BAKU, Azerbaijan, December 9. A panel
discussion on "Prospects for state-level cooperation in the film
industry" has taken place as part of the Baku Cinema Breeze
international program at the Baku Convention Center during the OIC
Cultural Festival: Baku Creative Week – 2025," Trend reports.


During the panel, representatives of state film institutions
from various countries discussed strategic directions for
development and opportunities for international partnerships,
reports Trend.


The opening speech was delivered by Azerbaijan's Deputy Minister
of Culture Saadat Yusifova, who briefed on the state support for
the national film industry.


Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Small and Medium
Business Development Agency (KOBIA), Zaur Gardashov, emphasized the
importance of expanding cooperation between countries for the
sustainable growth of the film industry.


The discussion, moderated by Kamran Gasimov, included
participants from the film industry of various countries, including
the Director-General of the Turkish Directorate of Cinematography,
Birol Güven, the Director-General of the Azerbaijan Film Agency,
Rashad Azizov; the Director of the Electronic Media and
Publications Directorate of Pakistan, Saira Raza, the
representative of the Georgian National Film Center, Mamuka
Bliadze, the Advisor to the Director of the Cinematography Agency
of Uzbekistan, Sayfullo Rajabov, and others.


During the discussions, the speakers focused on a number of
issues related to the development of the film industry and
international cooperation. The participants discussed the formation
of state film policy, shared experiences in creating national
strategies for the development of the film industry, including
legislative initiatives, reforms, and management models aimed at
strengthening the industry.







The discussion placed particular emphasis on the role of film
diplomacy and international cultural cooperation. Speakers
highlighted cinema as a powerful tool for enhancing cultural bonds,
fostering mutual understanding, and promoting broader international
dialogue between nations.


One key topic addressed was the mechanisms of co-production and
co-financing. Participants explored various forms of government
support, joint producer funds, collaborative partnership programs,
and strategies to create favorable conditions for international
film projects.


Another central issue was the digital transformation of the film
industry. The panelists delved into the adoption of cutting-edge
technologies, the digitalization of production processes,
advancements in the VFX sector, and the expansion of cooperation on
OTT platforms and distribution channels.


In closing, the speakers emphasized the growing synergy among
Turkic-speaking countries and their international partners. Special
focus was given to strengthening collaboration between the film
institutions of Azerbaijan, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Georgia,
and Italy. This includes initiatives such as the development of
joint educational programs, co-productions, and platforms for
sharing experiences.


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