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Laman Ismayilova

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The Culture Minister Adil Karimli has met with the representatives of the companies that won the film project competition announced by the Azerbaijan Republic Film Agency (ARKA) and the competition supporting film projects in the post-production phase at the State Film Fund, Azernews reports.

The minister spoke about the activities of ARKA during the meeting, stating that the main goal of the agency is to create a favorable ecosystem for filmmakers. He noted that the defense (pitching) phase of the works developed in the film project competition announced by ARKA last year has been carried out. During this phase, projects were evaluated by members of the Selection Committee and representatives from the Expert Council established by the Ministry of Culture for evaluating the content of cinematographic, digital, and other audiovisual works. Through this competition, more than 40 films have been approved for production.

He pointed out that our Azerbaijan has been successfully represented at international film competitions in 2023–2024.

"This is very positive and makes us happy. However, the results are still not satisfactory. There is a lot of potential in this area, and we need to utilize it. Therefore, it is important to discuss the challenges and issues that arise in terms of infrastructure during film productions," the minister said.

Subsequently, various topics were raised, including the production of commercial and animation films, finding financial resources for film production, a unified state procurement contract, the development of film criticism, tax incentives in the film sector, attracting more mid-generation directors, restoring documentary film studios, supporting sports films, and financing television films.

Responding to the issues raised, the minister stated that every opinion and suggestion that serves the overall development of cinema will be taken into account.

The meeting also included several thoughts on the shortage of personnel in the film industry, dubbing of films, and critical reflections, emphasizing the existing gaps in this regard.

The minister emphasized that the shortage of personnel is evident in many areas of culture. He stated that the Ministry of Culture places great importance on training personnel in the film sector and that there is close cooperation with the Ministry of Science and Education on this matter.

It was noted that within the framework of the "Social and Economic Development Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2022–2026," approved by President Ilham Aliyev's decree dated July 22, 2022, the Culture Ministry has implemented a "Special Grant Program for Culture and Creative Industries." Among the six young winners of the program (one winner last year), they are studying abroad in the film sector on the ministry's grant.

In addition to artistic and documentary cinema, the minister emphasized that special attention will be given to the production of animation films.

At the end of the meeting, Adil Karimli expressed his satisfaction with the extensive, businesslike, and sincere atmosphere of communication with the film community and wished them success in their endeavors.