DYNAMIC TEAS BUSINESS FORUM ATTRACTS CAPACITY AUDIENCEAlso in this issue:Richard Morningstar nominated as new US Ambassador to AzerbaijanKarabakh horses participate in Queen’s Diamond Jubilee PageantFraudulent Armenian elections attract widespread condemnationCrystal Hall is ready for EurovisionIsfar Sarabksy – Azerbaijani jazzman extraordinaire20 years of Shusha’s occupation commemorated

MAGAZINECulture • Business • Politicswww.teas.euNews • Views • Interviews

May 2012

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18 MayGochag Askarov and his Ensemble Mugham ConcertThe Front Room, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Southbank Centre, Belvedere Road,London, SE1 8XX17.30–19.00hrs. Admission Free.

TEAS is pleased to support this concert by Gochag Askarov and his Ensemble as part of the Friday Tonic series. Having performed to wide acclaim at the WOMAD Festivals in the UK, New Zealand and Australia, vocalist Gochag has cut several CDs and appeared in the award-winning film The Mystical Music of Mugham Comes to Montana, produced by TEAS. He is renowned as one of the foremost living exponents of classical mugham, with a voice of unmatched purity and passion. This concert has been rescheduled from February, when Gochag’s flight was cancelled, due to bad weather in Baku. Please e-mail: editor@teas.eu for further details.

TEAS EVENTS

P 3Politics and News

P 5Culture

P 7Personalities

P 9TEAS around Europe

P 10Nagorno-Karabakh

P 12BusinessNews

P 14Corporate Profile – Bakcell

P 15ITECA Caspian advertisement

P 16Facts and Figures

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US President Barack Obama has announced his nomination of Richard Morningstar as US Ambassador to Azerbaijan. This career diplomat is currently the US Secretary-of-State’s Special Envoy for Eurasian Energy. He also served as US Ambassador to the EU from 1999–2001. Morningstar’s predecessor was Matthew Bryza, who left the post in January after serving just over a year in the position, having secured the role as a special recess appointment by President Obama.

Morningstar, aged 67, is considered to be one of the architects of the US policy on Azerbaijan. Ali Hasanov, Head, Department for Social and Political Issues, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, commented: “Richard Morningstar is well-informed about Azerbaijan as well as the entire South Caucasus and Caspian Sea basin. He is an experienced diplomat who is well-versed on politics; US energy policy in Azerbaijan; and the world’s energy interests. If he is appointed, we will welcome him here.”

Rasim Musabayov, an Azerbaijani political analyst, reiterated this view: “He is a very experienced and influential person, and knows Azerbaijan very well. He is knowledgeable on oil policy and has been directly dealing with the region for 10–15 years. Considering his experience, I don’t predict pro-Armenian senators posing roadblocks for his approval.”

Theories of nationhood debated in the House of LordsOn 24 April, a group of around 50 diplomats, dignitaries, academics, and others attended a fascinating lecture at Committee Room G in The House of Lords entitled What is a Nation? The lecture was delivered by

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as Russia, Oman, and India, the Royal Windsor Horse Show featured three Karabakh horses and a troupe of dancers, who brought an Azerbaijani spirit to the proceedings.

Organised by the Azerbaijan Equestrian Federation, the Azerbaijani Ministry of Culture and Tourism and TEAS, the team from Azerbaijan drove to Windsor in a 17-day road trip. The presence of the breed was particularly apt, as a Karabakh stallion named Zaman was presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1956.

There were also pavilions for Azerbaijan and Oman in the grounds of Windsor Castle. In the Azerbaijani Pavilion, visitors had chance to increase their knowledge of the country’s traditions – including dance and mugham music – and economic development over the past 20 years since it regained independence. They also enjoyed traditional Azerbaijani hospitality, including paklavas, and tea, heated in a samovar.

During the proceedings, H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador the UK; Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS; and General-Lieutenant Elchin Guliyev, Chief, Azerbaijani State Border Service and President, Azerbaijan Equestrian Federation, were received by Queen Elizabeth II. General-Lieutenant Guliyev thanked Her Majesty for the opportunity to participate in the event.

The Karabakh racing and riding horse was developed in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan and originally bred during the 18th Century. It is an elegant, muscular, horse, renowned for having a golden tint to its chestnut or bay hair. Some equine experts regard it as having a significant impact on the development of the Arabian breed.

In the early 20th century, Karabakh horses sharply decreased in numbers, due to civil and ethnic wars in the region. Most Karabakh horses are now bred in Azerbaijan’s Sheki region, and there are now less than 1000 examples of the breed in the world.

the renowned political scientist Dr James Dingley, Chairman, Francis Hutcheson Institute, at the invitation of The Lord Laird of Artigarvan and supported by TEAS.

Dr Dingley began his talk by outlining the historical background to nationhood, looking at the impact of nationalism and self-determination, and relating this to the creation and dissolution of nations throughout the 19th and 20th Centuries. He considered the impact of a common religion, language and culture in determining a nationalist spirit, together with the requirement for economic harmonisation, which developed during the 18th Century.

He continued by outlining the concept of the nation as a stabilising force, enabling the rule of law to be established and maintained, with class distinctions being used to subdue the mass of society. Modern nationalism, in particular, seeks to replace ethnicity with a shared identity with the state.

Dr Dingley continued by comparing Enlightened and Romantic Nationalism. The former arose with the rise of the individual and freedom of thought, reason and belief, and its connection with science and rationalism. The latter emphasised that ethnic differences were the determining factor, encouraging the development of monocultural, monoreligious nations. He also spoke on how Communist régimes in Eastern Europe sought to deconstruct national identities, whereas the Ottoman Empire permitted ethnic identities and worship practices to be preserved, so long as the people submitted to Ottoman rule.

He concluded that the more enthnocentric and monoreligious a nation is, the less tolerant it becomes, as group solidarity takes precedence over the rights of the individual. Dr Dingley’s address attracted many questions from the informed international audience.

Three rare Karabakh horses take centre-stage in WindsorFrom 10–13 May, over 1,000 performers and 550 horses from around the world staged a glittering pageant in the grounds of Windsor Castle in a stirring start to the major celebrations to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Each evening was attended by thousands of visitors. Alongside examples of horsemanship from such countries

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Richard Morningstar is an acknowledged expert on energy, Azerbaijan and the Caspian region

The beauty and agility of the Karabakh horses delighted the audience

New French President Hollande congratulated by AzerbaijanFollowing his election on 6 May, H.E. François Hollande, the new Socialist French President, received a congratulatory letter from Azerbaijani President Aliyev. He stated: “The high level of interstate relations and our fruitful co-operation in the political, economic and humanitarian spheres are very reassuring. Our joint activities in international organisations, within the framework of European institutions, and in the area of energy security, are characteristic of our bilateral co-operation and collaboration in the multilateral format.

“As a country co-chairing the OSCE Minsk Group, France has played an important part in the negotiated settlement of Azerbaijan’s most painful problem – the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh – on the basis of international law. We are hopeful that your country will further enhance its efforts in the peace process, and that you will personally contribute to this cause.”

Mubariz Gurbanli, Azerbaijani MP, commented: “I hope that, after the anti-Turkic actions and statements by Sarkozy, which didn’t yield any result, Hollande will have a clear opinion on the matter.” He also noted that resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict depends not on the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs and the Co-Chair countries, but on their joint activity. He explained: “If the three countries simultaneously place pressure on Armenia, we will achieve the desired result.”

Armenian election marred by fraudInternational observers gave a mixed assessment of the Armenian parliamentary elections that took place on 6 May, praising the pre-election environment in the country, but reporting irregularities in a “significant number”

of polling stations on voting day. The election saw President Sargsyan’s party, the Republican Party of Armenia, achieving 44 per cent of the vote, whilst another party in the ruling coalition, the Prosperous Armenia Party, won 30 per cent. In their preliminary findings, nearly 300 observers, mostly deployed by the OSCE, avoided stating whether the vote was democratic.

Francois-Xavier de Donnea, a Belgian parliamentarian who headed a short-term OSCE monitoring committee, commented: “Armenia deserves recognition for its electoral reforms and its open and peaceful campaign environment but, in this race, several stakeholders too often failed to comply with the law. Election commissions frequently failed to enforce this. As a result, the international commitments to which Armenia has freely subscribed were not always respected.”

Representatives of smaller monitoring teams deployed by the European Parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) agreed with this conclusion. Baroness Emma Nicholson, who led the 27-strong PACE team, expressed concern over: “Reports of widespread interference regarding the running of polling stations, voters’ movements and the casting of votes throughout the day by certain political parties. The authorities must address this unacceptable behaviour before the presidential election next year.”

The observers’ joint preliminary report referred to “undue interference” in the voting process. It continued: “While opening procedures were assessed positively in almost all polling stations observed, voting was assessed negatively in 10 per cent, which is considerable. Unauthorised people, mostly proxies, interfered in or directed the work of 12 per cent of the precinct election commissions observed.” Vote-buying was the principal fraud allegation voiced by the Armenian opposition, even before the closure of the polls.

Voting irregularities marred Armenia’s 2007 parliamentary election, while clashes between police and protesters killed 10 people after the 2008 presidential vote in which Sargsyan was elected.

Azerbaijani expatriates convene in BerlinA convention of the Congress of European Azerbaijanis (CAE) has taken place in Berlin. Bashar Komur, President, CAE,

revealed that 61 diaspora organisations from numerous European countries were in attendance. He explained that the CAE is working hard to counter the anti-Azerbaijani efforts of the Armenian lobby, and has taken important steps to bring the truth about the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh to the attention of the world community.

Ali Hasanov, Head, Department for Social and Political Issues, Azerbaijani Presidential Administration, said: “Azerbaijan’s growing power and achievements of international importance have been annoying its enemies and prompting them to embark on anti-Azerbaijani activities. Diaspora organisations have a great responsibility to fend off anti-Azerbaijani efforts by hostile forces and to communicate accurate information about the country to those in Europe and beyond.”

Azerbaijani President meets UN Secretary-GeneralIn New York, Azerbaijani President Aliyev met Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary-General. Ban Ki-moon underscored the importance of the Presidential visit to New York visit since Azerbaijan took over the UN Security Council Presidency for May. He reiterated his support for placing the topic Threats to International Peace and Security caused by Terrorist Acts on the agenda of the UN Security Council, as it remains a very pressing issue.

President Aliyev outlined Azerbaijan’s role in the war on terrorism and in the counter-terrorism coalition. He spoke of the political and economic reforms that have been undertaken since Azerbaijan regained its independence in 1991. He also reiterated the country’s position on the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

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New French President Hollande will hold considerable responsibility for steering the OSCE Minsk Group peace talks to the next level

President Aliyev exchanged views with Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary-General, at the outset of Azerbaijan’s month-long presidency of the UN Security Council

a setting for voice and orchestra of Bahar Yagishi (Spring Rain) by Ramiz Abdullayev.

On 6 July, there will be the première of Tanz der Tulpen at the Badisches Staatstheater in Karlsruhe, written for String Ensemble. Then, in October, her work will be performed during the Est-Ovest Festival in the Baretti Theatre, Turin, by the Xenia Ensemble, featuring a setting of a text by Guido Barbieri, accompanied by a balaban and Italian traditional percussion.

Qasimov to perform for his largest audience – at EurovisionOn 26 May, the performance by the Azerbaijani Eurovision entrant Sabina Babayeva will take on a new dimension when she is joined on stage by legendary mugham singer Alim Qasimov in the final of the Eurovision Song Contest. Since turning professional in 1977, Alim has become the most well-known mugham singer, performing concerts and participating in festivals across the world.

Alim’s passionate voice has won him a host of fans, including Icelandic singing sensation Björk, who described him as her “favourite living singer.” His participation will enable Sabina to incorporate elements of mugham as she sings When the Music Dies on the Eurovision stage. Alim commented: “Our intention is to introduce the Eurovision audience, particularly young people, to our legendary Azerbaijani mugham, which hopefully will soon achieve global glory.” A reviewer in The New York Times once stated: “Alim Qasimov is simply one of the greatest singers alive, with a searing spontaneity that conjures

Bakuvian photojournalist Rena Effendi has given a well-received exhibition at the renowned Kiçik Qalart art gallery in Baku’s Old City. The exhibition, entitled Liquid Land, was sponsored by the Embassy of The Netherlands to Azerbaijan. Photographed between 2002–10, Effendi’s camera focuses on the Absheron Peninsula, where the earth breathes with petrol fumes and oil rises to the surface, turning it liquid. Throughout, Effendi photographs the omnipresent urban and environmental decay, and the people living in the area. This is juxtaposed with the butterfly collection that is the legacy of her father, the dissident scientist Rustam Effendi. The current exhibition at the gallery is Actual Tradition, a contemporary art project by Faig Ahmed. To find out more, go to www.kicikqalart.az.

Mirzayeva’s work goes internationalSince graduating from Stuttgart University, 27-year-old Azerbaijani composer Günay Mirzayeva has been studying in Rome at the Santa Cecilia Conservatory, whilst simultaneously studying under the renowned composer Dr Wolfgang Rihm at Karlsruhe Conservatory. Her latest works indicate that she is developing her own voice, synthesising Azerbaijani mugham with the European avant-garde.

In January, the renowned Swiss clarinettist Eduard Brunner premiered Aus der Ferne in Karlsruhe, written for solo clarinet. The following month, the inaugural performance of Mirzayeva’s First Symphony was given at the Azerbaijan State Philharmonic Hall by the Azerbaijan State Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Fuad Ibrahimov. In April, she will contribute to the Gran Gala Concert in Bergamo at the Donizetti Theatre with

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Sabina gives Swiss Global concertSabina Rakcheyeva, the first Azerbaijani graduate from the Juilliard School in New York; Member of the European Cultural Parliament; and Cultural Adviser, TEAS, has given a concert amidst the historic surroundings of Leighton House in West London, organised by the Swiss Global Artistic Federation. Sharing a billing with Irish mezzo-soprano Naomi O’Connell, she performed tracks from the CD UnVeiled. To order your copy, go to www.sabinarakcheyeva.com.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Effendi’s lens captures the reality of oil exploitation for local people

Her remarkable images bear testament to the enormous impact of energy exploitation

passion and devotion, contemplation and incantation.”

Sabina explained: “It’s such an honour for me to perform with one of the greatest living Azerbaijani singers. I am so happy to share the Eurovision stage with Alim. I’m sure that together we can produce something really amazing. It will be a wonderful opportunity to show the entire world our very special musical culture. I hope it will be a truly great moment for Azerbaijan.”

Alim replied: “I first saw Sabina’s performance, I was indeed amazed by her voice, artistic skills and talent. I am very happy that such a young and gifted lady is representing Azerbaijan, and I hope she gives a really good performance.” Sabina has recently recorded a special ‘ethnic’ version of When the Music Dies, featuring the balaban and kamancha instruments. Working in collaboration with Alim, this has been produced by Azerbaijani sound producer Yashar Bakhish. This version may be heard at http://bit.ly/SabinaTrad.

Ali and Nino in the City of LightsA show entitled In the Footsteps of Ali and Nino, after the famous novel by Kurban Saïd, has been performed at the Sorbonne University in Paris. Set before the establishment of the Azerbaijani Democratic Republic in 1918 and the Bolshevik revolution, this is a love story between a young Azerbaijani aristocrat and young noble Georgian – one Muslim and one Christian. The stories follow the heroes of the novel across Azerbaijan and Iran, contextualised with historical events.

In this reworking by musicologist and pianist Saida Zulfugarova (see TEAS Magazine, April 2012, pp.8–10) and playwright Charlotte Oriole, the understanding of others, sharing and love took centre stage. The performance comprised a reading of excerpts from the novel, interwoven with Georgian and Azerbaijani songs; compositions by Vagif Mustafazedeh, Azer Rzaev, Uzeyir Hajibeyli and Fritz Kreisler, amongst others; together with traditional Azerbaijani and Georgian dances. An a cappella Georgian choir also participated in the performance.

Baku to host Maiden Tower Art FestivalThe third Maiden Tower International Art Festival will take place in Baku on 17–19 May at the initiative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. This annual festival is intended to promote the Maiden Tower, and will be attended by well-known artists from 18 countries. It is jointly organised by the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Maiden Tower Art Gallery and the Icheri Sheher State Historical Architectural Reserve.

By decorating the Maiden Tower models with patterns in national styles, the artists

will create works that reflect the synthesis of different cultures and national traditions.Models of gazelles will be presented to draw attention to the Caucasian Big Five Animals, which are on the brink of extinction, as part of the IDEA environmental campaign. These will be decorated by artists who participated in earlier editions of the festival. At the closing ceremony, images of tower models from previous festivals will be projected on the walls of the Maiden Tower. Modern post-production video technology will be used to create the images, with 30 projectors from seven different points realising 360° images.

Novruz in DurhamThe Novruz celebration in Durham took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel, organised by the Azerbaijani Community in Durham and sponsored by TEAS. Around 100 guests attended the event, mostly MBA, Masters and Ph.D Students and Professors from Durham Business School. Gunel Ferecli explained Azerbaijani culture, including the significance of Novruz; Professor Nick Ellis of Durham Business School outlined the economic growth of the country; and Urkhan Seyidov, Chair, Azerbaijani Community in Durham, commented on foreign and domestic policy. Following this, dancer Shalala Bayramova performed Sari Gelin, and guests enjoyed national food and drinks.

Eurovision venue Crystal Hall openedAzerbaijani President Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva have inaugurated the main arena for the Eurovision Song Contest – the newly-constructed Baku Crystal Hall. The Eurovision final will take place on 26 May, being watched by 125m viewers. The hall will hold 25,000 people, being designed for future use as a major concert venue. The Crystal Hall is situated near State Flag Square. Azerbaijan won the right to host the prestigious Eurovision Song Contest after the victory of Ell and Nikki with their song Running Scared. The 2012 Azerbaijani entry is When the Music Dies, performed by the established Azerbaijani singer Sabina Babayeva. To see the video, go to http://bit.ly/SabinaB.

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British play covering Nagorno-Karabakh performed in EstoniaThe première of Four Seasons (Nelipuhad) by UK playwright David Edgar has taken place in the Estonian Drama Theatre in Tallinn. The play deals with the conflicts of the 1990s, and details the lives of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). The play includes testimony from a character named Rauf, an IDP from Nagorno-Karabakh. Estonian actor Märt Avandi, who starred in the role of Rauf, spoke some dialogue in Azerbaijani.

NEWS IN BRIEF

The presentation of this well-known story was extremely thought-provoking

The joy of Novruz was embodied at the Durham event

In the Footsteps of Ali and Nino successfully brought the pre-Revolutionary Azerbaijani spirit to Paris

The Baku Crystal Hall is set to be the focus of the world when it hosts the Eurovision Song Contest

International star Emin to give solo concert in BakuThe singer Emin Agalarov (known as Emin) is to perform at the top nightspot Euroclub in Baku on 27 May. During the concert, he will sing alongside 20 Russian and Azerbaijani dancers and musicians. Emin is also to perform at the final of the Eurovision Song Contest on 26 May, although not in competition. He revealed: “I will present the new single Never Enough, and am looking forward to the contest with great interest and joy.” During a press conference, he commented that he would appear on This Morning on ITV in the UK.

Emin’s new UK single, entitled Baby, Get Higher has rocketed straight into the top 40 airplay chart this week, ahead of new releases from Rihanna and Coldplay. Charting for the first time at number 40, within a week of release, the single is proving a huge hit with UK radio, scoring over 18m impact ratings. It is expected to climb further over the next few weeks, ahead of Emin’s hotly anticipated guest appearance at the Eurovision final.

Brian Rawling, Emin’s producer, commented: “We are delighted – the single is heading to be a smash hit in the UK.” The video can be viewed at http://bit.ly/Babgethigher.

The 21-year-old Azerbaijani jazz pianist Isfar Sarabsky is one of Azerbaijan’s most remarkable musicians. He began his musical studies at the age of seven years, when he enrolled at the Bulbul Music School in Baku. Following the early indications of his talent, he went on to study at the Azerbaijan National Conservatoire, where the Rector is the renowned composer, pianist and educator Farhad Badalbeyli (see TEAS Magazine, July 2011, pp.8–9).

Isfar soon became a mainstay at the Baku Jazz Centre, and participated in the Baku International Caspian Jazz and Blues Festival. He became a laureate of the Issyk-kul Festival in Kyrgyzstan, and started to perform across the world, including participation in the Silda Jazz Festival in Norway. However, the turning point in Isfar’s career came when he won the Jazz Solo Piano Competition at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 2009. TEAS interviewed Isfar when he travelled to Brussels to perform with the other members of his trio – the Russians Makar Novikov (bass) and Alexander Mashin (drums) at an event organised by TEAS Belgium.

Is the first time you have performed in Brussels?Isfar Sarabsky (IS): This is the second concert we have given in Brussels, the first of which was at the European Parliament in 2009. It is a pleasure to perform here. Aleksander Mashin (AM): In fact, this is the fourth time I have visited Brussels, although this is the first time I have done

so as part of Isfar’s trio.Makar Novikov (MN): This is the first time I have visited Brussels, and have liked what I have seen of the city so far.

Which pieces will be included in the concert tonight?(IS): Tonight’s programme will comprise both jazz standards and my own compositions, entitled G Man and Déjà Vu. It will be an interesting selection, and I hope that the Belgian audience will enjoy the concert.

Is the work of the late Azerbaijani pianist Vagif Mustafazadeh your primary influence?(IS): Vagif Mustafazdeh was the pioneer and developer of a new jazz form,

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where he fused jazz with mugham. He contributed a great deal to both Azerbaijani jazz and Azerbaijani music, in general. Vagif was responsible for many beautiful compositions, which are still played on the radio. Naturally, we will perform one or more of these this evening.

Your music includes examples of American jazz standards from such composers as Duke Ellington and Herbie Hancock. How were you exposed to such music?(IS): These names are musical giants for us. Herbie Hancock and other talented pioneers sought to further develop jazz music. They achieved a great deal, and have benefited generations of performers and listeners.

(AM): I was first introduced to these names when I first became involved with jazz around 20 years ago. I was greatly impressed and affected by the music of Duke Ellington, and this became the foundation for my studies. Following this, I was introduced to the music of Herbie Hancock, which left a great impression on me and significantly affected my future development. All jazz musicians must acknowledge their debt to such musicians.

You also include jazz interpretations of Azerbaijani mugham themes in your performances. How important is this for you, as an Azerbaijani musician?(IS): Mugham is our folk music and, of course, remains close to my heart. You can always go deeper in this music and

Isfar Sarabsky – a great Azerbaijani musical export

Isfar Sarabsky’s technical ability is undeniable

The sense of excitement pervading each of Isfar’s performances is palpable

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find something new. It is a great pleasure and interesting to improvise on jazz-mugham music. Mugham is very ancient, and its roots extend across the centuries. It is still performed extensively, and has formed the basis of many different improvisations.

(AM): Although we perform alongside Isfar, we are Russian, and have little knowledge of mugham. However, it is interesting for us to experience mugham, particularly as it contains a high level of improvisation. As all are aware, jazz is also based on improvisation, and the combination of jazz with mugham is very interesting, resulting in a unique musical form.

How popular is jazz music and performance in Azerbaijan at the present time? (IS): Azerbaijani jazz is currently of a very high level. There are many young jazz players, all of whom are trying to produce music that is interesting and new; cutting new recordings; and studying to perfect their art. Jazz has always been popular in Azerbaijan – jazz was never just another musical genre in Azerbaijan. It has always been one of the jazz capitals hosting interesting concerts, and the Baku International Caspian Jazz and Blues Festival runs each year. There are many promising young Azerbaijani jazz musicians.

(AM): In the past, Baku was one of the most international cities in the Soviet Union. Jazz became very popular because it was played there a great deal.

(MN): In eastern countries, such interesting and new musicians as Isfar are emerging, as they are synthesising their culture with jazz music in an unusual manner. There have been many developments in the music over the years, and this has led to the emergence of the classic jazz genres that we know today. These are long-established, and

there is little to add creatively.

(AM): The addition of a new culture results in an interesting mix. In the case of Azerbaijan, this indigenous form, which blends so well with jazz, is mugham.

Do you collaborate with international musicians?(AM): I have participated in various projects, and collaborated with musicians from across the world. During the past few years, it has become normal to invite many US jazz musicians to Russia to perform in international ensembles. I have performed with numerous US musicians in Moscow. I have also shared a bandstand with many other Azerbaijani musicians. All of the members in Isfar’s trio are constantly collaborating and performing with different ensembles, enabling them to enrich their abilities by learning from other musicians.

The turning point in your career came when you won the Jazz Solo Piano Competition at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 2009. How did you come to

enter the festival? Which pieces did you perform?(IS): The Montreux Jazz Festival was a big step forward for me, and I spent two years preparing for this. Actually, I knew of this festival when I was a child, but never thought I would participate, as I knew it was a pinnacle of achievement. I was privileged and honoured to represent Azerbaijan at the festival. The studies and preparations were very demanding, but eventually it all started to have positive results. I went there to perform my music, and demonstrate my abilities. It felt wonderful to achieve first place. I wouldn’t consider my performance to have been of the very highest level, but it was still a nice feeling to achieve this. The organisers specified many of the pieces I performed at the Montreux competition, but I was also asked to perform some of my own compositions and some standards.

Do you have any plans to release your first CD?(IS): We have been playing together for a long time, and I am happy to be surrounded by these wonderful guys, who are first-rate musicians. We have been working on our programme for some years, and have a complete repertoire. Now is the time to release a CD.

(AM): I agree – the current programme is very popular, and we should release a CD.

Alexander Mashin’s polyrhythmic drumming is exhilarating and complex

Isfar’s Trio also comprises a powerhouse rhythm section of Makar Novikov (bass) and Alexander Mashin (drums)

Part of Isfar Sarabsky’s recent performance at the TEAS Jazz and Cocktail Evening at the Concert Noble, Brussels, may be viewed at www.teas.eu/teas-tv. He can also be seen playing his composition In memory of Vagif Mustafazadeh at the Baku International Caspian Jazz and Blues Festival at http://bit.ly/Vagif1.

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9• position TEAS as a constructive partner for the Azerbaijani community in Brussels and Belgium.

What are the challenges in the EU environment?The multiplicity of organisations and political structures in Brussels has made it extremely challenging to become known in a relatively short period. In Brussels, there are approximately 30,000 lobbying organisations, 5,422 diplomats, 40,000 EU officials from different institutions, around 3,000 journalists, and in the region of 65,000 meetings are organised each year. Thousands of press releases, political texts, articles and other documents are circulated on a daily basis, which makes it challenging to extract the most relevant information and use this in an effective manner.

What type of events are you organising to alter existing conceptions of Azerbaijan?TEAS Belgium is organising many cultural events that emphasise the heritage of Azerbaijan. Through exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events, TEAS endeavours to outline the rich and varied history of the country.

Political and academic events, such as roundtables, lectures and debates on relevant topics have also taken place. TEAS also tries to organise ‘information sessions’ for political groups in the European Parliament. Various Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have subsequently commended TEAS Belgium for its clarity and effective participation in the information-building process.

To what extent are the realities of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict fully understood in the EU?The realities of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict are quite well-known amongst MEPs and other EU officials as an ongoing conflict at Europe’s borders that could possibly constitute a real danger for the Eastern Neighbourhood. This has been recently recognised in the EP Resolutions regarding the EU-Azerbaijan and EU-Armenia Association Agreements. These reports stipulate explicitly that the security and economic stability of the South Caucasus is dependent on peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Numerous MEPs have stated that this is only possible if a sustainable peace settlement, based on recognition of the principle of Azerbaijani territorial integrity, is agreed in accordance with international law. Generally speaking, many European stakeholders are aware of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, but only the officials and people that have visited the region are consistently politically active on the issue.

How strong is the Armenian diaspora in the EP?The Armenian diaspora in Brussels is quite active, and thus TEAS Belgium aims to counterbalance the debate on delicate issues in a constructive manner. On an EU level, the Armenian diaspora has proven reluctant to stimulate a constructive debate and is happy to perpetuate the rhetoric that we commonly hear from Yerevan. The proximity of different Armenian diaspora organisations in Brussels makes it easy to have a good overview on the initiatives and messages they are issuing to political and economic stakeholders. At TEAS Belgium, we see it as our responsibility to ensure that the reality on the ground for the IDPs and refugees is reflected in the statements made by various European actors.

How would you describe EU’s relationship with Azerbaijan?The EU is generally seeking a closer relationship with Azerbaijan towards gradual economic integration and a deepening of political co-operation. The relations between Azerbaijan and the EU date back to the early 1990s, and the support of the European Commission has extended to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries (TACIS Programme).

A Partnership and Co-operation Agreement became effective in 1999. In 2003, the EU engaged further with Azerbaijan through its European Neighbourhood Policy. In May 2009, a further step was taken regarding the participation of Azerbaijan in the EU Eastern Partnership. Actually, the EU and Azerbaijan are working on an Association Agreement, and the EP voted on the framework in April 2012.

The EU and Azerbaijan have a constructive relationship and are mutually aware of their interests. However, it is often challenging to understand which position the EU is adopting. With regard to the Council of the EU’s conclusions on the South Caucasus (3149th Foreign Affairs Council meeting, Brussels, 27 February 2012), TEAS Belgium notes that the Council of the EU recognises Azerbaijan’s rapid development, yet continues to apply double standards towards South Caucasus conflict resolution. This should be avoided, since Europe should not withdraw from its responsibilities. Only by mutual endeavours can the two entities really understand each other’s interests.

Although TEAS is headquartered in London, during the past three years it has opened branches located in Baku, Berlin, Brussels and Paris. Each has different strategic objectives and is experiencing challenges that are specific to its political environment. This first instalment of this new section takes a glance at TEAS Belgium, where TEAS Magazine spoke to Roman Huna and Philippe Cuylaerts:

Why was it important for TEAS to establish an office in Brussels?The name itself – TEAS – is already indicative of the European dimension that is a pillar of the organisation. As an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), TEAS builds bridges between Europe and Azerbaijan, promoting co-operation between European and Azerbaijani stakeholders. It was essential that a TEAS office had to be established in Brussels – the capital of the European Union (EU).

In Brussels, Azerbaijan is regarded as an EU strategic partner, although knowledge of the country remains limited. TEAS Belgium provides European policy-makers with first-hand information on Azerbaijan, including such sectors as trade, culture, religion, energy, E-governance, education and legal reform.

Brussels is located at the heart of European policy, boasting the highest density of diplomats, journalists, politicians, political organisations and NGOs in the world. TEAS’ presence in Brussels positions Azerbaijan in the midst of daily political action.

What are the main objectives for your office?A principle objective of TEAS is to propose middle- and long-term resolutions on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in the European Parliament (EP) and to the various parliamentary assemblies present in Brussels and Strasbourg. In particular, TEAS Belgium needs to underline the continuing injustice regarding the Armenian occupation of Azerbaijani territory, the violation of international law in this regard and the situation of Azerbaijani refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), together with achieving sustainable and peaceful settlement of this conflict.

TEAS Belgium also aims to:• stimulate political initiatives (resolutions,

written or oral questions, speeches, interviews, debates, etc.) on Azerbaijan and its emerging relationship with the EU

• inform all European stakeholders on key aspects of Azerbaijan, using a range of communication methods and personal contacts

• place Azerbaijan in the centre of the political debate in Brussels and in Europe

• become the main provider of information on Azerbaijan in the European capital

TEAS AROUND EUROPE: BELGIUM

To contect TEAS Belgiumemail: brussels@teas.eu

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Retired Bryza speaks outMatthew Bryza, the former US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, has retired from the US State Department. Despite this, his support for the Azerbaijani perspective on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict remains undimmed. Whilst speaking at a recent event in Washington D.C., organised by the Jamestown Foundation, Bryza identified internal reform, energy, and security as the three pillars of US foreign policy in the Caucasus.

From Bryza’s perspective, the biggest conundrum in the Caucasus is Nagorno-Karabakh. Mr Bryza maintained that the US: “Has lost its way in the last few years,” as the Nagorno-Karabakh peace process took a back seat to the failed attempt at Turkish-Armenian normalisation. He continued: “The problem is that neither the Azerbaijani or Armenian President trusts his counterpart sufficiently to take the final step and agree on a comprehensive peace formula.”

In his opinion, the stalemate will continue until the US government: “Leans in at a very senior level and helps break the ice” between the two Presidents. Prior to taking up his responsibilities in Baku, Bryza served as US co-chair of the OSCE Minsk Group, tasked with achieving a negotiated settlement to the conflict. He continued: “Turkish-Armenian normalisation is also a very important process,” but cannot occur “in the absence of a breakthrough in Nagorno-Karabakh” since Azerbaijan’s allies in Turkey will hinder reconciliation until the Nagorno-Karabakh situation is resolved. Bryza went into an early retirement at the start of 2012 after the US Senate declined to confirm his recess appointment as US Ambassador to Azerbaijan. US-based Armenian diaspora organisations had expressed strong opposition to this decision.

NAM approves final document on Nagorno-Karabakh conflictDuring a ministerial meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) has adopted a final document, which reaffirms the importance of resolving the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict within Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity. In a statement, Elman Abdullayev, Spokesman, Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry, revealed that the NAM Co-ordinating Bureau adopted the final document on 9 May.

Abdullayev explained that one of the items in the document confirms that the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict poses a threat to stability and security in the region. He continued: “The NAM member countries have reaffirmed the importance of conflict resolution based on three internationally-recognised principles – through negotiations, respect for Azerbaijan’s territorial integrity and non-use of force.” According to Abdullayev, the fact that the NAM, comprising 120 countries, has adopted such a document proves that Azerbaijan has a justified position on the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. Azerbaijan became a NAM member in May 2011.

Shusha: two decades on from occupationOn 8 May, Azerbaijanis throughout the world paused to remember the 20th anniversary of the Armenian occupation of Shusha and the devastation of this most picturesque and vibrant town in Nagorno-Karabakh. Shusha is uniquely important for the history and culture of Azerbaijan. This mountainous community gave Azerbaijan the

overwhelming majority of its poets, singers and composers, including the medieval princess-poet Natavan and Uzeyir Hajibeyli, who composed Layla and Majnun, the first Eastern opera, in 1908.

The future of Shusha has a crucial role to play in any settlement between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The soul of Shusha is not in the present-day Armenian-controlled ghost town – it lives among the communities of internally-displaced persons (IDPs) scattered around Azerbaijan. Therefore, restoring Shusha is not an architectural reconstruction project – it can only be an initiative that includes a peace agreement and brings its Azerbaijani natives back home.

Azerbaijani refugees’ plight highlightedIn a report from the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, Ulvi Telmansoy, a journalist for ANS, has highlighted the deplorable conditions under which IDPs and refugees from the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict reside. She stated: “Refugee officials say Ganja is home to 16,000 people displaced by the war, 11,000 of which are from Kelbajar, one of several areas outside Nagorno-Karabakh that the Armenians captured and simply retained. Many are still living in communal hostels, whilst the lucky ones have had housing built for them by the authorities.”

Ulvi continues: “The main problem is overcrowding in the hostels. There are four or five people to a room, sometimes even seven or eight,” Nushab Mammadov, head of the Tomris human rights organisation in Ganja, said. “This isn’t an isolated problem facing individual families – it affects the majority of refugees living in Ganja.”

After 20 years of Armenian occupation, Shusha remains a ghost town

Prior to his shortlived appointment as US Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Matthew Bryza was the US Co-Chair of the OSCE Minsk Group

IYDU announces draft resolution on Nagorno–KarabakhOn 13 April, The International Young Democrat Union (IYDU) announced the drafting of a resolution on Nagorno-Karabakh at its board meeting in Beirut. The IYDU draft highlights the four outstanding UN Security Council resolutions passed in 1993 as the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict raged in Azerbaijan’s occupied territories. Each resolution reaffirmed the inviolability of international borders and the inadmissibility of the use of force for the acquisition of territory. They also demanded the withdrawal of Armenia’s occupying forces. The IYDU highlights the fact that the resolutions were written in accordance with Article 2 of the UN’s charter, that: “All members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against

the integrity or political independence of any state…”

The IYDU recognises that 20 years is too long for a state of conflict to be permitted to continue by the international community, highlighting the fact that it is denying an entire generation the right to return to their homes; is obstructing economic development in the region; contravenes international law; and stresses that an escalation of hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan would “at the very least” threaten energy supplies from Azerbaijan.

OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs reiterate support for Sochi declarationThe Co-Chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, charged with achieving peaceful resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, travelled to Yerevan

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the four UN Secur i ty Counci l ’s reso lu t ions on the l ibe ra t ion o f Nagorno-Karabakh and the ad jacen t te r r i to r ies . I t i s the v iew o f TEAS tha t bo th Assoc ia t ion Agreements cannot be s igned wi th in the EU Eas te rn Par tner sh ip un t i l the Azerba i jan i occupied te r r i to r ies a re l ibe ra ted .

The Azerba i jan reso lu t ion s t ipu la tes the requi rement fo r reso lu t ion o f the Nagorno-Karabakh conf l ic t in accordance wi th in te rna t iona l law, h igh l igh t ing the ongoing p l igh t o f a round 875,000 in te rna l ly -d i sp laced per sons ( IDPs ) . The reso lu t ion a l so suppor t s the bas ic p r inc ip les o f the Hel s ink i Fina l Ac t ; the immedia te wi thdrawal o f Armenian fo rces f rom occupied te r r i to r ies su r rounding Nagorno-Karabakh and the r igh t o f a l l IDPs and re fugees to re tu rn to the i r homelands and proper t ie s . The new EP Reso lu t ion on the EU–Azerba i jan Assoc ia t ion Agreement c lea r ly suppor t s the pos i t ion o f Azerba i jan , inc lud ing Nagorno-Karabakh.

TEAS welcomes tha t the reso lu t ion acknowledges the p rogress made in var ious sec tors , such as t ransparency, in fo rmat ion and communica t ions technology ( ICT ) e -governance and deve lop ing conformi ty wi th EU s tandards . Azerba i jan i s wide ly applauded as p lay ing a pos i t ive ro le in the f ramework o f the ENP and cont r ibu t ing to the so lu t ion o f

NEWS FROM BRUSSELS

Dur ing the European Par l iament (EP ) P lenary sess ion in S t rasbourg on 18 Apr i l , the two reso lu t ions were adopted on the negot ia t ions o f the Assoc ia t ion Agreement be tween Azerba i jan and the European Union (EU) , and be tween Armenia and the EU. In 2009, Fore ign Min i s te r s o f the EU count r ies p rov ided the European Commiss ion wi th a mandate to s ta r t nego t ia t ions to conc lude the EU b i la te ra l Assoc ia t ion Agreements wi th Armenia , Azerba i jan and Georg ia . These wi l l become a new prac t ica l ins t rument , rep lac ing the b i la te ra l ac t ion p lans .

Bo th EP reso lu t ions under l ine tha t the Assoc ia t ion Agreements be ing negot ia ted be tween the EU wi th Azerba i jan and Armenia should make the South Caucasus reg ion sa fe r, by p romot ing peace fu l se t t l ement o f the Nagorno-Karabakh conf l ic t . The EP h igh l igh t s the c ruc ia l ro le o f the OSCE Minsk Group in th i s p rocess , a l though the EP AFET Commi t tee has a l ready been d i scuss ing the idea o f the EU rep lac ing France . In bo th reso lu t ions , the EP c lea r ly says tha t the unreso lved conf l ic t p reven t s the fu l l rea l i sa t ion o f the European Neighbourhood Po l icy (ENP) , which i s the bas ic f ramework fo r the EU approach to the reg ion .

Armenia has no t ye t implemented

and Baku from 11–14 May, where they met Armenian President Sargsyan and Azerbaijani President Aliyev to discuss the most recent efforts made towards resolution of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

The Co-Chairs continued their discussions on how to implement the commitments made by the Presidents in their joint statement in Sochi, signed on 23 January. These included proposals to “accelerate” the achievement of an agreement based on the Basic Principles as a framework for a comprehensive peace settlement; working on the mechanism to investigate ceasefire violations; and the development of humanitarian contacts. The Co-Chairs expressed their concern over recent incidents along the frontline, and urged the sides to exercise restraint and refrain from retaliation. They also welcomed the sides’ reaffirmation of their commitment to seek a peaceful settlement.

the EU’s energy secur i ty p rob lems . Moreover, the reso lu t ion s t res ses Azerba i jan ’s p ivo ta l loca t ion fo r enabl ing a d i rec t and un impeded t rans i t l ink to be es tab l i shed be tween the EU and the count r ies o f Cent ra l As ia .

TEAS a l so welcomes the fac t tha t Azerba i jan i s seen by the European Communi ty as an impor tan t reg iona l par tner, p lay ing a pos i t ive ro le in the f ramework o f the ENP and cont r ibu t ing to the so lu t ion o f the EU’s energy secur i ty cha l lenges .

NATO Secretary-General Representative to visit AzerbaijanJames Appathurai, Special Representative of the NATO Secretary-General to the South Caucasus and Central Asia, will arrive in Azerbaijan in early July. He will participate in the events dedicated to NATO week in Azerbaijan. The official is also expected to attend the opening ceremony of Ceyrancol on 6 July, which is a joint project between the Azerbaijani National Agency for Mine Actions (ANAMA) and the NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency (NAMSA).

NEWS IN BRIEF

TEAS Business Forum highlights Azerbaijani-Turkish commercial opportunitiesMore than 250 Lords, MPs, Diplomats, academics, and businesspersons from Azerbaijan, Turkey and across Europe attended the annual Business Forum to be organised by TEAS on 2 May. Hosted in the historic London venue of No. 4, Hamilton Place, off Park Lane, this provided a valuable opportunity to learn about the potential for western businesses in two of the world’s fastest-developing nations.

Entitled Azerbaijan and Turkey – Diverse Investment Opportunities, this event focused on wide range of sectors, including energy; project finance and investment banking; development of the ICT industry; agriculture and food-processing. Altogether, nearly 40 speakers were on hand to give their expert opinions.

Organisation of the conference came at a pivotal time. Statistics indicate that the UK remains the greatest contributor of foreign direct investment (FDI) payments to Azerbaijan, amounting to 52 per cent. Azerbaijan has always enjoyed an excellent relationship with Turkey, and in late 2011 an energy protocol was signed between the two countries that paves the way for the construction of the Southern Corridor pipeline network, which will convey Caspian gas to Europe, bypassing Russia and representing the future of EU energy security.

Tale Heydarov, Chairman and Founder, TEAS, explained: “Azerbaijan has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, mainly due to its oil and gas resources, most of which will now pass through Turkey to the EU markets.

“Already, this has led to great economic

growth in both Azerbaijan and Turkey, whilst we face an economic downturn in Europe, due to such projects as the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline, which conveys oil from Azerbaijan to the port of Ceyhan on the South-Eastern Mediterranean coast of Turkey, before it passes on to Europe. The Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum pipeline similarly brings natural gas from the Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani section of the Caspian Sea to Turkey. In addition, the Kars-Tbilisi-Baku railway is currently under construction, connecting Turkey, Georgia and Azerbaijan, and creating stronger trade links between Europe and Asia.”

H.E. Peter Bateman, recently appointed UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan, acknowledged: “Azerbaijan is secular, tolerant and liberal, and it has experienced the highest GDP growth in the world in 2005 at 35 per cent. It is now time for this wealth to benefit the rural areas of Azerbaijan but, as the country is destined for 30–40 years of considerable oil revenues, this will happen. Altogether, more than 150 UK companies are present in Azerbaijan, not just in hydrocarbons, but in the retail and financial services sectors, amongst others. The Azerbaijani middle-class is in its ascendance, and there is also a huge construction boom taking place across Baku.”

Mark Field, MP for the Cities of London and Westminster, and Chairman of the Azerbaijan All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) commented: “There are considerable links between Azerbaijan and Turkey, and these are going from strength to strength. I have been to Baku and travelled across Azerbaijan, noting the considerable entrepreneurial flair of the Azerbaijani people. At a time when the UK economy is slipping back to recession, Azerbaijan is becoming an economic force to be reckoned with. In addition to the hydrocarbon industry, there are a great many opportunities for British companies in the financial services sector. The UK government has always supported Turkish accession to the EU, and as UK–Azerbaijani relations

strengthen, this represents a triangle of prosperity.”

Most of the major stakeholders in the proposed Southern Corridor were present during the energy session, highlighting the pivotal future role of Azerbaijan. Brendan Devlin, Advisor, Gas Policy, Directorate-General for Energy, European Commission, revealed: “The game has changed, and the EU wants the Southern Corridor to come to early fruition. The protocols signed between Azerbaijan and Turkey heralds this change, as Azerbaijan will become a transit hub for the Caspian region with a legal basis. The proposed Trans-Caspian Gas Pipeline will be a primary method of bringing gas from Turkmenistan and other countries to Azerbaijan, which will then be conveyed to the EU. The EU is always open to working with Turkey and Azerbaijan, and is fully supportive of the Energy Chapter.”

Al Cook, Vice-President, Shah Deniz Development, BP, pursued a similar theme: “The development of the Shah Deniz 2 field will open up the Southern Corridor to Europe when it comes on-stream in around 2017, by which time 80 per cent of gas will be imported to Europe. This represents a great opportunity for Azerbaijan. Huge strategic agreements have been put in place, and the proposed Trans-Anatolian Pipeline (TAP) is currently the preferred route to Italy. However, other pipelines, including Nabucco West, are also being considered. The co-operation between countries is based on emotion, and it is hoped that the relationship between Azerbaijan, Turkey and the EU will continue for decades to come.”

Each session attracted many questions from the floor, and the networking sessions proved to be both lively and stimulating, ending with a reception. The Gold Sponsors were DLA Piper, Synergy Group, Happold Consulting, Buro Happold, AFB Bank, Pihl and Bakcell. The Lunch Sponsors were Salans, KPMG, Gamesa, Kempinski Hotel Badamar and the Azerbaijan Turkey Business Association (ATIB).

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The concluding roundtable session featured (from left) Ali Apaydin, CEO, Triton and Board Member, ATIB; H.E. Ünal Çeviköz, Turkish Ambassador to the UK; Mehmet Öğütçü, Chairman, Global Resources Corporation; Göran Lindblad, TEAS Advisory Board; H.E. Fakhraddin Gurbanov, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK; Murad Ismayilov, Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy; and Tale Heydarov, Chairman, TEAS

Azerbaijan, TOTAL SA; Laura Parmigiani, Research Fellow, Centre for Energy, Ifri; Elio Ruggeri, Head of International Gas Infrastructure, Edison SpA; Gulmira Rzayeva, Research Fellow, SAM; and Konstantin Simonov, Director-General, The National Energy Fund, Moscow. Laura Parmigiani opened the floor by underlining the necessity for EU countries to diversify their gas supplies in order to reduce dependency on Russian Gazprom. Gulmira Rzayeva then presented the various potential gas pipeline projects starting in or passing through Azerbaijan, and underlined the advantages of the Trans-Anatolian Gas Pipeline, which she described as “a self-financed, self-sufficient and scalable project in which SOCAR would own the lion’s share of the infrastructure.” She also presented the different Nabucco sub-projects.

Konstantin Simonov and Elio Ruggeri respectively discussed Russian and Italian interests and strategies in the region. Finally, Nathalie Komatitsch presented TOTAL’s exploratory and production activities in Azerbaijan and mentioned the extensive resources of the Absheron field. She also stressed the attractiveness of the Azerbaijani market for European investors, where the contractual framework for investments is transparent and efficient.

Azerbaijan’s future role in European energy security debated in ParisTEAS, the Institut français des relations internationales (Ifri) and the Center for Strategic Studies, under the Azerbaijani President (SAM), have organised a landmark roundtable, entitled The Role of Azerbaijan in the European Energy Security Strategy. The event took place at the Ifri headquarters in Paris, and was attended by around 90 academics, diplomats, industrialists and entrepreneurs who wished to increase their knowledge of this important topic. The high number of participants showed the developing

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role of Azerbaijan as a European energy supplier.

In her introduction, Maïté Jauréguy-Naudin, Director, Ifri Energy Centre, thanked TEAS and SAM for their co-operation. She then passed the floor to Eliza Pieter, Director, TEAS France, who stressed the importance of addressing this topic in France in order to increase French stakeholders’ awareness of energy topics that relate to both the EU and Azerbaijan. Gulshan Pashayeva, Deputy Director, SAM, then presented some statistics to the audience, demonstrating how Azerbaijan represents the future of energy security for the EU.

Maïté Jauréguy-Naudin presented the five expert speakers to the audience. These were Nathalie Komatitsch, Vice-President

(from left) Maïté Jauréguy-Naudin, Director, IFRI Energy Centre; Nathalie Komatitsch, Vice-President Azerbaijan, TOTAL SA; Konstantin Simonov, Director-General, The National Energy Fund, Moscow; Gulmira Rzayeva, Research Fellow, SAM; Elio Ruggeri, Head of International Gas Infrastructure, Edison SpA; Laura Parmigiani, Research Fellow, Centre for Energy, Ifri; and Eliza Pieter, Director, TEAS France

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Corporate Profile

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BAKCELL

Bakcell was the first Azerbaijani mobile communications provider, and remains the primary mobile internet supplier in the country, offering an extensive range of mobile products and packages. In particular, it provides the leading 3G mobile system under the Sür@ brand name.

As one of the largest national non-oil companies, Bakcell continues to make extensive investments in the Azerbaijani economy through its activities in the latest telecommunications technology and its employees. Bakcell’s network covers more than 99 per cent of the population and 92 per cent of Azerbaijan’s land area, excluding the occupied territories. Bakcell is a leader in innovation, and focuses on bringing the best-quality mobile internet to Azerbaijanis via new partnerships and its Sür@ services. TEAS caught up with Richard Shearer, CEO, Bakcell, to find out more:

What is the specialisation of Bakcell?Established in 1994, Bakcell was the first company to provide mobile communications services in Azerbaijan.

What is the size of Bakcell?Bakcell has over 2.5m customers and around 1000 employees. As the fastest-growing operator in the Azerbaijani telecommunications market, the Bakcell subscriber base has experienced an average annual growth of 24 per cent since its establishment.

What are the special strengths of Bakcell?Bakcell supplies the best services for its customers; ranks as the number one mobile internet provider; and intends to aggressively develop its business. Furthermore, we believe that its mobile voice network offers the optimal customer experience, and intend to use this in order to grow the company’s share of the traditional mobile voice market.

Where do you sit in the Azerbaijani marketplace?Bakcell is steadily and significantly contributing to the Azerbaijani market, which is reflected in the extensive growth of its subscriber base. Bakcell has also attracted the greatest share of new subscribers in the market since 2009.

Are you experiencing any competition from outside of Azerbaijan?Bakcell ranks amongst the most major domestic companies in the country, and significantly invests in its networks and services each year.

Do you have a presence in other countries?Bakcell is a national company and solely operates in Azerbaijan.

What are the aspirations of Bakcell in Azerbaijan?Bakcell seeks to maintain its:

• Value: it will always give its customers value for money

• Care: it always listens to its customers and shows consideration for them

• National identity: it was the first in its sector, and will be the first choice for Azerbaijan

• Advancement: it will always be in step with the latest technology

• Ease: the company will always be easy to deal with, and its products are easy to use.

What are your wider regional objectives?Bakcell has developed strong cultural and economic ties with numerous overseas suppliers, including those involved with software, hardware and services.

Why Azerbaijan?What was the impetus behind your establishment in Azerbaijan?Since the 1990s, the development of mobile telecommunication and information technologies became one of the foremost requests from Azerbaijani subscribers. Despite inheriting numerous problems from the past, such as a poor telecommunications infrastructure, a substantial platform for the ongoing development of Azerbaijan’s telecommunications sector was implemented a decade ago. Bakcell was the first operator to offer a basic voice useage mobile communications service in Azerbaijan.

Telecommunications now rank amongst the most rapidly growing sectors in Azerbaijan, and have taken their place amongst the context of a very strong developing economy.

How do you view the business climate in Azerbaijan?Over the past 20 years, the mobile industry has played a leading role in the economic development of the Azerbaijani market, and a very competitive environment has facilitated the rapid growth of this sector. Mobile revenues have increased two-fold, and the number of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) subscribers has also doubled.

In addition, the general improvement of the business climate in the country has served to attract both national and foreign investment to Azerbaijan. Many international oil and construction

companies and banks are now investing in the country. Construction companies are also very active, many of which rely on Bakcell for mobile voice and data services.

How has Bakcell grown?With 257 retail outlets and a customer service team that is available for 24hrs a day, seven days a week, Bakcell provides the best customer experience for its customers.

What is the skills base amongst the Azerbaijanis?There is a huge potential for young professionals in Azerbaijan. They are very committed to learning new technologies and increasing global competitiveness across all spheres of business. Bakcell also pays special attention to the professional development of Azerbaijani youth.

Does your company provide training or operate apprenticeship schemes?The Bakcell Graduate Programme is being implemented at the key universities of Azerbaijan. This is aimed at selecting students who are in their final year of either undergraduate or postgraduate courses and have demonstrated high intellectual or academic talent in the fields of either technology; sales and marketing; or finance. Bakcell has subsequently taken on more than 100 fresh graduates during the last three years.

Do you use foreign/expatriate workers?The company has created an environment to attract both national and expatriate professionals who are able to actively contribute towards its goals and objectives, currently employing around 30 expatriates.

Bakcell Head Office,Port Baku Tower South,153 Neftchiler Avenue,

Baku, AZ1010,Azerbaijan

Tel: +994 12 4988 989; website: www.bakcell.com

Richard Shearer, CEO, Bakcell

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AZERBAIJAN: QUICK FACTS Official name: The Republic of AzerbaijanCapital: BakuArea: 86,600km2

Population: 9.2mDensity: 104 inhab./km2

Urban population: 51.8 per centPopulation of main cities, excluding suburbs: Baku (2,500,000); Gandja (300,000); Sumgait (270,000); Mingacevir (95,000)Religions: Religions: Muslim (93.4 per cent), Christian (4.8 per cent), Others (1.8 per cent)Principal exports: Oil, gas, aluminium, carpetsOfficial language: AzerbaijaniBusiness languages: English and Russian

Monetary indicators 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Average annual exchange rate for US$1 0.86 0.82 0.81 0.80 0.79

Exchange rates as of 14.5.12: AZN1=US$1.27; US$1=AZN0.79; AZN1=£0.79; £1=AZN1.26; AZN1=€0.99; €1=AZN1.00

TEAS Corporate Members