Before the event, Professor Karim Tahirov, Director of the National Library of Azerbaijan, met with Piro Misha, Director of the National Library of Albania. During the meeting, they discussed the implementation of the Memorandum of Cooperation signed between the two national libraries in 2022 and exchanged concrete proposals regarding future collaboration.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Anar Huseynov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Azerbaijan to Albania, Professor Karim Tahirov, Director of the National Library of Azerbaijan, Piro Misha, Director of the National Library of Albania, as well as representatives of the local community.

Opening the event, Piro Misha emphasised the significant development of cultural cooperation between Albania and Azerbaijan in recent years. He stated that the creation of the Azerbaijani Literature section at the National Library of Albania serves to strengthen the friendship and cultural ties between the two countries. Misha noted that this section is not merely a book collection but also acts as a spiritual and intellectual bridge between the two peoples. He added that such projects contribute to deeper mutual understanding and respect, providing an important platform for younger generations to become acquainted with each other’s cultural heritage.

He also noted that the National Library of Albania plans to organise events and reading days dedicated to Azerbaijani literature in the future and to continue exchanges between writers and scholars of the two countries.

In his speech, Ambassador Anar Huseynov highlighted the rich heritage of Azerbaijani literature and its contribution to world cultural heritage, emphasising the importance of this newly opened section for promoting Azerbaijani culture in Albania. He noted that Azerbaijani literature reflects not only the essence of the nation’s culture but also makes a valuable contribution to humanity’s common spiritual treasury. Ambassador added that the Azerbaijani Literature section will help introduce Azerbaijani culture to Albanian readers and expand the worldview of the younger generation. He underlined the importance of long-term cultural cooperation between Azerbaijan and Albania, noting that such initiatives further strengthen mutual understanding and friendship between the two nations.

Professor Karim Tahirov, Director of the National Library of Azerbaijan, stated that the Azerbaijani Literature section in Albania is of great importance in showcasing the richness and diversity of Azerbaijani literature. He emphasized that this section is not only a book collection but also a window into Azerbaijani culture and history for Albanian readers.

Professor Tahirov pointed out that on 7 October 2022, within the framework of the 8th Baku International Book Fair, a permanent corner of the National Library of Albania was opened at the National Library of Azerbaijan, and a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the two institutions. He stated that the creation of the Azerbaijani Literature section in Albania is a tangible outcome of that collaboration and an important continuation of bilateral relations. Tahirov also underlined that such initiatives open new opportunities for cultural exchange and joint projects between the two countries and represent a significant step in promoting Azerbaijani literature internationally.

Given that the National Library of Albania possesses an ancient manuscript collection, Professor Tahirov expressed the view that it would be beneficial for specialists to conduct research on ancient books and manuscripts.

At the end of the event, Professor Karim Tahirov gifted Piro Misha with the book “Salam Azerbaijan” and souvenirs related to Azerbaijan. Participants were introduced to the Azerbaijani Literature section and viewed the displayed books and publications with great interest. The Azerbaijani delegation also toured the National Library of Albania at the conclusion of the ceremony.