Sports & Education Diplomacy: A U.S. Embassy delegation toured Azerbaijan Sports Academy, focusing on MediaLab and sports medicine research, while discussing joint projects and exchanges with U.S. universities. Cultural Festival: Baku hosted the “Force of Love” 2026 Summer Festival with crafts, food, and hands-on masterclasses for families and children. Media & Rights Under Pressure: Toplum TV journalists face up to 15 years sought in court, and Human Rights Watch warns Azerbaijan is prosecuting critics abroad based on online speech. Opposition Trial: Ali Karimli goes on trial in Baku over “attempted coup,” with lawyers warning of long prison terms. Heritage & Inclusion: The National Library launched a virtual exhibition on Azerbaijan’s ethnic minority communities, spotlighting their literature, traditions, and culture. Education Access: AZERTAC’s “Children’s Knowledge Portal” expanded outreach to Aghdam schools. Learning & Standards: UNEC introduced an APTIS-based English assessment via the British Council for internationally recognized certification. Tech & Youth Rules: Azerbaijan restricts TikTok and other social media in schools, with fines and possible blocking for noncompliant platforms. International Cooperation in Academia: Xi’an Shiyou University delegations met Baku State University and Azerbaijan’s education ministry to expand student exchanges and joint research. Independence Day in Morocco: Azerbaijan’s embassy marked Independence Day in Rabat with an art exhibition on Azerbaijan through a Moroccan lens.