran views its partnerships within the BRICS bloc and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) as critical tools for countering Western sanctions.

EU officials have warned that Georgia's future relations with the EU could be at risk unless the government takes steps toward strengthening its democratic processes.

"I hope we can quickly achieve lasting cease-fire between Ukraine and Russia, securing peace the world is waiting for," Erdogan said.

Araghchi accused Israel of expanding its warmongering policies, particularly its actions in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria.

The Kazakh and Serbian leaders discussed the launch of direct flights between Astana and Belgrade as part of the expanded-format talks.

Mdinaradze stressed the action constituted a crime under the Criminal Code of Georgia and expressed his regret that journalists of the “radical opposition media outlets” were “turning a blind eye to bullying and humiliation against their colleagues”.

A total of 12 films from three continents are set to compete in the event. Filmmakers from Europe, Asia and the Middle East will present works that reflect the rich cultural heritage of their respective countries.

“We must also take on climate disinformation. As President Lula said, together with Brazil and UNESCO, the United Nations is launching the Global Initiative for Information Integrity on Climate Change,” Guterres said.

"Trade turnover, which has been steadily growing over the past few years, is clear evidence that we will work with the Russian Federation," the diplomat noted.

During IAEA chief Rafael Grossi's trip to Iran last week, "the possibility of Iran not further expanding its stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% U-235 was discussed", read one of the two confidential quarterly IAEA reports.

During the meeting, the sides engaged in detailed discussions on the significance of participation in COP events, the advancement of clean energy, and the role of the OPEC Plus format in promoting partnerships to accelerate the development of renewable energy.

The Bank is helping the Kyrgyz authorities to develop and implement green policies, and adopt climate mitigation technology to address these issues.

The memorandum outlines collaborative efforts in the construction of solar and wind power plants, the development of integrated smart energy systems, and the evaluation and investment in green hydrogen production projects.

Both Presidents commended the growing trade turnover over the past few years, calling for close cooperation amid the current geopolitical and economic situation in the world.

The talks also focused on identifying new areas for cooperation and expanding the scope of future military-technical engagements.

In June 2024, Kyrgyzstan lifted a ban on developing uranium and thorium deposits, a restriction that had been in place since 2019.

The parties agreed to transform this format into an expanded dialogue of strategic partnership to further intensify interaction between private sector representatives and diversify trade and investment cooperation between the United States and Uzbekistan.

COP29 Presidency has launched Baku Harmoniya Climate Initiative for Farmers: Empowering Farmers for Climate Resilience.

"What prevents war is preparation for war. If you want to prevent war, you must forcefully declare and show your readiness for war and defense," FM Araghchi said.

"This lawsuit addresses the violation of two constitutional rights. The first is the violation of the principle of universality, which is evident in the fact that our citizens living abroad were not only restricted in their constitutional rights but were also prohibited from participating in the elections."

The agreement is aimed at attracting foreign direct investment in the economy and creating conditions for foreign companies to invest in various sectors of the economy by eliminating double taxation and providing guarantees of taxation in only one country.

Calling on countries to submit their NAPs by 2025, the COP29 Lead Negotiator noted that this would allow them to make progress in their implementation by 2030.

Azerbaijan is playing a crucial role as mediator and host in the negotiation process, as geopolitical polarization intensifies. The success or failure of these negotiations to determine a new climate finance target will have far-reaching consequences for the world and the fight against climate change.

The seminar reflected on the theory of change in the context of gender-based violence and explored new areas of work, including response to Internet violence and behaviour change programmes for perpetrators of domestic violence.

On Tuesday, police in the Georgian capital, Tbilisi, began dismantling a tent camp set up by protesters who were rallying against the results of last month's parliamentary election, which they allege was rigged and influenced by Russia.

Diplomatic relations between the two nations were established on Dec. 10, 1996. Over the years, these ties have flourished with milestones such as the opening of Serbia’s embassy in Astana in 2011 and Kazakhstan’s embassy in Belgrade in 2019.

The UN and the CSTO will continue to work together for the consistent and comprehensive implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

The document determines priority areas, including water resources, export, cooperation, exchange of science, breeding material, seeds, etc.

The match, scheduled for Tuesday, November 19, will kick off at 5:30 PM and is the second game for Afghanistan in the international friendlies.

The Glaciers to Farms program, launched by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), aims to promote sustainable water use and ensure food security in Central Asia, the South Caucasus, and Pakistan, regions severely impacted by accelerated glacial melt due to climate change.

The institute will carry out scientific and research works aimed at improvement of breeding abilities of horses, active development of horse-breeding, and promotion of domestic breeds to the foreign markets.

The region is already experiencing declining fish stocks, soil salinization threatening agriculture, and the gradual extinction of certain species, such as the Caspian seal.

A number of current issues of bilateral cooperation were discussed, as well as the progress in implementation of previously reached agreements and projects in the social and economic sphere.

The country exported electricity worth over $102.4 million abroad in 10 months of 2024. This is 3.2% ($3.4 million) less than in 2023.

"The developments in this region affect the security of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Republic of Azerbaijan plays a very important role in this region."

Co-organized by COP29 Presidency, Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in partnership with FAO, the event brought together representatives of international organizations and experts from different countries featuring discussions on the impact of global climate changes on food security, agriculture and water resources.

"Tuberculosis remains one of the world's deadliest diseases, claiming 1.25 million lives annually, despite being both preventable and treatable."

The event will feature an international competition among 12 iconic and experimental films by directors from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

"All parties have committed to collaborate in tackling the challenges posed by climate change while benefiting jointly from the resources of the Caspian Sea."

"I hope our scientific contributions can help accelerate the actions needed to address climate change.”

"Kazakhstan’s current policies treat all nicotine products, including less harmful alternatives, the same as traditional cigarettes. This approach, coupled with the recent ban on vapes and high taxes on smokeless alternatives, demonstrates a concerning lack of acceptance for harm reduction strategies."

The pipeline runs from the border of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, passes through Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, and links up with China's West-to-East Gas Pipeline in Horgos, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

The project to build a railway addresses traffic issues caused by trains passing through Bishkek’s busy city center. Prime Minister Akylbek Zhaparov highlighted that the existing railway line complicates urban road traffic significantly. A new route will alleviate this burden, enhancing road capacity and transport accessibility for the capital.

The project was organized by the IDEA (International Dialogue for Environmental Action) Public Union, supported by the COP29 Azerbaijan Operating Company, and initiated by renowned photographer Reza Deghati and his “Reza Visual Academy.”

"The Middle Corridor has immense potential to reshape the geopolitical dynamics of the South Caucasus and Central Asia."

The achievements of Azerbaijan's COP29 Presidency, including the agreement on the session's agenda from the outset, reaching consensus on Article 6.4 of the Paris Agreement, and the increase in climate finance commitments from $75 billion to $170 billion annually by financial institutions, were also highlighted.

“A nuclear Iran poses a massive threat to our existence, to the peace agreements we aim to achieve with more of our neighbors and to global peace,” Netanyahu said.

Mirzoali called for reducing the tariff for the transportation of goods via rail especially oil’s export from Iran to the Republic of Tajikistan.

Zourabichvili claimed the elections had “failed”, while also noting “none of Georgia’s main democratic partners” had recognised its results, claiming the country was “facing an economic and financial crisis”.

The symbol of the Turkic World’s Cultural Capital was handed over at the closing ceremony of the year "Anau-Cultural Capital of Turkic World 2024."

Baghaei also said that the country's nuclear facilities must be protected from any potential attacks by Israel, in compliance with a resolution adopted more than three decades ago by the UN nuclear watchdog, the IAEA.

Preliminary documents and discussions at COP29 indicate that the resolution will likely urge all countries to expand further their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) to reduce carbon emissions.

“If such a decision was really formulated and communicated to the Kyiv regime, then, of course, this is a qualitatively new round of tension and a qualitatively new situation from the point of view of the involvement of the US in this conflict,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

"Iran’s national airline, Iran Air, is today subject to an asset freeze which will further restrict its direct, scheduled commercial air services to and from the UK, following financial sanctions imposed by the UK government," the statement said.

Central Asian countries are experiencing significant economic progress, with trade within the region expanding 2.5 times over the past decade, reaching nearly $11 billion.

“It is not strange for anyone to see what kind of opposition force we are dealing with, since betrayal of the country and its own citizens is their declared policy," he said.

The program of the visit includes negotiations at the highest level. The presidents will discuss the prospects for interaction between the two states in the political, trade and economic, transport and logistics, cultural and humanitarian spheres.

The resignations come on the heels of a recent Cabinet meeting in which Pashinyan publicly criticized Armenia's security forces.

"We have never been a party to the Ukrainian conflict. We are convinced that the interference in the conflict by Western countries, in particular, the United States, was one of the causes of its escalation," the spokesman said.

The Sarzha terminal at Kuryk port also played a key role, handling 55,000 tons of cargo, including non-ferrous metals, fertilizers, and barley, bound for Turkey and Iran.

The protection of the intangible cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, included in the UNESCO Representative List, an exhibition of pottery, works of Uzbek national fine art, miniatures, Uzbek national dishes, and sweets were presented.

New EU measures include a ban on the export, transfer, supply, or sale of components used in the production of missiles and UAVs to Iran. The EU is also imposing a transaction ban on ports and locks controlled by individuals or entities listed under these sanctions, including the Iranian ports of Amirabad and Anzali, which have been used for such transfers.

Minister Musayev also underscored the significance and relevance of the issues discussed at COP29, noting the important role of the global health community in responding to the impacts of climate change and contributing to the improvement of global health security.

Primov emphasized that the country is focusing on developing cross-border transport corridors and improving logistics infrastructure, making the railway sector a key area for potential British investment.

As winter approaches, Iranians face an unprecedented convergence of crises with spiraling utility costs, power shortages, and public health risks in spite of being a nation endowed with vast natural gas reserves.

The Serbian Defense Ministry said the signing took place during Kazakhstan Defense Minister Ruslan Zhaksylykov’s visit to Serbia.

Uzbekistan has ambitious plans to expand its energy storage capacity to 4.2 GW by 2030. The first energy storage system in the country is slated for launch in early 2025 in the Fergana region.

Turkmengaz is working on issuing a tender seeking bids for methane surveillance in the coming months, and potentially as soon as January, according to people familiar with the matter.

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan could join the project to build an energy cable running from Central Asia to Azerbaijan along the Caspian Sea floor in the future, Shahbazov said during a ministerial discussion on promoting Central Asia's renewable energy transition on Friday.

In this regard, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev signed a corresponding decree.

The event gathered more than 70 experts, government officials, and international representatives to discuss pressing issues such as terrorism, human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and other security concerns. Particular attention was given to the interconnected nature of international extremism, border protection, critical infrastructure, drug trafficking, and arms trafficking.

A reporter of the US-based newspaper the Wall Street Journal claimed in a Saturday report that the EU is set to announce sanctions on the IRISL.

Central Asia’s combined GDP stands at $347 billion, quadrupling over the last 20 years, with a population of 77 million that has grown 1.4 times since 2000. The United Nations data projects annual population growth of 1.1% through 2040, suggesting further economic expansion as the working-age population increases.

According to the official, the EU countries have a political agreement on the second package of sanctions against Iran, which provides for restrictions on the transfer of ballistic missiles and other military technology to Moscow.

Operated by Uzbekistan Airways, the round-trip flights run every Sunday, departing Tashkent at 12:40 p.m. local time and arriving in Hangzhou, the provincial capital of Zhejiang, at 10 p.m. Beijing Time.

"Iraq is keen to learn from the experiences of other countries, both in terms of legislative measures and the practical steps needed to counter the impacts of climate change across various sectors."

The session, organized jointly by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and the Secretariat of the Framework Convention "Caspian Sea Water Decline in Light of Climate Change," brought together officials from Caspian littoral states—Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan—as well as the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and representatives from other international organizations.

This project assists the government in implementing economic reforms and creating the necessary conditions for stable economic development.

Of this, nearly 8.2 bcm was sold to Türkiye, 10.6 bcm to Europe, and 1.9 bcm to Georgia. Additionally, 4.7 bcm of gas was exported to Türkiye via TANAP.

"COP29 fosters discussions on collaborative approaches among nations, which are essential for implementing effective strategies on international, regional, and domestic levels."

Key discussions revolved around the need for coordinated, cross-border research to address the ecological, economic, and infrastructural impacts of sea-level changes.

The meeting participants have discussed the main areas of development of the organizational and technical integration of communications forces and means, options for organizing communications and data transmission using modern telecommunications means, and issues relating to the interfacing of communications equipment and means of communication.

Azerbaijan will construct its first offshore wind farms, signaling the country’s commitment to unlocking the Caspian Sea's energy potential. This step represents a significant breakthrough in Azerbaijan's efforts to meet its renewable energy targets and reduce carbon emissions.

Ethiopia’s role in advancing global climate initiatives and addressing local challenges showcases the nation’s leadership and commitment to a greener and more sustainable future.

"Brazil is a country that harmoniously combines modernity and natural wealth, offering innovative solutions to global challenges," Rollemberg stated.

Kazakhstan's 'BBB' IDRs are supported by a very large external buffer, with the third-strongest sovereign net foreign asset (SNFA) position in the 'BBB' rating category, also providing financing flexibility, underpinned by accumulated oil revenue savings.

91,500 tons of diesel fuel were produced in the Kyrgyz Republic in the first eight months of 2024, which is 26.5 percent more than in the same period of 2023.

The action, themed “Row in Clean Water!” was attended by Jean-Christophe Rolland, President of the International Rowing Federation (FISA), Thomas Konietzko, President of the International Canoe Federation, Claudio Schermi, President of the International Dragon Boat Federation and over 50 honorary guests visiting Azerbaijan for COP29.

Furthermore, in preparation for COP29, Azerbaijan is implementing unprecedented security measures to accommodate tens of thousands of guests and nearly a hundred world leaders and high-ranking delegation heads.

The Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee discussed areas of bilateral cooperation, including development of energy sector, aviation, agriculture and water resources, transport, logistics, health care, education, science and culture.

During the meeting, the CEO of the Telecommunication Infrastructure Company (TIC), Behzad Safari, and the director general of Turkmenistan’s Agency for Transport and Communications, Chakyev Mammethan Berdimyradovich, discussed ways for developing digital infrastructure, turning the two countries into an East-West telecommunication transit route.

The signing took place on the sidelines of COP29 in Baku and was witnessed by Sungat Yessimkhanov, Vice Minister of Energy of Kazakhstan and Sharif Al Olama, Under-Secretary for Energy & Petroleum Affairs, Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates.

Several protocols and memorandums were signed, and a joint action plan for 2025-2027 was established at COP29.

“In order to activate the International North-South Transit Corridor (INSTC), the volume of exchanges must be increased, and despite the bottlenecks, if the volume of cargo is ensured, it is possible to increase the capacity.”

"Russia remains the sole obstacle to just and lasting peace," said a joint statement published on Saturday, adopted "in support of Kyiv as the thousandth day of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine approaches."

The Times reported that a meeting between Musk and Iran’s envoy Amir Saeid Iravani was held at a secret location in New York on Monday and lasted more than an hour, citing the Iranian officials, who reportedly described the discussion as focused on how to defuse tensions between the two countries.

"We are striving to transform our country into an IT hub, to create a competitive environment for IT companies so that they can come and develop their business with us. We try to make them feel at home in Uzbekistan."

The document was signed by Minister of Energy of the Kyrgyz Republic Taalaibek Ibraev and representatives of the Organization for Economic Cooperation. The charter is aimed at expanding cooperation in the energy sector and developing green technologies in the region.

The self-styled president of the region, Aslan Bzhania, said he had no intention of stepping down or fleeing. He said talks were proceeding with opposition representatives.

Addressing the event, Azerbaijan`s Minister of Culture Adil Kerimli emphasized the importance of the event. He noted that the international community lauds country’s efforts in the field of green energy.

The average price of the internet in Kazakhstan is only $0.59 per 1 GB. In general, Central Asian countries demonstrate high internet availability.

The event attracted over 1,000 attendees, including foreign delegations, representatives of international organizations, as well as residents and visitors of Baku at the Azerbaijan State Academic Musical Theatre.

The permit, issued on November 14, 2024, by the Uzaviation Agency, follows the Intergovernmental Air Transport Agreement between Uzbekistan and Saudi Arabia.

The ratification marks a further step in strengthening economic ties between Iran and the EEU, which includes Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan.

The elections saw nearly 20 political parties competing for seats in Georgia’s 150-member parliament. The ruling party, Georgian Dream - Democratic Georgia, which has held power for 12 consecutive years, secured a victory with 54.3% of the vote, according to the CEC's official results.

He emphasized that APRECA represents a crucial initiative that blends ambition with practical planning and implementation, aimed at harnessing the region's full potential in the renewable energy sector.

The crisis escalated sharply with the arrest of five opposition activists who had been vocal in their opposition to the agreement. Their detention sparked widespread outrage and mass demonstrations in Sukhumi, the de facto capital of Abkhazia.

During the meeting, the Kazakh diplomat conveyed President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s best wishes to the Swedish monarch and emphasized the importance of enhancing high-level dialogue.

Under Trump’s administration, U.S.-Iran relations deteriorated dramatically. His withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 marked the beginning of a campaign aimed at crippling the Iranian economy through comprehensive sanctions.

Papuashvili further claimed the domestic opposition was “stuck in the past” and “using the arguments of the last century over elections held in the 21st century”.

Addressing a meeting of the Security Council on October 28, Iran’s Ambassador to the UN Amir Saeed Iravani said the Islamic Republic of Iran reserves its inherent right to respond at a time of its choosing to this act of aggression.

“We are potentially considering now with our Chinese friends a new route — through Kazakhstan, which could be about up to 35 billion cubic meters of gas,” Novak said.

“This is a very interesting project, although our colleagues have not yet approached us with an official proposal. It is clear that for Central Asian countries like Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, such initiatives are important and deserve further development. We are generally ready to consider this issue,” the minister stated.

As part of COP29, a parliamentary meeting will be organized jointly by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Azerbaijan's Milli Majlis in Baku on November 16-17.

The sides were pleased to note the active dynamics of development of relations through high-level political dialogue and joint projects between Armenia and France.

Since September 23, Israel has escalated its bombing of targets in Lebanon, later sending in ground troops after almost a year of limited, cross-border exchanges of fire initiated by Iran-backed Hezbollah militants over the Gaza war.

The film forum, organised within the interaction of TURKSOY Member Countries, brought together filmmakers and participants from Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Moldova, Turkey and Uzbekistan.

"We repeatedly stress when asked about this that any politician who says that he or she is for peace rather than for war, this politician deserves attention," Lavrov said.

Kalandarishvili expressed the election administration’s “full readiness” to cooperate with authorities and provide “all necessary information” to the Prosecutor’s Office of Georgia ongoing investigation into the claims.

Security and police personnel in the province often conduct operations in the border areas to foil terror plot and capture arms and drugs smuggled by terrorist and other groups.

The UK Ministry of Defense noted that whilst the current operational tempo in the Black Sea remains low, the attack demonstrates that Ukraine retains the ability to strike Russian targets in areas previously viewed as safe for operations.

Scholz said Sunday he was interested in talking with the Kremlin leader about possible solutions to end the war in Ukraine, which is nearing the third-year mark.

The signed “Roadmap for 2024-2025 on energy cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Kyrgyz Republic” outlines joint efforts in the oil and gas sector, renewable energy, and the formation of a dedicated working group to advance these initiatives.

Parviz Shahbazov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Energy, highlighted the initiative’s role in enhancing leadership in energy, fostering regional cooperation, and accelerating the transition to renewable energy across ECO member states.

The Fordow site, located about 100 km south of Tehran, has been a focal point of tension due to its uranium enrichment activities. In February last year, inspectors discovered uranium particles enriched to 83.7% at the underground facility.

“For example, our country faces significant losses of agricultural produce due to the shortage of logistics and storage systems. Therefore, it’s necessary to develop infrastructure for storing agricultural products, including grain elevators, vegetable and fruit storage facilities,” stated the Kazakh President.

"Georgia and Ukraine are vivid examples of the European Union and NATO’s arrogant and selfish behavior towards the states located near Russia's borders," said Seif Tabrizi.

The officials, speaking anonymously, described the conversation as “positive” and "good news" in light of the historically tense relationship between the US and Iran under President-elect Trump.

Kobakhidze cited the demand for sanctions against Russia as an example, warning that such measures would cripple Georgia’s economy by at least 10% in the first year, leading to a disastrous situation for the country.

The project is designed to assist the Uzbek government in implementing economic reforms and fostering sustainable economic development, focusing on enhancing the capacity of both the public and private sectors to adopt green industrialization practices.

Protesters also broke into the presidential administration offices located in the same building as the parliament.

Sources also suggested that the Biden administration's permissiveness toward Israeli operations on Iranian soil has fueled calls for retaliation, with some in Iran arguing that the strike should occur before the handover of power to Trump.

The OSCE Centre in Ashgabat initiated the seminar to provide a platform for regional expert-level dialogue and to facilitate the exchange of best practices in integrating renewable energy sources into energy projects, promoting green technology development, and reducing carbon footprints.

In 2023, SMEs in Kazakhstan contributed 33.7% to their GDP and 54.5% in Uzbekistan. However, SMEs in Central Asia often face a challenging task of securing the necessary capital to expand their business.

These developments suggest that Iran is preparing both the infrastructure and fleet capabilities to integrate modern combat aircraft into its military operations.

The program includes tournaments, competitions, panel discussions, master classes, performances by musicians and much more.

The event aims to acquaint the German public with the current social and cultural situation and future plans in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, countries with which Germany has maintained diplomatic relations for thirty years.

"The Energy Efficiency Program, which is trying to address issues on the demand side, is a 10-year multi-country, multi-phase initiative, which will provide about $1.5 billion in World Bank funding and is expected to raise, at least initially, $2.5 billion from the public, private, and development sectors."

The document marks the establishment of Azerbaijan's first offshore wind power plants. It also outlines plans to enhance collaboration on last year’s renewable energy projects, totaling 500 MW, in Nakhchivan.

The Games were attended by around 3,000 athletes from 89 countries, including the United States, competing in 21 different sports based on Central Asian folk games.

A panel session, “Climate Finance Landscape in the South Caucasus and Central Asia”, analyzed the current state, challenges, and future of climate finance in the region, emphasizing sustainable investments, public-private partnerships, and existing financial mechanisms for resilience and adaptation.

Kassym-Jomart Tokayev stressed the importance of intensifying interparliamentary cooperation.

Against the backdrop of the ongoing COP29 in Baku, Russian President Vladimir Putin reached out to his Azerbaijani counterpart, Ilham Aliyev.

The discussions also saw exchange of views on joint activities related to fostering mutual relations, renewable energy and private sector financing.

Azerbaijan plans to expand hydropower to reduce natural gas consumption, but climate models predict huge reductions in river flows in the coming decades, which will pose risks to energy production. This could affect gas exports through the Southern Gas Corridor, which supplies energy to Europe.

According to the Kazakh ministry, fractional sampling was conducted for further tests as part of the monitoring and joint work with the scientific organizations such as the Institute of Hydrobiology and Ecology, Center for the Study and Rehabilitation of the Caspian Seal and Research and the Production Center of Microbiology and Virology.

"Central Asia has a unique set of complementary energy resources, which makes it possible to leverage the benefits of cross-border cooperation in renewable energy, bringing multifaceted benefits to the participating countries."

The two-day forum takes place at COP29 and is co-hosted by IRENA, the COP29 Presidency, and the Ministry of Energy of Azerbaijan bringing together to energy ministers from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

The President of Kazakhstan has issued a decree appointing new ambassadors.

The APRECA initiative was launched at the Investment Forum on Energy Transition in Central Asia, held during COP29 in Baku. Its main goal is to accelerate renewable energy adoption in the region and promote green industrialization.

Azerbaijan emphasizes the importance of partnering with Central Asian nations on regional renewable energy projects,

This unique railway tour that connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan will make trips more comfortable and accessible not only for citizens but also for foreign nationals who want to learn about both countries’ rich spiritual and historical heritage.

The exhibition will be held on Nov.13-15, 2024.

In an interview with Caspian Post, Yunis Sharifli, an expert at the Topchubashov Center, explores the key aspects of China’s policies in Central Asia and the South Caucasus, the strategic importance of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan, and the prospects for bilateral relations between Baku and Beijing.

The dialogue highlights both countries' commitment to advancing green energy initiatives and leveraging technological innovations to enhance energy systems.

The project is of great importance for Uzbekistan not only in terms of economic benefits, but also for environmental protection.

During his visit, Minister Ersoy is scheduled to meet with Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of Azerbaijan's State Tourism Agency, where the two sides are expected to sign a tourism cooperation agreement.

FM Mirzoyan underscored the importance of continued consultations between Yerevan and Tehran, particularly in light of regional developments.

The census will run until December 19, aiming to collect vital data on the country's demographic and agricultural sectors.

Over the past year, Israeli strikes have repeatedly targeted Iranian-linked forces and infrastructure in Syria, with high-ranking Iranian and Hezbollah commanders among those killed.

"The Fisheries Committee suggests that natural phenomena, such as the release of natural gases due to underwater earthquakes, could be the cause of the seal deaths," the ministry said.

TITR will encourage its members to actively contribute to the development of this green corridor, facilitating coordination between GDTC and its members to ensure the successful implementation of the initiative and foster sustainability along the Middle Corridor.

The meeting discussed the implementation of the agreements reached between the Kazakh and Belarusian presidents, aimed at promoting trade-economic and cultural-humanitarian cooperation.

"War is not in the interest of Iran, the region or the world. No sane person would want to start a war and add fuel to the fire of the conflict," Pezeshkian said.

The event was attended by the environment ministers of Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as representatives of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Green Climate Fund.

The official, Asif W. Rahman, was arrested in Cambodia on Tuesday and taken to the US overseas territory of Guam.

Within the exhibition, attended by Air Force commanders and high-ranking officials from over 100 countries, as well as delegations from regional and international organizations, Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade held a meeting with Commander of the People's Liberation Army Air Force, General Chang Dingqiu.

Ani Badalyan, spokesperson for the Armenian Foreign Ministry, stated that "the position of the Republic of Armenia on the issue of freezing participation in CSTO activities has not changed."

“Let me state this loud and clear from the start: these elections fall short of the standards expected of a country holding the EU candidate status”, Schinas said.

Hajiyev criticized Borrell's recent statements, particularly his illustration of the European Union as a “garden” and the rest of the world as a “jungle.”

Yerlan Nyssanbayev, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, stressed the need for a collective approach to confront climate challenges.

“In 2030, electricity demand is projected to be around 120-125 billion kWh. Our generation capacity will reach approximately 135 billion kWh," the deputy minister said.

“During its more than 45-year existence, the Islamic Revolution has not left any vicious act unanswered and we will definitely give a regret-inducing response to this Israeli measure,” the IRGC deputy commander said.

According to the Energy Ministry, Kazakhstan views nuclear energy as essential to its future energy balance, allowing it to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, increase the share of clean energy sources, and ensure a reliable energy supply.

The executive program focuses on improving the efficiency of energy infrastructure and enhancing the integration of renewable energy projects into the national grids of the participating countries.

The exercises will include underwater attack and defense units from both countries, taking place in Aksaz/Muğla.

In Paris, the most relevant fair which has historically presented Central Asian artists to the European public is called Asia Now, and it took place in Paris from October 17 to 20.

Uzbekistan’s robust gold production reinforces its standing as a significant player in the global gold industry and contributes to the broader landscape of the precious metals market.

This significantly facilitates the work of public officials from Kazakhstan and the Benelux countries, enabling them to travel freely for official duties without the need for a visa and to stay for a period not exceeding 90 days.

The event was attended by representatives of the Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) of Brazil, Finland, Canada and other countries and the European Court of Auditors, along with a number of authoritative international organizations, including the UN Development Program, the UN Population Fund, the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, as well as representatives of the institutions and heads of state bodies.

Kazakhstan and Moldova are both signatories of the Free Trade Area Agreement, signed in 2011 in St. Petersburg following the meeting of the CIS heads of government.

In October, the Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) improved in two Central Asian countries.Kazakhstan demonstrated growth for the second month in a row and the best result in 2024. In Uzbekistan, the growth rate accelerated after the September decline, and the index turned out to be the highest since March of this year.

The parties discussed cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and Turkmenistan in the fields of energy, transport, infrastructure, agriculture and trade.

Belinda Balluku, Vice Prime Minister of Albania, Sebastian Burduja, Minister of Energy of Romania, and Juergen Voegele, Vice President of the World Bank, praised Azerbaijan for hosting COP29 and shared insights on upcoming green energy projects in the region.

Grossi described his meeting with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi as "indispensable" in a post on X. Araghchi was Iran's chief negotiator in the talks that led to the 2015 deal.

The heads of government of Belarus and Kazakhstan are scheduled to discuss the prospects of trade and economic cooperation and the implementation of joint projects.

Kyrgyzstan supplied goods to Turkey worth $5.6 million in September 2024, which is 75% less than in September last year.

During the event, the officials signed the declaration of the ministers of ecology of the OTS member states.

For Tehran, Trump represents a symbol of harsh policies, unprecedented economic pressure, and an aggressive course aimed at destabilizing Iran.

The Islamic republic has maintained its policy against acquiring nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear activities were entirely peaceful.

While Azerbaijan is not yet central to Russia’s strategy, it remains a key transit hub amid rising competition for Asian and European energy markets.

The ratification of the agreement will allow the holding of events in the field of military education, military training, advanced training, military medicine, science, culture and sports. It also provides an opportunity to use air space and military centers of the two countries to conduct combat training.

Addressing the event, Mikayil Jabbarov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Economy, outlined the principles covering the joint efforts to combat climate change, global policy pursued on this track, as well as the contributions of the private sector.

Ukrainian officials reported Russian jets firing missiles from the sea in the first days of Moscow’s full-scale invasion in 2022 and have done so repeatedly since.

Construction of this wind power station will reduce emissions into the atmosphere by 1.4 million tons per year.

A memorandum of understanding signed with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) envisages collaboration through the ADB Energy Transition Mechanism, focusing on phasing out coal-fired plants, boosting renewables, improving energy efficiency, and introducing new technologies in electricity and heat production.

"I would also like to express my gratitude to the Russian Federation for the support provided to Azerbaijan in the build-up to the decision to hold the conference in Baku and in the process of our preparations for COP29," said President Aliyev.

On October 1, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched a significant number of rockets at Israel during Operation True Promise 2. The Israeli military stated it would respond to this aggression at its discretion.

"Russia is an important partner for us in the agricultural sector," Asadov said.

The Forum will gather chefs from restaurants awarded the Michelin Star for  outstanding cooking and international gastronomy experts from France, Greece and Switzerland.

The case, tied to the broader unrest that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in morality police custody, involves accusations that the defendants participated in the killing of Basij member Arman Aliverdi in the Shahrak-e Ekbatan neighborhood in western Tehran.

The discussions were held during a meeting between the head of AzerEnerji JSC, Baba Rzayev, and the head of Kyrgyzstan National Electric Grid JSC, Altynbek Rysbekov, on the sidelines of COP29..

The collection, which includes jewelry crafted in the traditional “animal style,” weighs approximately 118 grams and dates between the 7th century BC and the 3rd century AD.

Zakharova added that the treaty will be signed during a bilateral visit in a formal setting, with the dates still under coordination.

The pavilion is designed to demonstrate Uzbekistan’s unique cultural heritage and sustainable approaches to environmental and climate issues.

"It seems that we are nearing a solution on the issue of reopening regional routes that could be fully mutually acceptable," Pashinyan said.

Mishustin said that 85% of Russia’s energy comes from clean and low-emission generation, composed primarily of gas, nuclear and renewable energy.

President Ilham Aliyev expressed concern about the discharge of waste from Armenia's mining industry into the Araz River and its negative impact on the river's ecological condition.

The AI readiness index, which evaluates 174 countries, shows Kazakhstan's strong use of AI, particularly in public service enhancements like geographic information systems and spatial data.

"Mr. President and the Prime Minister of Armenia had a very fruitful meeting in Kazan. We intend to continue negotiations based on this momentum," Hajiyev said.

"The issue of the Caspian Sea was raised during Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to Azerbaijan in August, and as per the orders of the two presidents, deputy ministers have already formed working groups," Asadov said.

Kobakhidze highlighted the significance of hosting the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in a South Caucasus country for the first time.

After enduring summer blackouts from surging electricity demand, Iran now faces a natural gas shortage that could disrupt winter power supplies.

During the suspension, Armenia will rely on its internal reserves and additional natural gas imports from Iran to meet demand, ensuring there are no disruptions to consumer supply.

Visitors have the opportunity to explore a stunning exhibition of Azerbaijan's centuries-old carpets, textiles, fine and decorative arts, as well as traditional costumes and handcrafted works.

The national pavilion of Kazakhstan features exhibits of the country’s culture, innovations and environmental projects.

The digest covers China’s political, diplomatic, economic, and other activities in the South Caucasus region and relations between China and the South Caucasus countries.

Exports of crude oil from the region fell 2% compared to September 2023.

Located 8km off the coast of Kenli District in Shandong Province, northeast China, the project will become the world's largest offshore solar farm once completed. It will consist of nearly 3,000 platforms spread across 1,200 hectares of ocean surface.

This paper argues that while the Central Asian states will seek to balance against the growing cooperation and combined influence of Russia and China in their region, Moscow and Beijing are likely to sustain cooperation in service of their shared objectives.

The leaders of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan signed the “Agreement between the governments of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Republic of Kazakhstan and Republic of Uzbekistan on Strategic Partnership in the Development and Transmission of Green Energy.”

Kazakh authorities have sent samples from dead seals to labs for testing. So far, the cause of the die-off has not yet been determined. Over 825 dead seals have been counted to date, according to media reports.

Central Asia, with its history of balancing major powers, may find Trump's realpolitik approach beneficial, especially if he continues to prioritize economic partnerships over interventionist policies.

The U.S. and its allies have consistently raised alarms over Iran’s chemical weapons program. The 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention obliges signatories, including Iran, to destroy existing stockpiles of toxic chemicals, particularly those capable of causing death or serious harm to humans and animals through their chemical action on life processes.

According to the organization’s reported, Iran’s heavy oil price increased by $1.47 (0.6 percent) from $73.59 in September to $74.06 in October.

The pavilion will become the central platform for promoting the interests and capabilities of the country, including its climate agenda, economic, energy and tourism potential.

Mikhail Mishustin was welcomed by Farid Ahmadov, Azerbaijan’s Minister of Justice, along with other officials.

Various international organizations, including the UN, have reported dropping water levels and pollution at the Caspian Sea, which is surrounded by Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan.


The project will be located in the Jambyl region and will also feature a 600-megawatt-hour battery energy storage system.

The three countries emphasized their commitment to the Astana Process, which aims to restore Syria's sovereignty, alleviate the humanitarian crisis, and achieve long-term stability through a political solution.

The meeting highlighted the purpose of the Summit, the importance of building consensus and momentum around the COP29 plan to raise ambition, enable action, communicate to all stakeholders and demonstrate clear political will.

Current political and economic realities indicate that Russia and Iran benefit from strengthening their alliance to counter Western pressure and defend their interests on the international stage.

The signing took place on November 13 in the framework of a trilateral meeting of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz informed Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev in a phone call that he would be unable to attend COP29 in Baku due to a political crisis unfolding in Germany.

The UK purchased 8.5 tons of gold for $660 million, accounting for 75 percent of the total gold export volume.

The loan will provide funding to support economic sustainability in Kazakhstan within the approved deficit of the republican budget for the prospected period.

The International Strategy for Promoting Cultural Development and Engaging Children and Youth in the Climate Agenda for 2024-2030 was signed at the Conference.

In March 2023, Türkiye and Turkmenistan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that set the stage for future hydrocarbon collaboration.

The Ministry of Energy explained that these restrictions aim to secure sufficient LPG availability within Kazakhstan to meet growing domestic needs.

Using artificial intelligence and big data will help accelerate the digitalization process in Uzbekistan. This will allow intellectuality to improve the quality of life in society and everyday work processes.

Iranian banks have been excluded since 2018 from the SWIFT international financial messaging service, which governs the vast majority of transactions worldwide.

The agreed water supply is expected to fill the Shardara Reservoir in southern Kazakhstan by April 1, 2025, ensuring adequate water resources for the region's agricultural irrigation needs during the 2025 season.

The delegation included European MPs such as Estonia's Marko Mihkelson, Finland's Jukka Kopra, France's Frédéric Petit, Germany's Michael Roth, Latvia's Ināra Mūrniece, Lithuania's Žygimantas Pavilionis, Poland's Michał Kamiński, and Sweden's Erik Ottosson.

Tokayev said Türkiye is among the major investors in the Kazakh economy, with the investment projects involving Turkish entrepreneurs are under his personal control.

The tunnel, located near the city centre, will link a station on the Tehran metro to the Imam Khomeini hospital.

The head of state mentioned the Black Sea-Caspian energy cable, saying, “this will allow us to export green energy to Europe".

He acknowledged that the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran’s nuclear program, which the US later abandoned, had become an "empty shell."

Armenia’s mining activities during its occupation of Azerbaijani territories have had devastating consequences. Over 1.5 million landmines were planted, making Azerbaijan one of the most mine-contaminated countries globally.

The plot involved organizing sports events and competitions in the suburbs of Bishkek, where the perpetrators planned to provoke violence under the guise of national games.

Bayraktar stressed that energy imports are a key factor in Türkiye's current account deficit, and reducing dependency on foreign energy is a top priority for the Turkish government.

Each Akash battery includes a Rajendra 3D passive electronically scanned array radar and four launchers, each equipped with three missiles.

Noting that climate change is affecting global water cycles, Tokayev said water-related disasters account for more than 80% of natural disasters.

Co-organized by the Ministry of Culture of Azerbaijan and the Museum, the exhibition will feature works inspired by Azerbaijani carpet weaving, showcasing creations by artists from Azerbaijan, the USA, the UAE, Mexico, and Russia.

Chisinau condemned Kobakhidze’s "distorted and inconsistent" comments regarding Moldova’s European Union integration and the country's presidential election.

During the ongoing extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held significant talks with Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investments, Khalid al-Falih, marking a continued strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations.

'Our message is clear. Attacks against US and coalition partners in the region will not be tolerated,' said head of Central Command.

Irakli Kobakhidze affirmed Georgia's commitment to tackle climate challenges and take effective measures in this regard.

Tokayev called for enhanced international cooperation to address the challenges of climate change and highlighted the importance of predictable financing and access to cutting-edge technologies in reaching these goals.

In a recent statement, Iran has called on US President-elect Donald Trump to reconsider the "maximum pressure" strategy pursued during his first term, which Tehran believes has failed to deliver positive results.

The world's longest high-speed train, also in China, is the Beijing-Guangzhou high-speed line, which opened in December 2012. The track stretches over a total length of 2,298 kilometers.

As a significant step, Tajikistan initiated a UN General Assembly resolution declaring 2025 as the Year of Glaciers Preservation, which has since led to the creation of an international trust fund for glacier protection under the United Nations.

Moldovan President Maia Sandu recently disclosed that a GM200 radar, purchased by Chișinău from France for €14.5 million, failed to detect drones that had fallen near the Ukrainian border.

Nations approved new UN standards for international carbon markets enabling countries to trade high-quality carbon credits to help meet climate targets.

Massive floods and heavy rains that hit parts of northern Kazakhstan and southern Russia during the spring caused a huge surplus of water, some of which was redirected into channels and canals that lead to the river and the sea. The inflow is good news for the Caspian Sea, which scientists say is shrinking year by year.

"Iran is rapidly advancing its nuclear program, and is continuing to increase stockpiles of uranium enriched to weapons grade levels in defiance of international demands."

This new terminal is expected to increase container train traffic between China and Europe along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR), also known as the Middle Corridor, reducing delivery times, transportation costs, and transshipment time.

Kazakhstan signed several strategically important agreements, including a memorandum of cooperation between the Tourism Department of the Turkistan Region and the Export Bahrain company, aimed at developing tourist routes and increasing the flow of tourists to the Turkistan Region.

Azerbaijan is an active supporter of multilateralism.

A minimum of 2,000 km of power lines must be constructed within the next two years.

"Azerbaijan’s green energy zones in Karabakh, East Zangezur, and Nakhchivan, along with the extensive use of experience in creating electricity links between different regions and production-consumption hubs, aim to boost global energy storage capacity sixfold, reaching 1,500 GW by 2030."

The development of economic relations with the CIS member countries has been one of Iran’s major priorities in recent years.

The fossils were uncovered from the steep walls of a vast canyon that holds Upper Cretaceous sediment layers, where the team also discovered remains of lizards, salamanders, frogs, and fish.

President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed heads of state and government, as well as leaders of delegations participating in the Summit.

"By connecting the national payment networks of the two countries, the borders of electronic payments will be removed and a new chapter will begin in the economic and cultural cooperation of the two nations"

A pavilion representing the Kyrgyz Republic was launched at the World Travel Market (WTM), one of the largest international tourism exhibitions, in London, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The most recent global scientific consensus on climate change, released by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in 2021, indicates that global warming and its effects are happening more rapidly than previously anticipated, according to scientists.

In the 1990s, U.S. companies were among the first to develop and modernize the Central Asian gas and oil industry, remaining today among its largest investors and those most keen to increase their investments. U.S. energy prices were articulated during the campaign as a serious concern to the new administration and are directly linked to Central Asia’s oil market.

Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan relations are currently thriving, with a solid foundation for future development. These two countries exemplify how close cooperation and trust-based relationships can serve as the bedrock of a mutually beneficial partnership, yielding tangible results.

Countries participating in the two-week COP29 climate summit reached a consensus on Monday on new standards to govern the trade of carbon credits, which are essential for launching a U.N.-backed global carbon market aimed at funding projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the Caspian Sea was home to up to a million seals. By 1989, their numbers had dropped to 400,000, and by 2005 to 110,000. This figure further decreased to 100,000 in 2008, and in 2019, the population fell to between 43,000 and 66,000.

The main investor in the Kyrgyz Republic for the first six months of this year was China with investments of $109 million (23.6 percent of the total investment).

Uzbekistan and the European Union have taken a significant step toward strengthening their bilateral ties with the signing of a new roadmap aimed at enhancing their strategic partnership.

Kazakhstan’s Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov announced that the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program has invested over $9 billion in various projects across Kazakhstan, part of a broader $51 billion investment in Central Asia over the past two decades.

Ebrahim Rezaei, a prominent Iranian lawmaker and key member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, has expressed doubts about any potential improvement in U.S.-Iran relations following Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

Georgian Foreign Minister Ilia Darchiashvili criticized "foreign interference" and "biased attitudes" from international partners, calling them "unacceptable" in response to an EU delegation's visit to discuss alleged irregularities in Georgia's recent parliamentary elections.

Global leaders gather in Baku to tackle climate challenges and explore opportunities to boost climate finance.

Rafael Grossi, the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is set to visit Iran on Wednesday for talks with Iranian officials on the country's nuclear program.

With increasing interest in the Middle Corridor due to its logistical advantages and growing geopolitical challenges, Azerbaijan’s investments in transport infrastructure are positioning it as a key hub in global trade, especially amid disruptions to traditional transit routes like the Suez Canal.

South Korea has announced a $3 million donation over the next three years to support climate change initiatives in Central Asia.

A concerning environmental incident is unfolding along the Caspian Sea coast, where the number of dead seals has risen to 850.

Turkmenistan has launched a major initiative to study and document its remarkable geological landmarks, focusing on the ancient mud volcanoes along the western Caspian Sea coast.

Protests in Georgia's capital, Tbilisi, continue following the controversial October 26 parliamentary elections, which the opposition claims were manipulated to benefit the ruling Georgian Dream party.

Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturian has reportedly been hospitalized due to heart-related issues,

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev met with Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze to discuss the strong bilateral relations between their countries.

Iran's population is projected to shrink by up to 50% by the end of the century due to a sharp decline in birth rates, despite government efforts to encourage larger families.

Uzbekistan’s Deputy Minister for Energy, Umid Mamadaminov, announced at the European Economic Days in Tashkent that a unified electricity trade platform is being developed for Central Asia. Supported by the World Bank and other international partners, the project aims to enhance regional energy integration.

By 2023, the region accounted for around 26% of global cyberattacks, with a large number of incidents involving ransomware and data theft.

At the national level, the Concept for Water Resource Management in Kazakhstan for 2024–2030 was adopted, aiming at water level restoration and adaptation to changing conditions.

I think Trump’s arrival will strengthen the Organization of Turkic States, and the transportation and energy corridors through Central Asia connecting to Europe will continue to develop. The U.S. is likely to support these initiatives, including the Zangezur Corridor.

Iran's foreign policy, including its approach to the South Caucasus, is ultimately shaped by the Supreme Leader, who remains the sole decision-maker on foreign and domestic matters.

For the NPP construction, Kazakhstan is considering several potential nuclear technology suppliers: South Korea’s KHNP, China’s CNNC, Russia’s Rosatom, and France’s EDF.

The 44-day war entered not only Azerbaijani history but also world military history as a unique case in which a small nation managed to liberate its land after thirty years of occupation.

For Türkiye, a peace agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia is essential for progress. Without a resolution to the longstanding conflict, Türkiye has remained cautious in engaging too closely with Armenia, mindful of its strategic alliance with Azerbaijan.

The government of Kazakhstan is engaging international organizations and securing funding to implement environmental and climate projects in the Caspian region.

Observers expect the Trump administration to reestablish a pragmatic approach in the South Caucasus, renewing the previous U.S. course that refrained from excessive interference in Armenian-Azerbaijani relations.

In 2022, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) published a ranking of countries with the greatest potential for offshore wind energy development, listing Australia, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan among the leaders. According to the report, offshore wind energy in these countries could become a competitive and promising source of clean energy.

Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan play a crucial role in the Caspian region, and their cooperation opens significant opportunities for enhancing trade ties and developing transport infrastructure.

Currently, the Georgian opposition faces a challenge in finding a unifying leader capable of consolidating diverse forces and leading the struggle against Georgian Dream. Some analysts believe that President Zourabichvili and Mikheil Saakashvili’s United National Movement (UNM) are among the most likely candidates.

In May 2024, Kazakhstan rose to 52nd place in the Global Tourism Development Index, surpassing countries like Qatar, Vietnam, and Uzbekistan.

The Middle Corridor’s significance has grown since the onset of the Russia-Ukraine War and holds tremendous potential for the future.

France, which actively supports Armenia, leveraged Francophonie networks to lobby for Armenia’s COP17 bid, raising questions about the extent to which ecological standards were considered in the decision

Unlike his predecessor, Tokayev clearly sees substantial potential in establishing stronger relations with Mongolia, given its geopolitical importance and the significance of the Kazakh diaspora, which numbers over 117,000 people

The project aims to attract international business, transforming northern Kyrgyzstan into a trade nexus comparable to major ports.

Border delimitation between Azerbaijan and Armenia is one of the main issues whose resolution will impact not only stability in the South Caucasus but also the creation of a new regional security agenda.

Many countries, regardless of social and political changes, prefer to keep their national anthems, seeing them as enduring symbols of national identity.

His visits to Georgia, Austria, and the anticipated participation in the meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Organization of Turkic States in Kyrgyzstan have become symbolic moves, underscoring his aspiration to create a new conservative alliance that counters dominant Western approaches.

It is not akin to the European Union and has no immediate plans to deepen integration among its member states.

The scale of the irregularities is underscored by the reports from over 500 international monitors and 300 national groups, who documented numerous instances of electoral misconduct.

Overall, Baku is expecting more than 80,000 visitors for the event.

In recent years, Kazakhstan has been actively advancing transport and logistics projects, aiming to establish itself as a key transit hub on the Eurasian continent. One of the most promising initiatives in this area is the Trans-Caspian route.

Despite Tbilisi’s relatively modest percentages of ethnic Armenian and Azerbaijani populations, these communities retain their identities while coexisting amicably in shared areas of the Georgian capital. At festivals like Tbilisoba, both groups come together to celebrate their shared country of birth.

Discoveries of more mass graves in Karabakh reinforce memories of tragedy, with nearly 4000 Azerbaijanis still missing from the war with Armenia in the 1990s. Baku demands more cooperation from Yerevan in seeking closure for affected families.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has clarified two important obstacles remaining in the path towards a full agreement of peaceful co-existence with Armenia: the dissolution of the OSCE Minsk Group and the need for a small but crucial change in the Armenian constitution.

Kazakhstan Launches Program to Reintroduce Tigers to Lost Habitat

In an inquiry launched by FBI anti-terrorist agents in January 2023 that’s finally coming to court in the US state of Massachusetts, Armenian diaspora activist Aram Brunson is accused of hiding bomb-making activities that were likely to be used against Azerbaijani targets.

Azerbaijani Turks of Iran have for years felt that Tehran has taken little notice of their specific grievances. However, with the recent election of Masoud Pezeshkian, himself having Azerbaijani roots, hopes for action are suddenly rising.

The One Caucasus Festival in Georgia unites diverse communities, fostering peace and cultural exchange among Armenians, Azerbaijanis, and Georgians.

Discover how Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan earned 20 medals at Paris 2024, from key victories to standout performances.

After Armenia declared independence in 1991, Russian Border Guards have patrolled two of its four borders, including, until last week, its main international airport.

With high-level Azerbaijani visits to Central European and Balkan states increasing, the Caspian Post interviewed Baku’s ambassador to Budapest, Tahir Taghizadeh, on his country’s growing ties with these regions.

Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia are ready for the XXXIII Summer Olympics in Paris. Key athletes and expectations highlight their aspirations for medals and national pride

In November 2024, around 80,000 people, including 7,000 journalists, will arrive in Baku as part of COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. How ready is the country for the global media spotlight?

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan aim to double trade to $10B annually by removing barriers and promoting free trade. Focus areas: agro-food and industrial cooperation.

The surprise victory of ‘reformist’ candidate Masoud Pezeshkian in Iran’s presidential elections suggests a new era in Iranian foreign policy, and one that should particularly improve relations with Baku given Pezeshkian’s pride in his Turkic roots.

Who could think that a football match would trigger debates on the genesis and myths of the Turkic people? Merih Demiral, Team Türkiye’s midfielder has come under a spotlight after he displayed a Grey Wolf gesture to celebrate his second goal.

36 countries at the UN Human Rights Council urge Georgia to repeal its "foreign agents" law, warning it stifles media and civil society, posing grave threats to human rights and democracy.

Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan plan to export green energy to the EU via the Caspian Sea. This move, spurred by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, aims to make the Caspian region a key energy hub for Europe, leveraging regional resources and geography.

Baku fashion week

Baku and Yerevan continue to work on delimiting the Azerbaijan-Armenia border, an essential step towards lasting peace in the South Caucasus. But some Armenians are deeply unhappy about the process.

The Abishov family is among the many Azerbaijani families who have suffered the loss of their loved ones to landmines. As more lives are claimed by landmines planted due to the occupation of Azerbaijani lands, urgent international support is essential to address this ongoing problem.

Uzbekistan's President Mirziyoyev prioritizes developing the rare-earth mining sector, leveraging vast reserves and partnering with the EU, US, and UK to reduce reliance on Russian resources.

Iranian folk music is always at the forefront of global top charts; find out why it did in 2023.

Recent weeks have seen some hopeful signs of diplomatic work that is quietly edging the South Caucasus closer to lasting peace. However, some key pitfalls remain as Aliyev told TURKPA yesterday.

EU Ambassador Pawel Herczynski announced that the EU will review and may suspend Georgia's visa-free regime due to the new "foreign agents" law, impacting citizens' travel and cooperation.

Those seeking citizenship must now pass a language test.

Amidst the news of the Kazakhstani politicians trying to regulate the rise of religious extremists, we spoke with Ayan Oryntay, a religious studies scholar from Kazakhstan, to try to understand the current state of affairs.

Azerbaijan and Slovakia sign a defense deal for joint weapon production, boosting Azerbaijan's military and reshaping EU-NATO dynamics amid energy and defense ties.

Georgian lawmakers have overturned President Salome Zurabishvili’s 28 May of the controversial “foreign agent” law.

In one of the weirdest geopolitical twists of recent years, France has levelled some rather strange accusations against Azerbaijan. And all over a part of the world that most Azerbaijanis have probably never heard of—or hadn’t until recently.

Meet the artist who is turning plastic bags into art and giving ordinary people a voice through her artworks.

Yesterday, Georgian parliamentary speaker Shalva Papuashvili confirmed that he expects parliament to overrule President Salome Zurabishvili’s veto of the controversial “foreign agent” bill.

Queer rights activist and co-founder of the feminist initiative Feminita, Zhanar Sekerbayeva, shares the results of research on anti-gender narratives in collaboration with the CFLI (The Canada Fund for Local Initiatives), the realities of LGBTQ women’s lives in Kazakhstan, and her goal of becoming a lawyer.

Despite protests in Yerevan, the process of normalizing relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan continues unabated. Since the first opposition rally held on 9 May, the number of people participating in street actions has declined while the international community has welcomed meetings between the two sides.

Kalbajar's History and Ethnography Museum was once one of the most visited museums in Azerbaijan. However, after the Armenian armed forces occupied Kalbajar in 1993, the museum was destroyed and looted.

The latest annual World Press Freedom Index produced by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has revealed the current media landscapes in 180 countries and territories, including the five Central Asian republics; the results have revealed a deplorable situation in most of these countries.

Investigative journalist, founder, and editor-in-chief of the independent media ProTenge Jamilya Maricheva was fined for her January post on Telegram expressing support for Radio Azattyq’s journalists.

The European Union seen as the primary export market.

Thousands protest in Yerevan against Armenia-Azerbaijan border demarcation, led by Archbishop Galstanyan, demanding PM Pashinyan's resignation.

Uzbekistan is implementing a new strategy that appears to promote and manage labour migration in any direction except Russia.

Lachin, which was occupied by Armenian Armed Forces in 1992, was returned to Azerbaijan in August 2022. Now, rebuilding work continues in the city. Lachin residents, who were forced to leave their hometown 30 years ago, are returning home.

The ongoing high-profile murder trial against the former Minister of Economy of Kazakhstan Kuandyk Bishimbayev explained.

The Azerbaijani President continued a week of international globetrotting spending Friday at Germany’s Petersberg Climate Dialogue, part of the important preparations for the 2024 COP29 meetings to be held in Baku.

Since before the break-up of the USSR, Armenia and Azerbaijan have seen each other as mortal enemies, yet normalizing relations could be a win-win situation. Comments from both Baku and Yerevan this week suggest that moves toward this normalization might finally be on the horizon.

In what could be the last of its kind in the city, one teahouse close to the historic sulphur baths in the Georgian capital continues to embody the multi-cultural nature of the surrounding neighbourhood. It welcomes a diverse clientele to play backgammon, share news and memories, and, of course, drink tea.

On 23/24 April 2023, just one year ago today, observers doubted the wisdom of Baku’s decision to install a checkpoint on the Lachin Road. Today, with the whole situation changed, Azerbaijan reflects on a crucial move in the long game of regaining full control over Karabakh.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev was in Moscow on 22 April 22, where he met with Vladimir Putin to celebrate the anniversary of the BAM Railway, the construction of which involved many Azerbaijanis, not least the president’s father, Heydar Aliyev.

Though the return by Armenia of four villages in the Gazakh region of Azerbaijan was expected, the surprise news that it was agreed upon today by both Yerevan and Baku has been publicly greeted positively by both.

On 17 April, the draft bill on foreign agents passed the first hearing in Georgia’s parliament despite opposition and mass protests—but what will happen next?

Russia has started a pull-out of its troops from Azerbaijan, implying Moscow’s acceptance that their peacekeeping role in Karabakh is now irrelevant.

Despite facing unemployment in Tajikistan and abroad, three Tajik migrants have found success as stuntmen and extras in Türkiye.

The Georgian Parliament’s Legal Affairs Committee has greenlit the controversial foreign agent bill, amidst chaos in parliament and protests outside.

Despite the new 'hijab and chastity' bill still needing approval from Iran's Guardian Council, Tehran police have announced that they will tighten enforcement on hijab wearing following a directive from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

How a Doctor of Pharmacology decided to open her own skincare brand after ten years of creating skincare products for herself, friends, and family.

The U.S. State Department has raised its concerns over Georgia's draft law on foreign influence due to its potential to cause the country to deviate from the European path.

Russian-billionaire turned Armenian activist-politician Ruben Vardanyan has reportedly been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in a move that seems aimed at persuading the world’s media to reassess his situation: he is currently awaiting trial in Azerbaijan for “terrorism-funding” charges.

On 5 April, Armenian Prime Minister Pashinyan, European Commission President von der Leyen, and U.S. Secretary of State Blinken met to assist Yerevan in enhancing its economic resilience and diversification as it moves further away from traditional patron Russia.

On 3 April, Mamuka Mdinaradze, Leader of the Parliamentary Majority, announced from the headquarters of Georgian Dream that the ruling party plans to reintroduce the so-called ‘Foreign Agent Law,’ now renamed the Draft Bill on ‘Transparency of Foreign Influence.’ Georgian Dream’s narrative has undergone a transformation, with a focus on transparency rather than categorizing CSOs as agents.

While researchers at the Transparent World of the Caspian Sea project claim to have detected an oil spill in Kazakhstan’s Kashagan oil field, the rig's operator, NCOC, continues to deny these allegations.

Azerbaijan is an open-air museum with many historical and natural wonders, but some are less well-known than others. Faig Nasibov has been exploring, documenting, and working to protect and preserve these treasures for the last 20 years.

A Georgian, an Armenian, and an Azerbaijani—all three students at a German university—are allocated a shared flat in Berlin. How will they get on, ‘living with the enemy?’ This is the starting premise for the excellent mini-series Dolma Diaries screening via YouTube.

Women's football in Azerbaijan persists and grows amid challenges, with rising participation among girls in Baku and other regions. Despite challenges, the Azerbaijan Women's National Football Team holds the 76th position in the FIFA Women's World Rankings out of 192 countries.

The animation artist behind a successful short animation film, Hadis, talks about the struggles of Azerbaijani Turks in Iran and the censorship of taboo topics in Azerbaijan.

Schools are thousands of teachers short of requirement; Salaries are dismal, educators are demoralized, children are bored.

There are few historic moments in Georgian football, and 26 March will be remembered as one, as Georgia will participate in the European Championship for the first time after defeating Greece 4:2 at Boris Paichadze Dinamo Stadium, Tbilisi.

Ilia Topuria, the UFC’s new undisputed featherweight champion, returned to Georgia and presented a belt at Boris Paichadze Dinamo Stadium before the match between Georgia and Luxembourg.

Many dozens died on Friday in an awful concert massacre in Moscow, cited by some as being terrorist retaliation for Russia’s involvement in Syria. Amongst the victims was an Azerbaijani-Armenian couple whose love had bridged an altogether different conflict.

This year, Azerbaijani-Georgian communities across Georgia came together to celebrate Novruz with a variety of events and festivities.

The friendship story of Adem Yılmaz, a fisherman living in Eskikaraağaç village in Türkiye, and a male stork, Yaren, won the hearts of millions. This year, these two friends met for the 13th time.

As Russian President Vladimir Putin continues threatening the West with the possibility of nuclear war after revoking Russia’s ratification of the 1996 global treaty banning nuclear weapons tests, Kazakhstanis living close to the former nuclear test site say, “Let our suffering be a lesson to others.”

Vahid Qarabagli explores the remarkable life of Mirza Hasan Roshdiyyeh, who revolutionized Iranian education by challenging religious norms to establish modern schools and promote public mother-language-based education.

Visitors to southeastern Iran tend to focus on the city of poets, Shiraz, and the nearby ruins of Persepolis, the ancient Persian capital destroyed by Alexander the Great in 330BC. However, around 100km further south is a lesser-known series of ancient remains.

After closing following the January 2023 armed attack, Azerbaijan is preparing to reopen its embassy in Tehran, signalling a potential thaw in relations between the two countries.

The Safavids are often associated in Western minds with the 17th-century architectural wonders of Isfahan, Iran. But their roots were Azerbaijani and throughout their long rule, the language used by their bureaucracy was a form of Azerbaijani Turkish.

Last weekend, Azerbaijan’s Deputy Prime Minister, Shahin Mustafayev, called for the immediate return of those non-enclave villages controlled by Yerevan in the Gazakh region of Azerbaijan. On Tuesday, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan addressed the issue during a live press conference.

Despite mounting costs and concerns about sustainability surrounding Tajikistan's Roghun "megadam," the nation's leadership is doubling down on its hydropower bet. Will it pay off in a region grappling with power shortages and climate change challenges?

Nika Melia, the former chair of opposition party UNM, and Nika Gvaramia, the founder of opposition TV channel Mtavari Arkhi, have officially unveiled a new political party, Ahali.

On 1-3 March, Antalya held its annual Diplomacy Forum, with significant focus placed on peace in the South Caucasus and the normalization of Armenia's relations with Azerbaijan and Türkiye.

The 2024 “Engage Armenia Forum” has set off a five-country roadshow around Western Europe to drum up more active diaspora participation in Armenia’s development. A varied range of options are on offer, and such grassroots attempts to internationalize the country could be a major boost towards ensuring a more stable, peaceful Caucasus.

In the heart of Kazakhstan, 40 kilometres west of its capital, Astana, stands what was once a Soviet Gulag camp and, today, a memorial museum, ALZHIR. The story of this camp makes it unique in its own tragedy.

The latest report on cotton harvesting reveals that the authorities in Uzbekistan allegedly forced pickers to fulfill production targets set by the government, putting at risk the return of forced labour in the country.

On Saturday, six people were killed in a shootout during a “counter-terrorist operation” in Russia’s Northern Caucasus republic of Ingushetia.

Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov is seeking to end the country’s ban on uranium mining citing the economic benefits, but activists have environmental concerns.

Visa-free travel to China an outgrowth of budding ‘strategic partnership.’

What started as a lowkey cooking video channel at the end of 2019 became the most famous channel showcasing the Azerbaijani countryside and introducing national dishes to the worldwide audience.

Kazakhstani women refuse to be silenced by the government, standing as a quintessential definition of the International Women’s Day.

RFE/RL’s lawsuit against the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan, a potential ban on foreign media, and discrimination against journalists—Kazakhstani media’s troublesome reality.

Yesterday, Tashkent’s City Count handed down sentences to 23 people related to the import of an Indian cough syrup that killed 68 children in 2022.

Remembering victims of the Khojaly Massacre, the bloodiest massacre of the First Karabakh War by Armenian armed forces.

It's an ironic development for a country with high levels of out-migration.

Wooden benches in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan are being dismantled allegedly to prevent people from gathering, leading to criticism from the public.

The Trans-Afghan TAPI natural gas pipeline remains stuck in limbo, while an Iran-Pakistan pipeline could undermine its financial viability.

As the government in Kazakhstan is reviewing a new bill with harsher sentences and penalties for domestic violence, Kazakh politicians continue to shock the public with their misogyny.

As the first and only LGBTQ-education website for teenagers, SelfTanu.kz, got banned in Kazakhstan, the next day, a group of individuals gathered in Almaty demanding that an anti-LGBTQ law be implemented in Kazakhstan.

Abkhazia has denied its intent to sign a cooperation agreement with Moscow that would allow it to call on the Russian National Guard to maintain public order.

Founded in 2006, ADA University has made waves in Azerbaijan, impacting the quality of higher education and foreign and domestic policy for the better.

At least five students have been barred from attending classes at Iran’s Soore University in the country’s latest crackdown on signs of dissent.

Moscow is looking to South Asia for migrants to compensate for declining numbers of Central Asian migrant workers.

On 7 February, a landslide in the Georgian village of Nergeti has resulted in four fatalities, with search efforts still underway.

Topographers and legal experts from the two countries this week reached a resolution on another 3.71 kilometers of the border.

Amid mounting pressure to reach a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, Armenian PM Nikol Pashinyan’s renewed focus on constitutional reform has raised suspicions that he is yielding to Baku’s demands. Government officials deny this, instead claiming that reform is necessary to restore public trust in a constitution largely discredited by previous regimes.

The Bedel Pass is situated in a remote southeastern corner of Kyrgyzstan, sited roughly equidistantly from the Kyrgyz city of Karakol and Xinjiang’s Aksu Prefecture.

The chair of the ruling Georgian Dream Party, Irakli Kobakhidze, has been chosen by the party as the next Prime Minister of Georgia, after Irakli Gharibashvili abruptly stepped down on Monday.

Few outside the Caucasus will know his name. However, for most Azerbaijanis, Mahammad Amin Rasulzade—born 140 years ago today—is one of history’s most pivotal figures, rising to prominence during the country’s first period of independence, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (‘ADR,’ 1918-1920).

The seismic survey aimed at maximizing production from Azerbaijan's main ACG oil field will take five years to complete.

Today is Jashn-e Sadeh, an Iranian winter festival celebrated each year on the 10th of Bahman in the Iranian calendar and of Mehr in the Zoroastrian, which falls on 30 January.

Iran and Pakistan have resumed full diplomatic relations after a ten-day break spurred by air strikes in Baluchistan… and despite this weekend’s gun attack in which 9 Pakistanis died in Iran.

Azerbaijan's delegation from PACE, the Parliament Assembly of the Council of Europe, has withdrawn from the organization citing "racism, Azerbaijanophobia, and Islamophobia."

Priceless canvasses with Yoko Ono links were among many irreplaceable artworks lost in a tragic conflagration that destroyed the most important gallery of Abkhazia.

A story of an Azerbaijani-American writer whose debut novel, I Sat Alone by the Gate, is more than just another immigrant tale.

South Caucasian and Central Asian gender equality in numbers

Dastur, which means tradition in Kazakh, grossed $2.2 million in the first week of its release.

Turkmenistan should be a leading transit nation, but its potential is cramped by bureaucratic failings.

This year marks the hundredth anniversary of the birth of legendary ethnic Armenian film director Sergei Parajanov. Very much a child of the South Caucasus, Parajanov’s work encompassed Armenian, Azerbaijan, Georgian, Moldova, and Ukrainian influences, with his legacy living on today.

The Soviet dictator "appeared" in Georgia's main church on Christmas, causing sound and fury.

Georgia’s regional neighbours have expressed varied reactions to the country’s EU candidate status, specifically considering of the possible Europeanization of the entire South Caucasus.

New arrangements could be vulnerable to Western sanctions.

Today, at least 103 people have died and 170 others injured in two explosions in Iran near the shrine of Qasem Soleimani during commemorations of the 4th anniversary of his death.

Remembering the bloodiest tragedy of independent Kazakhstan

The day that reminds Azerbaijanis of the world of the importance of their unity and loyalty to their roots

The de facto leader of Abkhazia has transferred a Black Sea resort to Russia, causing mass protests in the region and condemnation from Georgia.

Even frequent visitors to Iran rarely think of visiting Maragheh, yet its tomb towers and historical observatory site retain distant resonances of a magnificent history.

The rally against violence organized by the youth movement Zhana Adamdar on 25 November received a lot of backlash from Kazakhstan’s civil society and activists, calling the movement pro-governmental and the rally performative activism.

Back in the 1960s, Moynak, Uzbekistan had been a bustling fishing port on a peninsula jutting into the Aral Sea’s southern flank. Now it is around 100km from the Aral’s nearest coast. Mark Elliott when there to find what’s left of the place.

Climate change, government mismanagement, and population growth are all considered to contribute to Iran’s climate migration crisis.

In recent years, the Chichilaki, Georgia’s traditional Christmas tree, has made a comeback. Onnik James Krikorian investigates the tree’s history and its modern eco-friendly usage.

Armenia has contracted the Russian state nuclear agency, Rosatom, to extend the life of the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, with talks ‘ongoing’ about building a new reactor at the ageing facility.

Proponents of the change say the new, bolder flag will enable the country to be more independent.

The nation just cinched its status as a candidate for EU membership. Now it's time for a European makeover.

Landmines continue to be a major problem for Azerbaijan in post-occupation Karabakh, but the country’s mine action agency is striving to overcome the challenge, and pave the way for the reconstruction of the region in full.

The Gashimov Chess Tournament has concluded in Gabala, Azerbaijan. But beyond the games themselves, the event reminds the world of one of the sport’s great young players whose life was cut short in 2014.

Over 20,000 cases of measles have been recorded in Kazakhstan. The government urges the population to get vaccinated while the hospitals struggle to fit patients. The latest measles epidemic in the country has shed light on poor vaccination policies and the rise of anti-vaxxers in the country.

Uzbekistan is ever more popular with tourists thanks to its trio of majestic Silk Route cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. But what about the far west of the country? Mark Elliott heads to Nukus, the capital of Karakalpakstan.

This week’s announcement in Azerbaijan of snap elections along, with new hopes for peace, were prefaced with in depth comments by President Aliyev which have helped clarify his stance on many key issues.

Kazakhstan has been an independent state for almost 32 years. However, never before were its citizens so focused on their own history, traditions, and language. Now, with the rising popularity of the academic term “decolonialism” in the country’s everyday life, Kazakhstan is going through its own metamorphosis.

A comprehensive peace settlement between Azerbaijan and Armenia could unlock a new era of prosperity across the South Caucasus. Once-high hopes of achieving a firm framework by the end of 2023 have been looking bleak. But now there’s a ray of hope.

Conversations have focused on key roads and access to remote settlements.

How Iran’s Lake Urmia is causing further divide between the ethnic Azerbaijani community in the country, and why the government needs to listen to them.

Khiva, Uzbekistan is the Silk Route’s most memorable city claims veteran travel writer Mark Elliott who first visited back in 1994 when he counted a mere 7 foreign visitors in town. These days it’s an understandable tourist magnet. Here are Mark’s tips for making the most of a visit.

On 30 November, a fire in a hostel in central Almaty, Kazakhstan killed 13 people, including nine Kazakh citizens and four foreigners.

Alexander Davitashvili travels to the Georgian village of Gorelovka to visit a community of Dukhobors, an ethnically Russian Protestant Christian group, who reside in the region.

Chinara Alizade’s life is but a fairytale. Dancing ballet from the age of five, she since gained her title of a prima ballerina, and was awarded the titles of “Honored Artist of Azerbaijan” and “The Best Classical Ballerina in Poland.” In this interview, she opened up on her move from Moscow to Warsaw, her marriage, and what it takes to be a successful ballerina.

After negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan through various facilitated or mediated foreign platforms faltered, Baku has invited Yerevan to meet on the shared border between the two neighbouring countries for unmediated bilateral talks.

Abkhazia’s separatist government has recently signed public-private agreements with Russian companies for the restoration of Babushera airport, sparking fears in Georgia that Russia may be considering the annexation of Abkhazia.

On 18 November, the inaugural multicultural festival ‘Under One Sky’ took place in the Georgian village of Khojorni, celebrating the co-habitation of its Azerbaijani and Armenian population.

On Friday (November 17) the ICJ delivered the latest ‘order’ in the long-running international legal battle between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

As Uyghurs in China face persecution and those who were able to flee and speak up about their experience receive indirect threats from the Chinese government’s mouthpieces, the questions remain the same. How did we get here? Why is nobody doing anything to stop it?

The arrival of French military hardware in Armenia via Georgia highlights the complex challenge for Yerevan in negotiating a path through rapidly evolving new geopolitical realities.

This a heartbreaking story that has hit a nerve in Kazakhstani society reminding women that the fight for harsher domestic violence sentences is of utmost importance in a country with the lack of protection of women’s rights.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Central Asia has been experiencing increased international diplomatic interest, with the region regularly hosting high-level meetings.

Europalia 2023 showcases Georgia's cultural richness, uniting tradition and modernity. With diverse exhibitions, performances, and collaborations, the festival fosters diplomatic ties. Notably, it highlights the Ashiq tradition, promoting inclusivity and strengthening Georgia's path towards EU candidacy.

An ethnic Armenian from Azerbaijan’s Karabakh region has been sentenced to 15 years in jail for crimes dating back to 1991. For Baku, it’s the first major prosecution of someone accused of wartime massacres. However, Khachatryan insists he’s innocent.

Prices for basic staples have risen sharply, depressing the value of the remittances being sent home from Russia.

The European Commission has recommended that the EU grant Georgia candidate status, paving the way for the bloc to begin the country’s accession process at the EU Council meeting later in December.

Due to the once-endangered saiga antelope population increasing tenfold, the Kazakh government plans to cull 337,000 to protect farmers from agricultural damage caused by the animal’s grazing habits.

Her works are full of life and colours. Her characters—as she calls the people depicted in her artworks—are full of stories hidden in their faces. The eclectic style of her works, which is so beloved by contemporary art connoisseurs and admirers, makes you study each painting with peculiar attention to detail. Her name is Aziya, a Kyrgyz-Kazakh artist living in Prague, Czech Republic. Although coming from a family of artists, it was only three years ago when Aziya allowed herself to dive deep into the world of art by becoming a full-time artist. Now, her works are being sold for thousands of dollars, and her exhibitions are being held in the greatest art capitals of the world.

As political relations deteriorate, Armenia's economy is more closely linked to Russia than ever.

The ambitious China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) railway project is continuing to face major funding challenges, with the three participating countries yet to agree on a financing agreement.

Growing up, Assel Baimukanova saw her father, a marine biologist Mirgaliy Baimukanov, monitoring Markakol lenoks, a species of fish that can only be found in the Markakol Lake in Kazakhstan. She wanted to follow in his footsteps. He, however, wasn’t so keen on it. “Why do you need to be digging in the cold all your life?” Now she is 32, and despite getting her degree in philology as her father wanted, she spent over ten years in the marine biology field working alongside her father and her hydrobiologist sister.

Kazakhstan is mourning the tragic loss of over 40 lives in the deadliest coal mine fire in the country's post-Soviet history. Rescue efforts continue despite 45 confirmed deaths as the country grapples with safety concerns and the nationalization of ArcelorMittal Temirtau.

The amendments, which further empower the communications regulator, have drawn criticism from the Council of Europe.

The Brussels meeting between the Armenian Prime Minister and the Azerbaijani President was cancelled due to time constraints, according to Toivo Klaar's announcement yesterday.

We live in a time when ethnic conflicts and identity politics are on the front pages of every news media. Yet one nation’s struggle remains unrepresented—the discrimination of Uyghur people in China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. We spoke with one of the most prolific Uyghur activists in the West, Rushan Abbas, whose personal story is intertwined with the oppression and genocide of Uyghurs in China from the very beginning.

Azerbaijan and Turkey conduct joint military exercises near the Armenian border while foreign ministers from these countries, Iran, and Russia meet in Tehran to discuss regional issues, including Karabakh.

The closer the EU comes to a decision on granting candidacy status to Georgia, the more polarized politics becomes within the country.

Uzbekistan’s tourism village scheme is highlighting best practice in community-based tourism by supporting the rural tourism industry, with one village, Sentob, winning the 2023 UNWTO award for Best Tourism Village.

Pashinyan’s statement to the European Parliament has elicited reactions from Baku and jailed former Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili.

Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran are continuing talks on the development of new transport corridors linking East and West.

Azerbaijan symbolizes its sovereignty over its previously occupied territory with the raising of its flag in numerous Karabakh towns and cities, including Khankendi.

At present, around one-third of the border remains undefined.

President Aliyev has invited Armenia for talks involving Georgia, but Armenia's response remains ambiguous. However, Georgia is optimistic about the prospects of a peace agreement in the South Caucasus.

The long-planned pipeline will be able to supply Azerbaijani gas via Türkiye to Nakhchivan, ending the exclave's dependence on Iran.

On 3 October media reported various arrests of several high-level de facto officials for crimes during their time working in the separatist region in Karabakh.

From winning the Best Director Music Video Award at the Cannes World Film Festival to producing the new music video for Black Eyed Peas, Kazakh filmmaker Malik Zenger has achieved impressive heights in his career this year alone. Yet behind his recent rise to fame are years of work, studies, and trials. Zenger’s filmmaking path wasn’t straightforward.

Some Armenians called it too little too late, but a UN fact-finding mission has now been to Karabakh and, while regretting the mass exodus of citizens, found no reports of violence against civilians or new damage to property.

Pushing ahead with its charm offensive on Tbilisi, Moscow offers free education to Georgians.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz holds summit with the five Central Asian nations’ leaders as Germany seeks to exert influence over the region.

Samvel Shahramanyan, the de facto leader of the NKAO, has signed a decree dissolving the unrecognized entity, but the writing has long been on the wall, writes Onnik James Krikorian.

Journalist and blogger Ulpan Ramazanova talked to us about her first art installation, “Safe Clothing(?)” in Almaty, organized to debunk the myth that sexual harassment is a result of what a victim wears and her own involvement in this “difficult and unpleasant topic” to give voice to the anonymous victims through her projects.

Ethnic Armenians are leaving Karabakh, citing “ethnic cleansing.” However, Azerbaijan categorically denies such allegations and remains committed to the peaceful reintegration of the region.

Traditional housing used among many Central Asian nations today is utilized as an eco-friendly glamping option in the Western world. This is not the first instance when the heritage of the oppressed and underrepresented ethnic groups is used for profit. Yet who is to say what makes it cultural appropriation?

Talks have taken place in Yevlakh between Azerbaijan and representatives of Karabakh's Armenian population involving military disarmament and regional integration.

The Armenians of Karabakh can still sign up to a “manageable” agreement on integrating into Azerbaijan, argues Gerard Libaridian, but they need to stop a sense of self-denial in failing to recognise that they won’t get everything they want.

On September 18, Unesco unveiled 27 new World Heritage features including three in the Caspian Region countries, plus the extension of another in Azerbaijan.

On 20 September, the de facto authorities in Karabakh agreed to Azerbaijan's ceasefire terms.

On 19 September, Azerbaijan has enacted counter-terrorism measures in response to alleged terror attacks in the former NKAO. Onnik James Krikorian analyzes the recent developments

Amid concerns about security, energy, and water scarcity at the summit of the five Central Asian leaders and the Azerbaijani president, calls were made to cooperate as a region to handle these issues.

Jana Cekara Film Festival was set to be hosted in Almaty for the second year to advocate for the violation of rights of Turkic nations in China’s Xinjiang region. Yet a few days before the film festival was planned to open, the Kazakh National Security Committee pressured the venue providers to refuse to host it. Jana Cekara’s team, despite losing the venue, decided to move the festival online, refusing to be silenced in the country that some suggest supports the Chinese government on their “re-education” of Muslims in East Turkistan.

Russia seeks to recruit Central Asians for its war in Ukraine, using various tactics including coercion, promises of citizenship, and exploitation of labor migrants, as it strives to avoid mobilizing ethnic Russians and public backlash ahead of the 2024 presidential elections.

Humanitarian aid has finally arrived in Karabakh marking a crucial step in addressing the region's humanitarian needs amid ongoing challenges.

Kazakhstan is leading the charge in reviving the Aral Sea, which while once a vital ecosystem, now remains a stark reminder of environmental consequences.

Following Arayik Harutyunyan's resignation as de facto leader of the former NKAO, the future of the region remains uncertain.

In the wake of sanctions on Russia, Türkiye is on course to become a dominant naval player in the Caspian.

Bride kidnapping cases are growing in Central Asia, and Kazakhstan is no exception. Part of the society in rural areas explains that it’s part of the Kazakh tradition “Qyz Alyp Qashu,” while experts are looking into ways to toughen the penalty for the crime. 

Georgia's political scene is in turmoil as Georgian Dream seeks to impeach President Zourabichvili following years of discord, notably on EU integration, casting doubts on the nation's stability and commitment to its European future.

The de facto president had been under pressure to step down, including from billionaire former state minister Ruben Vardanyan.

Onnik James Krikorian heads to Gardabani to meet leading surviving exponents of the Turkic troubadour tradition in eastern Georgia’s Azerbaijani community. Despite many challenges for exponents, the art form continues to inspire a passionate following.

This weekend, artists and musicians brought a real buzz to Lachin City, culminating in a gala concert that appeared to delight Azerbaijani president Ilham Aliyev and his wife, Mehriban Aliyeva, for whom it doubled as a kind of birthday treat.

Tahmina Rafaella, the director and lead actor of "Banu," talks about her journey and the societal issues in her native Azerbaijan that inspired her to create her debut movie.

The Kazakh village of Ulken is set to host a new nuclear power plant, but while some residents are hopeful of the resulting population boom, others are more worried about the potential environmental impacts.

An update on recent developments in Chinese-Russian-Central Asian affairs.

From plummeting values to emergency rate hikes, Central Asian economies and migrants in Russia feel the impact of the weakened ruble.

Although PM Pashinyan’s favoured candidate is still expected to win Yerevan’s mayoral election on 17 September, the return of former mayor and Pashinyan critic Hayk Marutyan to the race could prove decisive in determining the country’s future.

Rodney Dixon KC’s preliminary observations have highlighted many crucial shortcomings in former ICC Prosecutor Moreno Ocampo’s outrageous report accusing Azerbaijan of genocide.

Ashgabat’s shifting position opens the way for expansion of natural gas supplies to Europe.

In 2014, when Russia proposed sending convoys of ‘humanitarian aid’ to prop up its de-facto puppet states in Eastern Ukraine, the West reacted angrily. However, this month the EU and UN backed Armenia’s attempts to send a convoy to Karabakh. Hypocrisy?

During Georgian PM Garibashvili’s visit to China from 26 July to 1 August, the two countries governments established a strategic partnership. While this has many benefits for the Georgian economy, it has left some wondering what this means for Georgia’s relationship with the West.

Following the mudslide in Racha, Georgia, many questions are being asked. What exactly happened, could this tragedy have been prevented, and could it happen again?

Despite new laws regarding animal abuse, incidents continue to make headlines in Kazakhstan, but what more is being done to prevent these horrific acts of cruelty?

Despite continuing to consider the Taliban a terrorist organization, Kazakhstan signed $200 million in contracts with Afghanistan on 2-3 August, leaving some perplexed.

Last month, international journalists and media experts attended the Shusha Global Media Forum, and while the discussion was varied and balanced, many pro-Armenian lobbyists are outraged and harassing those involved.

Georgian-Armenian artist, poet, and puppeteer, Armen Hovhannisyan, uses his puppet shows to unite the Armenian, Azerbaijani, and Georgian communities living in the multicultural municipality of Marneuli, Georgia.

With a variety of little-known but beautiful mountain passes of varying altitudes, could Azerbaijan provide a new hotspot for mountain biking enthusiasts?

Reports from some Armenian and European commentators suggest that an Azerbaijani stranglehold over supplies is causing a humanitarian catastrophe in rump-Nagorno Karabakh. But when Baku set up a new aid route via Agdam, Armenians blocked that. What’s the geopolitical game?

War journalist, educator, and all-round maverick Thomas Goltz died on July 29. He rose to prominence in Eurasia with his unique first-hand reports from conflicts in Georgia, Chechnya, and especially Karabakh, where he was one of the first to report the Khojali massacre.

Is the world heading for a ‘post-truth’ world as AI starts to affect journalism? This was just one of several important questions debated by a high-powered conference of international media figures over three days in Azerbaijan’s cultural capital, Shusha. Mark Elliott attended for the Caspian Post.

Iranian chess player, Sara Khadem, was issued with an arrest warrant after competing at chess championships without a hijab in Kazkahstan in December 2022. Now, she has been granted Spanish citizenship and claims she has no regrets.

At last weekend’s Shusha Global Media Forum, Caspian Post correspondent Mark Elliott had a rare opportunity to join a lengthy in-person Q&A with Azerbaijan’s President, Ilham Aliyev. Here he shares his impressions of the event.

Activists and experts agree that the recession of Aqtau's shoreline will have dire consequences, with energy plants, ports, and trade routes at particular risk.

Azerbaijan celebrated its National Press Day on July 22, a day that is tied to the publication of an Azerbaijani language newspaper 148 years ago.

Leila Aliyeva, the founder of Always Inspired, one of Azerbaijan's most popular podcasts, talks about her journey from a corporate career to an anonymous food blog to an open and honest podcast discussing mental health.

After the Washington Post reported that the U.S. is considering sanctions against Kyrgyzstan, a Kyrgyz official states the the country has not been informed of the possibility of this.

While Aliyev and Pashinyan’s latest Brussels meeting marked a fairly unremarkable continuation of their slow, steady progress towards an eventual peace treaty, Moscow’s reaction was an unexpected change of posture regarding their on-the-ground peacekeepers.

Mineral mines are a great potential source of wealth in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia but also have the potential to do great environmental harm. Three decades after the USSR, how is the industry doing in the South Caucasus?

Despite positive statements from EU, U.S., and UK Special Envoys concerns have not dissipated surrounding potential "black holes" in Georgian customs allowing Russia to circumvent sanctions.

This week Azerbaijan hosted the latest summit meeting of the Non Aligned Movement. President Ilham Aliyev, the organsation’s current chairman welcomed numerous heads of state to Baku but the press focused particularly on his criticisms of French President Emmanuel Macron.

Leps claims he has paid out bounties to Russian troops for destroying Ukrainian tanks

The 9 July snap elections announced by Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev are likely to have profound effects on the domestic, regional, and international future of the country.

At the SCO Council of Heads of State, hosted by India, the presidents of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan urged members to financially cooperate to improve development.

Following a court video showing jailed Georgian ex-president Mikheil Saakashvili looking emaciated, Ukraine has summoned the Georgian ambassador to appeal to his country.

A new law is threatening Kyrgyzstan’s age old traditions of freedom of expression. Aleksandre Davitashvili looks at the history of democratic thought amongst the Kyrgyz and examines the nature of the threat that the country faces.

Three days of high level talks aimed at finding a peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan concluded as planned on Thursday despite more deaths on the ground in Karabakh at the start of the week.

Canada, Britain, Sweden, and Ukraine will take Iran to the International Court of Justice over the 2020 downing of a Ukrainian airliner. Most of the 176 victims were from these countries. Iran claimed it was accidental.

Turkmenistan opens futuristic "smart" city Arkadag, dedicated to former president Berdymukhamedov, featuring all-white buildings, electric vehicles, and a population of 73,000.

On the occasion of Eid al-Adha, Sheikh-ul-Islam of the Muslims of the Caucasus, Allahshukur Pashazadeh, sent the message, "I pray to Allah Almighty to protect the Ummah and all of humankind, to save the world from the disasters of war, terror and hatred, and to bless our world with peace and tranquillity. May Allah bless you all."

Kazakhstan's Alexander Bublik clinches his first grass court title at the Halle Open, defeating Andrey Rublev in a hard-fought match with two service breaks. The victory comes just before Wimbledon and adds to Bublik's previous tour title in 2022.

Dina Smailova is an activist and founder of Ne Molchi Kazakhstan, a foundation helping victims of sexual violence and domestic abuse, who is not afraid to confront the government, NGOs, and the system. We discussed why she had to relocate to Tbilisi, Georgia, and why she can’t return to Kazakhstan.

German President Steinmeier discusses close collaboration between the EU and Kazakhstan to prevent the evasion of Western sanctions on Russia amid the ongoing Ukraine crisis. He also supports an agreement for increased oil supplies from Kazakhstan to Germany, securing fuel provisions in eastern Germany.

The Middle Corridor trade route has been of great geopolitical importance since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine—not just over land, but in the sky too. Kazakhstan hopes to capitalize on this potential for increased air traffic and become a new transport hub between East and West.

Punk legends The Exploited have been touring Eurasia crossing geopolitical fault lines with concerts in Turkey, Armenia and and Georgia. Onnik Krikorian met the band after their Tbilisi show and reflects on what it means.

Despite brutal repression by the Iranian regime, the women, life, freedom movement in Iran continues to resist with remarkable resilience, challenging the regime through nonviolent resistance, cultural expression, and acts of defiance such as removing headscarves and dancing in public.

Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited Iran, the first by an Uzbek president in over 20 years. They signed 11 agreements to enhance cooperation in trade, transport, technology, and more. Both nations also discussed setting standards and exploring trade deals, given their shared border with Afghanistan.

The US is engaging in talks with Iran to curb its nuclear program, release detained citizens, and unfreeze Iranian assets. The aim is to maintain stability and prevent potential conflicts, with a focus on de-escalation, nuclear restrictions, and prisoner exchanges.

Georgia plans to build a second civilian airport near Tbilisi, aiming for economic gains as an international air transport hub. However, this contradicts an existing agreement and raises concerns about compromising national security and defense capabilities

What do you think of when you hear “Soviet architecture”? Gray building blocks? Emblems of arms and hammers? Lack of individuality? All are correct. Yet today, we take a look at when Soviet architecture produced something beyond its cliche buildings and explored different shapes, creating the style of Soviet Modernism.

After wildfires in the Abai region of Kazakhstan killed 14 forestry workers, the government issued a day of mourning as firefighters continue to battle the blaze.

The weather may have been grey and drizzly in Ankara on June 3, but the inauguration ceremony of the newly re-elected Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan was undoubtedly a noteworthy affair.

The U.S. and Iran both deny reports that they are nearing a deal that would offer relief from sanctions for Iran in return for ceasing its nuclear program, an allegation that saw oil prices drop by $3 a barrel.

Snow leopards are an important symbol in Kazakhstan, and now vital steps are being taken to save them, including the conservation of their habitats, a nature reserve, and a rehabilitation centre.

Could Central Asia provide a new backpacking trail? Patrick Norén investigates.

The figurehead president warned that denying EU membership candidate status would embolden Russia and empower the already-ascendant forces of illiberalism in Georgia.

Following recommendations put forward by Links Europe, JOLIG plans to gather young Azerbaijani and Armenians together for a Tbilisi summer camp.

Nationalist calls for migrants in Russia to "pay their dues" are starting to be heard against a mounting backdrop of xenophobic sentiment.

With a full peace treaty between Azerbaijan and Armenia in sight, one thing is still unclear: what will happen to the individuals who led the separatist movement in Karabakh? Azerbaijan's president has an idea.

Armenian, Azerbaijani, Georgian, and Turkish bands were united during the Wacken Metal Battle in Tbilisi.

Azerbaijani and Israeli presidents, Ilham Aliyev and Isaac Herzog, meet in Baku to further strengthen bilateral ties.

On 28 May, the first group of IDPs returned to Lachin, over 30 years since they were forced to leave.

Georgia’s breakaway republic of South Ossetia voted out Anatoly Bibilov as de-facto president in recent elections. But that didn’t stop him from decreeing a referendum on the entity’s possible annexation by Russia – even though it seems that nobody else publically supports such a vote.

Aisana Ashim, a 31-year-old media entrepreneur and founder of multiple publications, is fighting for independent journalism in Kazakhstan.

See a brief recap of Brussels meeting between PM Nikol Pashinyan and President Ilham Aliyev. What are the implications?

As Georgian Dream leave the Party of European Socialists, Alexander Davitashvili considers what implications this may have on Georgia’s future.

Despite increased resistance from Russia, the Circassians annual demonstrations went ahead on 21 May.

An Azerbaijani production, Hadis, was chosen from over 3200 others to be shown at the Annecy Festival. The animation is a homage to Hadis Najafi, who was shot dead during the 2022 protests in Iran.

The European Union's forthcoming sanctions against Russia will seemingly extend their reach to include Central Asia. These measures are intended to address third-party countries that are assisting Russia in circumventing existing sanctions.

Georgian footballer, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, has helped Napoli to win a Serie A title after 33 years.

By 2040, the city's metro network is to be radically expanded and an 80-kilometer-long light rail transport network should be built.

With West-led sanctions against both countries, Russia and Iran have signed a deal to finance and build a rail corridor that "can rival the Suez Canal."

Russia is moving away from military call-ups and instead is increasingly trying to attract Russian and migrant contractors.

Kazakhstan is looking to its roots for a new cultural revival.

A successful YouTuber from Azerbaijan, Jamila Musayeva, whose content on etiquette and manners has gained over 770 thousand subscribers and more than 23 million views on her channel, shares her view on etiquette, the importance of knowledge, and how facing fears is paramount to success.

In the world of fine jewellery, Sevan Bıçakçı is well known, winning multiple awards and having his jewellery worn by celebrities.

Today marks 100 years since the birth of Heydar Aliyev, who is referred to as Azerbaijan’s 'national leader.'

On 15 May, Russia will cancel visa requirements for Georgians, and direct flights between the two countries will soon resume.

The president of Turkmenistan attends Moscow’s 9 May celebrations.

Iran has executed two men accused of blasphemy, drawing angry reactions from Amnesty International.

In their discussions in Washington, Azerbaijan and Armenia have “demonstrated a sincere commitment to normalize relations” said U.S Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken.

Türkiye has closed its aerospace to Armenian flights heading onwards, in response to the unveiling of a statue of a controversial figure in Yerevan.

As the importance of the Middle Corridor increases due to sanctions on Russia, so too does the West’s reliance on Georgia.

Peace beckons as Blinken brings together Mirzoyan and Bayramov for four days of Azerbaijan-Armenia talks in Washington.

The EU ambassador to Georgia, Pavel Gerchinsky, states that the EU wants to provide the option to join but the country “will decide for whether they want to be a member of the EU or not.”

Music teacher, Habil Mammadov, hopes to organize a concert where his students can perform in his newly liberated hometown of Aghdam, where he was forced to flee from occupation.

"Uyat" (shame) in Kazakhstan enforces gender stereotypes, victim-blaming, and inadequate protection for women and children.

Good news about malaria in the Caspian Region: there isn’t any!

Leila Mekhdiyeva interviews Veronica Fonova, a 30-year-old graphic designer and feminist activist in Kazakhstan. She is the co-founder of KazFem, has participated in the UN Women’s Conference, and established a reliable source on domestic violence statistics.

Azerbaijan Expels Four Iranian Diplomats for 'Provocative Actions'

In the years before independence, Stepnogorsk had become a key node in Moscow’s biological weapons program and uranium industry. Now it is one of many Kazakh provincial towns framed by its Soviet legacy.

Full, mutually agreed territorial recognition by both Azerbaijan and Armenia is crucial for peace, says Nikol Pashinyan.

Lelo Burti: Georgia's Traditional Folk Sport

One of North Ossetia’s potentially attractive tourist destinations, the Digorsky Gorge, is to be ‘saved’ from mineral extraction and offered stronger protection according to the republic’s political chief.

On April 11, seven soldiers died in a shoot-out on the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. Each country has called the clash a ‘provocation’ as both sides argue as to who shot first and why.

Russia Faces Serious Problems in Developing North-South Trade Corridor via Caspian Sea

China Unveils ‘Grandiose Plan’ for Central Asia

Kyrgyz Eco-activist's 'Trashion' Tackles a Burning Problem Kyrgyz Eco-activist's 'Trashion' Tackles a Burning Problem Kyrgyz Eco-activist's 'Trashion' Tackles a Burning Problem

Xinaliq, one of Caucasus's highest settlements, is a magical place with its own language and timeless traditions.

A ferry service from Sochi, Russia to Trabzon, Türkiye is expected to re-start from May 1st.

Azerbaijan and Iran Trade Denunciations as Tensions Mount

What Do Closer Chinese-Russian Ties Mean For Central Asia?

World Court to Rule on Iran-US Frozen Assets Claim

Azerbaijan Investigates 'Terror Attack' After Lawmaker Wounded in Shooting

Leila Mekhdiyeva talks to Kazakhstan’s successful filmmaker about his professional path, his successes, and his creative plans for the future.

Learn more about Richard Sorge, widely celebrated as "the spy to end all spies." Born in Azerbaijan to Russian and German parents, he went on to influence the course of WW2.

As the holy month of Ramadan begins, Edward Rowe looks at four of the Caspian Region’s important, if lesser-known, Islamic gems.

Punks in Georgia: In the wake of the war in Ukraine, Tbilisi’s already imaginative music scene is getting an added boost from an influx of alternative-minded Russians.

A triple tweet from Azerbaijan opens up the possibility of a new, higher-level round of talks between Baku and the Karabakh Armenian community. Will it lead anywhere?

Georgian PM Tells Ukraine's Zelenskiy Not to Meddle in His Country

Ethnic Azerbaijani children of the small town of Gardabani, Georgia, are spreading messages of friendship and community through the ground breaking new junior theatre, Beez.

Global Environmentalism as a Peacemaker in the South Caucasus

In post-Soviet countries like Kazakhstan, International Women's Day is marked each year by near-mandatory gifts of flowers, but is this all it's meant to be? Leila Mekhdiyeva shines some light on the good, the bad, and the ugly of March 8.

Shootout at Karabakh - Five Dead, What Are the Implications?

Iran Charges Several Outlets Over Reports on Wave of Sick Children

For an unusual side glimpse at the short-lived Azerbaijan Democratic Republic (1918-1920), take a look at the state’s small and appealingly basic series of postage stamps.

The relationship between Kazakhstan and Russia is complicated, but after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, Kazakhs have been reflecting a little more angrily about the way their republic was brutally shaped by Russian power over the past century.

Ani: an Ancient Ghost City with 21st-Century Implications

The terrible quakes in Turkiye and Syria galvanized over 100 nations to send helpers and aid, including all ten countries of the Caspian Region.

Analysis-Central Asian Aviation Sees Opportunities in Ukraine Crisis

Happening now: The high-level talks between Azerbaijan and Armenia are currently underway in Munich, Germany, with the mediation of the US Secretary of State Blinken.

Armenia’s foreign minister’s visit to Ankara surprised many observers. Was it just a goodwill gesture or does the trip signal an expedited opening of the Turkiye-Armenia border in the near future?

Growing up in Almaty, Leila Mekhdiyeva started to discover prejudice against her for being half-Azerbaijani. However, rather than giving up her mixed identity, she went on to explore and celebrate her Azerbaijani roots.

Molla Nasreddin magazine highlighted the hypocrisy of the Muslim clergy, the inequality of women, the imposed backwardness of the poor due to inadequate education and the unreasonable disdain of the Russified intelligentsia towards all things Azerbaijani.

It’s an understatement to call Armenia-Turkiye relations ‘frosty.’ However, with the dispatch of Armenian aid workers, there are encouraging signs of a reopening of dialogue.

“If we don't think in [our language, it] no longer exists.” So says Dr. Lale Javanshir, one of the main forces behind an educational programme which helps Azerbaijanis in Iran develop technical and written skills in their mother-tongue.

Two earthquakes killed more than 2,600 people across #Turkiye and northwest Syria on Monday, taking down whole apartment blocks and piling devastation on millions.

After losing his partner, Arzu, in 2008, Omid has flown the 5000km migration alone. Read the background story on the last Siberian crane to fly the Western Route.

For January 27, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Edward Rowe tells the story of three heroic men from the Caspian Region who helped save the lives of hundreds of Jewish families.

Nightingales are not just birds in Azerbaijan. They’re also celebrated singers - a member of the Karabakh Nightingale Ensemble producing one of the most celebrated recordings of 20th century Mugham music.

Legendary Georgian singer and film actor, Vakhtang Kikabidze, has died at the age of 84. He was famed for his Soviet-era performances but also for his vocal political support of Georgia and against Moscow’s post-2008 aggression.

Today is Christmas Day for Georgians, Ukrainians, Russians and some other Eastern Orthodox Christians. But why do they celebrate on January 7? Well, it all has to do with ignoring a 16th-century pope.

Ahmet Agaoglu was a Turkish-Azerbaijani politician, educator and journalist, well remembered in both Turkiye and Azerbaijan. His story is as tumultuous as the times he lived in.

December 31 is the World Solidarity Day of Azerbaijanis, a day commemorating the tearing down of border fences between Nakhchivan and Iran in 1989. What’s happened to Nakhchivan since then, and why has its leader recently resigned?

You might not associate leopards with the Caspian countries, but in fact there are two distinct sub-species in the region. Both are very rare, but naturalists and photographers have been gathering ever more evidence of their survival.

Italy is the latest to criticise Iran’s crackdown on protesters. But although Iran might be using softer language recently, it seems that Tehran still sees its heavy-handed policy as successful. Are there any winners in this situation?

Mark Elliott explored the cafe culture of Ganja during his visit to Azerbaijan last month. Turns out it's much more than tea.

After ten days on the "Lachin" Highway, Azerbaijani protesters continue to demonstrate, ostensibly against unlicensed mining in Armenian-administered areas of Karabakh, but the geopolitical stakes are higher.

Not so long ago Georgians would not hide their outrage at the ‘blemish’ of street art on the buildings and alleys of their capital. Now street art is widely accepted as one of the city’s cultural treasures — even as its legality remains murky.

One of Eurasia's great flyways funnels migratory birds between the Azerbaijani shore of the Caspian Sea and the steep crag of Besh Barmag. This year an international team of ornithologists spent three months counting them.

Lachin, Karabakh, Azerbaijan, Armenia

The Tashkent International Tourism Fair is the biggest showcase for new ideas in tourism in the Central Asia region. Uzbekistan's Samarkand is set to be the World Tourism Capital in 2023.

This past weekend thousands of Caspian Seals were found dead on the beaches of Dagestan in Russia. Learn a bit more about the endangered species and what might have happened here.

Russia and Armenia both use "passportization" to support unrecognized separatist states in Georgia, Azerbaijan and Moldova. How do they get away with it?

November 8 is "Victory Day" in Azerbaijan, commemorating the day Azerbaijani forces retook the city of Shusha during the 2nd Karabakh War. In this article, Mark Elliott takes us with him to see what's along the road to Shusha.

The region of Adjara, Georgia, has a significant Muslim population, its own dialect of Georgian, and some amazing architecture. Check out these wooden mosques - some nearly 200 years old.

London’s World Travel Market is a window into the heart of the global tourism industry. This year, the Caspian Region was better represented than ever before.

If both sides step back from semantic arguments, a solution for opening Armenia-Azerbaijan borders could be within reach.

Hackers again hit Iranian state TV this weekend, posting an image of the Supreme Leader in rifle crosshairs. Who is behind the hacks and what is the Albanian connection in this latest round of an undeclared cyber-war?

What role have Azerbaijani-Turks played in Iran's recent protests? For some of the country's minoritized ethnicities, the issues behind the demonstrations are just a selection of many more.

September’s re-ignition of conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia has set forth a flurry of international diplomacy. What’s going on and why?

A young musician arrives in an Azerbaijani mountain village in a prize-winning short film called "Leila's Violin," written with a dreamlike magic and stylistic elements reminiscent of the great director Sergei Parajanov.

The Nobel Prize is just one of many legacies of a Swedish family whose investments and remarkable new innovations helped transform Azerbaijan’s oil production from the 1870s, helping Baku to be one of the world’s main petro-cities by 1905.

Vostok 2022, a week of military exercises in far eastern Russia, apparently saw 50,000 men from 14 countries on manoeuvres. Were there really contingents from both Yerevan and Baku?

Georgia's link to Europe is more ancient than most people think. Alexander Davitashvili analyzes the events that formed the country's current ambition to join the EU.

Russian Jews Head for Israel as Kremlin Targets Emigration Group

A group of ancient Christian hemit caves known as Davit Gareja in Georgia and Keshikchidag in Azerbaijan straddles the border on a semi-desert scarp. Could the site’s management offer an opportunity for cultural cooperation?

No, they aren’t assassins, despite what the world was once told by a careless headline writer. A full decade later the non-story of Iran’s lady ninjas continues to reverberate.

‘Welcome home’ to ten Azerbaijani families who on July 19 became the first returnees to move into the high-tech “smart village” of Aghali in the de-occupied Zangilan Region of Karabakh.

Zabukh – known by Armenians as Aghavno - is one village that will revert to #Azerbaijani control in 2023. Will its residents decide to stay once the families of original residents move back home?

Vienna-based composer, ethnomusicologist and music theorist, Aria Torkanbouri, discusses some "not encouraging" realities for Azerbaijani-Turk musicians in Iran.

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Amid all the attention on the war in Ukraine, two historic foes in the South Caucasus are close to reaching a peace agreement that would help alleviate Armenia’s isolation. The potential rapprochement is in parallel to progress on establishing diplomatic ties between Armenia and Turkey. Together, these factors can potentially upend the geopolitics of the South Caucasus.

Crimean Tatars (2)

Simon Stylites was a 5th century Christian mystic, later celebrated by Tennyson for having spent decades meditating on the top of a pillar. In Katskhi, Georgia, you’ll find a chapel in the sky, refashioned for latter-day Stylites.

What is it like to learn to read and write as an adult? Nahid Jafari, a Ph.D.-holding assistant professor, understands the feeling, as do many other Azerbaijani-Turks from Iran.

Russia's war in Ukraine is just the latest conflict to afflict one of Europe's least know ethnic groups - the Crimean Tatars.

Illiberalism can be defined exactly as it sounds - opposition to or restriction of liberal ideas and actions.  The stance seems to be having its own global renaissance over the last few years. Emil Avdaliani explores how the phenomenon is playing out in the Caucasian country of Georgia.

Delimitation and demarcation of the border is a harder challenge than it seems for Azerbaijan and Armenia. Base maps, Soviet-era exclaves and changing on-the-ground realities categorize the issues.

Discover the life and achievements of Ali Javan, an influential Azerbaijani-American physicist and pioneer in laser technology.

What’s a modern-day gift fit for a king – or queen? Azerbaijan thinks it knows the answer, at least when it comes to Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee.

Last weekend experimental techno music fans in Uzbekistan became champions for publicizing one of the world’s most dire ecological catastrophes. How? Simply by attending the ultra-remote Stiha Festival.

Has Russia's invasion of Ukraine changed the South Caucasus forever? Emil Avdaliani explores how Georgia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, wedged between Russia and Europe, are each handling the new geopolitical situation.

March 24 saw the death in exile of Reza Baraheni (1936-2022), one of Iran’s most important literary figures of the 20th and 21st centuries and a foremost campaigner for minority rights in his homeland.

Sergei Paradjanov's The Colour of Pomegranates (1968) is a beautifully stylized examination of the 18th-century minstrel poet who went by the pen name 'Sayat Nova.' He composed songs in Azerbaijani, Armenian, Georgian and other languages.

Chess legend Garry Kasparov, who later became a prominent opposition figure in Russian politics, spent his childhood and formative years in the multi-cultural melting-pot that was Soviet Baku. Recently, he has talked more about the assistance he received in his youth from both his devoted mother and the Azerbaijani authorities that provided key facilities he needed to focus on becoming world champion.

The mournful sound of a twin-reed traditional oboe brings a mysterious atmosphere to many a movie sound track and was one of the recordings that NASA included on its 'Hello Aliens This is Earth' gold disc that was sent into space with the Voyager probes. The instrument’s name might be Balaban, Duduk or Mey according to your language but its wistful music could be seen as a potential bridge to transcend national divisions between nations.

Having Russia as a powerful neighbour is never easy, but things are even harder during the Ukraine war when countries like Georgia, who are politically closer to Kyiv than to Moscow, are forced to walk a diplomatic tightrope.

Behind the headlines of the Russian invasion and the heroic attempts to defend Ukraine, there are other far less supportive images, notably the sexualization of those who have sought sanctuary in other countries.

Call it Novruz, Nowruz, Nooruz, Nauryz or Navruz, the spring equinox festival is the most significant holiday period for Iran, Azerbaijan and many people in Central Asia. However, the associated customs vary considerably between countries and regions.

The most prominent Azerbaijani-Turkish rap artist in Iran - Payam Turk. His music has millions of views, despite rejection by authorities as "inappropriate." Is it the rap that's the problem, or his mother tongue?

Faced with a growing flood of Russians fleeing their sanction hit country, Georgia sees both opportunity and peril: the real estate market has started to boom, but locals fear the influence of newcomers on their society.

If you have female colleagues based in the Caspian Region, don’t forget flowers or gifts for them on March 8 – International Women’s Day. Mark Elliott tells the story of one ex-pat in Azerbaijan who made that mistake once, and never made it again.

Vahid Qarabagli caught up with Tabriz-based award winning documentary filmmaker Mohammad Alimoradi. In the interview, he discusses both the joys and challenges of this type of work in Iran.

Alexander Davitashvili meets up with a couple of Ukrainians stranded in Georgia.

February 26 marks the 30th anniversary of the horrific Khojaly Massacre. In 1992, Armenian forces attacked the Azerbaijani town of Khojaly, brutally ending the lives of 613 people.

Among the many ethnolinguistic communities in Azerbaijan, we find the Udi people of Nij. Considered to be the descendants of the ancient Caucasian Albanians, they speak a language indigenous to the Caucasus. What can we know for sure of the group's history?

Minoritized groups in Iran have taken to Twitter with the hashtag #ManoFarsi, meaning "Farsi and Me." The campaign is building awareness of ethnolinguistic rights issues and solidarity among non-Farsi speakers.

Nailya Bentley gets that people have stereotypes, but when does a stereotype turn into racism? In this article, she reflects on her experience as an Azerbaijani on Twitter, calling on Neil Hauer, “Ani Wandaryan”, Ana Kasparian, and even the singer Cher to cool their heels.

A surreal 1976 film about a deaf ‘prophet’ creating an absurdist ‘Stone Garden’ in the middle of Iran’s semi-desert turns out to be loosely based on truth. Its star was the creator of just such a ‘garden’ where lifeless trees produce heavy stone fruit. The Caspian Post’s Mark Elliott went to have a look at the lonely site, which remains mesmerizingly intact.

When is an Ark not a properly loved Ark? When its history doesn’t fit the main official narrative, suggests Vahid Qarabagli.

Shusha, Karabakh

On January 20th, Azerbaijan mourns at least 133 civilians brutally mown down in 1990 on the streets of Baku by Soviet troops.

Care for some cow foot soup? Khash is a popular Caucasian stew, often eaten early in the morning or as a hangover cure. It might not look very appetizing but it's great with company and vodka, especially in the cold season.

The first UFC Fight Night 2022, is just two days away - January 15th. The main event of the evening will be the featherweight battle between #Georgia’s own GIGA CHIKADZE, the “Ninja” and American Calvin Kattar, the "Boston Finisher."

Hair flies wildly as dervishes perform trance-like ‘dances’ on the rooftops of a spectacular Kurdish stepped village. Welcome to Howraman Takht’s Pir Shalyar Festival in far western Iran.

Nailya Bentley explains that although the holidays in Azerbaijan look a lot like Christmas in the west, it's something entirely different. Say hello to Grandfather Frost and his sidekick, Snow Girl, living relics of the USSR.

Sociologist Sanam Vaghefi notices a lot of tension between expatriates from the Caspian area and people who choose to stay in the "old country." Why do diaspora communities romanticize their homeland, while locals idealize life abroad?

With new world records at the 2021 Tashkent Weightlifting Championships, Georgia’s heavyweight superstar Lasha Talakhadze once again proved that he is indeed the “World’s Strongest Man.”

You've probably seen Turkish TV shows popping up in your Netflix feed. These shows are not just great television, but also empowering the biggest minority group in Iran.

Christoph Baumer's latest book from I.B. Tauris publishers sets a new bar for scholarship when it comes to the Caucasus.

Mark Elliott remembers his first visit to the Caspian and ponders the apparent contradictions of seaside resorts where attractions include rain and the chance to swim fully dressed.

In the picturesque region of Quba - the Jerusalem of the Caucasus.

London’s musical "Voices of Peace" event stands out amid a flurry of celebrations one year after Azerbaijan’s reclaiming of its once-occupied lands through the Second Karabakh War.

Duff Crerar shares his perspective on the effect of one-issue lobby groups on Canadian foreign policy.