Yalova: The 22nd International Caucasus Dance and Music Festival has concluded in Yalova, Trkiye, with a gala concert and closing ceremony. Azerbaijan was represented at the event, organized under the slogan 'For Peace in the Caucasus and the Whole World,' by the 'Suvar' Lezgi Folk Song and Dance Ensemble.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the gala concert opened with the ensemble's 'Land of Fire' dance, followed by a lively performance of 'Azerbaijan' by ensemble member Javahir Abdulova. As part of the festival, the Azerbaijani delegation presented a vibrant program of music and dance in Balikesir Province on August 20. Prior to the concert, the delegation visited Ortaca village, home to a Lezgi community. During a meeting with local residents, the delegation learned about the history of Ortaca, the heritage of the Lezgi families living there, as well as their traditions and cultural heritage.

The Azerbaijani delegation's performances in Yalova and Balikesir during the festival offered a broad audience an opportunity to discover Azerbaijan's rich folklore and musical traditions through its traditional songs and dances. The performances of the Suvar Ensemble were enthusiastically received by the audience.

The festival concluded with symbolic gifts being presented on behalf of the Azerbaijani delegation to the organizing committee, Yalova Governor Ahmet Hamdi Usta, and Ramazan Kora, head of the Bursa Dagestanis Association. The festival was organized with the aim of preserving the rich cultural heritage of the peoples of the Caucasus, strengthening friendly relations among peoples, and promoting intercultural dialogue. More than 350 artists from Azerbaijan, Adygea, Dagestan, Georgia, Kabardino-Balkaria, and North Ossetia took part in the festival.