President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, extended heartfelt congratulations to the Orthodox Christian community of Azerbaijan on the occasion of Christmas, emphasizing the country’s unwavering commitment to multicultural harmony and religious tolerance.
In his message, President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan's rich tradition of coexistence, noting that Christians have lived peacefully alongside other religious communities for centuries. "Our country is recognized as a model of multiculturalism, where people of all faiths enjoy equal rights and freedoms," Aliyev said. He commended Azerbaijan’s Christians for preserving their traditions, freely practicing their faith, and actively participating in the country’s socio-cultural and political life.
Orthodox Christians in Azerbaijan celebrate Christmas on January 7 according to the Julian calendar. The festivities begin on January 6 with Christmas Eve, marking the end of a 40-day fast. Families gather to share a meal of 12 dishes symbolizing the 12 apostles, with kutya—a sweet grain dish—taking center stage as a symbol of unity and faith.
On the night of January 6 to 7, festive liturgies are held in churches across Azerbaijan, including the Cathedral of the Holy Myrrhbearers in Baku. Worshippers come together in prayer, fostering a spirit of unity and reflection.
Families traditionally bake festive treats, filling homes with the scents of cinnamon and vanilla, and engage in charitable initiatives, reflecting the season’s themes of compassion and renewal.
Aliyev remarked that Christmas in Azerbaijan is celebrated as a symbol of hope, mercy, and faith in the future. "May this joyful holiday bring happiness and well-being to your families and abundance to your homes," the president concluded.
The celebration of Orthodox Christmas in Azerbaijan underscores the country’s dedication to preserving cultural diversity while strengthening unity and mutual respect among its citizens.
Politics
-
On January 7, the Baku Court of Grave Crimes began an investigation into the case of the activist of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA) Mehman Aliyev, who is accused of illegal drug trafficking.
-
On January 7, the head of state, Ilham Aliyev, gave an interview to local TV channels. As of 18:00, the content of the interview had not been published.
-
In late December, the Nakhchivan Court for Serious Crimes concluded the trial of former Minister of Finance of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (NAR), Rafael Aliyev, and former head of the Nakhchivan Customs Committee’s department, Mansur Askerov. Both were accused of embezzling state budget funds in collusion with others. In his testimony, Askerov revealed that illegal fees were being collected for cargo and from passengers. Sahat Habibbeyli, appointed head of Nakhchivan Customs in 2020, had instructed Askerov to include only a portion of the collected funds in the Transport and International Relations (TIR) program.
-
The "Republican Alternative" Party (REAL) has proposed a program to reform local governance ahead of the municipal elections on January 29, aiming to expand opportunities for economic activity at the municipal level. The new program has been developed with consideration of the existing economic problems in the country. The government of Azerbaijan seeks to obtain external loans for its projects, the economic feasibility of which raises doubts.
Leave a review