Culture Diplomacy: Azerbaijan’s Culture Ministry opened applications for a Special Scholarship Program for Cultural and Creative Industries, backing Azerbaijani students (15+) to study abroad in fields like audiovisual arts, fashion, design, curatorial studies, architecture and more. Music & Youth: Baku wrapped up the First Children’s World International Music Festival with a big closing gala at the State Academic Philharmonic Hall, featuring kids’ choirs, pop-jazz, retro wave, poetry and theatre, plus performances by musicians alongside young talents (including participants from Ukraine, Kazakhstan and Russia). International Cultural Exchange: Azerbaijan Culture Days kicked off in Turkmenistan, with Azerbaijan’s delegation arriving in Ashgabat for concerts, exhibitions and showcases of traditions like carpet weaving and kelaghayi. Sports & National Pride: Azerbaijan won the European Mini-Football Championship title again, beating Ukraine 2-0 in the final in Slovakia. Policy for Creatives: The Culture Ministry’s scholarship push is framed as part of Azerbaijan’s 2022–2026 socio-economic strategy and “Azerbaijan Culture–2040.” Cyber & Digital Resilience: The 4th National Cybersecurity Forum convened in Baku, bringing together government, parliament, international partners, universities and the private sector to discuss building Azerbaijan’s cybersecurity ecosystem. World Environment Day (Local Host): World Environment Day 2026 spotlights climate action under the theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future,” with Azerbaijan hosting the global commemoration in Baku.