Official Opening of 6th Azerbaijani Diaspora Youth Summer Camp Held in Khankendi

Khankendi, The Gulf Observer: The official opening ceremony of the 6th Summer Camp of Azerbaijani Diaspora Youth, dedicated to the “Year of Constitution and Sovereignty,” was held in the city of Khankendi, marking a significant moment in the country’s youth engagement and diaspora policy.

The event was attended by high-level government officials and representatives from key institutions. Opening remarks were delivered by Fuad Muradov, Chairman of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan; Elchin Yusubov, Special Representative of the President of Azerbaijan in Khankendi, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts; Nigar Hajiyeva, Deputy Head of the Department of Humanitarian Policy, Diaspora, Multiculturalism, and Religious Issues of the Presidential Administration; Aydan Ramazanova, Representative of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation; Shahin Bayramov, Rector of Garabagh University; and Yusif Valiyev, Acting Executive Director of the Youth Foundation.

Speakers underscored the special significance of hosting the Summer Camp in Khankendi, reflecting on the positive outcomes of President Ilham Aliyev’s diaspora policy and the role of youth in strengthening Azerbaijan’s global presence. The leadership’s commitment to engaging with young Azerbaijanis abroad and fostering a strong sense of national identity was widely praised.

As part of the ceremony, a video presentation was screened, featuring President Ilham Aliyev raising the Azerbaijani national flag in Khankendi and delivering a historic speech. The video also showcased key facts and milestones from the history of the Diaspora Youth Summer Camps, highlighting their evolving impact over the years.

Scheduled to take place from August 3 to 9, the camp is jointly organized by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. It has brought together 128 young Azerbaijanis from 61 countries, as well as youth from other friendly nations.

The Diaspora Youth Summer Camp has become an increasingly popular initiative, receiving more than 3,000 applications annually from over 60 countries. Since its inception, over 700 young people have participated in the program. Previous editions have been held in Sheki, Shamakhi, Shusha, Nakhchivan, and Lachin, each leaving a meaningful imprint on participants and host communities.

The Khankendi edition is seen not only as a continuation of this impactful tradition but also as a powerful symbol of national unity, post-conflict restoration, and Azerbaijan’s growing engagement with its global diaspora.