Azernews.Az

By Nigar Orujova

Azerbaijan Airlines has become an official partner of Baku 2015 European Games.

The national carrier has signed an agreement with the Operation Committee of the first European Games BEGOC on September 24.

The company which transports more than 1.7 million passengers per year in 38 countries will increase next year its number of daily flights into Baku for the European Games.

The deal will see the airline carry Baku 2015 branding. It will also display in its in-flight movies and distribute magazines on the games to help increase awareness of the event.

The agreement also ensures the European Games have a significant presence within Heydar Aliyev International Airport to welcome visitors arriving for next summer's spectacular event.

Youth and Sports Minister and Baku 2015 Chief Executive Officer Azad Rahimov said: "Azerbaijan Airlines will help connect our country with the world, so it is amazing that they are on board as an official partner of the European Games."

Rahimov noted that AZAL is one of the most popular companies in Azerbaijan and it will help to ensure that the European Games have a visible presence worldwide.

It is very important that athletes will come to Baku safe and comfortably, as a flight can affect the performance, he said.

He also noted that all the preparations to the Games are regularly underway.

Chief Operating Officer of Baku 2015 Simon Clegg said: "We are delighted to have signed this important deal with Azerbaijan Airlines, our sixth Official Partner who will play an important role in bringing the best European athletes to Baku next year."

Recognized internationally for the quality of its service, Azerbaijan Airlines is a perfect choice for the Baku 2015 European Games. It will further strengthen the existing sponsorship programme, he added.

Clegg noted that Baku 2015 will be visited by more than 6,000 athletes and 3,000 accompanying staff. He stressed the high quality of AZAL's services.

Azerbaijan Airlines became the sixth official partner of the European Games, joining P&G, Tissot, BP, Nar Mobile and SOCAR.

At a press-conference, Rahimov said, Azerbaijan will ensure the Armenian delegation's security in case it arrives in Baku to participate in Baku 2015.

He said the Azerbaijani side is also ready to solve the issues regarding visas.

"We guarantee the provision of security and settlement of visa issues at the state level," he said.

Armenia has not so far officially confirmed its participation in the First European Games.

Baku European Games 2015 is an exciting and innovative new multi-sport event for the continent, which will include a total of 20 sports. It will take place in June 12-28, 2015.