Lachin: The Lachin International Film Festival (LIFF 2026), the first international film festival in Garabagh and East Zangezur, has commenced in the city of Lachin. The event marks a significant milestone for the region, as it brings together filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the globe.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the festival will run until August 27, featuring a diverse range of selected films, panel discussions, and events with local and international cinema experts. With nearly 300 submissions from 47 countries, the festival's official program includes 38 films, comprising 20 foreign and 18 Azerbaijani productions.

The festival is set to attract filmmakers from countries such as Trkiye, Uzbekistan, Iran, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Greece, Norway, France, Ukraine, and Pakistan, among others. 'LaCinema,' the cinema venue in Lachin, will host the main screenings from August 24-26, showcasing films from Azerbaijan, Germany, Poland, Uzbekistan, Spain, Trkiye, Indonesia, Moldova, Greece, Serbia, Ukraine, India, and various other countries.

An official opening ceremony is scheduled for August 25, followed by a panel discussion focused on Azerbaijan-Trkiye film cooperation. This discussion will feature renowned cinema experts who will explore opportunities for joint productions and creative collaborations between the two countries.

The festival will culminate in a closing and award ceremony on August 26, which coincides with Lachin City Day, providing a celebratory end to this international cinematic event.