Baku: The opening ceremony of the 26th International Conference of Heads of Firefighting and Rescue Services of the member countries of the International Sports Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers was held in Baku on December 3. Prior to the conference, a bilateral meeting took place between Azerbaijan’s Minister of Emergency Situations Kamaladdin Heydarov and President of the International Sports Federation of Firefighters and Rescuers Alexander Chupriyan. The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation and other issues of mutual interest.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event brought together more than 100 representatives from member countries, including Germany, Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, China, the Czech Republic, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Cameroon, Latvia, Mongolia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, and Vietnam. Representatives from the federation’s partner organizations, as well as officials from Trkiye and Kyrgyzstan, participated via videoconference.

In his remarks, Azerbaijani Emergency Minister Kamaladdin Heydarov underscored the importance of Azerbaijan hosting the conference, describing the event as a crucial platform for enhancing cooperation in firefighting and rescue activities and for sharing advanced approaches and new expertise. Addressing the event, Alexander Chupriyan expressed his gratitude to Azerbaijan for hosting the conference. He also presented Minister Kamaladdin Heydarov with a medal for his contribution to international cooperation.

Organized by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations, the conference will run until December 6. It will focus on the development of fire and rescue sports, analysis of the latest world championship, preparations for the 2026 World Championships in fire and rescue sports, and strengthening international cooperation.