Monument to Prominent Azerbaijani Poet and Philosopher Nizami Ganjavi to Be Erected in Central Kyiv with the Initiative and Support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation

On the initiative and with the support of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, a monument to the distinguished Azerbaijani poet and philosopher Nizami Ganjavi will be erected in the central part of Kyiv, within the Botanical Garden of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

According to AZƏRTAC, the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Ukraine and Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv have signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The document was signed by Elmira Akhundova, the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Ukraine, and Professor Volodymyr Bugrov, the Rector of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.

During the signing ceremony, Ambassador Elmira Akhundova noted that, in accordance with the Decree of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on declaring 2021 as the “Year of Nizami Ganjavi,” monuments honoring the philosopher will be unveiled in the cities of Kharkiv and Kyiv.

“I would like to express my gratitude to you and your management for your genuine support in locating the monument of Nizami Ganjavi in the Botanical Garden of your university. This once again underscores the exemplary strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Ukraine in the field of culture, as well as in other areas. During the 44-day Patriotic War, we also witnessed Ukraine’s sincere support,” the Ambassador remarked.

Ambassador Akhundova emphasized that the surrounding area of the Botanical Garden will also undergo renovations and restoration. These works will be carried out by the Union of Ukrainian, Azerbaijani, and Turkish Businesspeople and Industrialists. The monument is designed by Katib Mammadov, People’s Artist of Ukraine and a sculptor of Azerbaijani origin.

In his remarks, Rector Volodymyr Bugrov expressed satisfaction that a monument dedicated to such a prominent figure as Nizami Ganjavi will be erected in Kyiv. He believes that this development will further contribute to the enhancement of cultural relations between Ukraine and Azerbaijan.

“In Ukraine, there are already several monuments to renowned Azerbaijani figures, and likewise, monuments to our historical personalities have been established in Azerbaijan. Extending this practice creates a very positive impression,” the Rector emphasized.

Ali Aliyev, the Head of the Union of Enterpreneurs of Azerbaijan and Ukraine, who also attended the event, noted that a special fountain would be constructed near the monument, along with additional amenities for visitors to relax and enjoy.

At the conclusion of the event, discussions were held regarding the renewal of a cooperation agreement between Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv and Baku State University, the education of Azerbaijani students in Ukraine, and other topics of mutual interest.