Helsinki:An exhibition and academic discussion titled 'Everyday Life of the Nordic Expatriates in the South Caucasus, 1870s-1920s' was recently held in Helsinki, Finland. The event was supported by the State Committee on Work with the Diaspora of the Republic of Azerbaijan and organized by the Helsinki Azerbaijan House.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the distinguished attendees included Jussi Nuorteva, Chancellor of the Orders of Finland, and Toni Viljanmaa, a Finnish documentary producer. The event brought together diplomatic representatives, scholars from the University of Helsinki, members of the Azerbaijani diaspora, and representatives of various organizations.
The event was part of the project 'Bridge from the Past to the Future The Nobels' Archival and Museum Collections in Finland and Azerbaijan'. It focused on the historical, scientific, and cultural ties between Finland and Azerbaijan, highlighting the Nobel brothers' Azerbaijani heritage and the lives of Nordic expatriates in the South Caucasus.
Ulviyya Jabbarova, Head of the Helsinki Azerbaijan House, spoke about promoting Azerbaijani culture in Finland and the importance of strengthening historical and cultural ties between the two countries. A short video showcasing the activities of the Helsinki Azerbaijan House was presented.
Dmitri Frolov from the University of Helsinki discussed the exhibition's academic content, focusing on Nordic expatriates' contributions in the South Caucasus and the activities of the Nobel brothers' company, Branobel. The exhibition included archival materials and photographs from various countries, offering insights into this historical period.
Emin Dadashov from the National Museum of History of Azerbaijan highlighted the museum's photographic collection and its significance in historical research. He emphasized the value of cooperation between Azerbaijani and Northern European archives and museums.
Olga Korkka discussed the cultural legacy of the Nobel family, while Kirsti Narinen, Finnish Roving Ambassador for the South Caucasus, praised the research work and expressed hope for continued support for archival research.
University of Helsinki Professor Markku Kangaspuro underscored the exhibition's historical and academic value, advocating for its expansion to other venues. The project aims to create a scientific and cultural bridge between the past and the future.