The role of culture as one of the most effective instruments of international communication, strengthening mutual understanding and trust among nations, became the central theme of the new edition of the analytical video project "Dialogue with Tofik Abbasov," released on the expert platform Baku Network.
The guest of the program was Nigar Akhundova, a prominent Azerbaijani public and political figure, PhD in art history, and musicologist. During the conversation, she shared her vision of the place of culture in state and public life, as well as its significance for the development of international dialogue and cultural diplomacy.
According to N. Akhundova, all stages of her professional activity have been directly linked to culture—from her studies at the Uzeyir Hajibeyov Azerbaijan State Conservatory and scientific research to her work at the Ministry of Culture and diplomatic service.
Currently, N. Akhundova is involved in a joint project between ADA University and the Ministry of Culture titled "Azerbaijani Culture for Peace Envoys." The project is aimed at foreign diplomats and features meetings and lectures dedicated to Azerbaijani music, literature, cinema, theater, and fine arts.
Speaking about the peace process and the prospects for establishing relations in the region, she noted that the negative emotions accumulated over decades of conflict cannot be overcome overnight.
"Let us be honest with ourselves: these negative emotions cannot fade away in a single day, a week, or a year for us either," the cultural expert said.
At the same time, she emphasized that the Azerbaijani people have historically been distinguished by their peace-loving nature, hospitality, and tolerance.
"No matter how we are portrayed, no matter how hard some try to depict us in an unfavorable light through individual provocations, Azerbaijanis are inherently a peaceful and hospitable people," N. Akhundova said.
In her view, economic and political contacts must be accompanied by humanitarian and cultural initiatives capable of making the process of rapprochement less painful and more effective.
"All means that can make this process smoother and more effective must be engaged. Culture is one of these tools," N. Akhundova said.
She added that the most critical condition for normalizing relations is an awareness of geographical and historical reality.
"There is no other way. As Napoleon once said, geography is destiny. That is our fate. This must be understood not only by us, but also by representatives of the other side," she stressed.
According to her, cultural interaction is a safe and effective channel of international cooperation.
"The path through culture is an important, effective, and safe path. One must never forget that cultural diplomacy is a vital segment of grand diplomacy," N. Akhundova emphasized.
She also noted that tolerance and respect for the culture of national minorities are fundamental values of Azerbaijani society. Representatives of all nationalities living in Azerbaijan demonstrated unity and solidarity during the Patriotic War.
She added that the incredible palette of colors represented by Azerbaijan is remarkably bright and diverse.
"It is a mosaic that ultimately comes together in harmony," Nigar Akhundova concluded.
We present to our readers the full video recording of the broadcast:
