On March 17, the 3rd meeting of the National Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) was held at the organization’s Regional Office in Baku.

Minister of Culture and Chair of the National Commission of Azerbaijan for ICESCO, Adil Karimli, outlined the meeting agenda and highlighted the country’s cooperation with ICESCO.

The minister emphasized that developing relations with ICESCO holds particular importance for Azerbaijan, noting that this collaboration enhances Azerbaijan’s standing in the Islamic world, promotes its model of multiculturalism and tolerance, and strengthens the effectiveness of its humanitarian and cultural diplomacy internationally.

“Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev and with the support of First Vice-President and ICESCO Goodwill Ambassador Mehriban Aliyeva, Azerbaijan’s cooperation with ICESCO has reached a new level. The Republic of Azerbaijan continues to provide strong support to the organization’s activities. The Heydar Aliyev Foundation also plays a pivotal role in Azerbaijan’s relations with ICESCO. Through the Foundation’s cooperation with ICESCO, various projects and events have been implemented, and further expansion of these activities is planned in the coming years,” Minister Adil Karimli added.

Farrukh Jumayev, Secretary General of the National Commission and Head of the International Cooperation Department of the Ministry of Culture, presented a report on the Secretariat’s activities. Maryam Gafarzade, Deputy Director of the ICESCO Regional Office in Baku, noted that the office had been fully operational in a short period, and highlighted that, under the instructions of the head of state, the Ministry of Culture provided the necessary support for its operations.

The meeting also included discussions on the National Commission’s Action Plan for 2026–2028, with members sharing their opinions and proposals.

Soltan Mammadov, Azerbaijani MP and Head of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation’s International Relations Department, briefed attendees on future cooperation between the Foundation and ICESCO.

In addition, a presentation of the National Commission’s official website was held during the meeting.