Baku: A diplomatic reception was held at the ‘Four Seasons’ hotel in Baku to mark the 15th anniversary of the Eurasian Regional Center of the Islamic Cooperation Youth Forum (ICYF-ERC). The event saw the participation of representatives from embassies and diplomatic missions accredited in Azerbaijan, government agencies, NGOs, and members of parliament.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event commenced with a video presentation showcasing the contributions of the ICYF-ERC over the past 15 years to youth development and international cooperation within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) space. Following the video, Elchin Asgarov, Chairman of the Board of the ICYF-ERC, delivered a speech. He highlighted the establishment of the ICYF in 2004 as the first youth platform of the OIC, with support from the Azerbaijani government and President Ilham Aliyev. Asgarov expressed gratitude for the continuous support and hospitality from Azerbaijan.
Minister of Youth and Sports Farid Gayibov, speaking on behalf of the Azerbaijani government, expressed satisfaction with the cooperation between the Ministry and the ICYF-ERC. He mentioned initiatives such as the Alliance of Civilizations for Youth, the OIC Model, and the OIC Youth Capital projects, alongside the establishment of the Secretariat of the OIC Youth Ministers Council, affirming continued collaboration with the Center.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Morocco to Azerbaijan, Mohammed Adil Embarch, spoke on behalf of the diplomatic corps, congratulating the ICYF-ERC. He highlighted the Center’s role in the development and networking of youth in OIC countries and in enhancing their leadership skills amid global challenges, wishing the Center ongoing success.
During the event, nine young participants who excelled in the simulation of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers held in Baku on December 6 were awarded certificates of distinction and prizes. The event concluded with a cultural program and gala dinner featuring the cultures of OIC member states.