Azerbaijan's Public Diplomacy: Bridging Cultures And Connecting People (PHOTO)

(MENAFN- Trend News Agency) BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 11. Azerbaijan is leveraging public diplomacy to advance its culture, history, and national interests on the international stage, enhancing its positive image globally. Public diplomacy involves engaging directly with the citizens of other countries to understand their cultural, political, and other interests, thereby fostering a positive perception of Azerbaijan. Unlike traditional diplomacy, which focuses on government-to-government relations, public diplomacy emphasizes interactions between countries and non-governmental organizations.

Public diplomacy aims to inform, influence, and build friendships with the people of other countries. This includes media events, cultural exchanges, educational programs, international conferences, and seminars. Through these activities, countries promote their values, culture, and interests, thereby strengthening their global standing.

From August 1 through 7, 2024, the 5th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, titled "Youth for a Green World," took place in the historic Azerbaijani region of Lachin. The event, organized jointly by the State Committee for Work with Diaspora and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, brought together 115 young people from 60 countries, including Azerbaijani youth and representatives from nations friendly to Azerbaijan.

Lachin, known for its historical and cultural significance, provided participants with an immersive experience of Azerbaijan's rich heritage. By exploring the region's ancient monuments and natural beauty, the attendees gained valuable knowledge that will aid them in sharing accurate and positive information about Azerbaijan in their respective countries.

During the week, camp participants engaged in a range of activities, including meetings with families of martyrs and veterans, seminars with experts, visits to historical and cultural sites, and participation in intellectual games and entertainment programs. These experiences allowed the youth to gain a deeper understanding of Azerbaijan's heroic history and rich cultural heritage.

Azerbaijan's emphasis on public diplomacy

Public diplomacy is crucial for accurately representing Azerbaijani realities to a global audience. The "Youth for a Green World" 5th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth serves as a vital platform for presenting Azerbaijan's realities on the international stage. By organizing such events, the State Committee for Work with Diaspora and the Heydar Aliyev Foundation play a key role in enhancing Azerbaijan's international image and expanding its network of global friends.

Nilufar Ibrahimi, a student from Leipzig University who attended the camp, shared that after graduating from high school in Baku in 2020, she became a finalist in the Future Leaders Exchange Program and had the opportunity to study in the US.

When she learned about the 5th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, she applied and joined the event.

"I wanted to connect with my fellow Azerbaijanis from around the world and visit our liberated territories. The activities have been fascinating, and I've learned a wonderful deal over the past few days. Upon returning to Germany, I plan to collaborate with the Diaspora to promote Azerbaijan. I encourage Azerbaijanis living abroad to participate in future summer camps," Ibrahimi said.

The State Committee for Work with Diaspora plays a crucial role in presenting Azerbaijani realities globally. It fosters unity and solidarity among Azerbaijanis abroad, promotes their active participation in defending national interests, and ensures the dissemination of accurate information about Azerbaijan. The 5th Diaspora Youth Summer Camp is one of the various projects and events organized to achieve these goals.

Azer Nasirli, who traveled from Sydney, Australia, at the invitation of the State Committee of Azerbaijan for Work with Diaspora, shared his experiences with Trend . Having lived in Australia for six years and worked as a police officer, Nasirli spoke about his impressions of the event.

"Our Lachin is a stunning city with breathtaking nature and wonderful people. We had an incredible and memorable time here. Summer camp participants explored Azerbaijani regions such as Karabakh and Lachin. I am delighted to have visited Lachin, met many remarkable people, and made new friends. I am thrilled to have seen Karabakh and look forward to sharing my experiences with friends and acquaintances in Australia when I return."

"Azerbaijan is beautiful in every aspect, including its nature. We have a magnificent capital, Baku, and wonderful people. Words cannot fully capture the essence of Azerbaijan, but I will share videos and photos from my trip and tell my friends in Australia about Baku, Karabakh, and Lachin," he added.

The camp aims to enhance the role of young people in Azerbaijan's international relations. By applying the knowledge and experience gained in their home countries, these young people become advocates for Azerbaijan, promoting its international image by sharing accurate information about its culture, history, and realities.

The 5th Summer Camp of Diaspora Youth, "Youth for a Green World," is a key component of Azerbaijan's youth policy. It ensures that youth are actively involved in international relations and supports their personal development.

Such events play a crucial role in accurately representing and perceiving Azerbaijan's realities on the global stage. By hosting these camps, Azerbaijan strengthens its international ties and expands its global network of friends. The camp is a significant step toward achieving these goals.

Azerbaijan actively engages in international cultural events, festivals, and exhibitions. Azerbaijan's collaboration with UNESCO has led to the inclusion of numerous Azerbaijani monuments and cultural sites on the World Heritage List, thereby showcasing Azerbaijan's culture and enhancing its global image.

The country provides scholarships to international students to study at Azerbaijani universities and participates in global exchange programs. This fosters a greater understanding of Azerbaijan and strengthens international connections.

Azerbaijan also garners international attention by hosting major conferences, summits, and sports events, such as the Baku 2015 European Games and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, which elevate its global profile.

Additionally, the country carries out humanitarian aid and development projects worldwide, reinforcing its reputation as a responsible and engaged member of the international community.

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