Baku, July 17, 2025 – The Europe Today: Oguljahan Atabayeva, daughter of the Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, and Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, paid a visit to the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum on Tuesday as part of a cultural engagement programme in Baku.
The delegation was warmly received by Amina Malikova, Director of the museum, who provided an in-depth overview of the museum’s rich history, activities, and diverse collections. Special emphasis was placed on the Azerbaijani art of carpet weaving, a tradition that left a strong impression on Oguljahan Atabayeva.
During the tour, it was noted that Azerbaijan’s ancient carpet weaving art was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010, a milestone achieved through the efforts of First Lady of Azerbaijan and President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, Mehriban Aliyeva.
Atabayeva also observed a live demonstration of the carpet weaving process at the museum, gaining firsthand insight into the intricate craftsmanship involved.
Additionally, she was introduced to the traditional Azerbaijani craft of Kelaghayi making—an iconic silk headscarf adorned with meaningful patterns. The techniques and symbolism behind the designs were explained during the visit.
To mark the occasion, Oguljahan Atabayeva was presented with a commemorative book titled Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, published on the 55th anniversary of the museum. In a gesture of friendship and cultural appreciation, she also donated a carpet to the museum’s collection.
The visit underscored the cultural affinity and growing people-to-people ties between Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
