Rare Azerbaijani carpets exhibited in Ukraine's Irpin

An exhibition showcasing masterpieces from leading schools of Azerbaijani carpet weaving has opened in Irpin, Ukraine.

According to Report's Eastern Europe bureau, the exhibition – titled The Magic of Azerbaijani Carpets and consisting of Seymur Abushov's private collection – is hosted at the Irpin Museum of History and Local Lore. It was organized jointly by the Irpin City Hall and the United Congress of Ukrainian Azerbaijanis, with support from Azerbaijan's Embassy in Ukraine.

The opening ceremony featured diplomats, Ukrainian MPs, and diaspora activists.

Irpin's acting mayor, Angela Makeeva, emphasized that such events contribute to the development of intercultural dialogue between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Ukraine and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

"Today is a very important event for the city of Irpin, because this is not just an exhibition of Azerbaijani culture and history. This is a significant occasion we must talk about and pass on to our generations and children. For years, Azerbaijan has helped Irpin and our country not only in terms of restoration and support, but has also shown itself to be a brother and friend in cultural and historical matters," she added

Speaking at the event, Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Ukraine, Seymur Mardaliyev, described the exhibition as a symbol of strong friendship and mutual support, understanding, and shared commitment to peace, development, and prosperity between Azerbaijan and Ukraine.

The ambassador stressed that the Azerbaijani carpet is a living history of the nation, with roots dating back to the Bronze Age, embodied in vivid colors, patterns, and symbols:

"Due to its uniqueness, Azerbaijani carpet art has been included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The holding of this remarkable exhibition in Irpin – a city of resilience, courage, and revival – is no coincidence. Today, Irpin demonstrates the strength of the human spirit, and cultural events held here signify the power of art and creativity to triumph over destruction."

Later, Refat Chubarov, Chairman of the Crimean Tatar Mejlis, Rovshan Taghiyev, Chairman of the United Congress of Ukrainian Azerbaijanis, and Seymur Abushov, spoke about the history of Azerbaijani carpet weaving and the contribution of such exhibitions to creating dialogue between cultures.

At the end of the event, diaspora activists were awarded Certificates of Appreciation by the Irpin City Council for their contributions to the development of intercultural dialogue.