July 4, 2013

Inauguration of the Days of Azerbaijani Culture in the city of Cannes

On June 4, the days of Azerbaijani culture entitled “Azerbaijan in Cannes” were launched in the French city of Cannes.


Azerbaijan’s First Lady, President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation Mehriban Aliyeva attended the event.


Mehriban Aliyeva addressed the ceremony.


Address by Mehriban Aliyeva:


- Esteemed mister Mayor.


- Respected Guests.


- Dear Friends.


This evening I would like to welcome you from the bottom of my heart to the inauguration of the Days of Azerbaijani Culture. Days of the Azerbaijani Culture in Cannes, one of the most beautiful cities of France, will be held during four days, and residents of this city and hundreds of tourists will have a chance to acquaint themselves with our country’s culture, ancient art, as well as the past and present of Azerbaijan.


I would like, first of all, to thank mayor of the city of Cannes mister Brochan  for this opportunity. Mister mayor, since the first moments of the preparation phase, we have felt your attention and support, and I hope the cooperation, of which foundation we laid today, will be continued in future.


Esteemed Guests, relations between our countries cover a number of significant areas. But today I would like to talk about the humanitarian field. The Azerbaijani language, literature and history are taught at French universities, hundreds of Azerbaijanis study at higher schools of France.  The first French lycée is being constructed in the capital of Azerbaijan. Last year, the Azerbaijan Culture Centre started to function in Paris. Various events, concerts and exhibitions have been organized at this centre to popularize our country. Days of Azerbaijani Culture are held in various regions and cities of France with support from the Heydar Aliyev Foundation. Such events have been held already in 16 cities. We have also participated in the restoration of the Strasbourg Cathedral, Versailles Palace and other historical monuments in various regions of France.


Dear Friends, this list is not complete. I just want to say that culture does not recognize borders, culture is a means causing people and nations to know each other more closely, understand each other more deeply. Every nation’s greatest wealth is its cultural heritage, past, roots and traditions. We Azerbaijanis are proud of our ancient and rich history and culture. We want to introduce Azerbaijan to the world as a country, which has for centuries been a peaceful, ancient and rich land, where cultures and civilizations meet.


Dear Friends, I hope the Azerbaijani environment we have created here will arouse pleasant feelings, and you will travel to Azerbaijan to know our country better.


Thank you once more for being with us here this evening, and I wish you to enjoy your evening. 


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