Aslanov: Heydar Aliyev is founder of free press in independent Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani National Leader Heydar Aliyev laid the foundations not only of modern independent Azerbaijan but also of the country's free press, Aslan Aslanov, author of Lessons of Statehood and Diplomacy by Heydar Aliyev. Book One, told journalists during the presentation of his book, Report informs.

Aslanov explained that by writing the book, he sought to fulfill his historical and moral duty to Aliyev.

The author noted that everything he had done for Azerbaijani journalism was instilled in him by Aliyev: "He is not only the founder of modern independent Azerbaijan but also the founder of its free press."

He stressed that at the time there was no established practice for covering the president's activities in Azerbaijan. Aliyev taught him the nuances of reporting bilateral meetings, presenting large‑scale events, and highlighting key aspects of foreign visits. Sometimes, Aslanov said, Aliyev personally reviewed the materials he prepared, which were later published in media outlets worldwide.

Aslanov added that he has repeatedly emphasized in his writings that Aliyev laid the foundation of official state news in Azerbaijan and systematized the principles of covering the president"s activities, passing them on to the national press.