Istanbul: At the 42nd International Istanbul Book Fair, a special book exhibition dedicated to Azerbaijan’s National Leader Heydar Aliyev has opened on the 22nd anniversary of his passing. Organized by Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture and the Azerbaijan Culture Center in Trkiye, the exhibition showcases nearly 30 publications focusing on Heydar Aliyev’s life and legacy. It also includes books about President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, along with works on the Karabakh Victory and the National Leader’s efforts toward territorial integrity.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Center Director Samir Abbasov emphasized that the exhibition aims to promote Heydar Aliyev’s state-building traditions and contributions to unity in Azerbaijan and the Turkic world. Abbasov also highlighted ongoing projects such as translating Azerbaijani classics, including Nizami Ganjavi’s full Khamsa, into Turkish by 2026. Other initiatives include staging Azerbaijani plays in Turkish state theaters, donating books to Turkish libraries, fostering museum and film collaborations, and teaching Azerbaijani language courses in Trkiye, such as at Gazi University in Ankara.

The fair continues until December 21, featuring panels and events in the international section with Azerbaijani and Turkish scholars. The Istanbul Book Fair is recognized as one of the world’s largest publishing events, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.