Baku: A conference titled “The Role of National Leader Heydar Aliyev in the Development of Media” was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center, organized by the Media Development Agency, APA reports. Before the opening ceremony, participants explored the exhibition ‘150 Years of Azerbaijani Press: From History to Present’, which displayed historic publications and photographs of meetings between National Leader Heydar Aliyev, President Ilham Aliyev, and journalists.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the event commenced with a video presentation that highlighted Heydar Aliyev’s perspectives on the history and future of Azerbaijani media, as well as its role in public education and promoting national values. Executive Director of the Media Development Agency, Ahmad Ismayilov, opened the conference by discussing the enduring influence of media principles established by Heydar Aliyev. He noted Aliyev’s essential role in fostering independent media in Azerbaijan, ensuring its rapid growth, and aligning media legislation with international standards.
A panel session titled ‘Media Principles Established by National Leader Heydar Aliyev,’ moderated by Deputy Chairman of ‘Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting’ CJSC, Rafiq Hashimov, delved into Heydar Aliyev’s media reforms and his important steps in building a free and professional press. Participants emphasized that these principles continue to underpin the country’s current media policy.
Mikhail Gusman, First Deputy Director General of Russia’s TASS News Agency, shared personal memories of Heydar Aliyev. He highlighted Aliyev’s meticulous approach to media, including his attention to details in written texts and photographs. Gusman proposed a future conference in November to discuss the role of President Ilham Aliyev in developing Azerbaijani media, citing the 26 interviews given by the President during the 44-day war as examples of professional journalistic diplomacy.
The session concluded with a round table discussion on “Heydar Aliyev’s educational policy: the role of education in increasing journalistic professionalism.” The conference, which continues with further panel sessions, underscores the lasting impact of Heydar Aliyev’s media policies on Azerbaijan’s information landscape.