Baku: ‘Azerbaijan has a rich cultural history, and this culture has had a significant and fundamental influence on the formation of Azerbaijani statehood,’ said Minister of Culture Adil Karimli during his opening speech at the ‘Culture and Law: Modern Challenges Forum,’ APA reports.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the minister stated that the concept of culture also occupies a central position in the state policy of President Ilham Aliyev. He noted that the president’s efforts in enriching Azerbaijan’s cultural values and developing the creative potential of the younger generation are undeniable.

The minister further added that new approaches related to Azerbaijani culture are currently being developed. “Additional statements regarding this model, this vision, will be made soon,” he noted.

Adil Karimli also addressed the diversity of perspectives on culture within society, stating that culture is a social concept and phenomenon. He emphasized the importance of a broader view of culture, highlighting that cultural values must be considered in the legal system and legislation should be formed on this basis.

He concluded by emphasizing that cultural identity is formed historically and it is important for individuals to be proud of it and resist forces that aim to alienate or create negativity around it. ‘Because Azerbaijani culture is not only the work of the ministry or cultural figures; it is a concept and process that concerns the entire Azerbaijani society as a whole,’ Karimli stated.