Shusha: A panel discussion titled "Modern Forms of Colonialism: Actions That Bring Tragedy, Slavery and Suffering to Peoples" was held as part of the international conference "Cultural and Ethnic Diversity: Lessons from History, Modern Challenges" in Shusha, APA reports. Moderator Fatimat Kardanova-Ianonene, co-founder and president of the World Circassian Council in Lithuania, expressed gratitude to Azerbaijani civil society for creating this international platform, emphasizing its potential as a significant starting point for forums on the history and national memory of indigenous Caucasus peoples.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Anzhelika Toktamish-Ceyishakar from Trkiye's Circassian Agency Public Movement highlighted the value of hearing and discussing the future of peoples who have faced historical pain. She emphasized that the Circassian communities seek justice, cooperation, and lasting peace, aiming to confidently look to the future while remembering their past.

Raisa Zubareva, leader of the Free Sakha Movement, joined via video link from Poland, discussing "The Essence of the Sakha Independence Movement." She detailed how Sakha, despite its rich natural resources like diamonds and oil, remains under Moscow's control, reducing it to a raw-material colony and creating a paradox of wealth amid social struggles. She also highlighted the discrimination faced by the Sakha people, including the erosion of their language in public life.

Zurtan Khaltarov, founder of the Buriyad Guren (Buryat Government) movement, addressed "The Essence of Buryat National Identity" via video link. He noted the Buryats' experience as the largest indigenous colonized group in Siberia and praised the Circassian movement's international mobilization. He expressed interest in Azerbaijan's model of preserving historical memory and national identity, suggesting it as a foundation for modernization.

Sherief Batvash from the Israeli Circassian Community Board shared insights on "The Shared Aspirations of Circassians," highlighting their rich cultural heritage and the challenges in preserving and passing it on to future generations.