Nakhchivan: On August 11, President Ilham Aliyev and First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva attended the opening of the Nakhchivan Regional DOST Center of the Agency for Sustainable and Operative Social Provision (DOST Agency) under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Population. The center began serving citizens today.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the center, which occupies an area of approximately 3,500 square meters, is set to serve an average of 500-600 citizens daily. It employs over 100 staff members, with around 50 volunteers assisting citizens through various subprograms under the 'Volunteer DOST' initiative.

In an interview with AZERTAC, Farid Mammadov, Chairperson of the Board of the DOST Agency, mentioned that the center's building was designed in a modern style. It includes a Medical-Social Expert Commission and a room for the DOST Inclusive Development and Creativity Center. A total of 164 services will be offered across 15 areas, focusing on social protection, employment, and labor relations.

Farid Mammadov emphasized the center's role in improving access to services for citizens registered in Nakhchivan. He stated, "As the DOST Agency, we provide services to citizens regardless of their place of registration. Until now, citizens registered in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic have primarily received services electronically and online, as well as through the Call Center. As of today, they will be able to receive these services directly here, at the Regional DOST Center. This will ensure more convenient and prompt access to services for citizens."

The DOST Agency was established under a decree signed by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on August 9, 2018. Its activities include providing services in labor and social protection, covering pensions, benefits, allowances, labor relations, employment, and other related areas. Initiated by First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva, the agency currently offers 164 services across 15 areas.