Religious Freedom & Community Life: Rabbi Zamir Isayev of Baku’s Sephardi Jewish community and Pastor Rasim Khalilov spoke at a Religious Freedom Forum on Capitol Hill, highlighting how Azerbaijan’s minority faiths keep their institutions and practice openly. Culture Diplomacy: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan discussed deeper cultural and humanitarian cooperation, including reciprocal “Cinema Days,” joint music groups, and concert programs. Germany Partnership: During Ilham Aliyev’s visit to Germany, Azerbaijan signed a Joint Declaration on a Strategic Agenda and created an Azerbaijan-Germany Business Council to expand cooperation with the private sector. Work-Life Policy: Azerbaijan’s 2026–2030 employment plan outlines flexible working hours, letting employees choose start/end times while keeping the 40-hour weekly norm. Heritage Protection: Azerbaijan reaffirmed its UNESCO heritage commitments, pointing to the “Azerbaijani Culture – 2040” framework and Khinalig’s UNESCO recognition. Education Support: Azerbaijan will finance up to 70% of private preschool costs (350 manats in Baku, 250 in regions). Sports & Lifestyle: Gazakh’s “Sports Capital” will host a rowing event in Heydar Aliyev Park, with residents able to try boats under coaches. Arts in Shusha: The Festival of Young Poets of the Turkic World wrapped in Shusha, honoring Molla Panah Vagif and bringing together young poets across Turkic countries. Human Rights Pressure: Reports say Talysh researcher Igbal Abilov was tortured in solitary confinement after a court appearance, while relatives of activists say pressure intensified after an appeal to EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.