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Monday, October 12, 2026
Global growth slows to 2.6%, raising stakes for Azerbaijan’s economic shift

Global growth slows to 2.6%, raising stakes for Azerbaijan’s economic shift

The global economy is entering a period of slower expansion, with energy markets, international trade and technological investment shaping the outlook for 2026. According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), global economic growth is projected to reach 2.6% in 2026, compared with 2.9% in 2025. Developing economies are expected to grow by 4%, following 4.7% growth in the previous year. These figures highlight the growing importance of economic resilience, industrial development and strategic international partnerships.

Nation
Azerbaijan’s school uniform debate: religious freedom or an instrument of provocation?

Azerbaijan’s school uniform debate: religious freedom or an instrument of provocation?

Given that Azerbaijan is situated in a geographical region where religious issues are sensitive, as in the Middle East and Asia, it becomes clear why such topics can quickly generate a public response in the country.

Oil & Gas
Slovakia eyes Azerbaijani gas as it prepares to replace Russian supplies in 2027

Slovakia eyes Azerbaijani gas as it prepares to replace Russian supplies in 2027

Slovakia is considering Azerbaijan, Algeria and the United States as potential suppliers under new long-term natural gas contracts, as the Central European country prepares for European Union restrictions on Russian gas imports scheduled to take effect in 2027. Slovak Economy Minister Denisa Saková announced that the country is exploring options to secure approximately...

Business
Azerbaijan’s growing rail freight links with China strengthen Middle Corridor

Azerbaijan’s growing rail freight links with China strengthen Middle Corridor

Azerbaijan is strengthening its position as a strategic transport and logistics hub between Asia and Europe as freight traffic from China continues to expand. Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) received 416 block trains from China in January–September 2026, marking a 40% increase compared with the same period last year. This growth highlights the rising importance of the Middle Corridor and creates new opportunities for Azerbaijan to expand its role in international trade.

Armenian-Azerbaijani Relations
Hadrut’s liberation: strategic turning point in Azerbaijan’s 44-Day war

Hadrut’s liberation: strategic turning point in Azerbaijan’s 44-Day war

October 9 holds a special place in Azerbaijan’s modern history as the anniversary of Hadrut’s liberation during the 44-day Patriotic War of 2020. Located in the Khojavand district of Karabakh, Hadrut occupied a strategically important position because of its mountainous terrain, surrounding heights and connections with neighboring areas. Its liberation strengthened Azerbaijan’s military position in the southern part of the battlefield and created favorable conditions for subsequent operations toward Shusha.

World
Houthis threaten Saudi airports and airspace, exempting holy cities amid strikes on Riyadh

Houthis threaten Saudi airports and airspace, exempting holy cities amid strikes on Riyadh

Yemen's Houthi movement has warned airlines, shipping companies, airport personnel and travellers against using Saudi Arabian airports and airspace, threatening potential attacks amid reports of strikes targeting aviation facilities in Riyadh.

Analysis

Lifestyle
Azerbaijan spotlights literature and publishing at Frankfurt Book Fair [PHOTOS]

Azerbaijan spotlights literature and publishing at Frankfurt Book Fair [PHOTOS]

Azerbaijan is presenting its literary heritage and book culture at the 78th Frankfurt Book Fair, which opened in Frankfurt.

Culture
Baku to host anniversary edition of Azerbaijan Dance Festival featuring int'l stars [PHOTOS/VIDEO]

Baku to host anniversary edition of Azerbaijan Dance Festival featuring int'l stars [PHOTOS/VIDEO]

Baku is preparing to host the anniversary edition of the Azerbaijan Dance Festival, a major international event bringing together world-renowned stars, champions, professionals and dance enthusiasts.

Travel
Azerbaijani pilgrims currently at Medina international airport

Azerbaijani pilgrims currently at Medina international airport
Second group of Azerbaijani pilgrims to depart for Hajj this month

Second group of Azerbaijani pilgrims to depart for Hajj this month
Astana celebrates Novruz with festive events and cultural celebrations [PHOTOS]

Astana celebrates Novruz with festive events and cultural celebrations [PHOTOS]
Albania’s impeccable hospitality and exuberant architecture

Albania’s impeccable hospitality and exuberant architecture
Experience charm of autumn season at Shahdag National Park

Experience charm of autumn season at Shahdag National Park
Georgian foreign travelers arrive in Shusha

Georgian foreign travelers arrive in Shusha

Events
Remains of 16 people discovered in Azerbaijan's Karabakh

Remains of 16 people discovered in Azerbaijan's Karabakh

The remains of 16 people were discovered in Karabakh three days ago, Akif Guliyev, head of the Forensic Archaeology Department at the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology of the Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences (ANAS), has said.

Sports
Azerbaijani boxer wins gold at U-17 European Championships

Azerbaijani boxer wins gold at U-17 European Championships

Azerbaijani boxer Mahammadali Istamov has won gold at the U-17 European Boxing Championships in Budva, Montenegro.

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