Baku: The 22nd Caucasus Dance and Music Festival has kicked off in Yalova, Turkey, with Azerbaijan making a notable presence. Azerbaijan is represented by the 'Suvar' Lezgi Folk Song and Dance Ensemble at the event, which is organized under the slogan 'For Peace in the Caucasus and the Whole World.'

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the festival gathers over 350 performers from regions including Adygea, Dagestan, Georgia, Kabardino-Balkaria, and North Ossetia. The festival is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the Caucasus, fostering friendly relations among its peoples, and encouraging intercultural dialogue.

On August 19, the Suvar Lezgi Folk Song and Dance Ensemble participated in the opening ceremony with a program featuring the dance 'Odlar yurdu' and the song 'Shirindil,' performed by Elvina Heydarova. Their repertoire included dances such as 'Shadvilin Suvar,' 'Ghorus,' 'Chemenlik,' 'Naz elama,' 'Irs,' and 'Lezginka.' Songs performed included 'Kanidi' ('My Beloved'), 'Sari Galin,' 'Azerbaijan' by Javahir Abdulova, and 'Perizada,' 'Gara daniz,' and 'Iyerval' ('Beauty') by Elvina Heydarova.

The Azerbaijani delegation is scheduled to perform a concert in Balikesir, Turkey, on August 20, followed by a performance at the gala concert on August 21.