Lankaran: India's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Abhay Kumar, engaged in a series of meetings in Lankaran and Lerik districts during his visit to Azerbaijan's southern region, as reported by the embassy to APA. The visit aimed at strengthening cooperation between India and Azerbaijan in culture, healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sectors.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the ambassador commenced his visit at the Lankaran History and Local Lore Museum. During his interaction with the museum's director, Leyla Majidova, Kumar received insights into the region's historical and cultural richness and the museum's efforts in preserving this heritage.

The ambassador's itinerary included a visit to Yenee Wellness Center, where he conversed with chief physician Emil Hidayatli about introducing Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic health practices in Azerbaijan. The dialogue underscored the significance of promoting a healthy lifestyle, especially in anticipation of International Yoga Day.

In Lankaran, Kumar also toured a green tea plantation and met with Araz Yagubov, the owner and director of the enterprise. They deliberated on the region's tea-growing traditions and modern cultivation techniques, considering potential cooperation and experience exchange in the tea industry, given the shared tea culture of India and Azerbaijan.

Kumar's visit also encompassed Hirkan National Park and Khanbulan Lake, where he explored the region's biodiversity and natural heritage. Discussions highlighted the ecological importance of the area and the necessity of nature conservation.

In the Lerik district, the ambassador visited the Longevity Museum. Chief curator Matanat Guliyeva briefed him on the museum's exhibits and Lerik's longevity traditions. The district is recognized internationally as the 'Land of Longevity' due to its unique cultural practices.

Concluding his visit, Ambassador Kumar expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him. He conveyed his hope for continued enhancement of cooperation and people-to-people ties between India and Azerbaijan across various sectors, including culture, healthcare, sustainable agriculture, ecotourism, and environmental protection.