BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 15. A presentation of the
feature film “Taghiyev: Oil” dedicated to the life and legacy of
prominent philanthropist Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev was held in
London, Trend
reports.
The presentation, held at the magnificent Princess Anne Theatre
of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) in
central London, was attended by Arzu Aliyeva - the film's executive
producer, and President of the Baku Media Center, along with
producer Orman Aliyev, director Zaur Gasimli, People’s Artist
Parviz Mammadrazayev, as well as ambassadors and numerous
representatives of the diplomatic corps from Georgia, Türkiye,
Uzbekistan and other countries, officials from the Foreign,
Commonwealth & Development Office, members of the House of Lords,
representatives of the City of London Corporation, the Commonwealth
of Nations, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
and other organizations, representatives of bp, public and
political figures, and members of the Azerbaijani community living
in the United Kingdom.
The film was produced by the Baku Media Center with support of
the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Ministry of Culture and the
Cinema Agency. The project was also supported by NEQSOL Holding,
Kapital Bank, Bakcell, and Norm companies. “Taghiyev” is the first
part of a multi-film project exploring the life and legacy of Haji
Zeynalabdin Taghiyev amid the rapid transformation of Baku during
the oil boom period.
Addressing the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to the UK Elin
Suleymanov highlighted Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev’s immense
contribution to Azerbaijan’s economic and cultural life, stressing
that despite numerous difficulties and challenges, he remained
steadfast in his ideals. He underscored that Taghiyev’s foremost
aspirations included promoting education and founding the first
secular school for girls in the Muslim East.
The ambassador underlined that Azerbaijan’s history has been
shaped by remarkable individuals who played vital roles in the
nation’s destiny. He also mentioned the recent celebration of the
103rd anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, praising his
indispensable role in rescuing Azerbaijan from deep political and
economic crises and guiding the country toward stability and
progress in the late 20th century.
Viewers at the London screening expressed admiration for the
film, commending the Baku Media Center for its strong production
standards and highlighting its meaningful portrayal of Azerbaijan’s
history, culture, and identity on the global stage.