This year marks a significant milestone in the relationship between Azerbaijan and China, as the two nations celebrate the deepening of their friendship and the establishment of a strategic partnership. Under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev and President Xi Jinping, the \"Joint Declaration of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the People's Republic of China on the establishment of a strategic partnership\" signals a new era of cooperation between the two countries.
Bunyad Huseynov, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the People's Republic of China, reflects on the growing ties between the two nations. Having previously served in China from 2006 to 2009, Ambassador Huseynov has witnessed firsthand the evolution of the bilateral relationship.
\"When I first received the news of my appointment,\" he recalls, \"I experienced a range of emotions: pride, responsibility, and of course, joy of coming back to the country where I served as a young enthusiastic diplomat.\"
Ambassador Huseynov fondly remembers the excitement surrounding the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, where Azerbaijani athletes performed admirably. The delegation's successful participation heightened the sense of camaraderie between the two nations. President Ilham Aliyev and his family extended their stay in China, further strengthening diplomatic ties.
Beyond the political and economic aspects, cultural exchanges have played a pivotal role in bringing Azerbaijan and China closer. The ambassador highlights the shared values and traditions that bind the two ancient civilizations. \"Family is central to our communities, with a strong emphasis on filial piety and respect for elders,\" he notes. \"These similarities have laid a solid ground for mutual sympathy and friendship between our nations.\"
The history of cultural communication between Azerbaijan and China dates back to the ancient Silk Road. The 12th-century Azerbaijani poet Nizami Ganjavi celebrated the friendship between the two nations in his poem \"Seven Beauties,\" depicting China as a land of high cultural achievements and the Chinese lady as the epitome of beauty. In honor of Nizami Ganjavi, a monument has been erected in Beijing's Chaoyang Park by Chinese artist Yuan Xikun.
Cultural exchanges continue in modern times. The Azerbaijani operetta \"Arshin Mal Alan\" (\"The Cloth Peddler\") was first staged in Wuhan in 1957 and later in Beijing in 1959, becoming the first foreign musical comedy performed in the Chinese capital. Its popularity soared, leading to over 300 performances across China. The operetta was staged entirely in Chinese at the Beijing Tianqiao Theater in 2010 and again in 2021 in Langfang, showcasing the enduring cultural connection between the two countries.
Ambassador Huseynov expresses his commitment to fostering the Azerbaijan-China relationship across all dimensions. \"I will spare no effort to contribute to our relationship on political, economic, and other directions, as well as cultural relations and exchanges between our two peoples,\" he affirms.
As China celebrates the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, both nations look forward to a future of strengthened bonds and collaborative success. The ambassador's reflections underscore the profound friendship and shared aspirations that continue to unite Azerbaijan and China.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
