On January 30, 2024, the opening ceremony of the International Scientific Conference “II International Rasulzade Readings” unfolded at the Holiday Inn hotel, drawing renowned scholars from Azerbaijan and various foreign nations, along with embassy representatives, government officials, artists, and intellectuals.
After the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was played, the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev dated December 30, 2023 on celebrating the 140th anniversary of Mahammad Amin Rasulzade was read.
People’s Artist of Azerbaijan Alim Gasimov welcomed the attendees with musical performances.
Representatives of the conference organizers, including Solmaz Rustamova-Tohidi (“Rasulzade House – Museum” Public Group), Naila Valikhanli (National Azerbaijan History Museum), Hamlet Isakhnli (Khazar University), Yan Maliski (Warsaw University), Necdet Unuvar (Ankara University, online), and Vahid Mustafayev (VMF Holding), delivered speeches emphasizing the importance of hosting such conferences to further research and study the diverse legacy of M.A. Rasulzade, an eminent statesman and author of a rich collection of political and literary works.
The “Rasulzade House-Museum” Public Group presented a virtual format project of the House-museum to the participants.
Academician Isa Habibbayli, president of ANAS, noted in his speech that a monument was erected in Baku in honor of the founders of the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic and their memories are being commemorated. The academician noted that their heritage is being studied in a number of institutes of ANAS. The “Azerbaijan National Encyclopedia” Scientific Center operates the Republic Department.
Polish Ambassador Rafal Poborski spoke on behalf of the embassies in Azerbaijan of the countries (Türkiye, Poland, Germany, Romania) that provided refuge to M.A. Rasulzade during the period of political exile. The ambassador stated that although Rasulzade made a significant impact in every country he visited during his emigration in Europe, he had a profound connection to the environment and life of Poland. Rasulzade chose Poland as his lifelong companion, living a happy life there until the end. Consequently, Poles have a justified claim to consider him more their own. His works are also extensively studied in Poland.
Foreign participants, including Sabahaddin Shimshir (Türkiye) and George Mamulia (France), represented researchers exploring M.A. Rasulzade’s legacy. They stressed that Rasulzade’s heritage is being studied beyond his homeland, contributing new perspectives to the scientific discourse of their respective countries. At the conference, People’s Artist, director of Uzeyir Hachibeyli House-Museum, and composer Sardar Farajov shared insights into the friendship and business relations between Uzeyir Hachibeyli and Mahammad Amin Rasulzade.
Honored art worker and professor Zumrud Akhundova-Dadashzade spoke on behalf of Azerbaijani intellectuals and participants. She highlighted Rasulzade’s role as one of the founders of ADR, emphasizing his profound literary and journalistic works, casting him as a significant national figure.
Representing the Rasulzade family, Rais Rasulzade expressed gratitude to the conference organizers and extended personal thanks to Mr. President for the increased attention to Rasulzade’s legacy in recent years, acknowledging the signing of the notable Decree.
It’s worth noting that Solmaz Rustamova-Tohidi moderated the opening ceremony, as she did for several other events during the conference.
The participants were treated to a concert by the Khazar University Chamber Orchestra at the conclusion of the opening ceremony. The orchestra’s artistic director, head of the university’s Music and Art Department, honored teacher, and pianist Zulfiyya Sadigova played a key role in the performance.
